In this episode, Christy Honeycutt sits down with Dennis Collins, founder of Collins Brothers Jeep — the largest classic Jeep restoration shop in the world — and creator of Coffee Walk, the long-running automotive content series that has surpassed 400 consecutive weekly episodes and built more than 2.3 million fully organic followers. Dennis shares a perspective shaped by decades of entrepreneurship, deep specialization, and the ability to recognize value long before the market catches up.

The conversation explores the foundation of the Collins brand, beginning with Dennis identifying car leads as a newspaper boy at age 10 and continuing through the evolution of a business built on trust, expertise, and consistency. Dennis reflects on receiving his dealer’s license in 1984, building Collins Brothers from the ground up, and developing a reputation rooted in doing a small number of things exceptionally well.

A major turning point came when his daughter Kelsey joined the business and challenged the company’s traditional marketing model. Together, they replaced nearly a million dollars in annual advertising spend with a content-first strategy built around storytelling, education, and authenticity. What started as a simple morning routine eventually became Coffee Walk — a platform that now drives sourcing, customer trust, and community engagement at scale.

At the center of this episode is the idea that consistency is more than discipline; it is a reflection of values. Dennis discusses what it means to publish over 400 consecutive weekly episodes and why long-term trust is built through reliability, not short bursts of visibility.

The conversation also explores a growing challenge in legacy industries: expertise is disappearing faster than it is being replaced. Dennis explains why craftsmanship, restoration knowledge, and relationship-based sourcing are becoming increasingly rare, and why bringing younger generations into the industry matters.

Dennis also speaks candidly about sacrifice, trade-offs, and the personal cost behind entrepreneurial freedom. Throughout the episode, a clear theme emerges: freedom and discipline in entrepreneurship are deeply connected.

What ultimately stands out is a model of entrepreneurship built less around hype and more around clarity. Dennis has built a business, media platform, and community rooted in a consistent identity — creating a brand that cannot easily be replicated.

What You’ll Walk Away With

• Why identity builds lasting brands
• How organic growth creates stronger trust
• Why specialization compounds over time
• The value of listening to younger generations
• What consistency reveals about leadership
• Why focus protects brand integrity
• The sacrifices behind entrepreneurial freedom
• How legacy is passed through habits and standards

00:00 – Introduction to Dennis Collins and Coffee Walk

02:21 – Building Collins Brothers from the ground up

04:08 – 400 consecutive episodes and audience trust

05:57 – Replacing a $40K/month ad budget with content

09:58 – Growing 2.3 million organic followers with zero paid ads

13:01 – Legacy, family values, and leadership philosophy

17:17 – Specialization and recognizing opportunities others miss

21:19 – The sacrifices behind entrepreneurial freedom

24:16 – Building community and investing in the next generation

28:21 – The story behind the 1958 Austin-Healey “Goldie”

32:20 – Integrity, craftsmanship, and patience

33:18 – Final reflections and where to follow Dennis

| Connect With Us |
Follow Dennis Collins:
LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/dennis-collins-30452312/?skipRedirect=true
Facebook – https://web.facebook.com/DennisCollins/?_rdc=1&_rdr#
Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/thedenniscollins
Twitter/X – https://x.com/holygraildennis

Youtube – https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC17IH_7LhXszAU-SB1wvx_A
Website – https://www.thedenniscollins.com/

(Dennis Collins is the founder of Collins Brothers Jeep — the largest classic Jeep restoration shop in the world — and the creator of Coffee Walk, a long-form automotive content series with over 2.3 million organic followers and 400 consecutive weekly episodes. A lifelong entrepreneur who received his dealer's license in 1984, Dennis has built a business across restoration, parts manufacturing, and digital media that reflects a single consistent principle: know your lane and dominate it. He is based in Wiley, Texas.)

Follow Inside the C-Suite:
LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/christyhoneycutt/
Spotify – https://open.spotify.com/show/2gk39EvNtXLVHuAbp7tr6b
Apple – https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/inside-the-c-suite/id1739883160

Want to be a guest or recommend someone?
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdDZmt0CV92OihiJO1kS62SolgHvetZ0rzjJDMfO9YEILWu0g/viewform?usp=send_form

In this episode, Christy Honeycutt is joined by William Tincup, a leading voice in HR, recruiting, and the future of work, to explore how leadership, systems, and human behavior intersect in modern organizations.

The conversation looks at the gap between vendor promises and real-world adoption, where success is determined not at purchase, but through implementation, alignment, and trust in execution.

It then shifts into leadership identity—highlighting how misalignment between a leader’s natural style and their environment can quietly limit clarity, creativity, and performance.

A key theme throughout is vulnerability in leadership. William emphasizes that asking for help and engaging peers is not a weakness, but a strategic advantage that accelerates growth and decision-making.

The discussion also reinforces that communication and clarity are critical in uncertain environments. Effective leadership is not about having all the answers, but about addressing complexity directly and without ego.

At its core, the episode underscores a simple principle: leadership effectiveness is shaped by self-awareness, environment, and the willingness to engage others openly.

The strongest leadership is not defined by certainty, but by awareness, alignment, and openness to learning through others.

• Leadership success depends on implementation, not just selection of tools

• Misalignment between identity and environment can quietly constrain performance

• Authentic leadership is a factor in creativity and decision-making quality

• Vulnerability is not weakness—it is a mechanism for acceleration

• Peer networks often provide more practical support than internal structures

• The real value of vendors emerges after adoption, not at point of sale

• Trust and communication are foundational to effective partnerships

• Self-awareness is a performance driver, not just a personal trait

• Leaders grow faster when they normalize asking questions early

• Ego reduction improves both clarity and collaboration

• Complexity in systems requires simplicity in communication

• No leader operates effectively in isolation

00:00 – Introduction and guest context
02:10 – Industry expectations vs reality in vendor relationships
06:05 – Trust, adoption, and post-sale challenges
10:20 – The gap between promise and implementation
13:40 – Authenticity and leadership identity
17:50 – Vulnerability and peer learning in leadership
21:30 – Building trust in vendor-practitioner relationships
25:10 – Communication, ego, and organizational clarity
30:15 – Health crisis, advocacy, and support systems
35:40 – Empathy, uncertainty, and human behavior
39:20 – Final reflections on asking questions and peer support

🎙️ Watch the full episode here:
Podcast — Christy Honeycutt

|Connect With Us|

Follow William Tincup:

LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/tincup/
Company Page – https://www.linkedin.com/company/wrkdefined/posts/?feedView=all
Facebook – William Tincup
Instagram – William Tincup (@williamtincup) • Instagram profile
Website – WRKdefined Podcast Network: Conversations Pushing The Boundaries of Work

YouTube - WRKdefined Podcast Network
X/ Twitter - William Tincup (@williamtincup) on X

(William Tincup is a leading voice in HR, recruiting, and the future of work. Through his work with WRKdefined Podcast Network, he explores how organizations are evolving in real time—challenging traditional thinking around leadership, hiring, and workplace systems. Known for his direct and thoughtful perspective, he brings clarity to complex conversations about how work is changing and what that means for leaders navigating uncertainty.)

Follow Inside the C-Suite:

LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/christyhoneycutt/
Subscribe on Spotify – Inside the C-Suite
Subscribe on Apple – Inside the C-Suite

Want to be on the show or know someone who would be a great guest?
Contact Form - Inside the C-Suite Podcast

In this episode, Andrew Levy sits down with Christy Honeycutt and shares the leadership philosophy behind building Avelo: simplify travel, meet customers where they are, and rethink how air service connects everyday communities.

That vision is now showing up in real time with Avelo’s planned expansion into McKinney National Airport in North Texas—a move designed to shift travel away from congestion-heavy hubs like DFW and toward local convenience, speed, and accessibility.

For Collin County and surrounding communities, this isn’t just new service—it’s a structural shift in how people move. Shorter lines. Easier access. Point-to-point travel that prioritizes time as much as cost.

At its core, this expansion reflects something deeper we explore in the conversation: LEADERSHIP is not only about scaling a company—it’s about reshaping how people experience a system (inside and out).

This isn’t just another airline entering a market.

It’s a bet on a different behavior entirely—
that people will choose proximity over complexity, and simplicity over scale when given the option.

If it lands as intended, it doesn’t just add routes.
It redefines dependency—moving from large hub reliance to local convenience.

• Leadership is shaped more by experience than theory

• Complexity demands steadiness, not perfection

• Communication gaps often become leadership gaps over time

• Accountability is not about blame—it’s about ownership

• Identity can shift when roles change unexpectedly

• Failure is a requirement for meaningful leadership growth

• Culture is not controlled—it is continuously shaped by behavior

• The strongest teams are built on trust, clarity, and responsibility

• Talent is less about pedigree and more about character and discipline

• Staying grounded is a leadership practice, not a personality trait

00:00 – Introduction & Andrew Levy background
01:15 – What Avelo Airlines is building
04:10 – The strategy of convenience and everyday low fares
08:09 – Leadership under tragedy and operational complexity
13:37 – Career evolution and lessons from multiple airlines
18:30 – Identifing high-potential talent
22:01 – Why failure is essential to leadership growth
25:42 – Growth through termination
28:35 – Identity shift after leaving a long-term leadership role
32:30 – Building Intentional culture
35:21 – Defining values and hiring for alignment
38:17 – Perspective on travel, patience, and human behavior
40:49 – Closing reflections on leadership and Avelo’s future

🎙️ Watch the full episode here: Podcast — Christy Honeycutt

| Connect with Us |
Follow Andrew Levy:
LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrew-levy-0b70931/
Company - https://www.linkedin.com/company/avelo-airlines/
Instagram - Avelo Airlines (@aveloair) • Instagram profile
Website - Homepage
Facebook - Avelo Airlines | Houston TX
(Andrew Levy is the Founder, Chairman, and CEO of Avelo Airlines, an ultra low-cost carrier he launched in 2021. With over three decades of experience in aviation, he has held senior leadership roles at major U.S. airlines, including serving as CFO of United Airlines and Co-Founder and President of Allegiant Air. Today, he leads Avelo Airlines with a focus on making air travel more accessible, efficient, and affordable by serving underserved markets and building a streamlined, customer-focused operation.)

Follow Inside the C-Suite:
LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/christyhoneycutt/
Subscribe on Spotify – Inside the C-Suite
Subscribe on Apple – Inside the C-Suite

Want to be on the show or know someone who would be a great guest? Contact Form - Inside the C-Suite Podcast

In this episode, David Greenwood joins Christy Honeycutt for a real, unfiltered conversation on burnout—what it looks like, how it builds, and why so many high-performing professionals miss the signs until it’s too late.

This is not a surface-level conversation about being “too busy.”
It’s a deeper look at what happens when work, life, and constant pressure collide—and start showing up in your body, your habits, and your identity.

Together, they unpack what people often overlook:
Why burnout isn’t just about workload
Why stress doesn’t stay in your head—it lives in your body
And why pushing through can sometimes do more harm than good

From caregiving responsibilities to the “always-on” culture of modern work, David shares practical, real-world insight on how burnout develops—and what it actually takes to move through it.

We also get into the real conversations:
Health. Boundaries. Leadership. Identity. Change.
And the truth?
If your work is making you physically sick, it’s no longer something to manage—it’s something to address.

If you’re navigating pressure, leading teams, or questioning your current path—this isn’t theory.
This is reality.

• Burnout often shows up physically—not just mentally

• One early sign: losing interest in the things you once loved

• Stress is stored in the body, not just the mind

• The “always-on” culture is quietly fueling burnout

• Caregiving, life pressure, and work all compound burnout

• Awareness is the first step—but action must follow

• You don’t always need to quit—but you do need a plan

• Sometimes healing starts with simple, physical reset habits

• Not all burnout looks the same—context matters

• Leadership plays a role in either fueling or reducing burnout

• Burnout isn’t weakness—it’s a signal

• Real change starts when you stop ignoring that signal

  
  00:00 Introduction & David’s background
  01:20 The personal story behind burnout
  03:19 Burnout across life stages (career, kids, aging parents)
  05:31 The myth of “simple fixes” for burnout
  07:04 Employer awareness & responsibility
  09:45 The impact of “always-on” work culture
  11:47 What burnout actually looks like
  12:37 Early signs: losing connection to what you love
  15:50 When stress shows up physically
  18:11 Creating a plan & finding a way out
  21:50 Industry change, pressure & adaptation
  23:49 External stressors and mental load
  26:18 Practical ways to start healing
  28:38 When it’s time to walk away
  30:07 Where to connect with David

🎙️ Watch the full episode here: Podcast — Christy Honeycutt

| Connect with Us |
Follow David Greenwood:
LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidagreenwood/
Instagram - David Greenwood (@david_greenwood1) • Instagram profile
Website - Overcoming Burnout
Facebook - Overcoming Distractions

Follow Inside the C-Suite:
LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/christyhoneycutt/
Subscribe on Spotify – Inside the C-Suite
Subscribe on Apple – Inside the C-Suite

Want to be on the show or know someone who would be a great guest? Contact Form - Inside the C-Suite Podcast

In this episode, Brigitte Skeene joins Christy Honeycutt for a grounded, honest conversation on what it really takes to lead across difference—without reducing people to checkboxes, labels, or assumptions.

This is not a surface-level conversation about inclusion.
It’s a deeper look at culture, belonging, identity, and the invisible dynamics shaping how people experience work every day.

Together, they unpack what leaders often miss:
Why emotional intelligence alone is no longer enough
Why culture is more than ethnicity
And why respect without understanding can still fall short

From Indigenous ways of knowing to the power of cultural intelligence, Brigitte brings a human-centered perspective that challenges organizations to stop confusing intention with impact.

We also get into the real conversations:
Belonging. Bias. Systems. Trust. Hiring.
And the truth?
If leadership is not changing people’s lived experience, it is not going far enough.

If you are leading people, building teams, or shaping culture in today’s environment—this is not theory.
This is the work.

• Emotional intelligence matters—but it’s not enough on its own

• Cultural intelligence shifts leaders from judgment to understanding

• Culture goes beyond ethnicity—it shapes how we think, act, and connect

• The Golden Rule is limited—practice the Platinum Rule instead

• Wanting to be respectful ≠ being respectful

• Belonging and authenticity can be in tension at work

• Indigenous ways of knowing offer lessons on balance, time, and community

• Inclusion becomes performative without real accountability

• Inclusive hiring starts with culture—not just job posts

• If people have to change to “fit,” they don’t truly belong

• Leadership means making space for overlooked voices

• Real change happens when awareness turns into action

  00:00 Introduction & Brigitte’s story
  03:05 Identity, belonging & personal journey
  10:30 Why EQ is no longer enough
  11:12 What culture really means beyond ethnicity
  14:35 The 4 dimensions of cultural intelligence (CQ)
  17:31 Golden Rule vs. Platinum Rule
  20:25 When intention becomes performative
  22:01 Deep listening & the talking stick
  23:49 Why inclusion is urgent for leaders
  26:49 Why “fit” is the wrong goal
  28:31 The uncomfortable truth leaders must face
  29:33 How to start practicing CQ
  31:17 Final thoughts on leadership & belonging

| Connect with Us |
Follow Brigitte Skeene:
Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/brigittes-skeene-recrutement/
Facebook - https://facebook.com/brigitte.skeene
Instagram - Brigitte Skeene (@olivalex) • Instagram profile
Website - https://talentiq.ca/

(Brigitte Skeene is a leader in cultural intelligence and inclusive leadership, helping organizations move beyond surface-level diversity efforts toward deeper understanding, respect, and meaningful change. Her work integrates human-centered leadership with practical strategies that transform how teams connect, collaborate, and perform.)

Follow Inside the C-Suite:
LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/christyhoneycutt/
Subscribe on Spotify – Inside the C-Suite
Subscribe on Apple – Inside the C-Suite

Want to be on the show or know someone who would be a great guest?
Contact Form – Inside the C-Suite Podcast

Not when it’s polished—when it’s messy.

In this episode, Stephanie Manzelli joins Christy Honeycutt for a straight, no-BS conversation on what it actually takes to lead humans—not just manage outcomes.

We go deep on:

• Why clarity beats control—every time

• Why onboarding isn’t a process… it’s a signal

• And how trust is built (or broken) in the smallest, most overlooked moments

From prepping a new CEO for day one to navigating layoffs with integrity, Stephanie brings a grounded, human-first perspective that most leaders talk about—but very few actually practice.

We also hit the real conversations:
AI. Accountability. Blind spots. Performance.
And the truth? Kindness isn’t soft. It’s strategy.

If you’re leading in today’s environment—or trying to—this isn’t theory.
This is how you show up when it matters most.

🔑 What You’ll Walk Away With

• Onboarding isn’t a checklist—it’s your first leadership test

• The first 90 days? That’s where trust is won or lost

• Executive onboarding = context + connection + credibility (fast)

• If your people are surprised in performance reviews, you’ve already lost

• Trust breaks when leaders communicate how they prefer—not how others receive

• HR has a massive opportunity right now—if it chooses to lead, not react

• AI should drive better decisions—not justify bad ones

• When things get hard, leaders need a North Star: What am I going to say to my people?

• Kindness and respect aren’t optional—they’re differentiators

• Every experience (especially the hard ones) is data—if you choose to use it

  
  

  🎙️ Episode Flow (30 min of real talk)

  00:00 Who Stephanie is—and why her perspective matters
  01:10 The first 90 days: setting a CEO up to win
  03:13 Why executive onboarding is a different game
  06:39 Designing onboarding that actually works
  08:23 Best + worst onboarding stories (and what they teach us)
  12:30 The leadership behavior quietly killing trust
  15:04 Why context is everything
  17:38 What employees carry that leaders never see
  20:04 Why kindness is a leadership strategy
  22:58 Performance reviews: no surprises, ever
  26:08 HR’s moment to lead (or miss it)
  28:59 AI, layoffs, and the accountability gap
  34:13 Final word: growth, ownership, and showing up better

  
  

  | Connect with Us |

  Follow Stephanie Manzelli:
  LinkedIn – Stephanie Manzelli
  (Stephanie Manzelli is the Chief People Officer at Employ Inc., known for her expertise in transformational leadership and guiding organizations through periods of change. With a career rooted in navigating complexity, Stephanie specializes in turning chaos into clarity—helping companies evolve their people strategies while maintaining strong, human-centered cultures.)

  Follow Inside the C-Suite:
  LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/christyhoneycutt/
  Subscribe on Spotify – Inside the C-Suite
  Subscribe on Apple – Inside the C-Suite

  Want to be on the show or know someone who would be a great guest?
  Contact Form – Inside the C-Suite Podcast

40+ years.
Thousands of cases.
A front-row seat to what actually breaks organizations.

And here’s the truth:
It’s not usually the big, dramatic failures.

It’s the quiet patterns.
The subtle behaviors.
The things leaders don’t see—or choose not to address.

Because dysfunction doesn’t show up loud at first.
It builds… slowly… under the surface.

We get into what’s really happening inside organizations:

• Responsibility with no authority (aka the fastest path to burnout)

• Power dynamics and silos that kill momentum

• Favoritism that erodes trust—quietly but completely

• And the ripple effect of one careless comment

What feels small in the moment?
That’s often where the damage starts.

What We Unpack

• Why giving people responsibility without authority sets them up to fail

• How micromanagement signals mistrust—and creates it

• The real reason people hoard information (and why it spreads)

• Why favoritism isn’t just cultural—it’s operational risk

• How one offhand comment can create legal and cultural fallout

• The “prism effect”: how perception distorts intent—and changes outcomes

• Why humility and apology aren’t weakness—they’re leadership

• How listening (really listening) strengthens every layer of the business

• And the truth: trust isn’t soft—it’s the engine behind performance

Leadership isn’t just about setting direction.

It’s about awareness.
It’s about trust.
It’s about how people actually experience you when you’re not in the room.

And more often than not…
It’s about what you’re not seeing.

This conversation is real.
It’s honest.
And if you’re leading people right now—it’s required listening.

00:00 Introduction & Leadership Risk Overview
02:10 Top 3 Workplace Risks
03:16 Responsibility Without Authority
05:54 Impact: Burnout, Trust & Inefficiency
09:21 Delegation & Letting Go of Control
11:52 Navigating Lack of Authority
14:02 When It’s Time to Walk Away
15:27 Silos, Favoritism & Power
21:45 Communication Risks in the Workplace
25:29 The “Prism Effect”
27:38 Humility in Leadership
30:29 Human Connection in Leadership
33:15 Final Advice & Closing

| Connect with Us |
Follow Mark Shank:
LinkedIn - Mark Shank
Company: Diamond McCarthy LLP
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/markshank54/
Facebook - https://web.facebook.com/markshank54/
Follow Inside the C-Suite:
LinkedIn – Christy Honeycutt
Subscribe on Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/2gk39EvNtXLVHuAbp7tr6b
Subscribe on Apple – https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/inside-the-c-suite

Want to be on the show or know someone who would be a great guest?
Contact Form – https://docs.google.com/forms/

Mark’s career began in talent acquisition, helping companies find the right people. Over time, he uncovered a deeper truth about leadership:

Great companies aren’t built by strategy alone.
They’re built through trust, empathy, and human connection.

As organizations navigate burnout, AI disruption, and a rapidly shifting workforce, many professionals are asking the same question:

What kind of leadership actually works today?

In this conversation, Mark shares his journey from recruiter to entrepreneur and explains why some of the most valuable leadership lessons don’t come from boardrooms — they come from relationships.

Because when leaders genuinely care about their people, something powerful happens.

Culture improves.
Trust grows.
And companies become stronger.

The discussion also explores the tension many HR and talent leaders face today — operating within systems that prioritize profit while advocating for people.

Mark explains why empathy in leadership isn’t weakness — it’s wisdom.

He also introduces a powerful concept he uses when making decisions:

The secret is two, not three.

By simplifying choices and focusing on what truly matters, leaders can create clarity — both for themselves and for their teams.

This episode explores:

• Why human connection remains the most valuable leadership currency • The transition from recruiter to entrepreneur • How trust is built — and how easily it can be broken • Why empathy should be a core leadership trait • The reality HR leaders face when profit becomes the primary priority • How AI is reshaping business strategy and careers • Why simplifying decisions can unlock better leadership outcomes

Technology will continue to evolve.
AI will continue to transform industries.

But leadership will always come back to people.

The leaders who succeed long-term won’t just build profitable companies — they’ll build trustworthy ones.

Chapters

00:00 – Introduction to Leadership, Networking & Human Connection
02:07 – Mark’s Journey From Recruiter to Entrepreneur
05:57 – Why Human Connection Matters in Business
08:29 – Building Trust in Leadership and Partnerships
12:11 – When Trust Is Broken in Business
16:59 – Nonlinear Thinking and Leadership Strengths
20:39 – AI, Technology & Career Evolution
22:32 – Simplifying AI and Go-To-Market Strategy
27:34 – Transferable Skills from HR and Recruitment

| Connect with Us |

Follow Mark Coscarello:
LinkedIn – Mark Coscarello
Instagram: @‌markcoscarello
Facebook: Mark Coscarello
Company: Home

Follow Inside the C-Suite:
LinkedIn – Christy Honeycutt
Subscribe on Spotify – Inside the C-Suite
Subscribe on Apple – Inside the C-Suite

Want to be on the show or know someone who would be a great guest?
Contact Form – Inside the C-Suite Podcast

Their message is simple.

Leadership starts with you.

Before strategy.
Before influence.
Before authority.

Self-awareness.

Marnie and Nick spent years inside corporate leadership roles before realizing something many organizations overlook: the biggest leadership gaps aren’t technical — they’re human.

Communication.
Self-reflection.
Character.
Accountability.
Vulnerability.

And the willingness to admit when you’re wrong.

This conversation explores what happens when leaders stop chasing the credential ladder and start investing in the value ladder — the personal growth that actually shapes how we lead.

Because teams don’t follow perfection.

They follow authenticity.

Nick shares how his own leadership mindset shifted when he realized defending every decision wasn’t leadership — growth was. Marnie discusses the importance of building cultures where leaders model reflection, learning, and emotional intelligence.

We unpack:
How leadership begins with self-reflection
Why character skills outweigh technical skills
The role vulnerability plays in building trust
Why hope can be more powerful than trust for followers
The importance of admitting when you're wrong
How failure can become one of leadership’s greatest teachers
Why investing in personal development changes leadership outcomes
The difference between the credential ladder and the value ladder
How leaders can align their values with the cultures they build

Marnie and Nick are also building Blue, an upcoming platform designed to help young adults develop life and leadership skills through guided, gamified self-reflection.

Because leadership development shouldn’t start in the boardroom.

It should start with understanding yourself.

As Nick says in the episode:

"Would you invest in you?"

The future of leadership belongs to those who can answer that question honestly.

00:00 Introduction to Leadership and Collaboration
01:33 The Journey of Marnie and Nick
05:15 Navigating Broken Systems
08:35 The Importance of Self-Reflection
12:06 Investing in Yourself
15:45 The Shift from Expertise to Human Skills
19:21 Vulnerability in Leadership
22:39 Learning from Failures
26:02 The Future of Leadership and Blue

| Connect with Us |

Follow Marnie Stockman:
LinkedIn – Marnie Stockman
Website – Lead It Like Lasso

Follow Nick Coniglio:
LinkedIn – Nick Coniglio
Website – The Business of You bridges the gap between personal and professional development with a toolkit.

Learn more about their books:
Lead It Like Lasso
The Business of You

(Marnie Stockman and Nick Coniglio are leadership educators and authors who focus on helping individuals develop character-driven leadership through self-awareness, reflection, and human-centered skills.)

Follow Inside the C-Suite:
LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/christyhoneycutt/
Subscribe on Spotify – Inside the C-Suite
Subscribe on Apple – Inside the C-Suite

Want to be on the show or know someone who would be a great guest?
Contact Form – Inside the C-Suite Podcast

Yes, crowned.
And yes — navigating hair loss herself.

This isn’t a conversation about beauty.

It’s a conversation about leadership.

Because when your identity shifts — especially in a visible role — you’re faced with a choice: hide, harden, or lead through it.

Lauren shares how discovering a bald spot became more than a physical change. It triggered a reckoning. Depression. Fatigue. Questions about confidence and control. And ultimately — clarity.

What could have diminished her presence refined her leadership.

Her salon is no longer just a place for styling. It’s a sanctuary for people navigating identity disruption. She leads with empathy, not ego. With understanding, not assumptions. With boundaries, not burnout.

We unpack:

• How identity loss can become identity expansion

• Vulnerability doesn’t weaken authority - it deepens it

• The invisible grief that comes with identity shifts

• Why empathy in leadership is non-negotiable

• How insensitive comments can quietly wound

• Education begins at home — compassion must be modeled

• Personal pain can become professional purpose

• Creating boundaries to protect your mental health

• What it really means to wear the crown — with or without hair

Lauren embodies a leadership strength we don’t talk about enough: visible resilience.

To wear a crown — literally or metaphorically — while navigating personal change requires grounded confidence. Not perfection. Not image control. Presence.

The crown isn’t the hair.

The crown is:
Resilience.
Self-awareness.
Empathy under pressure.
The courage to keep showing up.

This conversation is about what it means to lead when your identity is evolving in public — and how real strength is built when image gives way to authenticity.

Because leadership isn’t about appearance.

It’s about alignment.

00:00 Introduction to Hair Loss and Community Support
02:30 Lauren's Personal Journey with Hair Loss
05:16 Empathy and Support in the Salon Environment
07:58 The Impact of Hair Loss on Identity and Confidence
10:54 Support Systems: Family and Friends
13:35 Navigating Insensitivity and Promoting Empathy
16:28 Educating the Next Generation on Hair Loss
19:37 The Impact of Stress on Hair Loss
25:07 Transforming Personal Struggles into Professional Strength
27:43 Navigating Public Scrutiny and Mental Health
29:27 Empathy in Leadership and Self-Care
32:54 Creating Safe Spaces for Healing and Connection

| Connect with Us |

Follow Lauren Jackson (Mrs. Texas):
Instagram – @‌mrstexas
Facebook – Mrs. Texas Lauren Jackson
Website – Lauren Jackson

(Lauren Jackson is Mrs. Texas and an advocate for family, personal growth, and empowering women to prioritize what truly matters while balancing leadership and life.)

Follow Inside the C-Suite:
LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/christyhoneycutt/
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In this episode, Jason Putnam—CEO of Vetty—joins Christy Honeycutt to break down his Pirate Ship Methodology, a leadership framework designed to balance discipline, accountability, and fun while creating a culture rooted in trust and hope.

Jason shares how great leadership starts with being a good human first, why consistency and transparency matter more than charisma, and how leaders can empower their teams to take ownership—even when operating without formal authority. He also reflects on how parenting has shaped his leadership style, the importance of intentional communication, and why mistakes are essential to growth.

If you’re a leader who wants to build loyal teams, communicate more effectively, and create a workplace where people feel safe, valued, and motivated—this conversation is for you.

00:00 Introduction to Leadership and the Pirate Ship Methodology
02:45 Navigating Different Leadership Styles
05:34 The Importance of Trust and Hope in Leadership
08:18 Building a Loyal and Effective Team
11:15 The Role of Consistency and Transparency
14:21 Addressing Leadership Challenges and Fostering Growth
19:45 Building Trust in Leadership
21:17 Wellness and Work-Life Balance for Leaders
24:18 Parenting and Leadership: Lessons Learned
28:27 The Importance of Intentional Time
29:43 Taking Responsibility as a Leader
31:35 Navigating Responsibility Without Authority
32:49 Continuous Improvement in Leadership Communication

Takeaways

• Leadership is about being a good human while holding people accountable.

• Trust and hope are the foundation of team loyalty.

• Clear, consistent communication drives execution.

• Leaders must empower teams to make decisions.

• Mistakes are part of growth—embrace them.

• Consistency and transparency build credibility.

• Prioritizing your well-being makes you a better leader

| Connect with Us |

Follow Jason Putnam:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasonputnam/
Website: Hiring at Scale | Vetty Background Checks & Onboarding

(Jason Putnam is a leadership practitioner and team builder known for his honest, responsibility-driven approach to developing people—helping leaders close the gap between motivation and capability through ownership, coaching, and collaboration.)

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We talk about what leadership actually requires right now.

Not theory. Not buzzwords.
Trust.

As AI accelerates, generational expectations shift, and political and social climates spill into the workplace, leaders are being asked to hold more complexity than ever before. And most aren’t prepared for the emotional weight of that responsibility.

Dr. Tana shares her journey from corporate HR to national thought leader — and why empathy, community, and continuous learning aren’t “soft skills.” They’re survival skills.

We unpack:

• Why trust is the currency of modern leadership

• How generational shifts are reshaping culture

• What AI will change — and what it won’t

• How to lead people through uncertainty without minimizing their reality

• Why belonging and psychological safety aren’t optional anymore

Technology will keep evolving. Systems will keep shifting.

But the leaders who win?
They’re the ones who build trust, regulate their energy, and choose humanity — even when it’s harder.

This one is honest, timely, and necessary.

00:00 – Why Trust Is the Leadership Currency of Now
01:32 – From Corporate HR to National DEI Voice: Dr. Tana’s Evolution
06:15 – Generational Shifts Are Rewriting the Workplace Rules
08:38 – Building Trust at Work
10:59 – Reinvention at Any Stage: Law School & Lifelong Growth
13:23 – The Personal Stories That Shape Powerful Leaders
16:12 – Leading Through Political Tension & Collective Uncertainty
18:24 – Advice for Youth & Future Leaders
24:17 – AI is her Now What
33:59 – Navigating Job Insecurity Without Losing Humanity
40:48 – The Leadership Standard We Choose Moving Forward

| Connect with Us |

Follow Dr. Tana M. Session:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drtanamsession/
Company: https://www.linkedin.com/company/tanamsession-com/
Website: OD & People Strategy Consulting | Dr. Tana M. Session, Founder/CEO of TanaMSession.com

(Dr. Tana M. Session is a nationally recognized psychologist, DEI strategist, and leadership advisor who helps organizations uncover unconscious bias, foster inclusive cultures, and lead with greater self-awareness and accountability. Her work centers on equity, belonging, and empowering leaders to make more intentional, human-centered decisions.)

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In this episode, Ritu Mohanka, first-time CEO of VONQ, breaks down the myth of the all-knowing, perfectly confident CEO.

We talk real leadership: the messy first 90 days, learning in public, and why control is overrated but clarity isn’t. Ritu shares how AI can open doors in hiring instead of shutting them, why bias has to be designed out—not trained away—and what it really takes to build products around people, not process.

We also go there—motherhood, imposter syndrome, boundaries, and why women can’t keep waiting for perfection to raise their hands. This is an honest conversation about leading with empathy, building healthy teams, and leaving a legacy rooted in trust, not ego.

If you think leadership is about having all the answers—this episode will change your mind.

• The first 90 days as a CEO can be both intimidating and liberating.

• AI should open doors in hiring, not close them. Screen people in.

• The future of work isn’t defined yet—leaders must build for what’s coming.

• Women should not wait for perfection to raise their hands for opportunities.

• Balance is a myth; it's about finding harmony in different seasons of life.

• Boundaries aren’t optional—they’re a leadership requirement.

• Imposter syndrome is common among executives and can be managed.

• Great cultures are designed, not left to chance.

• Legacy isn’t power—it’s trust.

• The best teams and products stay obsessively close to the customer.

00:00 Becoming CEO: What No One Tells You
02:43 Learning in Public: From Challenges to Triumphs
11:20 Motherhood, Leadership, and Letting Go of “Balance”
14:20 Imposter Syndrome at the Top
17:05 Designing Healthy Workplaces on Purpose
19:40 Boundaries, Burnout, and Self-Leadership
22:18 Legacy: What Actually Lasts
25:01 Mistakes, Growth, and Leading Without a Script
27:52 The Future of Work: AI and Employee Development
31:00 Unlearning the CEO Myth

| Connect with Us |

Follow Ritu Mohanka:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ritumohanka/
Company: https://www.linkedin.com/company/vonq/posts/?feedView=all
Website: Homepage

(Ritu Mohanka is a forward-thinking HR and people analytics expert focused on AI-driven coaching, personalized development, and the future of work. She champions solutions that help individuals grow in real time and organizations unlock meaningful performance gains.)

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In this episode, Christy Honeycutt sits down with Sean Behr, CEO of Fountain, to unpack what’s broken in frontline hiring and what it really takes to fix it. Sean shares how Fountain is reimagining high-volume hiring by balancing speed with quality, expanding access, and designing experiences that treat hourly workers like humans—not transactions.

Together, they explore how AI is changing recruitment in real time, why old hiring assumptions are collapsing under pressure, and what leaders are getting wrong about “efficiency.” Sean offers a powerful reframe for leadership in moments of disruption: trust gets people in the door, but hope is what keeps them moving forward.

This conversation goes beyond technology. It’s about designing systems that work with people, not against them—and why the future of hiring depends on leaders willing to challenge outdated beliefs, listen to frontline realities, and build for resilience, dignity, and scale.

Key Takeaways

• Why frontline hiring systems are the backbone of the global economy—and where they fail most

• How speed without quality breaks trust (and businesses)

• Why AI works best when it removes friction, not humanity

• What today’s job-seeking behavior reveals about broken assumptions in hiring

• Why hope—not just trust—is a leadership necessity in times of change

• How expanding access creates better outcomes for workers and employers

Chapters
00:00 Why Frontline Hiring Systems Matter
02:12 Leadership in High-Velocity Hiring Environments
04:05 AI, Scale, and the Reality of Modern Job Seeking
21:33 Trust vs. Hope: What Actually Sustains Workers
25:03 Expanding Access Without Sacrificing Quality
26:25 Workforce Resilience in a Shifting Economy
27:45 Challenging Outdated Hiring Beliefs
30:34 Final Thoughts: The Future of Frontline Hiring

| Connect with Us |

Follow Sean Behr:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/seanbehr/
Website: Fountain - Your Frontline Workforce Management Platform

(Sean Behr is the CEO of Fountain, a hiring technology platform focused on opening opportunities for the global frontline workforce. He is passionate about building systems that balance speed with quality, expand access to meaningful work, and help organizations hire and retain talent at scale.)

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Kate shares her career journey from Google and Uber to leading a fast-growing data privacy platform—unpacking the mindset shifts required to move from executor to builder. Together, Christy and Kate explore the power of cross-functional collaboration, servant leadership, mentorship, and why embracing failure is often the fastest path to growth.

This episode challenges common myths about the C-suite and offers a refreshing reminder: leadership isn’t about titles—it’s about ownership, integrity, and learning in public.

Key Takeaways

• Being a builder is a leadership advantage—especially in times of change.

• Entrepreneurial spirit exists at every level, not just at the top.

• Strong companies win through cross-functional alignment, not silos.

• Gratitude and reflection are practical leadership tools, not soft skills.

• Mentorship accelerates growth—for both mentors and mentees.

• Comfort with failure fuels innovation and resilience.

• Small, consistent learning moments compound over time.

• Clear, intentional communication is essential in hybrid and remote teams.

• Data privacy leadership requires integrity, transparency, and trust.

• The C-suite is more accessible—and more human—than many believe.

  
  

  Chapters
  00:00 Introduction to Leadership and Impact
  01:23 Career Journey: From Google to Uber to Transcend
  03:43 The Builder Mentality in Leadership
  06:10 Identifying Entrepreneurial Spirit in Teams
  09:44 Uniting Cross-Functional Teams
  11:54 Navigating Organizational Challenges
  14:13 Leading with Heart and Servant Leadership
  16:08 The Role of Mentorship in Career Growth
  18:28 Learning from Failures and Micro-Learnings
  21:38 Communication Across Generations
  25:26 Intentional Communication in Remote Work
  27:44 Transcend's Approach to Data Privacy
  31:17 Myths About the C-Suite

  
  

  #InsideTheCSuite #BuilderMindset #LeadershipInAction #KateParker #ExecutiveLeadership #DataPrivacy #ModernLeadership #CLevelConversations #LeadWithIntegrity #CareerOwnership #LeadershipThatBuilds

| Connect with Us |

Follow Kate Parker:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kate-parker/
Website: https://transcend.io | www.transcendprivacy.com

(Kate Parker is the President of Transcend, a leading data privacy platform. With a background spanning Google and Uber, Kate brings a builder’s mindset to executive leadership—championing integrity, transparency, and cross-functional collaboration while helping organizations navigate the evolving data privacy landscape.)

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• Emotional intelligence is crucial for effective management.

• Frontline managers significantly influence employee engagement.

• AI adoption in business faces hesitancy but is necessary for future growth.

• Young CEOs often deal with imposter syndrome and confidence issues.

• Opportunities should be embraced as they arise.

• Mental health awareness is essential in the workplace.

• Frontline managers need more support and training.

• AI can help reduce administrative burdens on managers.

• Design and user experience are critical for AI solutions.

• Building a supportive network is vital for leadership success.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Justin Weitzer and Neuro
02:34 The Importance of Emotional Intelligence in Management
04:54 Empowering Frontline Managers with AI
06:50 Navigating AI Hesitancy in Business
13:09 Challenges of Being a Young CEO
17:03 Justin's Journey and Passion for Mental Health
22:07 Breaking the Stigma of Mental Health
23:34 Empowering Voices in Education
26:24 The Role of AI in Supporting Managers
29:32 Loneliness in Leadership
32:47 AI's Impact on Human Connection
33:26 Aha Moments in Client Success
36:20 Designing for the Frontline Workforce

| Connect with Us |

Follow Justin Weitzer:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/justin-weitzer/
Website:

• nurau.com (Company)
• neuropresse.com/fondateur (Blog)
• claritytechlab.com (Company)

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LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christyhoneycutt/
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Know a leader who should be featured? Submit a recommendation or apply to be a guest.

Contact Form: Inside the C-Suite Podcast

Chapelle shares the realities of being a CEO—from the loneliness that can come with the role to the importance of mentorship during moments of growth and transition. Together, they explore the evolving complexities of employment compliance, especially in a remote and distributed workforce, and why trust, clarity, and strong systems matter more than ever.

The discussion dives into how leaders can build and sustain a high-performance culture, the role of rituals and self-regulation in leadership effectiveness, and why vulnerability isn’t a weakness—but a powerful tool for developing people and teams. Chapelle also offers perspective on running a company with intention, operating on EOS, and what the future holds for Workbright in the HR technology space.

Key Takeaways

• Leadership is often more complex—and lonelier—than it appears

• Mentorship is essential for CEOs, especially during key transitions

• Employment compliance is increasingly challenging in remote environments

• Workbright’s expertise centers on Form I-9 and compliance accuracy

• Strong company culture requires trust, clarity, and consistency

• Rituals help leaders maintain balance and self-regulation

• Remote teams thrive when expectations and development paths are clear

• Vulnerability in leadership strengthens connection and performance

• Being a CEO is both demanding and deeply rewarding

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Leadership Challenges
02:03 The Importance of Peer Mentorship
03:58 Understanding Workbright's Compliance Solutions
06:09 Addressing Remote Work Challenges
10:03 Building a Strong Company Culture
14:01 Navigating Compliance in a Remote Environment
19:54 Trust in Remote Work
21:15 Building Trust and Collaboration in Remote Teams
22:37 Mentorship and Coaching in a Remote Environment
24:37 Generational Perspectives on Work Ethic
26:13 Contextualizing Remote Work Policies
28:44 High Performance and Employee Development
30:10 The Importance of Rituals in Leadership
32:09 Personal Rituals and Work-Life Balance
36:15 Vulnerability in Leadership
38:07 Final Thoughts on Leadership and Compliance

| Connect with Us |

Follow Chapelle Ryon:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chapelle-ryon-109baa35/
Website: workbright.com

(Chapelle Ryon is the CEO of Workbright, an HR technology company specializing in employment compliance and digital I-9 solutions for distributed and remote workforces. As a people-first leader, Chapelle is passionate about building high-performing teams, fostering trust in remote environments, and leading with clarity, intention, and vulnerability.)

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John has shared his message on CBS, Fox, PBS, and national media outlets and has been featured for his leadership work and advocacy in both broadcast and print.

In this powerful conversation, John explains how he literally and figuratively amputated fear after losing his leg during his Olympic training—choosing a prosthetic and a new path instead of limitation—and went on to win a Paralympic silver medal.

Together, Christy and John explore the mindset shifts that distinguish leaders in times of uncertainty, how adversity can become advantage, and why resilience and purpose are critical to high‑stakes decision‑making. John also shares how his experience founding the U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Committee’s Paralympic Military Sports Program helped launch initiatives like the Warrior Games and inspired global movements like the Invictus Games.

This episode is a compelling call to action for executives and teams alike: when you amputate fear, you make room to innovate, elevate, and lead with greater clarity and impact.

Key Takeaways

• John Register is a two-time Paralympian and U.S. Army veteran.

• He emphasizes the importance of authenticity in leadership.

• John's journey includes overcoming the challenges of amputation.

• He founded the Paralympic Military Sport Program for wounded veterans.

• John believes in the power of sports for rehabilitation.

• He encourages individuals to find their unique purpose.

• The concept of 'amputate to elevate' is central to John's philosophy.

• Support systems play a crucial role in personal recovery.

• Generational differences affect communication styles.

• Diversity in thought is essential for effective decision-making.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to John Register
02:09 John's Journey: From Athlete to Amputee
05:30 Creating Opportunities for Wounded Veterans
08:30 Finding Your Path and Purpose
10:23 Amputate to Elevate: John’s Methodology
18:48 The Impact of Support Systems
22:16 The Importance of Relationships Over Achievements
24:32 Navigating Automation and AI in Communication
26:17 Generational Differences in Communication
29:27 Leveraging AI for Business Growth
34:25 Overcoming Uncertainty and Decision Paralysis
39:13 Lessons from Athletic Experience and Decision Making

| Connect with Us |

Follow John Register:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/johnregister/
Website: John Register | Inspired Communications International

(John Register is a transformational keynote speaker with 28 + years of experience, 1,000 + speeches, and over 500,000 audience connections worldwide. A Paralympic Silver Medalist, U.S. Army veteran, and Hall of Fame speaker, John empowers leaders to amputate fear and elevate performance across organizations and industries.)

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Jonny shares his deeply personal journey—from childhood trauma to becoming a civil rights attorney and ultimately a mental health advocate. What began as his own path toward healing evolved into a mission to create safe spaces where people can be seen, heard, and supported without judgment.

Together, Christy and Jonny explore why peer support is often the missing link in mental health care, how vulnerability strengthens leadership, and why so many individuals are seeking connection—not just crisis intervention. Jonny also explains how White Flag is designed to scale impact, offering free access to individuals while enabling organizations to foster healthier, more connected workplaces.

This conversation is a powerful reminder that when leaders lead with empathy, they don’t just build stronger organizations—they help create stronger communities.

• How Jonny McCoy transformed personal trauma into purpose-driven leadership

• Why peer support and shared experience are critical to mental health healing

• The role vulnerability plays in building trust and connection in leadership

• How White Flag creates safe, judgment-free spaces for mental health conversations

• Why many people are seeking connection—not just crisis support

• How organizations can use peer-based tools to support employee wellbeing

00:00 – Introduction to Jonny McCoy and His Mission
01:19 – From Trauma to Advocacy: Jonny’s Personal Journey
12:33 – The Birth of White Flag
19:04 – The Power of Community and Shared Experience
21:21 – Why Peer Support Matters in Mental Health
27:40 – Creating Safe Spaces for Vulnerability
30:42 – Connection as a Catalyst for Healing
31:56 – Tailoring Mental Health Support for Organizations
35:01 – The Mission and Vision Behind White Flag

| Connect with Us |

Follow Jonny McCoy | LinkedIn | Whiteflag

(Jonny McCoy is the Founder and CEO of White Flag, a mental health advocacy platform built to foster connection, peer support, and healing through shared experience. A former civil rights attorney, Jonny brings a deeply human-centered approach to leadership—transforming personal trauma into purpose and creating safe spaces where individuals and organizations can support mental wellbeing with empathy and authenticity.)

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In this can’t-miss episode, Christy sits down with Enrique Rubio, the powerhouse behind the most influential voices redefining community in HR.

Enrique reveals the untold truths behind building real community in an industry where many leaders feel more isolated than ever. From designing experiences that spark vulnerability to managing the chaos nobody sees behind large-scale events, Enrique shares the surprising lessons that only come from being in the trenches.

And then things get real: they dive into how AI is rewriting the rules of work at lightning speed — and why HR leaders who don’t adapt now risk being left behind. This conversation is packed with forward-looking insights, practical takeaways, and a refreshing dose of honesty about what it actually takes to bring people together in a rapidly changing world.

If you care about community, leadership, or the future of HR, this is the episode you’ll be thinking about long after it ends.

They unpack:

• AI is fundamentally changing the way we work and will disrupt many jobs.

• The potential displacement of jobs due to AI is a significant concern.
• Building community is about serving others and creating a supportive environment.
• HR professionals often feel isolated in their roles, highlighting the need for community.
• Inclusivity in community building allows for diverse perspectives and shared learning.
• AI integration requires a holistic approach that spans across all business functions.
• Humanizing AI involves addressing the needs of those displaced by technology.
• Leaders should approach AI with an open mind and a focus on opportunities.
• Being a doer is essential in the era of AI, not just a dreamer.
• Strategic leadership in AI is crucial for successful integration in organizations.

Chapters

00:00 The Impact of AI on Employment

05:55 Building Community and Leadership

14:23 Inclusivity in HR and Community Building

19:03 AI Integration and Its Challenges

26:36 Strategic AI Leadership in Organizations

| Connect with Us |

Follow Enrique Rubio:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/enrique-rubio-

Hacking HR: We Are Powering The Future Of HR | Hacking HR Lab

Become a Hacking HR Member:

Join using Christy’s referral link — We Are Powering The Future Of HR | Hacking HR Lab

(Enrique Rubio is a global HR leader and community builder known for creating spaces where professionals can learn, grow, and lead with purpose. Through Hacking HR conferences, he brings people together around innovation, inclusivity, and the future of work—helping HR professionals build stronger communities and navigate constant change with confidence.)

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Contact Form – Inside the C-Suite Podcast

#Leadership #CommunityBuilding #HackingHR #FutureOfWork #InsideTheCSuite #HRLeadership #Inclusivity #AIInHR #ProfessionalDevelopment #HumanResources

On this episode of Inside the C-Suite, Christy sits down with Cheri Garcia, Founder & CEO of Cornbread Hustle, a boutique staffing firm that has helped more than 3,000 people with criminal records find meaningful employment, dignity, and a path forward.

Cheri is a force.

She rebuilt her life after addiction, transformed her pain into purpose, and built one of the most impactful second-chance hiring movements in the country. Today, she helps companies create workplaces that change lives—not just bottom lines.

They unpack:

• The Leadership of Reinvention - why your lowest point can become your greatest asset—and how Cheri used her recovery to build a company centered on empathy, accountability, and transformation.

• The Truth About Second-Chance Hiring - what companies think it is vs. what it really looks like behind the scenes, and why individuals with criminal records are some of the most driven, loyal, and high-performing hires.

• Healing Before Hiring - how programs like Junk Hustlers and the Starting Over Program rebuild self-worth, identity, and confidence—because employment only sticks when inner work comes first.

• Community as a Leadership Strategy - why returning citizens need structure, accountability, and people who believe in them—and how leaders can create cultures that support real change.

• Entrepreneurship as Redemption - how Cheri teaches individuals to use creativity, discipline, and ownership to rewrite their stories and design their futures.

If you’ve ever believed in redemption, resilience, or the power of one “YES” this conversation will stay with you.

Cheri reminds us that reinvention isn’t a destination, it's a journey we walk together.

Chapters:

00:00 – Meet Cheri Garcia & the Mission of Cornbread Hustle

00:00 – The Story Behind 3,000+ Second Chances

00:00 – From Addiction to CEO: Cheri’s Reinvention

00:00 – What Second-Chance Hiring Really Looks Like

00:00 – Why Parole & Probation Can Support Success

00:00 – How to Navigate Setbacks with Strength

00:00 – Inside Junk Hustlers

00:00 – The 12-Week Starting Over Program

00:00 – Final Lessons on Leadership, Healing & Human Potential

| Connect with Us |

Follow Cheri Garcia:

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

Cornbread Hustle: http://cornbreadhustle.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cornbreadhustle/

(Cheri Garcia is the founder of Cornbread Hustle, a company dedicated to helping people coming out of prison and those in recovery find transformation through employment or entrepreneurship. After reinventing her own life, she has spent years helping others do the same—believing “we’re all just walking each other home.” Cornbread Hustle has placed more than 3,000 people with criminal records into meaningful jobs and continues to expand its impact through re-entry programs and community-driven initiatives.)

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LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/cwiseman/

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Contact Form – https://forms.gle/B1fVXPSV6b3x3AsS9

On this episode of Inside the C-Suite, Christy connects with Dr. Ruth Gotian - Chief Learning Officer at Cornell University, a top executive coach, and a social scientist obsessed with deconstructing success. Dr. Gotian has spent years getting inside the heads of the world's highest achievers—from astronauts to NBA champions—to find out what they know that the rest of us don't. She’s the person who asks the questions no one else does and comes back with a playbook that turns ambition into achievement.

They unpack:

• The Four Elements of Success – Breaking down the operating system of high achievers: intrinsic motivation, resilience, foundational habits, and relentless learning.
• Aiming Higher than Average – Why the language of "benchmarks" and "medians" limits our potential and how to make average the floor, not the ceiling.
• Mentorship vs. "Tormentors" – The difference between a true mentor who elevates you and a toxic "tormentor" who stalls your career—and how to find the right people for your corner.
• The Community of Practice – Why your most powerful allies are often your peers and how to build a support system with people who truly get it.
• Leading High Achievers – How to spot, retain, and develop the top performers on your team by investing in their curiosity instead of just managing their performance.
• The Art of the Interview – A behind-the-scenes look at how Dr. Gotian gets the world's most successful people to say yes and share the stories they've never told before.

If you've ever wondered if you have what it takes to reach the next level, this conversation is your permission slip and your roadmap. Dr. Gotian proves that the world's highest achievers aren't a different species—they just have a different operating system.

And it’s one you can install today.

Chapters:

00:00:00 - Welcome Dr. Ruth Gotian 00:01:50 - Obsessed with Success: The Subway Story 00:06:11 - How to Get Interviews with High Achievers 00:12:18 - How to Identify Superstars in Your Organization 00:18:41 - The Four Elements of Success 00:25:29 - Building Mentorship Programs 00:34:02 - Networking & Conversation Starters 00:42:19 - Recommendations for Micro-Learning

| Connect with Us |

Follow Ruth Gotian:

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

Website: https://www.ruthgotian.com/

Twitter: https://x.com/ruthgotian

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ruthgotian/

Read Ruth's Books:

The Success Factor

Financial Times Guide to Mentoring

Find them here: https://www.ruthgotian.com/books

Free Resources from Ruth:

Success Assessment: Discover your strengths and areas for growth with this free assessment based on Dr. Gotian's research.

https://www.ruthgotian.com/assessment

Conversation Starters: Download 13 of her favorite conversation starters to build authentic connections.

https://www.ruthgotian.com/conversation

(Dr. Ruth Gotian is a leadership expert recognized by Thinkers50 as the world's #1 emerging management thinker. She was also named one of the top 50 executive coaches in the world, one of the top 20 mentors in the world, and LinkedIn's Top Mentoring Voice. Her work is based on decades of research into the habits of high achievers, including Nobel laureates, astronauts, and Olympic champions. Dr. Gotian is the author of The Success Factor and the Financial Times Guide to Mentoring and has been published in Forbes, Harvard Business Review, and Fast Company.)

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On this episode of Inside the C-Suite, Christy sits down with Paul Posoli - former energy executive (Enron, Calpine, Bear Stearns, J.P. Morgan) turned founder and president of CareerSpring. What starts as a cheetah-shoes networking story turns into a masterclass on moving from success to significance. From a life-altering ask by a beloved school leader to the “sandwiches moment” that reset his compass, Paul opens up about impact and why opportunity shouldn’t depend on the zip code you’re born into.

They unpack:

• From Success to Significance: The mindset shift sparked by mid-career reflection (and a hard lesson watching a visionary founder get “whacked”) that redefined what a meaningful legacy looks like.

• The Sandwiches Story: The humbling moment that reframed service - and why no act of contribution is beneath a leader.

• CareerSpring’s Engine: A community-powered platform that’s already supported 33,000+ first-gen/low-income students from 1,250 colleges, with 550 partner orgs, 550 on-career videos, and ~900 direct offers - all designed to convert potential into full employment, not underemployment.

• Advisors at Scale: Why a single warm intro changes a life - and how today’s advisees are becoming tomorrow’s advisors (1,600 advisors pre-migration; rebuilding on a new platform and growing).

• AI, Work, and the Middle Class: A clear-eyed take on productivity gains, job displacement, and why capitalism requires an intentional pipeline into quality, dignified work.

• Leadership Without the Pedestal: Being approachable without being everyone’s “bestie,” holding firm to values, and measuring impact by how people feel after they interact with you.

If you care about talent, mobility, impact, or the future of work - or you’re simply weighing your own second-half pivot - this conversation is equal parts practical and heart-forward.

Because leadership isn’t just about making the right call on a volatile market.

It’s about showing up, opening doors, and building the kind of tomorrow where more people get to walk through them.

Chapters:

| Connect with Us |

Follow Paul Posoli:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/paul-posoli-b566791aa/

Curious About the CareerSpring Mission:

For Students: Join the CareerSpring Network - connect with mentors, explore careers, and find your first job opportunity.

For Leaders & Employers: Get Involved Here - become an advisor, partner organization, or hiring ally.

(Paul Posoli is the Founder and President of CareerSpring, a platform connecting first-generation students to advisors, internships, and meaningful first jobs. A former energy industry leader who ran global commodities at JPMorgan, he also served five years as President of Cristo Rey Jesuit College Preparatory School of Houston.)

Follow Inside the C-Suite:

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On this episode of Inside the C-Suite, Christy has a full-circle moment with Caroline Werner - Chief People Officer at LogicGate and a leader Christy has been “fangirling” since their shared days at Korn Ferry. From intentionally building a network that opens doors to navigating the loneliness at the top, Caroline pulls back the curtain on what it truly means to be the CEO of the people. She’s the leader who understands that business acumen is just as critical as the human element, and she’s not afraid to say that her job isn’t always about “loving people” - it’s about creating an environment where the right people can thrive.

They unpack:

• Pivoting with Purpose: How Caroline broke into the tech industry after being told “no” and the power of “intentional networking” over collecting contacts.

• The CHRO’s Tightrope: Why the Chief People Officer role is often the loneliest in the C-Suite and the constant balance of being approachable but not being everyone’s “bestie”.

• Tradeoffs & Choices: Caroline’s core philosophy for navigating difficult decisions and why effective leadership isn’t about being liked - it’s about being respected and effective.

• The Power of Presence: A raw look at learning to be fully present as a leader and why the way you make people feel is the ultimate measure of your impact.

• Getting Unstuck: Embracing the reality that “nothing is forever,” whether you’re in a great season or feeling “stuck in the muck,” and how to learn more from your failures than your successes.

• Legacy Over Likes: How to define and build your legacy from day one and the privilege and pressure that comes with shaping an organization’s culture.

If you’re a leader wrestling with tough calls, trying to pivot in your own career, or just want to hear from a leader who is as brilliant as she is real, this conversation provides a masterclass in leading with integrity and strategic grace.

Because true leadership isn’t about having all the answers.

It’s about showing up, being present, and making the hard choices that build a stronger tomorrow.

Chapters:

00:00:10 - A Full-Circle Moment and Fangirling Over a Past Mentor

00:01:25 - An Overview of LogicGate's GRC Platform

00:01:58 - Caroline's Multifaceted Role as Chief People Officer

00:03:09 - Navigating Career Progression and the Challenge of Being at the Top

00:06:54 - Pivoting from Professional Services to Tech

00:10:05 - Tips for Intentional and Effective Executive Networking

00:13:20 - Building Organizational Trust and Defining the Modern HR Team

00:19:24 - Managing the Stress and Reality of a People-Focused Role

00:21:55 - The Evolving Debate on Remote vs. In-Office Work

00:26:00 - Defining the Connection Between Leadership and Legacy

00:41:14 - Acknowledging Others and Enjoying the Journey

| Connect with Us |

Follow Caroline Werner:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/caroline-werner-0788513/

(Caroline Werner is a results-oriented Chief People Officer with a history of success in complex, high-growth global companies. She specializes in building high-performing HR teams and leading enterprise-wide transformations in areas like talent, culture, and employee experience. A trusted advisor to CEOs and boards, Caroline excels at guiding businesses through periods of disruption and expansion, ensuring their talent strategy aligns with key business outcomes.)

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On this episode of Inside the C-Suite, Christy sits down with Anna Morgan - founder of Career BFF, talent leader, events creator, and the catalyst behind EVOLVE, a grassroots conference lifting up TA and HR. From getting quiet on a Costa Rica retreat to shipping a two-day event in 89 days, Anna brings a rare mix of compassion, candor, and get-it-done energy. She’s the person you want in your corner when the rug gets pulled - equal parts coach, connector, and accountability partner with receipts.

They unpack:

• The last five years in TA/HR — layoffs, decision fatigue, “pandemic burn,” and why visibility + credibility (hello, LinkedIn) are armor for the next disruption

• Imposter syndrome vs. evidence — borrowing belief from your community until your own voice gets loud again

• Fast, messy action as a leadership skill — how Anna scopes, sequences, and ships community events (and why urgency + service beats perfection)

• Personal brand for practitioners — building relevance and inbound opportunities without becoming “a content person”

• Collaboration over competition — pulling back the curtain in recruiting to accelerate trust, reduce gatekeeping, and actually help people land

• The job search with dignity — why to say it out loud, ask for help, and surround yourself with safe, winning people

• “Failure isn’t the opposite of success - it’s the beginning of clarity.” Anna’s story, lessons, and how to analyze the pre-steps so you don’t repeat the miss

If you’ve felt alone in a long search, or you’re leading teams through churn and change, this conversation puts language to what you’re carrying - and a blueprint for moving anyway. 

Because staying human is not a soft skill. 

It’s the operating system that makes every other skill work.

Chapters:

00:02:46 - How the last five years reshaped TA

00:06:39 - How to choose your next move after a layoff

00:10:26 - Why building a conference in 89 days took empathy, community, and a little crazy

00:16:18 - Three pieces of advice for anyone in a long, public job search

00:19:31 - Who struggles more to self-promote - and how to use LinkedIn as service

00:22:56 - Why fake job postings erode trust and harm candidates

00:26:06 - Failure as the beginning of clarity - share a defining miss

00:33:08 - Finding your voice with the CHRO and protecting your integrity

| Connect with Us |

Follow Anna Morgan:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/annamorgan-recruiter-careerbff/

Check Out Anna’s Podcast – Your Career BFF:

Coming Soon - https://yourcareerbff.com/podcast

(Anna Morgan is the founder of Career BFF, a people-first recruiting and consulting partner that helps growth companies hire faster, smarter, and with heart. She blends direct hire, embedded TA, and manager training with community leadership (EVOLVE, Your CareerBFF Podcast) - backed by results like $1.2M in fees saved and 49% faster time-to-fill.)

Follow Inside the C-Suite:

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On this episode of Inside the C-Suite, Christy sits down with her long-time friend and mentor Pete Tiliakos - chief payroll champion, veteran, longtime HR operator, and the analyst behind an “open-source” approach to sharing insight. From auditing records in the Marines to building Disney’s HR/payroll transformation and advising the largest HCM platforms, Pete has sat in every seat that matters. He’s blunt about what works, generous with what he knows, and unapologetic about leading with heart.

They unpack:

• Tech that dies on the shelf vs. products people actually touch - why user adoption beats executive intent every time

• Investment vs. being invested - how leaders move beyond budget approvals to shoulder the work with their teams

• The Payroll Profession Competence Index - what sentiment reveals about sponsorship, trust, and the real state of the employee experience

• “Failing to fail” - how imposter syndrome nearly derailed Pete’s analyst career and the discipline that kept him on the field

• The Marine advantage - habits, urgency of perfection, and mission focus you can graft onto any team

• Co-opetition over posturing - why open collaboration outperforms closed, “we-know-it-all” models

If you’ve ever been sold a solution that never stuck - or wondered what it takes to earn adoption at scale - this conversation answers the question you’ve been avoiding and puts language to what your best operators already know.

Because transformation isn’t a launch. 

It’s leadership showing up, consistently, with discipline and a bias for humans over headlines.

Chapters:

00:05:09 - User adoption over top-down IT in HR tech

00:09:12 - Securing organization-wide buy-in for change

00:09:52 - Tracksuit moment and brand authenticity context

00:11:43 - Favorite podcasts and shows cited

00:16:26 - Military branch and service origin shared

00:21:07 - 18-year-old self perspective on today

00:21:37 - Advice to 18-year-olds starting out

00:23:41 - Common C-suite myths challenged

00:30:56 - Failure that became a turning point

00:38:02 - Final message and where to connect

| Connect with Us |

Follow Pete Tiliakos:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/petetiliakos/

Twitter - https://x.com/petetiliakos

Check Out Pete & Julie’s Podcast – HR & Payroll 2.0:

Apple – https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/hr-payroll-2-0/id1763160959

Spotify – https://open.spotify.com/show/10HlnoTCwGPVQEtUHNcCWl

YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@HRPAYROLL2_0

(Pete is a globally recognized HR and payroll authority with 30+ years spanning practitioner, buyer, vendor, consultant, analyst, and advisor - known for sharp research and strategic guidance across global payroll, EOR, fintech/payments, and HCM. He co-hosts HR & Payroll 2.0, hosts The Source by DailyPay, and is a go-to voice for industry associations, publications, and events.)

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Libby builds in the real world. When recruiting broke, she engineered a better funnel.When pricing felt like guesswork, she turned quoting into a repeatable hand-off. 

Her companies solve friction you can feel on the job site and in the back office.

We start with the story and land on the system. When Libby explains she has aphantasia - it clicks: she runs on checklists and clean inputs that create real speed. From there, her leadership is simple and serious - force alignment first, then move with intention until the work is finished. And because presence is part of the job, she trained it on purpose - with a performance coach - so confidence isn’t a vibe; it’s a switch she hits on cue.

Tune in to hear:

• How a personal reset became Organize It - and why recurring revenue changed her trajectory

• Aphantasia as a hidden edge - systems over visualization, clarity over vibe

• The persona work that helps her own a room on demand

• How to choose the right coach when the real constraint is you, not the playbook

• Family as an enterprise - real roles, real accountability, generational skills on purpose

• Leading Like an Elephant and “Kids That Clean” - building courage and capability early

• Indigenous roots and why representation in entrepreneurship matters

Libby doesn’t trade in slogans. She builds systems that ship. 

If you want a company that lasts, design it on purpose.

Chapters:

00:00:00 - Libby DeLucien joins Inside the C-Suite - serial entrepreneur building three companies on purpose

00:01:50 - Where did it start?” From crisis to Organize It and the power of recurring revenue

00:04:29 - “What broke in hiring?” WootRecruit takes dead aim at no-shows and speed-to-hire

00:06:32 - “So what is Service Cart?” Quote with confidence and make sales delegable

00:08:59 - “Explain aphantasia.” No mental pictures—systems, checklists, and velocity instead

00:13:21 - “How are you leveling up?” Body first, home next, business follows

00:16:01 - “Which coach moves the needle?” Business vs. leadership vs. mindset—pick the constraint

00:20:01 - “Why a drag-queen coach?” Presence engineered—confidence as a switch, not a mood

00:24:12 - “Define intentional execution.” Alignment -> intention -> execution; replace balance with intentional time

00:26:26 - “Why write for kids?” Leading Like an Elephant, Kids That Clean, and building generational skill

| Connect with Us |

Book a professional clean or home organization session:

https://organizeit.services/

Hire reliable talent fast with an automated recruiting funnel:

https://wootrecruit.com/

Align, set intention, and execute with One Layer Deep:

https://www.amazon.com/Layer-Deep-Winning-Business-Yourself-ebook/dp/B0F3NLK548

Teach courage and leadership with Leading Like an Elephant:

https://www.amazon.com/Leading-Like-Elephant-Heart-Difference-ebook/dp/B0F3YY3KW9

Follow Libby DeLucien:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/bryanmurphy2/

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/libbydelucien/

TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@libbydelucien

(Libby DeLucien builds systems that turn home services into scalable businesses. Founder of WootRecruit (2020) and Service Cart (2025), she’s helped 400+ companies across 25 industries hire faster and sell cleaning services online in seconds. She also owns Organize It - launched in 2014 with a cleaning division added in 2018 - now a proving ground for her products and a growing franchise, all while raising three kids in a family of entrepreneurs.)

Follow Inside the C-Suite:

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Bryan doesn’t come across like your standard tech exec. He’s a gardener at heart, someone who likes to grow things - whether that’s plants, businesses, or people. And that instinct shows up in how he leads Smartling. 

Tune in to hear:

• Why global brands are mandating AI adoption in 2025 - and how Smartling is delivering on it
• How multilingual content drives organic traffic and digital growth in international markets
• The cultural nuance of localization (why Canadian French ≠ French French, and why it matters)
• How Bryan approaches fear and skepticism around AI in the workforce - and why learning the skill set is non-negotiable
• The personal leadership lessons that carried him through crisis and into long-term success

At its core, this episode is about connection - between brands and their customers, between leaders and their teams, and between language and meaning.

Bryan doesn’t just translate content. He translates possibility. 

And in a world moving this fast, that’s the kind of leadership we need.

Chapters:

00:01:22 – How Smartling Helps Global Brands Like Tesla, Apple & Disney

00:03:30 – AI Translation: Cutting Costs & Growing Digital Footprints

00:06:35 – Unique Languages & Emerging Localization Trends

00:08:28 – Fear of AI vs. Curiosity: Why Skills Matter More Than Ever

00:11:13 – Christy’s First AI Experiment: From Poems to Prompts

00:12:53 – Top 3 Ways to Learn AI Skills Fast

00:14:34 – From Google to GPT: How Search Behavior Is Changing

00:19:18 – AI Vocabulary & The Challenge of Clear Communication

00:23:07 – Localization Done Right: Brand Voice & Cultural Nuance

00:25:52 – Leadership in Crisis: Lessons from Losing a Business in COVID

00:28:12 – A Defining Moment: Loss, Resilience & Leading Through Tragedy

00:32:30 – What Bryan Murphy Does Best as a CEO

00:34:39 – Final Takeaways: The Power of Language to Connect the World

| Connect with Us |

Learn more about Smartling:

https://www.smartling.com/

Follow Bryan Murphy:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/bryanmurphy2/

(Bryan helps global brands speak every customer’s language - building trust and driving growth through Smartling’s LanguageAI platform. With two decades of experience scaling e-commerce and SaaS companies, including leadership at eBay and co-founding WHI Solutions, he blends technology with empathy to make localization fast, accurate, and human. Named Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year and recognized on a16z’s Marketplace 100, Bryan doesn’t just lead companies - he builds teams and tools that connect the world.)

Follow Inside the C-Suite:

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Kim doesn’t do clickbait stereotypes or “Gen Z vs. Boomers” headlines. She studies shifts in trust, leadership, parenting, politics, and communication over time - then helps companies actually make sense of it. Through storytelling and hard data, she unpacks why cultural change feels disorienting and how leaders can navigate it with empathy, rigor, and intention.

Together, Christy and Kim explore what happens when generations collide in the workplace - and why that tension might be exactly what we need.

Tune in to hear:

• How Kim’s research into generational identity started with one radical question: “What if my grandmother had been born in a different era?”

• Why the collapse of institutional trust isn’t just a Gen Z issue - it’s a workplace wake-up call

• The missed opportunity in the “authenticity movement” and why emotional regulation is leadership’s next frontier

• What COVID did to our shared sense of direction - and how it rewired expectations for work, leadership, and belonging

• How Gen Z sees work differently than Millennials - and why that might be a good thing for business

Kim doesn’t just study change - she maps it.

And if we want to lead people forward, we need to understand them first.

Chapters:

00:01:56 - What Changes Across Time - and Why Context Is Everything 

00:04:35 - Personal Roots of a Generational Obsession 

00:11:40 - COVID’s Long Shadow and Gen Z’s Broken Trust 

00:16:22 - Why Losing the Workplace as a Shared Space Changed Everything 

00:20:11 - Vulnerability at Work: When It Helps and When It Hurts 

00:22:25 - Whole Self vs. Best Self: The Career-Defining Distinction 

00:26:35 - Why HR Must See Itself as an Energy Conduit 

00:31:11 - Respect, Identity, and the Complexity of Modern Leadership 

00:33:39 - Gen Z’s Take: Work Isn’t Family - It’s a Contract 

00:34:45 - Kim’s Hard Lesson: Vetting Ideas Before Pitching Up 

00:40:03 - Where Are the Grown-Ups? What Young People Are Really Asking 

00:44:13 - Connection Over Perfection: What People Want from Leaders Now 

Curious about the book Christy shared?

Brand Up isn’t just a read - it’s a blueprint for showing up with purpose. Whether you're navigating college admissions, job interviews, or executive leadership, this book helps you clarify who you are and lead from it.

If you’ve been waiting for a sign to step into who you are and lead with it - this is it.

| Connect with Us |

Learn more about Inlay Insights:

https://www.linkedin.com/company/inlay-insights/

Follow Kim Lear:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimberlylear/

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/kim_lear

SubStack - https://kimlear.substack.com/

(Kim breaks down the cultural shifts shaping today’s workplace - using data, storytelling, and humor to make it stick. Her work has been featured by NPR, The Wall Street Journal, USA Today, and more. Trusted by Fortune 500s and top universities alike, Kim doesn’t just study change - she makes it make sense.)

Follow Inside the C-Suite:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/cwiseman/

Subscribe on Spotify – https://open.spotify.com/show/2gk39EvNtXLVHuAbp7tr6b

Subscribe on Apple – https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/inside-the-c-suite/id1739883160

Want to be on the show or know someone who might? 

Contact Form – https://forms.gle/B1fVXPSV6b3x3AsS9

Together, they break down the real work of visibility, self-definition, and leadership in an age of automation, oversaturation, and self-doubt.

Tune in to hear:

• Why being a twin fueled Stacey’s obsession with individuality - and how she turned it into a mission
• How she helps teens, job seekers, and CEOs answer the million-dollar question: “Why should someone choose you?”
• The one branding mistake that derails even the smartest professionals - and how to fix it fast
• Why AI may write your resume, but it won’t build your relationships
• How to make networking feel human again (even if you hate it)

If you’re navigating career shifts, launching your own thing, or simply trying to figure out how to be seen - this episode is a tactical, heart-centered playbook for showing up and standing out.

Because if you don’t tell your story, someone else will. 

And they won’t get it right.

Chapters:

00:00:00 - Meet Stacey Cohen: CEO, Author, Brand Builder  

00:02:16 - Building a Full-Service Brand Agency from the Ground Up  

00:03:12 - Entrepreneurial Fire Starts Early  

00:06:10 - Reframing Entrepreneurship Beyond Business Ownership  

00:08:20 - From Twin Identity to Personal Brand Clarity  

00:12:36 - Embracing Your Uniqueness in a World of Comparison  

00:13:56 - How to Show Up Authentically in Corporate Culture  

00:14:23 - Rethinking Personal Branding - It’s Not About Ego  

00:15:57 - The $1M Question: Why Should Someone Choose You?  

00:17:31 - Career Equity Starts with Brand Integrity  

00:18:20 - Finding Your Value Through Self and Peer Reflection  

00:19:47 - Control the Narrative - Manage Your Digital Presence  

00:22:25 - AI and Branding: Use It, Don’t Be Replaced by It  

00:24:52 - Relationships > Resumes: The Truth About Hiring  

00:26:29 - Networking Without the Cringe  

00:28:36 - Connection Begins with Giving, Not Selling  

00:30:25 - LinkedIn Strategy That Actually Works  

00:32:20 - Why Everyone Needs a Brand - Even if You’re Not Job Hunting  

00:33:22 - Stacey’s 3-Part Framework for Purpose and Visibility  

00:36:46 - Turn Your Value into Visibility  

00:39:09 - The Power of Peer Validation and Team Alignment

Curious about Brand Up?

It isn’t just a book - it’s a wake-up call. Brand Up is for anyone ready to stop playing small and start owning the room, whether that room is a college admissions office, a job interview, or a boardroom.

Stacey cuts through the noise with tools that actually work - and more importantly, with the mindset shift that changes everything. 

Because the world doesn’t slow down to notice you. 

You have to make it look twice.

If you’ve been waiting for a sign to step into who you are and lead with it - this is it.

| Connect with Us |

Learn more about Co-Communications:

https://cocommunications.com/

Follow Stacey Cohen:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/staceycohen2/

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/staceyrosscohen/

(She’s the real deal: CEO of Co-Communications, Award-Winning Author, TEDx Speaker, and Brand Builder on a Mission)

Follow Inside the C-Suite:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/cwiseman/

Subscribe on Spotify – https://open.spotify.com/show/2gk39EvNtXLVHuAbp7tr6b

Subscribe on Apple – https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/inside-the-c-suite/id1739883160

Want to be on the show or know someone who might? 

Contact Form – https://forms.gle/B1fVXPSV6b3x3AsS9

In this real-talk episode of Inside the C-Suite, Christy sits down with Jocelyn King, the founder and CEO of Virgil HR, who went from overwhelmed HR exec to startup founder by asking a simple but powerful question: Isn’t there a better way?

Together, they unpack the messy middle of leadership - where pressure, purpose, and people all collide.

Tune in to hear:

• Why Jocelyn swears by grit, grace, and Google (yes, really)
• The communication skill that almost derailed her career - and how she turned it into her superpower
• The hidden weight of sitting in the C-suite (and how to carry it without crumbling)
• What HR leaders are really facing in a post-COVID, multi-state world
• And the moment that made her say: If the tool doesn’t exist... I’ll build it myself

Whether you’re leading a team, building something from scratch, or just trying to keep your head above water - this episode is your reminder that there is always a way forward.

And if you can’t find one?

Make one. 

Chapters:

00:01:52 - Why HR keeps saying “I’m not a lawyer”

00:02:22 - What grit and resilience really look like in a startup

00:03:44 - The people who shaped Jocelyn’s leadership

00:05:28 - Building a team you can trust

00:05:42 - Leading through chaos without rituals

00:07:12 - Traits that helped Jocelyn succeed

00:08:01 - Turning communication into a leadership superpower

00:09:15 - Jocelyn’s mantra for overcoming obstacles

00:10:22 - What Jocelyn would tell her younger self

00:11:51 - A startup failure that turned into growth

00:15:01 - The biggest compliance issues HR leaders face

00:17:51 - Why HR carries more weight than people realize

00:18:38 - Where to meet Jocelyn at upcoming events

00:19:14 - Jocelyn’s personal outlets and self-care habits

00:22:08 - What makes Virgil HR different

00:22:54 - What no one tells you about the C-suite

| Connect with Us |

Learn more about VirgilHR:

https://virgilhr.com/

Follow Jocelyn King:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jocelynanneking/

(She's the real deal: CEO of VirgilHR, HR Compliance Expert and Technology Innovator, & A Proud Dog Mom)

Meet Jocelyn IRL at Upcoming Conferences:

• SHRM Annual Conference - San Diego 2025
• HRTech Conference - Las Vegas 2025
• Transform (Already attended, but one of her favs!)
• HRWest (Already attended, but she may return next year!)

Follow Inside the C-Suite:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/cwiseman/

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In this episode of Inside the C-Suite, Christy Honeycutt sits down with Ashley T Brundage - a former homeless part-time bank teller turned national VP, political candidate, and now CEO of Empowering Differences. Ashley didn’t just navigate discrimination, transition, and poverty - she transformed it into one of the most dynamic leadership blueprints of our time.

Her method is simple, but not easy: track power, own your differences, and use both to lead.

This episode explores:

• Why “diversity” isn’t a checkbox - it’s a business development strategy
• How to dismantle fear-based inclusion programs and replace them with ROI-backed leadership pipelines
• What most companies get wrong about DEI (and why renaming it won’t fix it)How to navigate identity-based ignorance without retreating or retaliating
• Why socioeconomic class is the most overlooked dimension of inclusion
• What it really takes to campaign for office while being “othered” on every doorstep
• How Ashley scaled her impact by treating empowerment like a strategy, not a sentiment

Ashley’s story isn’t about making people comfortable. It’s about making people capable - of leading with clarity, building across difference, and staying rooted in conviction when the spotlight turns political.

This isn’t just a masterclass in equity. It’s a case study in courage.

Chapters:

00:01:20 – How We Met and Why Ashley Stood Out  

00:01:47 – Ashley’s Background Beyond the Bio  

00:03:10 – What Happens When You Google Ashley T Brundage  

00:04:19 – How Ashley Helps Teams Feel More Inclusive  

00:08:07 – Ashley’s Journey from Homelessness to the C-Suite  

00:18:49 – A Common Myth About the C-Suite Experience  

00:20:07 – A Failure That Shaped Ashley’s Leadership Path  

00:22:11 – Campaigning Stories and Leadership Lessons from the Field  

00:27:42 – The Deeper Layers of Empowering Differences  

00:33:55 – Final Thoughts and How to Engage with Ashley’s Work

| Connect with Us |

Learn more about Empowering Differences:

https://empoweringdifferences.com/

Grab Ashley’s book and start empowering differences today:

https://empoweringdifferences.com/product/empowering-differences-book/

Follow Ashley Brundage:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashleytbrundage/

(Rebuilt from rock bottom and now equips leaders to recognize power, difference, and what’s really driving impact.)

Follow Inside the C-Suite:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/cwiseman/

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Want to be on the show or know someone who might? 

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In this episode of Inside the C-Suite, Christy Honeycutt welcomes Garrett Mintz - former drug dealer turned executive mastermind facilitator, founder of Ambition in Motion, and the kind of person who’s built his career on second chances and relentless experimentation.

What happens when you combine IO psychology, startup scrappiness, and a deep belief in human potential? You get a business that didn’t just survive - it scaled. Garrett shares how his journey from prison risk to purpose-driven CEO has shaped his views on mentorship, motivation, and building real community at the top.

This isn’t a redemption arc. It’s a blueprint for doing business with conviction.

They unpack:

• Why horizontal mentorship (not top-down advice) creates the best growth

• The real reason most mentoring programs fail - and what to do instead

• How “work orientation” reveals the hidden reason mentorship either clicks or crashes

• Why clarity of why beats charisma or credentials every time

• How executive loneliness gave rise to community-led mastermind groups

• Why obsession with the problem is more powerful than worship of the solution

Whether you’re rebuilding after failure, leading a team through chaos, or trying to scale without losing soul - Garrett’s story proves grit and grace can coexist.

Because leadership doesn’t start with having all the answers. It starts with asking better questions.

Chapters:

00:00:54 – From drug dealer to executive facilitator

00:02:54 – The mentors who changed everything

00:07:24 – Why mentorship often fails

00:08:00 – What makes mentorship work

00:11:20 – Surprised by your work mindset?

00:13:47 – Daily habits that fuel leadership

00:15:17 – What’s next for Garrett’s work

00:22:50 – Keeping your team motivated

00:25:11 – A failure that reshaped the business

00:27:19 – How fatherhood changed his mindset

00:29:02 – A common myth about the C-Suite

00:30:49 – What Garrett does better than anyone else

| Connect with Us |

Learn more about Ambition in Motion:

https://ambition-in-motion.com/

Follow Garrett Mintz:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/garrettmintz/

(Built a business on second chances and now helps leaders see what’s really happening beneath the surface.)

Follow Inside the C-Suite:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/cwiseman/

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This episode unpacks what happens when empathy isn’t a value - it’s the infrastructure.

In this episode of Inside the C-Suite, Christy Honeycutt sits down with Josh Varone - CFO and EVP at Centreville Bank, longtime HR pro, board member, and unshakable believer in leading with humanity. With more than 20 years in HR and a deep resume of community impact, Josh breaks down how his L&D roots shaped a career defined by empathy & servant leadership.

This isn’t your typical HR playbook - it’s a reminder that caring still scales.

They unpack:

• Why “employer of choice” isn’t a buzzword - it’s a mission

• How handwritten notes and DoorDash gift cards beat policy changes in real impact

• The red folder lesson: why HR’s reputation depends on showing up before there’s a problem

• What real consultation looks like in today’s HR: less compliance, more conversation

• How to build an HR team that challenges you (instead of just nodding yes)

• Why your leadership ladder needs to be 40 feet wide - not 40 feet tall

• How to get on a board the right way - starting with passion, not position

Whether you’re HR of one or leading a department, Josh’s journey is a blueprint for showing up with consistency, clarity, and compassion.

Because great leadership? It starts with being a good human.

| Connect with Us |

Learn more about Centreville Bank:

https://www.centrevillebank.com/

Follow Josh Varone:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/josh-varone/

(HR lifer turned CFO – known for handwritten notes, red folder wisdom, and building cultures where people feel seen before they're managed)

Follow Inside the C-Suite:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/cwiseman/

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Want to be on the show or know someone who might? 

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In this delightfully unfiltered episode of Inside the C-Suite, Christy Honeycutt sits down with Mike Stafiej, CEO of ERIN - a referral automation platform with serious enterprise muscle and an even stronger personality.

Known as “The Fun CEO” for a reason, Mike shares how he’s scaled a scrappy team into a global operation, all while keeping culture, accountability, and weird swag front and center. This one’s for the builders, the underdogs, and anyone who’s ever been told to stay in their lane.

They dive headfirst into:

• How growing up blue-collar shaped Mike’s unshakable work ethic
• The hard truth about hiring friends - and how to know when to let go
• Why culture isn’t beanbags, it’s accountability
• Lessons from failure, fundraising, and the illusion that more headcount = more growth
• Why leadership means making space for reflection, not just reaction
• Plus: The legendary sloth suit origin story and why branding like you’ve got $10M (even if you’ve got $10K) works

Whether you’re bootstrapping your dream or riding the post-funding rollercoaster, Mike’s story is a masterclass in leading with grit, humility, and a touch of ridiculous.

And if you’re not building something fun… why build it at all?

| Connect with Us |

Learn more about ERIN:

https://erinapp.com/

Follow Mike Stafiej:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelstafiej/

(The Fun CEO himself – known for sloth-themed branding, pixel-perfect marketing, and leading Aaron with equal parts grit and weirdness) 

Follow Inside the C-Suite:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/cwiseman/

Subscribe on Spotify – https://open.spotify.com/show/2gk39EvNtXLVHuAbp7tr6b

Subscribe on Apple – https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/inside-the-c-suite/id1739883160

Want to be on the show or know someone who might?

Contact Form – https://forms.gle/B1fVXPSV6b3x3AsS9

In this episode, we look at Businessolver, employee benefits, annual enrollment, entrepreneurship, insurance industry, technology, team building, community, challenges, personal growth, organizational psychology, decision-making, leadership, company growth, mentorship, sacrifices, employee benefits, and culture.

Key Takeaways

1. Businessolver redefines employee benefits enrollment with cutting-edge technology.
2. Annual enrollment requires innovation to simplify complex processes for employees.
3. Success in entrepreneurship hinges on teamwork, mentorship, and adaptability.
4. Leaders must embrace trust and delegation to scale businesses effectively.
5. Personal sacrifices are part of navigating growth in entrepreneurship.
6. Technology and culture play pivotal roles in modern employee benefits management.

Chapters

00:00 Who is Jon Shanahan and businessolver

03:04 The Evolution of Employee Benefits Enrollment

05:54 The Journey of Entrepreneurship

09:10 Navigating Challenges in the Insurance Industry

12:00 Building a Team and Finding Success

14:53 The Importance of Community and Timing

18:00 Personal Reflections and Future Aspirations

19:10 Understanding People and Organizational Psychology

21:31 The Evolution of Decision Making in Growing Companies

25:00 The Balance of Control and Trust in Leadership

28:32 Navigating Growth and Technological Advancements

32:11 The Importance of Mentorship and Career Growth

37:26 Sacrifices and Trade-offs in Entrepreneurship

Connect with Jon Shanahan, CEO and Co-Founder at businessolver: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jon-shanahan/

William Tincup LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tincup/

Ryan Leary LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryanleary/

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In this episode we look at ESO Fund, venture capital, stock options, employee negotiations, recruiters, vesting schedules, tax implications, startup compensation, company valuation, employee compensation, liquidity, investment strategies, tax implications, recruiter education, employee options, customer success stories.

Key Takeaways

1. Stock Options Untapped: Over half of stock options granted are never exercised due to tax and financial challenges, highlighting a missed opportunity for many employees.
2. Understanding Vesting Schedules: Vesting typically follows a one-year cliff model, and employees need to stay long enough to realize full benefits.
3. Tax Implications Matter: The tax impact on stock options can be significant, affecting an employee's decision to exercise their options and the financial outcomes.
4. Role of Recruiters in Stock Options: Recruiters are crucial in educating employees on stock options, helping them make informed decisions during negotiations.
5. Liquidity Events Unlock Value: Stock options only hold tangible value once a liquidity event, like an IPO or acquisition, occurs, making timing critical.
6. Confusion Over Stock vs. Options: Many employees mistake stock options for actual ownership, which can lead to unrealistic expectations about wealth accumulation.
7. Impact of Company Valuation: As a company’s worth multiplies, employees may see their options increase in potential value—if they understand when to exercise.
8. Perverse Incentives Exist: Companies may create unintended consequences in compensation structures, influencing when and if employees exercise options.
9. Education is Key: Financial and tax education empowers employees to maximize their benefits from stock options and navigate complex decisions confidently.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the ESO Fund and Venture Capital

02:00 Understanding Stock Options and Their Challenges

05:57 The Disconnect in Employee Negotiations

10:02 The Role of Recruiters and Direct Marketing

11:55 Stock Options on the Balance Sheet

15:01 Vesting Schedules and Their Implications

16:59 Negotiating Salary and Options

18:08 Understanding Company Valuation and Employee Compensation

21:21 Liquidity and Investment Strategies

24:50 Tax Implications and Employee Education

29:27 Recruiter Education and Employee Options

32:52 Customer Success Stories and Quick Turnarounds

Connect with Scott Chou and ESO Fund here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/soonervc/ https://www.esofund.com/

William Tincup LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tincup/

Ryan Leary LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryanleary/

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In this episode we look at entrepreneurship, financial wellness, on-demand pay, HR technology, venture capital, startup journey, business strategy, banking innovation, leadership, decision-making, financial solutions, market dynamics, and trust.

Key Takeaways:

• Jason Lee pioneered the on-demand pay industry with successful exits from DailyPay and Salt Labs.
• As Chief at Chime Enterprise, he’s leading the charge on innovative financial wellness solutions.
• Jason’s entrepreneurial journey highlights the value of creating businesses that drive real-world impact.
• Scaling and exiting companies with a purpose is central to Jason’s approach to entrepreneurship.
• He emphasizes the role of accessible pay in supporting employee financial security and well-being.
• Building trust with investors and clients has been key to Jason’s success across multiple ventures.
• Jason shares valuable insights on navigating market dynamics and adapting to changing industry needs.
• With Chime Enterprise, Jason is positioned to lead the next wave of financial wellness and HR tech innovation.

Chapters

00:00 Who is Jason Lee, pioneer of the on-demand pay industry, DailyPay, Salt Labs, and Chime

06:14 Jason's Entrepreneurial Background

11:54 The Concept of On-Demand Pay

18:05 Building Financial Solutions for Everyday Americans

23:53 The Genesis of an Idea

30:18 Building Trust in Entrepreneurship

36:41 Navigating Market Dynamics

42:05 The Reality of Decision-Making

Connect with Jason Lee here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasonleem2/

William Tincup LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tincup/

Ryan Leary LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryanleary/

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In this episode, we look at AI in business, workforce management, leadership, teamwork, career development, and emotional intelligence, exploring how Mike combines his sports background with cutting-edge business strategies to drive success.

Key Takeaways:

• Teamwork is foundational, blending lessons Mike learned from both the NFL and tech.
• Listening and adaptability are crucial for sustained growth and leadership success.
• Transitioning from the NFL to tech sharpened Mike’s skills in resilience and strategy.
• Eliminating outdated practices is key to staying ahead in a competitive market.
• Emotional intelligence plays a pivotal role in successful sales and client relationships.
• Continuous improvement stems from analyzing losses and embracing change.
• Building strong, skilled teams is essential for any CEO striving for long-term success.
• AI can streamline operations, enhancing efficiency and prioritization for leaders.
• Mentorship and paying it forward are central to Mike’s leadership philosophy.
• Curiosity and a liberal arts foundation cultivate critical thinking in the next generation.

Chapters

00:00 From the NFL to CEO of top global companies, Who is Mike Morini, CEO at PlanSource?

03:04 Career Journey and Transition to PlanSource

05:59 The Importance of Learning and Listening

08:56 Athletic Background and Its Influence

11:55 Experiences in the NFL and Lessons Learned

15:04 Teamwork and Leadership Philosophy

18:09 Understanding Competition and Market Dynamics

20:57 Analyzing Losses and Continuous Improvement

24:49 The Importance of Emotional Intelligence in Sales

25:31 Lessons from IBM: Training and Work Ethic

27:28 Transitioning from IBM to Software Sales

29:09 The Challenge of Prioritization in Business

30:31 Leveraging AI for Business Efficiency

32:39 Guiding the Next Generation in Education

36:05 The Value of Curiosity and Liberal Arts Education

39:06 Building a Successful Workforce Management Company

42:34 Empowering Others: The Role of a Leader

Connect with Mike Morini here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mikemorini/

William Tincup LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tincup/

Ryan Leary LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryanleary/

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In this episode, we look at authentic leadership, career journey, feedback, personal growth, women in business, staffing industry, and community building. Discover Kendra Cato’s impactful insights into the importance of empowering women and fostering genuine connections in leadership.

Key Takeaways

1. Authentic Leadership: Kendra highlights the importance of authenticity in building trust and leading effectively.
2. Community Support: She emphasizes the role of community in empowering women, especially in the staffing industry.
3. Feedback for Growth: Learn how feedback is a critical tool for both personal and professional development.
4. Balancing Experience and Education: Kendra shares how real-world experience shaped her leadership journey.
5. Empowering Women’s Voices: Her book project is focused on elevating women in business through storytelling.
6. Building Genuine Connections: Kendra explains how meaningful relationships lead to new opportunities and career growth.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Background of Kendra Cato

03:02 Career Journey: From Interior Design to Business Writing

06:02 Transitioning into Management and Leadership Challenges

09:04 The Importance of Feedback and Personal Growth

12:00 Navigating Career Decisions and the Value of Experience

15:00 Building Community and Supporting Women in Leadership

17:49 The Power of Authenticity in Professional Settings

21:00 The Journey of Writing a Book and Empowering Others

Connect with Kendra here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kendracato/

William Tincup LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tincup/

Ryan Leary LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryanleary/

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In this episode, we look at proactive mental health, workplace wellness, behavior change, executive leadership, HR, entrepreneurship, and the importance of mindfulness. These themes shape how we understand and approach mental health in today’s rapidly evolving corporate and personal spaces.

Key Takeaways:

1. Proactive mental health focuses on daily habits for stress reduction and overall well-being.
2. Societal shifts are changing the narrative from mental illness to mental wellness.
3. Bridging HR and executive leadership is essential for advancing workplace mental health support.
4. Stephen Sokoler’s entrepreneurial journey illustrates the diverse paths to success, from snow removal to wellness tech.
5. Meditation is a powerful tool for fostering personal growth, clarity, and alignment with one’s values.
6. Kindness and presence are key to living a meaningful life, both personally and professionally.

Chapters

00:00 Who is Stephen Sokoler?

03:23 Proactive Mental Health

06:22 Shifting Societal Understanding of Mental Health

11:41 Bridging the Gap: HR and Executive Leaders

14:31 Journey's Proactive EAP

18:09 Entrepreneurial Journey: From Snow Removal to Journey

25:21 Starting a Bar and the Challenges of the Hospitality Industry

32:00 Discovering Meditation and the Journey to Mental Health

38:36 Becoming a Kinder Leader and Manager

45:34 Advice to Younger Self: Be Kinder

Connect with Stephen here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephensokoler/ and visit Jouney to learn more about Proactive Mental Health here: https://journey.live/

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In this episode we look at Shawn Nelson's entrepreneurial journey, the evolution of Lovesac, challenges faced in building a furniture retailer, the role of mission experience in leadership, and the importance of learning from rejection and building a strong team.

Key Takeaways:

1. Taking Risks and Learning from Mistakes: Essential for starting and growing a successful business.
2. Innovative Product Ideas: Can stem from personal experiences and interests.
3. Developing Leadership Skills: Challenges and experiences contribute to stronger leadership.
4. Overcoming Obstacles and Rejection: A critical part of building a successful company.
5. Hiring the Right People: Crucial for business growth and success.
6. Balancing Confidence and Humility: Important for long-term entrepreneurial success.

Chapters

00:00 Who is Shawn Nelson, CEO and Founder of Lovesac

01:09 The Origins of Lovesac

03:16 Mission Experience and Leadership Skills

06:12 Lessons Learned from Rejection and Overcoming Obstacles

09:58 The Significance of the Lovesac Name

16:30 Hiring the Right People

19:42 Growth and Success of Lovesac

20:11 Overcoming Rejection and Building a Successful Company

23:39 Instincts and Perseverance in Entrepreneurship

30:21 The Power of Faith and Motivation

34:43 Balancing Self-Confidence and Humility

39:21 Transitioning from Bootstrap to Public Company

44:23 Books as Mentors and Building a Strong Executive Team

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In this episode, we look at Erling Linde, venture capital funding, professional service firms, software as a service, user experience, co-founder relationship, and entrepreneurship. Discover the strategies and lessons that have fueled CV Partner's growth and how they can be applied to your own ventures.

Key Takeaways

1. CV Partner enables professional service firms to showcase their expertise in public tenders.
2. Venture capital funding can significantly accelerate growth but must be spent wisely.
3. A board of advisors is crucial for providing strategic guidance during growth phases.
4. Early startup failures offer valuable learning experiences and pave the way for success.
5. User experience is a critical component of a successful SaaS product.
6. Balancing friendship and business in a co-founder relationship requires careful navigation.

Chapters

00:00 Who is Erling and CV Partner?

01:14 CV Partner: Showcasing Expertise for Professional Service Firms

05:30 The Journey of Bootstrapping and Taking on Venture Capital

08:59 The Importance of a Board of Advisors

13:39 From Building Things to Building a Company

22:36 Lessons from Startup Failures

23:04 The Importance of User Experience

23:39 Balancing Friendship and Business

24:13 Setting Goals for Growth

25:11 Finding the Right Team Balance

26:27 Leading vs Managing

29:35 Emotional Resilience in Entrepreneurship

Connect with Erling: https://www.linkedin.com/in/erlingwl/

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In this episode, we look at leadership, equity, resilience, inclusion, DEI departments, and data-driven decisions. Explore how these elements intersect to redefine the future of work and create a thriving, inclusive workplace.

Key Takeaways:

1. Redefining equity in the workplace requires a data-driven approach to foster true inclusion.
2. Transitioning from a doer to a leader is a journey of self-reflection and personal growth.
3. Resilience, shaped by overcoming personal challenges, is essential for effective leadership.
4. Strong leaders must possess not only sales skills but also coaching and mentoring abilities.
5. A culture of inclusion and open communication is vital for organizational success.
6. Mentorship and honest feedback are crucial for both personal and professional development.

Connect with Kim here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kim-sneeder-a49a723/

Chapters

00:00 Who is Kim Sneeder?

03:04 Kim Sneeder's Background and Career

04:12 Redefining Equity in the Workplace

05:24 The Changing Landscape of DEI Departments

09:05 Challenges of Transitioning from Doer to Leader

17:35 Coaching and Mentoring in Sales Leadership

19:49 Seeing the Bigger Picture: The Role of a Leader

20:48 The Journey of Self-Reflection and Growth as a Leader

25:08 Creating a Company Culture that is Like a Family

29:45 Using Data to Drive Change and Foster Inclusion

36:45 Leadership: Creating a Diverse and Inclusive Team

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Connect with John Hansen here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/johnjhansen/

Takeaways

• John Hansen's experiences and lessons learned as a CEO and leader
• The challenges and rewards of entrepreneurship
• The role of failure and humility in personal and professional growth
• The impact of teaching and learning on John's career Failures are valuable learning experiences that can lead to future success.
• Overnight success is rare and often overlooks the hardships and challenges faced along the way.
• The impact and legacy of one's work can be measured by the lives they touch and the success of those they've helped.
• Gen Z employees have unique strengths and challenges, and it's important to understand and support them.
• Perseverance, passion, and commitment are essential qualities for achieving success in any endeavor.

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Key Takeaways

• Matt Martin's Career Journey: From law school and political blogging to founding Clockwise, a time management software company.
• Law Degree's Value: How Matt Martin's legal education benefited his entrepreneurial ventures and business acumen.
• Optimism in Entrepreneurship: The critical role of maintaining a positive outlook and embracing risk in startup success.
• Passion and Risk-Taking: Matt Martin's insights on leaving a secure job to follow his passion for software and entrepreneurship.
• Supportive Environment: The importance of surrounding oneself with encouraging people for entrepreneurial growth and career transitions.
• Self-Awareness for Success: Understanding personal motivations and knowing oneself as keys to achieving career fulfillment and happiness.
• Pursuing Dreams: Matt Martin's story as an inspiration that it's never too late to make a career change and pursue one's dreams.

Find Matt Martin here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/voxmatt/

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Matt Martin and Clockwise

03:20 Matt's Journey from Law School to Clockwise

08:59 Matt's Background and Interest in Politics and Software

12:47 The Value of a Law Degree in Entrepreneurship

20:25 Taking Risks and Following Your Passion

32:21 The Value of a Supportive Environment

36:37 Know Yourself: Understanding Your Motivations

45:18 It's Never Too Late: Pursuing Your Dreams

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We discuss:

• How the journey got started
• The motivations behind an entrepreneur
• How to handle stress and how to deploy confidence in your team
• Outsourcing and Delegation

Chapters

00:00 Who is Craig Goodliffe

01:43 Craig's Background and Introduction to Cyberbacker

05:33 Craig's Journey in Business and Entrepreneurship

09:23 The Importance of Location and History in Ogden, Utah

11:13 Motivation and Inspiration for Craig's Work

16:08 Overview of Cyberbacker and its Services

23:13 Outsourcing and Delegation

27:15 The Impact of Online Reviews

29:02 Finding the Right Talent

33:00 Teaching Work Ethic

43:03 Future Goals

Takeaways

1. Steve Cox's diverse experiences, including his time as a taxi driver, significantly shaped his career.

2. Insights into the complexities of applicant tracking systems and HR technology.

3. The Y2K phenomenon spurred a surge in IT consulting and preparation efforts.

4. Leadership demands self-awareness, authenticity, and adaptable communication styles.

5. Intentional, tailored mentorship is crucial at the leadership level.

6. Effective board management requires transparency, alignment, and collaborating with people you like.

Chapters

00:00 who is Steve Cox, CEO at Employ

02:25 Complexities of the Applicant Tracking System Space

05:35 The Impact of Diverse Experiences on Career Growth

22:49 Navigating Y2K and Its Impact

27:09 The Evolution of Leadership

46:21 Intentional Mentorship at the Leadership Level

48:39 Effective Board Management

We discuss:

1. The power of AI in Recruitment automation
2. Start-ups to scale-ups, acquisitions and venture capital
3. How to pivot and why
4. Mentorship and growth

Chapters

00:00 Introducing Terry Baker and Daxtra Technologies

05:13 Terry Baker's Journey: From Pre-Med to Startup Success

10:13 Revolutionizing Recruitment: Programmatic Job Advertising

22:16 The Entrepreneurial Journey: Navigating Venture Companies and Acquisitions

25:20 The Impact of AI on the Workforce: Innovation and Strategic Leadership

46:17 Shaping the Future: AI in Industries and the Evolving Nature of Work

Takeaways

• Janet Elkin's journey from the Bronx to becoming the CEO of IMN Enterprises is a story of resilience and determination.
• Her experiences in advertising and entrepreneurship, as well as the challenges she faced, shaped her approach to business and leadership.
• The importance of treating people with respect and care is a key theme in Janet Elkin's journey and her approach to business.
• Janet Elkin's success is a testament to her ability to overcome obstacles and stay true to her values. The importance of staying close to employees and getting to know them on a personal level.
• The significance of caring for employees and valuing their input and perspectives.
• The challenges and nuances of hiring and training in the healthcare staffing industry.

Chapters

00:00 The Journey to the C-Suite: Exploring Career Paths and Current Roles

02:01 Acquiring Companies and Diversifying Services in Healthcare Staffing

03:01 The Magic of Entrepreneurship: Overcoming Challenges and Building Success

05:44 Life's Little Mysteries: Personal Anecdotes and Insights

07:01 The Value of a Psychology Degree: Lessons in Leadership and Human Connection

20:31 The Art of Staying Close: Leadership Rules and Employee Engagement

22:20 Caring for Employees: Valuing Perspectives and Building Relationships

37:11 Navigating Hiring Challenges in Healthcare Staffing

Takeaways

• Treating talent like family and supporting their growth is vital in IT staffing and recruiting.
• Government assistance programs require careful and accountable use to ensure they help those in need.
• Overcoming challenges in small business requires resilience, gratitude, and a focus on making a positive impact.
• Addressing the emotional well-being of children, especially post-COVID-19, is essential.
• Building relational connections, setting digital boundaries, and having mentors are crucial for personal and professional growth.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Personal Background

03:02 The Challenges of Virtual Learning and Parenting

06:20 Relocating to Scottsdale, Arizona

08:26 Co-founding Summit Group Solutions

13:13 Treating Talent Like Family

16:07 Motivation and Overcoming Challenges

24:32 The Importance of Relational Connections

27:23 Balancing Work and Personal Life

31:22 Working with a Spouse

35:33 The Impact of Mentors and Building a Supportive Network

39:05 Continual Learning and Personal Development

44:39 Making a Positive Impact and Contributing to Others

Takeaways

• Digital workers, such as Tara and Evelyn, are AI-powered entities that can perform tasks that humans find tedious or don't want to do.
• These digital workers continuously learn and improve over time, becoming more efficient and effective in their tasks.
• The adoption of digital workers can reinvigorate the workforce and enable employees to take on new roles and responsibilities.
• Digital workers can augment human work and allow humans to focus on more complex and strategic tasks. Continuous learning and being a sponge are key to personal and professional growth.
• Education can complement real-world experience and provide a deeper understanding of organizational principles.
• Having a clear vision is crucial for setting goals and aligning individuals with the company's vision.
• Understanding the goals of others is important for motivating and aligning them with the company's vision.

Chapters

00:00 Who is Adam Famularo?

02:44 Work Fusion's Digital Workers

04:48 Human in the Loop

08:22 Benefits of Digital Workers for Companies

12:10 Adam Famularo's Journey to CEO

22:46 The Role of Education in Career Advancement

25:47 Becoming a CEO and Running a Business

29:09 The Power of Having a Clear Vision

43:17 C-Suite Video Intro Epidemic.mp4

We discuss 

• The Need for Individualized Skills Measurement Tools
• The Challenge of Information Asymmetry Learning and Growing from Failure
• Resilience and Ownership as a Leader

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Setting the Stage

02:30 The Challenge of Information Asymmetry

04:13 Building a Data Services Platform

06:15 Skills-Based Hiring and Talent Management

08:57 The Decay of Skills and the Importance of Durable Skills

14:17 Learning and Growing from Failure

32:01 Surrounding Yourself with Complementary People

39:07 Resilience and Ownership as a Leader

43:45 Constantly Pushing Yourself for Growth

52:01 Conclusion

Takeways:

• HR technology for frontline workers needs to be mobile-first, flexible, and compliant with industry regulations.
• Mentors play a crucial role in career development, providing guidance and support.
• A healthy marketing budget allows for creative and strategic marketing initiatives.
• Jennifer's journey from performing arts to marketing showcases the importance of adapting and using creative energy in different ways. Take on new opportunities and challenges outside of your comfort zone to grow in your career.
• Having mentors and advocates who speak positively about you when you're not in the room can be invaluable.
• Building and scaling startups can be both challenging and rewarding.
• Being your authentic self at work may not always be easy, but it's important to navigate the waters and find a supportive environment.
• Reflecting on past experiences, such as performing in Annie, can bring joy and nostalgia.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Overview of HR Technology for Frontline Workers

06:06 Jennifer's Journey from Performing Arts to Marketing

12:12 Transitioning from Performing Arts to Sales and Marketing

22:23 Working with a Healthy Marketing Budget at Health Net

23:32 Taking on New Opportunities and Challenges

25:23 Navigating Challenges as a Female in a Male-Dominated Industry

30:09 Building and Scaling Startups

32:09 Being Your Authentic Self at Work

37:48 Reflecting on Past Experiences

This is one of those episodes that everyone can find a few nuggets from

Connect with Taylor Liggett Here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/taylorliggett/

Takeaways

1. Taking risks and stepping out of your comfort zone can lead to significant career growth and opportunities.
2. Skills in empathy, listening, and salesmanship are valuable in various roles and industries.
3. Transitioning from an individual contributor to a manager requires a willingness to learn and adapt to new responsibilities and dynamics.
4. Having a supportive leader who believes in your potential can be instrumental in career advancement. Be honest about your strengths and weaknesses in the workplace.
5. Leaders should be skilled in their roles and have the respect of their team members.
6. Look for candidates who are ambitious, hungry for success, and a good cultural fit.
7. The future of identity verification lies in digital identity and consumer permissioned data.
8. Take risks and embrace opportunities for personal and professional growth.

Chapters

01:10 Introducing Taylor Liggett and His Career Journey

07:42 The Power of Empathy and Salesmanship in Customer Retention

12:46 Taking Risks and Stepping Out of Your Comfort Zone

16:36 Transitioning from Individual Contributor to Manager

19:02 Leadership and Being Skilled

20:18 Qualities to Look for in Candidates

22:32 Verifying Credentials and the Rise of AI

25:54 Regrettable Turnover and the Role of Leaders

27:23 The Future of Digital Identity

32:36 Embracing Risks for Growth

Takeaways

• SureCo solves the problem of the one-size-fits-all approach to employer benefits by creating the Enterprise Healthcare Exchange.
• The company allows working Americans to choose the best benefits and health plans for themselves and their families.
• The motivation behind solving this problem was personal tragedy and a deep appreciation for the country.
• The early days of the company were challenging, but the founders persevered and eventually grew the business. SureCo aims to be a catalyst for change in the healthcare system by leveraging AI and data.
• Waking up early and maintaining a network are important habits for success.
• Finding purpose and passion in one's work leads to fulfillment.
• AI has the potential to revolutionize the insurance industry.
• Curiosity is a key driver of personal growth.

Chapters

00:00 The Problem with One-Size-Fits-All Employer Benefits

03:38 The Game-Changing Regulatory Change: IHRA

04:30 From Immigrant Background to Impactful Change

08:09 Entrepreneurial Spirit and Early Ventures

13:28 The Challenges and Growth of SureCo

20:40 Introduction to SureCo and its Mission

23:47 The Data Problem in Healthcare

25:01 The Potential of AI in Healthcare

28:22 Connecting AI and Personal Health

31:00 The Power of Habits for Success

35:28 Advice to High School Self

This is a lesson in entrepreneurship that many of our listeners can relate to. 

Key Takeaways:

• Believe in the HR community and commit to continuous improvement.
• Treasure and prioritize quality time with family members.
• Recognize the positive aspects of your local community and contribute to its growth.
• Embrace career challenges as opportunities for personal and professional growth.
• Understand the profound influence of family background and ethnicity on personal identity.
• Acknowledge the role of neighborhoods and communities in shaping cultural heritage.
• Childhood experiences and education shape career decisions and personal growth.
• Entrepreneurship demands passion, perseverance, and a keen eye for market opportunities.
• Effective project management hinges on assembling a skilled team and allocating resources wisely.
• Embrace mistakes as learning experiences and strive for continuous improvement.
• Establish and uphold core values to foster a resilient company culture.
• Explore innovative ideas to unlock new pathways to success.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Unexpected Support

00:30 Belief in the HR Community

01:20 Not Traveling as Much

03:03 Enjoying Family Activities

03:26 Parent Behavior at Sporting Events

04:37 Attending the Kentucky Derby

05:22 Living in Northeast Ohio

06:02 May the 4th Be With You

06:09 Experiences at the Kentucky Derby

07:16 Positive Aspects of Cleveland

08:13 Podcast Focus on John's Journey

11:09 Introduction and Personal Background

12:04 John's Businesses and Book

13:23 Growing Up in Doylestown, Ohio

15:12 Close Relationship with Father

17:23 Family Background and Ethnicity

18:03 Neighborhoods and Communities

19:23 Childhood and School

20:25 Golf and College

21:28 Career at ADP and Entrepreneurship

30:33 Starting Willory

34:30 Identifying Market Opportunity

36:15 Becoming Certified Partners

38:18 Challenges in HR Tech Implementation

39:08 The Challenges of Project Management

45:05 Overcoming Bumps in the Road

52:08 Writing a Book and Future Plans

56:00 The Relationship Between Golf and HR

We learn about this and more in this weeks episode of inside the C-SUITE

Key Takeaways:

1. Adapting and learning new skills are crucial when moving from politics to the business world.

2. Retail politics teaches valuable lessons in communication, sales, and marketing.

3. Success in high-pressure situations hinges on thorough preparation and confidence.

4. Infrastructure projects offer tangible and lasting impacts.

5. Background screening has evolved, leveraging technology to expedite processes.

6. P&L roles and international experience provide valuable growth opportunities.

7. Regular reflection on personal goals is essential in a career journey.

8. Embrace new opportunities and challenges; don't limit your aspirations.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Current Role

02:39 Chief Revenue Officer Position

03:00 Transition from Politics to Business

05:23 Early Years and High School

06:30 College and Interest in Politics

08:26 Experience in Retail Politics

09:39 Lessons Learned from Political Campaigns

11:29 Transition to Public Policy

13:04 Skills Developed in Politics

14:31 Working in the Governor's Office

19:51 Government Marketing Role

20:33 Screening Needs Post-9/11

22:07 Infrastructure and Tangible Results

22:59 Infrastructure Projects in the DC Area

24:03 Background Screening and Private Investigation

25:13 Transition to Technology in Background Screening

26:31 The Evolution of Background Screening Turnaround Time

27:21 Government vs Commercial Background Screening

28:06 Transition to Business Strategy and MBA

29:17 Balancing Work, Family, and MBA

31:02 Transition to Strategy and Corporate Development

32:29 Transition to P&L Roles and CEO Aspirations

34:22 International Expansion and Integration

37:20 Challenges and Changes in Career Path

39:31 Taking Time Off and Reflecting on Career Goals

43:20 Advice from 10-Year-Old Self

Key Insights:

• Juggling Work and Family: Managing work commitments while maintaining a healthy family life poses significant challenges, particularly for frequent travelers.
• Indeed Flex's Role: Indeed Flex serves as a vital link between employers and temporary workers, offering transparency and adaptability within the temporary staffing sector.
• The Gig Economy's Expansion: The gig economy is experiencing exponential growth, attracting millions to temporary work opportunities.
• AI's Impact: Artificial Intelligence is reshaping various sectors such as trading and recruitment, emphasizing the importance of personalized candidate interactions for recruiters.
• Essential Skills: Success in fields like gambling, trading, and entrepreneurship demands decisiveness and a willingness to embrace risk.
• Tech Integration for Startups: Startups can optimize efficiency by integrating technology to streamline mundane tasks, allowing them to focus on more valuable endeavors.
• Navigating Startup Challenges: Building momentum and securing funding present formidable hurdles, requiring persistence and a compelling value proposition.
• Acquisitions for Expansion: Strategic acquisitions offer avenues for growth, providing access to fresh resources and untapped markets.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Background

00:11 Traveling and South by Southwest

00:37 Discussion about Austin, Texas

01:05 Uber and Lyft Ban in Austin

02:39 Balancing Work and Family

03:00 Work-Life Balance and Travel

03:34 Breaking the Travel Bit with Spouse

04:03 Challenges of Traveling for Work

04:31 Traveling with Family

05:12 Enjoying Austin with Family

05:28 Love for London

05:32 Starting the Interview

06:23 Introducing Novo Constari

06:52 Focus on Novo's Journey

07:15 Introduction to Indeed Flex

07:40 Indeed Flex and Temporary Staffing

08:00 Mobile App for Indeed Flex

08:31 Transparency in Temporary Staffing

09:13 Ratings in the Indeed Flex App

09:34 The Future of Temporary Staffing

10:08 The Rise of the Gig Economy

11:39 Flexibility and Independence in Temporary Work

12:07 Childhood Aspirations

13:06 Backup Dancer for Michael Jackson

13:13 Entrepreneurial Influence

14:20 The Lazy Entrepreneur

15:19 Career Plans and Finance

16:19 Transition to Trading

20:08 AI in Trading

21:34 Transition to Entrepreneurship

21:56 Impact of AI on Recruiting

21:57 The Evolution of Recruitment

23:19 The Role of AI in Recruitment

24:03 The Importance of Building Relationships

26:11 Skills for Success in Gambling and Trading

28:23 Being Decisive and Comfortable with Risk

29:42 The Story Behind SIFT

37:05 Raising Funds and Building Traction

43:41 The Acquisition by Indeed

Takeaways

• Overcoming challenges as an immigrant
• The importance of a strong partnership with a co-founder
• Defining success on your own terms

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and GoPro Story

04:07 Rishi's Background and Current Work

08:14 Rishi's Childhood and First Business

11:31 Leadership and Accidental Leader

15:45 Challenges of Moving to the US

24:23 Defining Success

25:06 Defining Success and Dimensions of Success

26:09 Leaving Wall Street and Seeking Fulfillment

27:18 Defining Success on a Multifaceted Basis

29:35 Advice for 18-Year-Old Self

30:34 The Limitations of Technical Skill

31:32 The Importance of Understanding Domains and Building Relationships

33:03 Being Comfortable with Someone Outpacing You

36:00 Balancing Achievement and Fulfillment

37:17 Challenges in Starting Kashable

38:38 Navigating the Enterprise Sale Process

40:33 Being Unemployable as a Founder and CEO

42:09 Regrets and Employability

43:03 Assessing Fit in Investors and Board Members

45:12 Building a Board of Directors

49:50 Navigating the Process of Finding Investors

He's now the successful CEO of HireLogic and industry killer in HR Tech but in a mere 28 days, AC's initial business shuttered, a turning point. Through adversity, he learned the art of building an inner circle, crucial for navigating funding politics and fostering trust. As he ascended to the C-suite, sleepless nights became common, driven by the pursuit of success.

His journey illuminates the challenges and strategies essential for startup triumphs.

Chapters

00:00 The Cost of Commuting

03:44 Introduction to AC Chakrabarti and HireLogic

04:41 Standardizing the Hiring Process

06:20 The Importance of Structured Interviews

07:00 AC Chakrabarti's Early Entrepreneurial Instincts

09:22 Transitioning from Price Waterhouse to Siebel Systems

11:16 Creating Clear Standards and Selling to SAP

13:27 Missed Opportunities: Google and Salesforce

19:30 The Need for Better Healthcare

21:24 Starting AnyPresence

23:22 Identifying Unmet Needs

24:22 Building Greenfield Startups

25:25 Building a Team for Greenfield Opportunities

27:19 Investor Mindset in New Categories

29:08 The Role of AI in Venture Investments

30:46 Knowing When to Seek Funding or Exit

33:51 Creating Developer Software for Microservices

35:24 The Future of AI in Code Writing

37:34 The Importance of Humanities in Education

40:14 Rethinking Education Curriculum

44:16 Advice for Young Professionals

Each morning, Lux Narayan begins his day with a plate of scrambled eggs and a question: "Who died?" This routine isn't morbid; it's enlightening. Analyzing 2,000 New York Times obituaries over a 20 month period he's distilled what achievement looks like over the life of an everyday human. We discuss this and his entrepreneurial journey, failures, and triumphs on this episode of Inside the C-suite.

Takeaways

• Live streaming events have become increasingly popular, and it is important to adapt to changing audience preferences.
• Expanding a network and adding new shows can help cover a wider range of topics and attract a larger audience.
• Pivoting and adapting to new opportunities is a common experience for entrepreneurs.
• Artistic interests and hobbies can provide a creative outlet and serve as a source of inspiration.
• Riverside is a valuable tool for recording and editing content, offering features that enhance the recording experience. Embrace the journey and find joy in the act of creation.
• Build a team based on attitude and aptitude, prioritizing passion and curiosity.
• Create a supportive and authentic work environment where people can bring their whole selves.
• Stay positive and motivated in the face of failure, focusing on learning and growth.

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Chapters:

00:00 Introduction and Background

01:05 Transition to Live Streaming

04:21 Expanding the Network

05:08 Pivoting and Adapting

06:14 William's Artistic Background

07:39 Ryan's Background and Art Appreciation

08:07 Discussion on Art and Backgrounds

09:03 William's Sons and Their Interests

09:59 Lux's Background and Streamer Life

11:05 Lux's Interest in Startups

12:27 Discussion on Riverside and Recording

13:40 Discussion on Riverside's Features

14:22 Introduction and Getting Started

15:14 Introduction of Lux Narayan

17:43 Lux's TED Talk on Obituaries

20:04 Introduction and Connection

20:25 The Unexpected Journey into Data Science

25:18 Early Jobs and Entrepreneurial Ventures

28:38 Leaving Corporate Jobs and Embracing Entrepreneurship

31:49 Lessons Learned from Failed Ventures

36:11 The Challenges of the Advertising Industry

38:07 Staying Positive and Motivated in the Face of Failure

42:22 Building a Team Based on Attitude and Aptitude

46:26 Creating a Supportive and Authentic Work Environment

48:34 Finding Joy in the Journey and Embracing New Experiences

51:27 Conclusion and Call to Action

Michael Nadeau shares his journey from reckless speed enthusiast to building a successful corporate wellness company. He discusses his passion for problem-solving and his belief in the power of pressure and time. Nadeau also talks about his ventures into motorsports and IV therapy, as well as his realization of the flaws in the traditional recruiting process. He emphasizes the need for personalized help, treating applicants like customers, and giving people a voice in the hiring process. Michael Nadeau discusses the need for a new hiring process and how traditional HR tech falls short. He shares his journey of building Connect, a platform that digitizes and humanizes the hiring process. Michael emphasizes the importance of automation and asynchronous communication in hiring. He also highlights the need for patience, embracing fear, and seeking advice from others. Michael discusses the challenges of managing a remote workforce and the importance of building a great team. He concludes by emphasizing the value of open communication and learning from others.

Takeaways

• Passion for problem-solving and the power of pressure and time
• The importance of personalized help and treating applicants like customers in the recruiting process
• Recognizing the flaws in the traditional recruiting process and the need for change
• Building a successful corporate wellness company and the value of rebranding The traditional hiring process is broken and needs to be digitized and humanized.
• HR tech often focuses on post-hire processes and fails to address the challenges of hiring.
• Automation and asynchronous communication can significantly improve the efficiency and effectiveness of the hiring process.
• Building a great team requires patience, embracing fear, and seeking advice from others.
• Managing a remote workforce requires a different approach and effective communication strategies.

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Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Background

02:33 The Story Behind the Helmets

06:00 From Reckless Speed to Recruiting

10:05 Discovering the Business of Recruiting

13:00 Moving to Dallas and Exploring New Opportunities

14:00 The Shift to Corporate Wellness

21:03 Venturing into Motorsports and IV Therapy

22:59 Recognizing the Need for Change in Recruiting

24:32 The Need for a New Hiring Process

25:23 The Problem with Traditional HR Tech

26:22 The Broken Hiring Process

27:20 Building Connect

28:18 Creating a Scalable Tech Stack

29:16 The Future of Hiring

30:13 Automating the Interview Process

31:18 Thriving in Michael's Environment

32:17 Respecting Fear and Taking Action

35:07 Managing a Remote Workforce

37:03 Building a Great Team

38:24 Chemistry and Timing in Hiring

40:17 Navigating Self-Doubt

42:36 Knowing When to Say Goodbye

45:17 The Importance of Communication

In this episode, William Tincup and Ryan Leary interview Brent Pearson, the founder and CEO of Emborder. They discuss Brent's background in film and television, his transition to computing, and his experience with startups and co-founders. Brent shares his reasons for choosing Austin as the location for his company and talks about his motivation and driving force. They also touch on the importance of innovation and adapting to change, as well as the habits that have contributed to Brent's success. Finally, they provide advice on funding and building a board of directors. The conversation covers the changing landscape of funding, adapting to investor mantras, the value of external capital, the role of the board, knowing when to take on funding, managing a reduction in force (RIF), and future goals and milestones.

Takeaways

• Investor mantras and funding priorities can change, so it's important to stay aware and adapt your strategy accordingly.
• Bootstrap your company as much as possible in the early stages, but consider external capital when you're ready to scale.
• View your board as a valuable resource and partner, rather than an enemy to be managed.
• When planning a reduction in force (RIF), prioritize clear communication, empathy, and minimizing disruption to the company culture.
• Set clear goals and milestones for the future of your company, and be open to potential mergers or acquisitions for growth and innovation.

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Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Background

04:27 Brent's Journey from Film to Computing

07:12 Experience with Startups and Co-Founders

13:12 Living in Boston and Choosing Austin

19:46 Motivation and Driving Force

25:42 Innovation and Adapting to Change

27:50 Habits for Success

33:25 Funding and Board Advice

34:03 Changing Landscape of Funding

35:50 Adapting to Investor Mantras

36:19 The Value of External Capital

37:18 The Role of the Board

38:15 Knowing When to Take on Funding

39:02 Managing a Reduction in Force (RIF)

43:43 Future Goals and Milestones

In this conversation, Tony Jamous, CEO of Oyster HR, shares his journey and insights as a leader. He discusses the genesis of Oyster and his motivation to create a purposeful and meaningful business. Tony emphasizes the importance of self-care and well-being for leaders and shares his strategies for balancing work and personal life. He also explores the difference between leadership and management and his commitment to becoming a better manager. Tony discusses the role of data and intuition in decision-making and the changing nature of work in the modern world. He concludes by sharing his perspective on the need for purpose and mission in work and what he looks for in candidates.

Takeaways

• Self-care and well-being are essential for leaders to maintain their energy and avoid burnout.
• Balancing work and personal life requires setting boundaries and prioritizing self-care.
• Leadership is about vision, inspiration, and motivation, while management involves supervision and structuring teams for success.
• Data and intuition both play a role in decision-making, and leaders should consider both when making important choices.
• The nature of work is changing, and younger generations are seeking purpose and meaning in their careers.

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Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Background

01:22 Genesis of Oyster

03:00 Building a Purposeful and Meaningful Business

06:31 Motivation and Self-Care

09:44 Balancing Work and Personal Life

10:39 Defining Well-Being and Self-Connection

13:36 Prioritizing Self-Care as a CEO

17:06 Balancing Work and Personal Life

19:25 Moving to France and Starting a New Life

21:11 First Job After College

24:33 Current Focus and Challenges

26:23 Leadership vs Management

27:25 Becoming a Better Manager

34:08 Data vs Intuition in Decision-Making

36:34 The Changing Nature of Work

39:36 The Need for Purpose and Mission in Work

40:33 The Impact of the Pandemic on Work

41:55 What Tony Looks for in Candidates

43:11 Conclusion and Gratitude