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From Soldier to Statesman and Venture Capitalist: Patrick J. Murphy's Journey

CXO Conversations

Release Date: 01/03/2024

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CXO Conversations

What does it take to get noticed by both venture capitalists and C-suite recruiters? In this episode of CXO Conversations, Steve Joanis—CEO of PlanetIQ and veteran of more than $200M in venture fundraising—shares how his career path from Army combat aviator to consultant, investor, and CEO shaped his leadership style. Drawing on decades of experience scaling startups and serving on 20+ boards, Steve highlights why relationships matter more than résumés, how to present yourself authentically to investors, and the strategic decisions that define a CEO’s success. His advice is invaluable...

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CXO Conversations

In “CEO Steve Joanis, Getting Noticed for C-Level & by VCs,” , the CEO of PlanetIQ (at time of recording, now a PE Managing Director), shares lessons from 25+ years in management consulting, venture capital, and executive leadership. A West Point graduate, decorated Army aviator, and Wharton MBA, Steve has served as CFO, President, board member, and investor across more than 20 companies with multiple successful exits. In this episode of CXO Conversations, he explains how to stand out to venture capitalists, what personality traits the most successful C-suite candidates share, and how...

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CXO Conversations

What does it take to build a high-performing sales organization from scratch? In this episode of CXO Conversations, Carlos Perez, CRO of Simuwatt, shares lessons from leading revenue teams at startups, global enterprises, and everything in between. He talks about the changing nature of sales leadership, the importance of aligning marketing and sales under a unified revenue vision, and why adaptability is critical in a post-COVID world. From closing his first $25M outsourcing deal to scaling SaaS organizations, Carlos offers actionable advice for leaders building sales orgs designed to last....

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CXO Conversations

In “CRO Carlos Perez, Building a Sales Org from Scratch,” shares how he’s grown revenue organizations across startups and billion-dollar companies alike. From his early consulting days to CRO roles at Wowza and now Concept3D, Carlos reflects on the evolving role of the Chief Revenue Officer, aligning sales, marketing, and customer success to accelerate growth. He also discusses how sales has changed post-COVID, why trust and creativity matter more than ever, and how to build scalable sales teams from the ground up. For executives and entrepreneurs, this episode is packed with insights...

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CXO Conversations

What does it take to know when to step aside and hire the right CEO? In this episode of CXO Conversations, Heather Callender-Potters—global investor, co-founder of PharmaJet, and experienced board member—discusses the lessons she’s learned from founding companies, navigating leadership transitions, and serving on boards. From her international upbringing to launching one of the first private equity funds in Eastern Europe, Heather’s journey offers a unique perspective on resilience, cultural awareness, and executive selection. Her advice for aspiring leaders and board members...

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CXO Conversations

In “Heather Callender-Potters, Founder and Board Member. Hiring a CEO and Board Member Perspectives,” shares lessons from a remarkable career that began in Poland just after the fall of the Berlin Wall, bringing access to capital during a time of historic transformation. Now co-founder of PharmaJet and a seasoned board member, Heather reflects on the challenges of handing over leadership to a CEO, the importance of cultural fit versus just résumé credentials, and why resilience and trust are critical in executive roles. She also offers candid advice for first-time board members on...

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CXO Conversations

What does it mean to lead with authenticity in the C-suite? In this episode of CXO Conversations, Doug Gattuso talks about the importance of leaving ego at the door and focusing on creating value for people and organizations. He shares lessons from building teams, returning to companies multiple times, and leading international initiatives across Europe, Mexico, and India. Doug offers candid advice for those aspiring to executive leadership: don’t chase titles—invest in learning, seize opportunities, and always contribute to the bigger picture.   For the full interview:...

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CXO Conversations

In “C-Suite Perspective in Leading with Authenticity,” shares why true leadership is about focusing on opportunities and outcomes—not titles or ego. A veteran of the Naval Academy and Marine Corps, Doug reflects on a career spanning executive roles including President and Chief Customer Officer. He explains why burning bridges is never wise, the lessons gained from international work experiences in Prague and India, and how patience, teamwork, and humility shape long-term success. Doug’s story is a reminder that authentic leadership and continuous contribution create lasting impact in...

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CXO Conversations

What does it take to admit a prestigious path isn’t for you—and have the courage to pivot? In this episode of CXO Conversations, Casey Woo, CFO of Landing.com, discusses his journey from West Point to Harvard, from Wall Street hedge funds to executive leadership roles at startups like WeWork and Zozi. Casey shares how he found fulfillment in finance by building teams, driving strategy, and embracing the operational challenges of scaling businesses. Along the way, he offers candid advice on following passion over prestige, understanding the differences between CFO and COO roles, and...

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CXO Conversations

In “Making the Hardest Call – Admitting it’s Not for You,” ,  former CFO forLanding.com, shares the pivotal moments that shaped his career journey—from starting at West Point and pivoting to Harvard, to walking away from Wall Street to pursue his passion for building and leading companies. With CFO and COO roles at firms including WeWork and Zozi, Casey reflects on following your own path instead of others’ expectations, the lessons he’s learned on his way to the C-suite, and why choosing finance allowed him to combine strategy with impact. His story is a powerful reminder...

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Dive into 'CXO Conversations' with host Michael Mitchel as he welcomes The Honorable Patrick J. Murphy. From a U.S. Army officer to a congressman and venture capitalist, Murphy's journey is a tale of resilience and leadership. In this episode, explore his transition from military service to influential roles in Congress and the private sector. Discover how Murphy's leadership philosophy, shaped by experiences in the armed forces and public office, guides his current role at Stoney Lonesome Group, a venture capital firm supporting veteran-owned businesses.

 

Key highlights include:

  • Murphy's leadership philosophy combining confidence, humility, and empathy.

  • Transition from military service to Congress and the private sector.

  • Insights into veteran unemployment and equality in the armed forces.

  • Murphy's venture into television with MSNBC and his work in venture capitalism.

  • The importance of a growth mindset and inclusive leadership for emerging leaders.

 

Tune in for an inspiring journey of transformation and lessons in leadership with Patrick Murphy.

 

Timestamps

  • 🎤 Introduction (00:00:00

  • 🛣️ Patrick Murphy's Diverse Career (00:00:45)

  • 🏅 Veteran Entrepreneurship (00:01:05)

  • ❤️ Passion for Making a Difference (00:02:20)

  • 🚀 Challenges in Business Ventures (00:04:47)

  • 🗳️ Public Service and Politics (00:09:40)

  • 🏛️ Decision to Run for Congress (00:10:55)

  • 📺 Murphy's Transition to MSNBC (00:11:26)

  • 🎙️ Media Appearances and Public Speaking (00:13:00)

  • 🎥 First Day Hosting Own Show (00:14:48)

  • 💼 Veteran Entrepreneurship and Investment (00:19:33)

  • 🔑 Key Takeaways for Emerging Leaders (00:25:37)

  • 🌈 Career Reflection and Lessons Learned (00:27:30)

 

Resources

 

Thank you to ACG Denver for being a sponsor of CXO Conversations Podcast. Association for Corporate Growth in its role as the hub of the middle market business community for quality networking, education and events. Connections are made, deals are formed and thought leadership is exchanged.  

 

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