Art of Consulting Podcast

You'll learn our top strategies to improve your career, confidence, lifestyle from us and other crazy successful seasoned consultants in IT and Management. Engage in the conversation as we discuss everything that brought us longevity and success over the years in the consulting industry.

268 | From Ancient Trade Routes to Modern Supply Chains: Inside Global Wealth, Local Impact with Stephanie Forbes 04/23/2026

268 | From Ancient Trade Routes to Modern Supply Chains: Inside Global Wealth, Local Impact with Stephanie Forbes In this episode, the host Catherine Lam sits down with Stephanie Forbes, founder and CEO of The Forbes Group. Stephanie is an internationally recognized expert in supply chain strategy and operational resilience. To explore her groundbreaking new book, Global Wealth, Local Impact. From the gladiators of the Roman Coliseum to the East India Company, from the Silk Road to the Strait of Hormuz, Stephanie reveals how the invisible machinery of global trade has always shaped local lives, and why understanding that history is the ultimate playbook for navigating today's volatile world economy. This episode is part history, part world affairs, part leadership guide. It will change how you see every product and every business decision. Key Insights You'll Learn · Supply Chains Are as Old as Civilization: From Caesar's gladiator games to the Silk Road to the East India Company, the mechanics of global trade, logistics corridors, currency exchange, quality control, insurance, letters of credit, have been evolving and compounding for over two thousand years. · The East India Company Changed Everything: At its peak, it controlled two-thirds of world trade. It created the modern company, shared ownership, and insurance. It also shows what happens when one company controls too much. · The Silk Road Was the World's First Trust Economy: It ran for over 1,300 years. Merchants used early credit systems and reputation to do business. Think of it as the first five-star review system. · Trust and Reputation Are Still the Foundation of Commerce: From Silk Road merchants to Facebook Marketplace sellers, the rules haven't changed. People do business with those they trust. Stephanie's book dedicates an entire chapter to this truth — and why trust remains the single most important asset in any business relationship. · The Strait of Hormuz Is a Global Pressure Point Right Now: About 20% of the world's energy passes through it. Any disruption hits fuel, shipping, food, and whole economies. Geopolitics and supply chains are connected. · Disruption Is the New Normal — Build for Resilience: Big unexpected events happen more often now. Leaders need backup plans. They need multiple suppliers. The question isn't whether something goes wrong, it's how fast you can adapt. · Critical Minerals Are the New Geopolitical Battleground: Lithium, cobalt, potash, and other critical minerals are redefining global power dynamics. Who controls these resources controls leverage over the infrastructure of the modern economy, from electric vehicles to defense systems. · History's Lessons Are the Best Strategic Playbook: Every challenge facing supply chain leaders today, monopoly risk, geopolitical disruption, infrastructure bottlenecks, trust breakdowns, has a historical precedent. Stephanie's book connects the dots between ancient trade systems and modern business strategy in a way that is both illuminating and immediately actionable. Global Wealth, Local Impact is a rare book that makes the complex feel personal and the historical feel urgent. Whether you're a supply chain professional, a business leader, or simply someone trying to make sense of why the world feels increasingly unstable, this book will give you the context, the language, and the framework to lead with confidence. 🌐 Official Podcast Title From Ancient Trade Routes to Modern Supply Chains: Inside Global Wealth, Local Impact 🔗 Where to Find Our Guest What Stephanie is Promoting: Global Wealth, Local Impact (Book) Book available at: Amazon | Indigo | Barnes & Noble | globalwealthlocalimpact.com LinkedIn: 👤 Guest Bio – Stephanie Forbes Stephanie Forbes is the founder and CEO of The Forbes Group. She has 25+ years of experience in global supply chain strategy. Her book draws on thousands of years of trade history. It covers everything from Roman logistics to the East India Company. Stephanie is a speaker, thought leader, and hands-on expert. She brings together history, global insight, and real-world experience. /episode/index/show/artofconsultingpodcast/id/40959720

267 | Success Circles: How Peers Propel You Forward 04/16/2026

267 | Success Circles: How Peers Propel You Forward Success Circles: How Peers Propel You Forward In this solo episode, the host makes a compelling case for one of the most undervalued assets in any professional's career: a strong peer group. While mentorship gets most of the attention, it's your peers — the people who are in the trenches alongside you — who challenge your thinking, push you to grow, and give you a space to work through your toughest decisions. Drawing from his own inner circle of trusted peers, the host breaks down exactly what makes a peer relationship real, why they become harder to find as you advance, and the specific qualities to look for — and watch out for — when building your own success circle. Key Insights You'll Learn · Peers and Mentors Are Both Essential — But Different: Mentors guide you from experience above. Peers walk beside you. Both are critical to long-term success, but the peer relationship offers something a mentor cannot: mutual accountability, equal exchange, and a space where nobody has positional power over the other. · Finding Real Peers Gets Harder as You Advance: The more senior you become, the smaller the pool of people who can truly meet you where you are. This is one of the most significant — and least talked about — challenges of career growth. Start building your peer network now. · A True Peer Relationship Is Never One-Sided: Both parties must contribute. If one person is always leaning on the other, always extracting value without reciprocating, it's not a peer relationship — it's a drain. Equal investment over time is non-negotiable. · Eliminate Ulterior Motives Immediately: Real peer relationships have no hidden agendas. The moment someone wants to recruit you, use you for access, or leverage the relationship for personal gain, the dynamic is corrupted. Recognizing this early saves years of misplaced trust. · Power Imbalance Kills the Relationship: If one person holds influence, authority, or leverage over the other, genuine conversation becomes impossible. True peers must be able to speak freely, share ideas openly, and trust that nothing will be used against them. · Mutual Respect Is the Foundation — Not Optional: There must be warmth, not friction, between real peers. Mocking, condescension, or subtle disrespect — even in small doses — erodes the relationship. Respect is the minimum requirement, not a bonus. · Look for Curiosity, Not Just Expertise: The best peer relationships aren't built on who knows the most — they're built on who is actively engaged with the world. A curious peer who researches, asks questions, and challenges their own conclusions is worth more than an expert who stopped learning. · Safe to Be Wrong — That's Where Trust Lives: Real peers let you make mistakes. They don't hold past statements over you or weaponize what you said in a vulnerable moment. The ability to think out loud, float wild ideas, and work through messy thoughts without judgment is what makes the relationship transformational. · Competitive With the World, Not With Each Other: Great peers want to win — but they want you to win too. Even when you're going after the same opportunity, a true peer competes hard and fairly, never sabotages, and celebrates your success as genuinely as their own. · When You Find the Right Peer — Protect It: Real peer alignment is rare. Not every person you meet will mesh with you across every area of life and work. But when you find someone who does — who energizes you, challenges you, and has your back — that is golden. Invest in it. You will spend much of your career searching for true peers — and that search is worth every effort. When you find the right people, everything accelerates: your thinking sharpens, your confidence grows, and the path forward becomes clearer. Keep searching. Keep showing up. Your success circle is out there. 🌐 Official Podcast Title Success Circles: How Peers Propel You Forward TRANSCRIPTION Episode: Success Circles – How Peers Propel You Forward Podcast: Art of Consulting Podcast (AOCP) Duration: ~21 minutes ================================================================================ [00:00 - 01:00] Today I want to talk about the difference between peers and mentors. We've talked about mentors in a previous episode — mentorship is a really critical part of being successful in the consulting world, and honestly in any endeavor. Having some sort of mentor, somebody who has been down the road before you, who has a bit more experience or wisdom in an area that you can leverage — that's really important. But the other critical part of being successful is having a strong peer group. When we talk about a strong peer group — peers you can rely on — this might be one of the biggest challenges you'll face for the rest of your career. I'm not exaggerating. As we advance in our careers, finding a strong set of peers we can meet with, rely on, and share ideas with becomes harder and harder. [01:00 - 02:00] I know for myself — I've got a small, close group of peers I rely on. For those I specifically lean on around work and projects, there are three that I really rely on. I can talk to them, share ideas, and go back and forth. We've worked on projects together, we bounce ideas off each other across many different areas — not just consulting, but other observations and critiques we're noticing. One is a close friend I call with every Sunday morning — a standing call where we get together and talk about all sorts of topics: finance, politics, religion, whatever's on our minds. I usually leave those calls with two or three pages of notes of different things I need to research and investigate. [02:00 - 03:00] Another peer is someone I talk to multiple times a week — really anything goes, anything that comes to mind. What I find is that having people in my life that I can call and bounce ideas off of is really critical. Knowing that you have a group of people you can go to and throw ideas at is invaluable. Now — there are some specific characteristics and common threads in a real peer relationship. The first one: it cannot be a one-sided relationship. That's number one. It cannot be one-sided — where one party is always going to the other to get information, share information, or dominate the conversation. It has to be equal. [03:00 - 04:00] Now, it may not be perfectly equal at a particular point in time or in a particular conversation. There will be periods when someone is going through a more difficult situation in their life and they lean on the other person more heavily. That's okay. But over time, as things settle down, it should become more equal again. What it cannot be is consistently one-sided. Number two: there can be no ulterior motives. There should be no situation where one person loves being around the other purely because they want to recruit them or hire them into their company. One person might always be interested in what the other is doing, but in an impersonal, self-serving way. [04:00 - 05:00] It could be that someone wants something from the other individual — a job, a referral, or they feel obligated because the other person is in a position of strength or influence. That's not a peer relationship. It really needs to be equal. There should be no meaningful power imbalance — where one person's higher rank or influence becomes a motivator within the relationship. If it is, it's not a peer relationship and it will fall apart. Because what we want in a peer relationship is for two individuals to be able to speak freely, share ideas, and share things without that information coming back to be used against them. If there is some sort of ulterior motive, that information likely will be used against them. [05:00 - 06:00] So you want to eliminate that risk entirely. Respect is another really important part of all peer relationships. There has to be mutual respect between the two individuals. There cannot be friction — it has to be warm between them. And I will tell you: you will search for good peers for the rest of your life. You will think you've found one, and then you'll realize, as time goes on, that they're selling you something — or there's an agenda. After two or three months, or maybe a year down the road, you'll see that the relationship starts to feel more transactional than foundational. What you'll find is that good peer relationships also don't discriminate on gender, age, or background. [06:00 - 07:00] Gender doesn't matter. Age doesn't matter. Race doesn't matter. Religion doesn't matter. Those things really don't matter in a peer relationship. It really comes down to: do these two individuals respect each other? And are they there for each other, to support each other through what each other needs? That's essentially what it is. There are some other characteristics I look for. One is awareness — awareness of the world around them. Now, there's no way anyone can know everything going on everywhere. But when you're trying to make sense of the world, bouncing ideas, putting observations on the table — you want someone who is curious and actively engaged with what's happening around them. [07:00 - 08:00] At a basic level as a human being, and in their community, and at a macro level — what's going on around the world, the country, the state or province you live in, the geopolitical landscape. A really good peer will be someone who takes the time to observe, search, draw conclusions, and try to make sense of what's happening. They're not always right, but they take the time to do it. Curiosity is what I'm searching for in a peer. Not that they know everything — just that they're curious enough to go and investigate. They're interested in ideas that are different from what they were taught or what they've concluded on their own. Getting curious across different areas is really critical. [08:00 - 09:00] Now, of course, the time factor matters too. If the person only connects with you once every nine months, they're probably not going to function as a true peer — you can't bounce a lot of ideas off of someone you speak with once every nine months. That doesn't mean you should cut them out of your life. There are friends I haven't spoken to in years who I deeply respect — and I know I can call them up at any moment, ask them questions, or bounce an idea off them. I value those relationships. But here, when I'm talking about peers, I mean someone who you spend consistent time with, who you can bounce ideas off regularly. [09:00 - 10:00] You need to be pushing your time with them — and again, all of this falls apart if it becomes one-sided. You have to put in the effort too. Now, sometimes the timing just isn't right. If someone is going through a very difficult time in their life, they're preoccupied, and it's hard to have a real peer-level conversation. That doesn't mean the relationship is gone — it means you support them in other ways, and you circle back to a deeper peer dynamic when the timing is better. If you're looking for a peer you can have real, substantive conversations on multiple topics, you need someone who has put effort into themselves too. [10:00 - 11:00] They need to look at you as a whole person — not just as a consultant, a tech person, a finance person. They see you as a whole individual. That's what makes it work: you can have conversations around really difficult topics, and they continue to respect you and continue to share information with you. Even if you say something that's a little off the rails — a crazy idea — they can still respect you and engage with it. But it's someone who genuinely sees you as a whole person and is willing to share ideas with you. That's what you're looking for in a true peer. [11:00 - 12:00] One more thing I look for: they let you make mistakes. They're not the kind of person who takes what you said three months ago and throws it back in your face. They let you run through ideas and topics and work things out without holding those moments against you. This is really important because that's where the trust and respect really lives. If someone is always going to bring up something from your past and put it in your face, that's not a real peer relationship — it's not going to have value or build the kind of support and camaraderie you need. You want to be able to say things, think things out loud, possibly say things you might regret, in an open space without the fear of those things being used against you. [12:00 - 13:00] Now — even within a peer relationship, you still want to be respectful. You can absolutely throw out a really wild idea and say, "Hey, I'm going to throw something out here that's really out there — let's work with it and see what it sounds like." That's different from just going completely off the rails. Using exploration and creativity to work through a problem makes sense. But if someone just goes completely willy-nilly with no structure or thought, it's disrespecting the other person's time and their thought process. So we want to be open to making mistakes — but make respectful, thoughtful mistakes. [13:00 - 14:00] The last thing I look for is this: the person I'm in a peer relationship with should be competitive — but not competitive with me. That doesn't mean we can't be in the same space or going for the same opportunities. It means that when we are, they are not going to try to beat me down so that they can win and I can lose. They must be competitive in life because I am too — I want someone who wants to win, who has that drive. But I've learned over many years that winning isn't everything. We're more likely to lose than win in most cases, and the real winning comes from doing the work, putting in the effort, and working through the process. The results take care of themselves. [14:00 - 15:00] I like when I win. I like when I do well. But I don't want a peer who is comfortable with losing or accepting less — that's not acceptable either. And I also don't want competition to come between us when we're supporting each other. There are situations where you and your peer might be going after the same consulting role. In that case, I want to put my best foot forward, understand that the result is largely outside my control, and do everything I possibly can — and I expect them to do the same. I've played sports against really close friends. [15:00 - 16:00] I've played baseball and gone up against pitchers who were my friends. And I would go up against them trying to score, because I would never want to find out later that they went easy on me. And I would be insulted by that. When we played, we held nothing back. We went hard at each other, and we respected each other for it. When the game was over, we went out together. But during the competition, we competed — we wanted the other person to go just as hard at us as we went at them. That's respect. [16:00 - 17:00] So when those situations happen in our professional lives — when you're operating in stark competition with your peer — you don't want someone who is jealous of you, or who is sabotaging you, or giving you false information so you fail. That's not a peer. When you find the right peer, you are genuinely happy when they succeed — as happy as when you succeed yourself. That's what you're looking for. [17:00 - 18:00] And I'll tell you again: you will spend much of the rest of your life searching for people who are true peers. You won't find them on every corner. You won't find them in every meeting. Especially in a professional sense — finding a peer who you truly mesh with, align with, and vibe with is rare. Be aware of it when it happens. Be aware of the ones who are just trying to take your time without adding value, and be aware of the ones that simply don't fit. [18:00 - 21:20] A peer who works with you — who you work with naturally — who your personality connects with and who relates to others the way you do — that's rare. So start looking. You're going to have to search. You may find someone you can have a relationship with in one particular area but not others. But when you find that person you truly mesh with — it is golden. It works on both sides. It's invigorating and energizing. So keep searching for that. Keep being you. Keep being awesome. ================================================================================ END OF TRANSCRIPTION /episode/index/show/artofconsultingpodcast/id/40913440

266 | Push or Pull - What Drives Your Success 04/09/2026

266 | Push or Pull - What Drives Your Success Push or Pull: What Drives Your Success In this solo episode, the host dives into one of the most powerful dynamics in human performance and leadership—the difference between being pushed and being pulled toward success. Through vivid real-life stories, including an elite high school athlete who broke a national record that stood for over 21 years, and a reflection on Deion Sanders' relentless pull as a leader, the host unpacks what it truly means to be a 'puller'—and why understanding this dynamic can transform how you lead, grow, and protect yourself and the people you care about. Key Insights You'll Learn · Push vs. Pull Defined: Being pushed means being coerced, encouraged, or pressured by an external force. Being pulled means being drawn forward by someone or something so compelling that you choose to keep up—or get left behind. · The Athlete Who Pushed Back: A standout young athlete named Vance broke the U.S. 300-meter hurdle record—a mark that stood for over two decades—and exemplified what intrinsic drive looks like. His story illustrates that truly great performers aren't pushed; they pull themselves. · Deion Sanders as the Ultimate Puller: The host uses Deion Sanders as the defining example of a 'puller'—someone who moves so fast and with such energy that those around him face a clear choice: match the pace or fall behind. His presence doesn't push; it magnetizes. · The Jet Stream Analogy: Like an airplane catching the jet stream at 30,000 feet, getting into the flow of a true puller accelerates your progress dramatically. Fighting it—or getting into the wrong stream—costs enormous energy and takes you off course. · You Have the Capacity to Be a Puller: The host challenges listeners to see themselves as potential pullers in their own domain. When you're genuinely motivated and excellent at something, you naturally draw others along—not through force, but through momentum. · Be Intentional About Who You Let Into Your Slipstream: As you grow more successful, more people will want to be pulled by your momentum. Be selective. Those who hold you back or drag against your direction will slow your progress and drain your energy. · Be Equally Aware of Whose Stream You Enter: Not all jet streams go where you want to go. Evaluate the direction, values, and destination of any group, organization, or leader you align with—before you get swept along in a current that contradicts who you are. · Beware of Manipulation Disguised as a Pull: Some people exploit talented individuals—especially young athletes, performers, and creatives—not to lift them up but to extract value for themselves. Recognizing the difference between a genuine puller and a manipulator is a critical life skill. · Protect the Young and Talented People Around You: Parents, mentors, and leaders have a responsibility to guard those with gifts from those who would exploit them. Knowing who's pulling your child—or your protégé—and in what direction, is part of the job. The most successful people in any field aren't being pushed—they're being pulled by something greater than themselves, and in turn, they pull others along. Know whose stream you're in, be intentional about who you let into yours, and make sure the direction is somewhere worth going. Push or Pull: What Drives Your Success /episode/index/show/artofconsultingpodcast/id/40803860

265 | Energized By Design - Managing Yourself Through Self Awareness 04/02/2026

265 | Energized By Design - Managing Yourself Through Self Awareness Energized by Design: Managing Your Energy Through Self-Awareness In this solo episode, the host explores the powerful concept of the ambivert—someone who blends both introverted and extroverted tendencies—and makes the case that understanding your personal energy type is one of the highest-leverage investments you can make in your performance and well-being. Rather than getting stuck on labels, this episode challenges you to go deeper: identify where and how you truly recharge, protect that energy with intention, and design a life that works with your nature—not against it. Key Insights You'll Learn · Introducing the Ambivert: Not everyone fits neatly into introvert or extrovert categories. Ambiverts sit in the middle, drawing energy from both people and solitude depending on context—and understanding this spectrum is the starting point for better energy management. · How Introverts and Extroverts Recharge Differently: Extroverts gain energy from being around others; introverts restore themselves through solitude. Knowing which end of the spectrum you lean toward—and when—is foundational to sustainable performance. · It's Not Just Who—It's Which People: For extroverts, being around people isn't always recharging. The quality and compatibility of the people around you matters enormously. Find the individuals who genuinely energize you and prioritize those connections. · Recognize What Drains You: Pay close attention to the content you consume, the environments you spend time in, and the people in your orbit. If something consistently depletes your energy—whether it's certain TV shows, specific social dynamics, or particular interactions—acknowledge it and reduce your exposure. · Labels Are a Starting Point, Not the Destination: Whether you're an introvert, extrovert, or ambivert matters far less than knowing specifically what restores your energy. Use the label as a doorway, not a box. · Many Introverts 'Perform' Extroversion at Work: In professional settings, many introverts present as extroverts out of necessity. This performance has a real energy cost—one that demands intentional and protected recovery time. · Protect Your Recovery Window After High-Drain Events: After conferences, large gatherings, or emotionally demanding days, guard your schedule. Stacking more social commitments on top of a depleted state only prolongs your recovery and diminishes your effectiveness. · Design Your Environment for Energy: Proactively design your days, weeks, and environment to maximize what restores you—and minimize what drains you. This is the difference between surviving each week and thriving through it. Energy is your ultimate performance asset. When you stop managing your schedule alone and start managing your energy with the same intentionality, everything changes—how you show up, how you connect, and how sustainably you lead. 🌐 Official Podcast Title Energized by Design: Managing Your Energy Through Self-Awareness /episode/index/show/artofconsultingpodcast/id/40683655

264 | Own Your Calendar, Own Your Day 03/26/2026

264 | Own Your Calendar, Own Your Day Own Your Calendar: Own Your Day In this solo episode, the host tackles one of the most overlooked yet critical skills for professionals at every level—calendar management. Inspired by a real-life experience with a seasoned consultant who repeatedly canceled meetings due to scheduling conflicts, this episode delivers practical, actionable strategies for owning your time, protecting your energy, and showing up consistently for the people and commitments that matter most. Key Insights You'll Learn · The Wake-Up Call: A consultant with over 20 years of experience kept canceling meetings at the last minute—proof that poor calendar management isn't just a beginner's problem. · Your Time Is Your Currency: Time is your most valuable, non-renewable resource. Once a moment passes, it's gone—treat it with the same discipline you'd apply to managing money. · Use One Consistent Calendar Tool: Whether it's Outlook or Google Calendar, commit to one platform. Integrate all areas of your life—work, family, personal appointments—into a single, unified view. · Color Code for Clarity: Assign colors to different clients, projects, or life categories so you can instantly see how your time is allocated at a glance. · Block Personal Time and Use Privacy Settings: Protecting personal appointments is non-negotiable. Use the 'private' setting so others see you're unavailable—without revealing what you're doing. · Master Time Zone Management: If you work across multiple time zones, always confirm the time zone when scheduling. Be particularly alert during daylight saving changes—some regions (like Arizona) don't observe DST at all. · Keep Tasks Out of Your Calendar: Your calendar is for appointments and time blocks—not tasks. Use a dedicated to-do list for action items and set reminders separately. · Book Time with Yourself for Deep Work: Block focused work sessions on your calendar just as you would any meeting. Over time, you'll calibrate exactly how long tasks take and refine your blocks accordingly. · The Sunday Preview Habit: Review your upcoming week every Sunday. Knowing your first meeting Monday—and every key commitment for the week—eliminates surprises and sets you up for a strong start. · Never Double-Book: Avoid trying to be in two places at once. When conflicts arise, communicate proactively with all parties so nothing falls through the cracks. · Your Brain Is Not a Storage Device: The human brain isn't built to reliably hold schedules. Offload everything into your calendar—what gets captured gets done. Your calendar is the blueprint of your life. When you own it with intention and discipline, you reclaim your time, your focus, and your ability to show up fully—for your clients, your team, and yourself. Own Your Calendar: Own Your Day /episode/index/show/artofconsultingpodcast/id/40648710

263 | The Preemptive Edge - Gaining a Strategic Advantage by Acting Early and Wisely 11/27/2025

263 | The Preemptive Edge - Gaining a Strategic Advantage by Acting Early and Wisely 00;00;00;01 - 00;00;31;05 Andy Hey, everybody, today I want to talk about the things we can do and decisions we can make ahead of time before something becomes an issue. Recently, most of us know about the government shutdown that had recently occurred. This is being recorded, November 24th, so of 2025. So anybody who wasn't aware of it in the US, the government had shut down, which was affecting air traffic because the air traffic controllers, some of them were having difficulty getting to work and some of them were being overworked because the government wasn't funded and they weren't getting paid. 00;00;31;05 - 00;00;47;13 Andy So I had to travel during that week. And what happened was I was I knew I would be able to get out of my home airport in Phoenix, of course, if the flight gets delayed. I just got home so it wasn't as big of a deal, but if I was going to my destination, I had to connect to get home. 00;00;47;13 - 00;01;10;21 Andy I couldn't get a direct flight, so I knew already I had to connect through another airport, which was a was another challenge. And of course, the whole network of of flights were being affected. So what I ended up doing was I postponed that trip because my feeling really was that once I get on that plane out of Phoenix, I had no control over when I could get back. 00;01;10;23 - 00;01;32;18 Andy I knew I had a flight booked to come home and you know, that was scheduled to come home, but I didn't know if that flight was going to be there. And and during the time when I was supposed to return home, there's about 10% of the flights they were expecting to be affected in the US. So there was a high potential that I was I was going to have an issue with my flight getting home. 00;01;32;18 - 00;02;08;08 Andy So really what I looked at was, you know what decisions can I make today to affect or put myself in a place where I'm not negatively affected by decisions that are out of my control? And so that's what I did. I just rescheduled my my trip to that client and, and, going in the future. But when I looked at, you know, look, talked about this, I thought about other sort of decisions that we make where they are one off things where we can make a choice and look at, you know, what decision can I make today where it's something that's not out of my control, but there's also much of our lives are spent 00;02;08;08 - 00;02;34;01 Andy dealing with things that have already occurred and where especially there's possibly high stress. And I go back. I recorded an episode way, way, way, way back. It was episode number nine. So this goes back to early in the Art of consulting days, one of the first episodes. So and in that episode, I talk about a lot of stress, especially when your subconscious is working on things as you sleep. 00;02;34;02 - 00;02;50;13 Andy This is one reason why we wake up at 3:00 or 3 a.m., and we have a hard time going back to bed, is because our subconscious is really working on the issues that are unresolved, and in that episode, I talk about some ways to deal with that. A couple of ways. You know, I recommend going back and listening to it. 00;02;50;13 - 00;03;14;03 Andy You can hear how young my voice might sound back then, and hopefully it sounds young. But anyways, one of the things is to immediately get up and write down all the things that are that you know are on your mind that are causing stress, and then immediately identify which ones are connected because. And then identify a step that you're going to make today to deal with that. 00;03;14;03 - 00;03;33;22 Andy One of the approaches to that is because often we can we can do things that will affect multiple areas in our lives. So and, you know, in that episode, I talk about the fact that if we don't do it, it's okay, because tomorrow morning we'll just wake up at 3 a.m. and our subconscious will remind us that we still have an outstanding task to do. 00;03;33;22 - 00;03;58;19 Andy So it'll our body and our brain will just keep reminding us until we we hopefully ultimately deal with it. But one of the things I wanted to talk about was being more proactive or preemptive on issues, especially when issues become a problem. So when we're notified of a problem that we're experiencing and, you know, we none of us get through life without major problems, it does not happen. 00;03;58;19 - 00;04;18;01 Andy You know, when we have those moments in our lives where everything is going good and things feel great and we're high, you know, we're on top of the world. Enjoy it. Because that does not happen. All the time. We're always going to have some issue and, you know, some issues are going to pop up at some point in time. 00;04;18;01 - 00;04;35;10 Andy We all have to deal with it. That's just part of being a human being. And normally those issues will be, you know, I kind of thought of a few different categories. You know, one, of course, is health. You know, when we have either a health issue, we're dealing with or a health scare, you know, those are things it could be us or it could be a close family member. 00;04;35;12 - 00;04;59;11 Andy But those are things that we're we have to deal with and things we have to look at and do something about. And, you know, we have to do some action towards dealing with that. Another one, of course, is financial. Most of us are going to deal at some point in our lives on a financial issue, either our own financial issues, which most of us will go through at some point, or it'll be a, again, a close family member. 00;04;59;11 - 00;05;15;07 Andy It'll be a child, a, you know, an adult child. It could be a parent, it could be a lot of different scenarios of people who are close to us, who are going through a financial issue. But typically it's us like we're we're going to go through some financial issue in our lives that we're going to have to deal with another one. 00;05;15;07 - 00;05;35;27 Andy It might, unfortunately, might be legal. You know, we might have a legal issue that we're trying to deal with. And again, that happens to people. It happens to close relatives. That's another one that, you know, we have to you know, people have to deal with. You know, the fourth one that I had was interpersonal issues. So when we're dealing with interpersonal issues it could be divorce. 00;05;35;27 - 00;05;53;11 Andy It could be issues with family members. It could be issues with our our children. Our parents could be interpersonal issues at work. Right. We're dealing with those sorts of things. Those are those, again are issues we need to deal with that that come up and we have choices to make where we can ignore them, but they're not going to go away on their own. 00;05;53;14 - 00;06;13;22 Andy And so we have to be proactive about that preemptive with what the next step is. We're in that situation. We have to deal with it. The last thing I want I have on the list is career. And the interesting thing was I wasn't even going to put career on the list because to me, typically our career is going to somewhat take care of ourselves itself. 00;06;13;24 - 00;06;36;24 Andy Normally, if we've got a career issue, it's going to lead into a financial issue or a health issue is going to lead into a career issue. Interpersonal issues are going to lead into career issues. Typically, our career issues are often driven out of the other four issues, and we often see that where someone is going through a divorce and their job starts to suffer. 00;06;36;28 - 00;07;03;04 Andy Many people I've not. I've been close to who who have gone through, unfortunately gone through that their career starts to suffer. And so, you know, that's one reason why when we look at those items, we need to be very proactive and preemptive about what our next decision has. One of the reasons why doing something is important is because we actually feel like we have some level of control over the things we do, rather than sitting back and letting things happen. 00;07;03;09 - 00;07;26;06 Andy And we want to be in that situation where we're doing something. So if somebody realizes, you know, they have to deal with their health, do something about it and do something about it today or their finances or whatever one of those items are, you know, do something about it. It will not fix itself. And the stress and the in a subsequent issues that come with it will not just go away magically. 00;07;26;06 - 00;07;52;04 Andy So what do you what can you do about these sorts of situations? The first thing is, of course, put a plan together. You know, even if the plan is just one step, if it's just to do one thing right, and it might be research right. Research, you know what to do in this situation. Today we've got AI that is a tremendous resource when it comes to searching for information, searching for help that might be out there, trying to find information that's there. 00;07;52;06 - 00;08;08;02 Andy Now, one of the problems with the information is we need to be able to process it. And there's a lot of conflicting information. One issue that I was going through and I won't share the details on it, but there was a lot of conflicting information. I found information that gave me one direction and then other information completely contradicted it. 00;08;08;02 - 00;08;26;18 Andy And so what I had to do there was I had now had to go find an expert in that area to try to find out what the facts really were. And so the next thing was, is to try to find an expert. So first the first thing was is the the initial, you know, looking for information. Then it was, you know, who can help me, right. 00;08;26;18 - 00;08;47;25 Andy Who is out there that can help me? It was not easy to find because it was it was an expert in an area. And as I was reaching out to people, those individuals said, no, I don't know anything about that. And I just kept reaching out to people. One of the things is when you start to go down this path is we start to realize that there's a lot of people that handle basic stuff, but there's not a lot of people to handle expertise. 00;08;47;25 - 00;09;17;28 Andy Right. Very specialized problem solvers, which is one reason why in consulting, typically, if you are an expert in an area, you're you're typically in more demand. You have to build up to that. But you want to find out who can help you. This isn't about just finding people who will listen. Sometimes it's good to get stuff off your chest, but you do want resolution, so, you know, find out who is out there that can actually help you in that same time, it's, you know, what decision can I make now, right, to start to deal with resolving this, this issue. 00;09;18;01 - 00;09;31;06 Andy One of the big points is the way you got into the problem is not the same way you're going to get out of the problem. My mom used to have a saying or August, she still has a saying, which she doesn't say very often anymore, is it's easier to stay out of trouble than to get out of trouble. 00;09;31;06 - 00;10;00;04 Andy But when we are in trouble in some area, it's important to not continue to stay in that trouble or to make the trouble worse. This is why we need to slow things down in most cases. Try to think through, get the proper advice, work through our challenges, think it through. And often we don't have that expertise. We, you know, we might have made up, made a wrong choice to get ourselves in the position we're in, but we often don't have the expertise to get out of that problem. 00;10;00;09 - 00;10;17;11 Andy So we need to find the right people and we need to listen to them. But we also have to do a lot of homework to make sure we're asking the right questions and make sure that the information they're giving us actually makes sense, because we want to make sure that if we are in something that's serious, that we are getting the right advice to get out of it. 00;10;17;15 - 00;10;45;24 Andy The next thing is, is really don't worry about an obstacle when we're working through something. And if you think of your career as it is right now, you probably faced thousands of little obstacles along the way, some big obstacles along the way. But you faced hundreds, if not thousands of them. Do not worry about the obstacles or someone saying, I don't have that expertise or know that, you know, you track somebody down that might be able to help and you find out they don't work there anymore and you don't know where to find them. 00;10;45;24 - 00;11;06;09 Andy Don't be worried about that. Keep it up. Be tenacious. Right? Have persistence and just continuing doing those tasks. Continue. Add it every day because this is what that problem needs, what the resolution needs for you to work through it to get to a resolution that's going to work for you. So keep working through it. The resolution might not be perfect. 00;11;06;14 - 00;11;24;01 Andy It likely is going to be something, especially if it's something that's major. It's probably not something that's ideal, right? Again, if we use the concept of divorce, I know a lot of people who have been through divorce, and it's not an ideal situation. For some people, maybe it is a good thing, but typically there's a lot of cost, there's a lot of pain, there's a lot of time involved, a lot of money. 00;11;24;03 - 00;11;43;03 Andy So so the point with that, even even if it's something where people look at it as something of as negative, look at it as something that, how do I make this the best situation for me, and what are the things that I can do? Where can I find advice? Where can I find support? Where can I find individuals who can maybe help me predict what's coming next? 00;11;43;05 - 00;11;59;10 Andy And as we keep moving down that road, we get more and more information, right? You ever you ever take a trip, right? We just push you to a place you've never been to. As we're driving down the road, we're looking in into the future horizon, right? We're driving and we're looking the future horizon. We haven't seen that before. 00;11;59;13 - 00;12;30;14 Andy But as we're looking, you know, 100 yards down the road, we can see what's coming. Now it becomes apparent to what what's coming up. And every time we take one more step, things become a little more clear and we've gone through it. One of the things with working through and doing more preemptive or proactive sort of decisioning, and the reason why I call it preemptive or proactive, you know, proactive being, you know, making a decision beforehand, preemptive, you know, making decisions that deal with a particular issue. 00;12;30;14 - 00;12;50;05 Andy So sort of a more of a, of a strategy around something has already taken effect. You know, you're already in, the situation and you're now making decisions that are going to put yourself in a position to be successful. But one of the things is it's this isn't about being vindictive, right? Like, so I use the example of of a divorce. 00;12;50;08 - 00;13;08;04 Andy And the only reason I do that is because that's one of the, you know, that's a personal decision. It's something that that happens, that interpersonal that affects a lot of people, and it can affect someone even if they're not going through it directly. It can affect individuals. But the decisions we make is not to be vindictive or to be punishing for other people. 00;13;08;04 - 00;13;28;12 Andy In this, we want to be professional, making decisions that serve us, that give us the result that we're looking for. And when we go through these particular issue, it could be a financial issue. It could be a lot of different situations where, let's say we ran onto some financial difficulties. It's to try to deal with the emotional end of it and learn from it. 00;13;28;16 - 00;13;47;01 Andy One of the big things I find is, is every time we go through a big challenge, it's an opportunity for us to learn from it, to build a skill set to help us in the future and help us with with future issues. Again, because I said, like, we're not going to get through life without having some challenges and some big challenges. 00;13;47;04 - 00;14;08;26 Andy And when we look at an individuals who are highly successful, they're making big decisions. And when we think, you know, one scenario, you know, I was talking about was I'm from grew up in Winnipeg, Canada, and there was a company called Canwest Global, and they owned a lot of the TV properties that they owned, like HD, HGTV, the Food Network. 00;14;08;26 - 00;14;34;02 Andy I think they might have owned Lying Lionsgate Films. I could be wrong with that, but they did own some of the TV, movie studios, a lot of TV properties, and they ran on to some financial difficulties where they ended up having to sell off the company. Now we look at that and we go, okay, well, the CEO who really represented the family that built up this empire, right? 00;14;34;02 - 00;14;50;05 Andy He's trying to make the decisions to keep this company alive. We kind of look at and go, well, yeah, that's his job. And and we can kind of look at it. Well, this is their family's legacy. This is their this is where their family makes money. This is where their family invested. This is how their their dad built out that business. 00;14;50;06 - 00;15;18;23 Andy That individual had to work through those challenges. And come up with a try to come up with a plan to to save some of their properties and save some of their financial interests. So, you know, and hopefully you're not negotiating, you know, multi-million dollar bailouts. But there are people who do and you have to learn those skills. So, you know, one of the big things is that as we develop as consultants, we're going to be we're going to be negotiating and working through problems that become bigger and bigger and bigger as our careers advance. 00;15;18;23 - 00;15;43;12 Andy And so this is where coming up with that ability to work through those starts with the the smaller issues. So as you're going through challenges is build up. That's that skill set. And and work through that and understand that again, people are going through these. And this is something that we we can't avoid in our lives. So so the big thing I think is, you know, really trying to understand the emotional piece of it as well and that the emotions will kick in. 00;15;43;15 - 00;16;00;04 Andy But but also understand that there are solutions to the issues that we're in. And sometimes they may not be the ideal one. They may be something that we necessarily would choose, but there are solutions for the for the situations that we're in or the, the challenges that we're facing. And there are experts out there that can help us through it. 00;16;00;04 - 00;16;19;05 Andy So work through that. You're going through it, know that. You know, it's again, it's going to happen. It's something that people go through. It's just part of living. It's part of life. It's part of being an adult. And, these things happen. And the more we're involved with different things in our career, the more advanced our career becomes, the more we're going to be. 00;16;19;05 - 00;16;38;03 Andy These things are going to happen because we're going to be exposed to more of them from a professional level and also a personal level. There's going to be more challenges that come up and and understand that we have the skills to deal with that. We just have to, you know, find again the path and and trust the path and trust those around us as we work through it and do our research and and our due diligence. 00;16;38;03 - 00;16;56;17 Andy So anyways, I wanted to share that, especially for anyone who's going through that now, but... /episode/index/show/artofconsultingpodcast/id/39192750

262 | More Than Compliance - How Confidentiality Serves Us 11/20/2025

262 | More Than Compliance - How Confidentiality Serves Us The Art of Consulting Podcast – Episode Transcript Hosts: Andy Fry & Cat Lam Episode Topic: Non-Disclosure Agreements and the Power of Keeping Information Confidential [00:00 – Intro Music] Andy Fry & Cat Lam (together): Welcome to the Art of Consulting Podcast with Andy Fry and Cat Lam. We are seasoned IT consultants, CPAs, and professional-development connoisseurs. Each episode we bring you an inspiring message to help you discover that X-factor as a professional in your field so you can gain the success you know you deserve in your career and in your life. [00:15] Andy Fry: Hey everybody, today I want to talk about non-disclosure agreements and keeping information close to our chest. One of the things that, as a consultant, you’ve either already signed or you will sign—especially if you’re new to consulting—is a non-disclosure agreement, or what’s commonly called an NDA. It really is a confidentiality agreement that says you’re not going to share information that is not already public with people who shouldn’t have it. Publicly traded companies require this because if you have access to their financials, or you’re in meetings where they’re about to disclose material non-public information, you possess something valuable. If you start talking to other people, sharing that privately, or—worse—publicly, you can be sued, fired, or face a whole range of consequences depending on the severity. Most NDAs are signed purely for protection; you sign it, you agree not to share, and most of us never have to worry about it day-to-day. But the broader concept of confidentiality is absolutely critical in consulting—and, honestly, in our personal lives too. [01:10] The number-one reason it matters? We’re trying to prove we’re trustworthy. Trust is a huge thing for me. I even wrote a book called The Trust Paradigm (there are actually three books with that title, but mine’s the one with Andy Fry on the cover). I wrote it because I wanted to figure out: What is trust? How do you build it? How do you measure it? As consultants, we prove trustworthiness through integrity—making sure the information we hear isn’t used for our own benefit. “Our own benefit” can be financial (classic corporate espionage—yes, it happens at the corporate level too, not just governments). Or, more commonly, it’s the ego boost of feeling important because we “know something” and get to tell it. [02:05] I’ve always treated any confidentiality agreement as lifelong. I have clients I haven’t worked with in years. The information I learned back then—probably all public by now—but there could still be context, reasons behind decisions, who said what about letting someone go or selling a division… I view that NDA as in perpetuity. I’m never going to talk about it. I recommend everyone adopt that mindset. I actually had a client bring me into a highly sensitive project with only a handful of people in the loop. They told me point-blank: “We’re bringing you in because you’ve proven in the past you don’t share things you hear.” They still made me sign another NDA. I signed it and said, “Just so you know—when I sign this, I treat it as forever.” [03:00] Organizations can and do test for leaks. At high-clearance levels it’s obvious, but even regular companies sometimes plant slightly different versions of the same information to see who’s talking. So ask yourself with every piece of information: Is this my story to tell? I once had a family member share something very personal that was happening with my immediate family—me, my wife, and our two kids. It wasn’t their story. I told them, “That wasn’t yours to tell.” It hurt because it showed a lack of boundary awareness. [03:45 – Personal story – Calgary street encounter] I was walking in Calgary for a client, and a friend’s wife comes out of an apartment building that definitely wasn’t where they lived. Eyes got big, I nodded, kept walking. I spent the next week wondering, “Do I tell my friend?” A week later he called laughing: “Hey, I heard you ran into [wife’s name]. She was visiting a friend who lives there and couldn’t remember your name in the moment.” We both laughed—she thought I kept walking because I suspected something, and I kept walking because I didn’t want to accidentally say the wrong thing. Moral: We often don’t have the full picture. [04:40] As consultants we’re paid for what we know. Having “extra” information can make us feel powerful, special, in the know. But watch high-performing executives in a room—they speak very little. Top performers are extremely discreet about what they share and with whom. That’s the behavior we want to model. [05:10 – Early-career story – drinks with another consultant] Over 25 years ago I was out for drinks. Another consultant bragged they’d just signed a big staff-augmentation deal with a health authority that was actually going to replace a bunch of internal employees. I had a close friend who worked there. I was torn—do I warn him? A senior consultant gave me great advice: You care about your friend—that’s valid. You don’t actually know if the rumor is true or the full intent. Even if you tell him, what do you expect him to do? Quit? Confront his boss? Live in paranoia waiting for the axe? Sometimes “sharing because we care” just offloads worry onto someone else. [06:10 – Practical tips for everyday confidentiality] Speakerphone etiquette: If you’re on speaker and others can hear, announce who’s in the room (or the car). I don’t want to swear or share sensitive info if your 7-year-old (or anyone) is listening. Recorded meetings / Zoom / Teams: Once it’s recorded or transcribed, you no longer control that file. Assume anything said can be forwarded. Sharing with spouse or significant other: It’s normal to need to vent, but sanitize the details. Leave out names, specific identifiers, anything that could accidentally get repeated at the next dinner party. Doctor/therapist analogy: You wouldn’t want your doctor or therapist going home and giving your spouse a play-by-play with your name attached. Treat client info the same way. Assume you live in a small town where everyone knows everyone. That mindset keeps you safe. [07:30 – Closing] If you’re new to consulting, this is one of the most important professional habits you can build. If you’re seasoned, it’s a friendly reminder. Keeping information confidential when it should be is simply the right thing to do—and it will accelerate your career because people will trust you with bigger, more sensitive, and more lucrative engagements. So keep being awesome, work hard, and have yourself a great week. [08:00 – Outro Music] /episode/index/show/artofconsultingpodcast/id/39154545

261 | Why We Should Assume Someone Is Always Recording 11/13/2025

260 | Power Moves: Inside Energy Innovation and Consulting with Ashton Fox 10/16/2025

260 | Power Moves: Inside Energy Innovation and Consulting with Ashton Fox Power Moves: Inside Energy Innovation and Consulting with Ashton Fox In this episode, Cat sits down with Ashton Fox, President of Onix Energy, to explore how consulting and executive leadership are reshaping the future of energy. With an impressive career spanning renewable energy, natural gas, and electricity supply, Ashton brings a wealth of experience on scaling organizations, transforming business models, and leading companies through high-stakes change. Ashton shares how he helped transform a negative-revenue startup into a $150M powerhouse, scaled solar and renewable operations across new markets, and shifted an energy supplier from 10% to 100% renewables. But beyond the numbers, he dives into what it really takes to be a transformational leader: building trust, managing culture during rapid growth, and creating sustainable strategies that last. Key Insights You’ll Learn Energy Leadership: How Ashton navigated the transition from fossil fuels to renewables while maintaining profitability and growth. Scaling with Purpose: Lessons on expanding a company’s footprint from one market to six while multiplying revenue by 15x. The Consulting Mindset: Why consulting skills are crucial for energy executives — from solving complex problems to guiding strategic pivots. Sustainability in Action: How to implement efficiency programs that save clients 25% on energy costs while driving impact. Executive Lessons: Ashton’s take on building recurring revenue streams, transforming company culture, and positioning businesses for long-term success. This conversation is a must-listen for consultants, executives, and anyone interested in how innovation, leadership, and consulting expertise intersect in one of the world’s most important industries. 🌐 Official Podcast Title Power Moves: Inside Energy Innovation and Consulting with Ashton Fox 🔗 Where to Find our Guest What Guest is Promoting: LinkedIn: 👤 Guest Bio – Ashton Fox Ashton Fox is a visionary C-Suite executive with extensive experience in strategic leadership, enterprise transformation, and organizational growth in the renewable energy sector. As the former CEO of a solar EPC company and COO of a natural gas and electricity supplier, Ashton has a proven track record of scaling organizations, driving market expansion, and delivering exceptional shareholder value. During his tenure at the energy supply company, Ashton transformed the organization from a negative revenue startup to an entity with $150M in assets, expanded its footprint from one market to six, and increased the customer base and revenue by 15x. He pioneered the company's transition from 10% to 100% renewable energy sources and developed comprehensive energy efficiency programs resulting in average customer savings of 25%. At the solar EPC company, Ashton led strategic growth and market expansion, scaling the sales organization by 50% while maintaining profitability and establishing strategic partnerships with key equipment suppliers. Currently, Ashton is the President of Onix Energy, where he focuses on energy procurement and specialized sustainability programs for commercial clients. He also provides executive-level consulting services to renewable energy and cleantech organizations, focusing on strategic growth initiatives, operational excellence, and market expansion strategies. He specializes in transforming traditional energy companies into renewable energy leaders while establishing recurring revenue streams and optimizing financial performance. /episode/index/show/artofconsultingpodcast/id/38305020

259 | From Oilfields to Solar Fields: Building Ridgeline Solar and the Future of Clean Energy 10/09/2025

259 | From Oilfields to Solar Fields: Building Ridgeline Solar and the Future of Clean Energy In this episode of the Art of Consulting Podcast, hosts Andy Fry and Cat Lam sit down with Drew Mair, President of Ridgeline Solar, to explore his inspiring journey from Alberta’s oil and gas sector to building one of the most respected solar manpower companies in Western Canada. Drew shares how his early career as an electrician shaped his transition into renewable energy, and the challenges of moving from “one guy in a truck” to running a full-fledged solar construction business. He talks candidly about balancing golden handcuffs with flexibility, the risks of entrepreneurship, and the mindset shift from being self-employed to leading a team. The conversation dives into: Starting Ridgeline Solar – why Drew left the oilfields to build something of his own Golden Handcuffs vs. Flexibility – making the choice to prioritize freedom and family over security Scaling a Business – moving from solopreneur to building teams, hiring operations managers, and creating systems Pipeline Fears – how Drew manages the ever-present fear of “dry spells” in project work Quality and Transparency – why Ridgeline Solar stands apart, with in-house electricians, rigorous QA, and complete transparency with customers Future of Solar Energy – the growth of utility-scale projects, opportunities in Alberta and beyond, and why Drew welcomes any innovation that moves clean energy forward Whether you’re an entrepreneur, energy enthusiast, or someone curious about the future of renewables, this episode delivers real-world lessons on resilience, leadership, and innovation. Where to Find our Guest What Guest is Promoting: LinkedIn: Guest Bio Drew Mair – President, Ridgeline Solar Drew Mair is the President of Ridgeline Solar, a company specializing in utility-scale solar manpower solutions. With over a decade of experience as an electrician in Alberta’s energy sector, Drew transitioned from oil and gas to renewable energy, driven by a desire for flexibility and a passion for building something of his own. Starting as a solopreneur—just one person and a truck—he grew Ridgeline Solar into a respected organization known for its operational excellence, transparency, and commitment to quality. Drew’s leadership focuses on building strong teams, delivering high-value solar projects, and continuously improving processes to set new standards in the industry. /episode/index/show/artofconsultingpodcast/id/38308605

258 | Breaking Barriers: Svetlana Winters’ Journey from Russia to CFO in American Oil & Gas 10/02/2025

258 | Breaking Barriers: Svetlana Winters’ Journey from Russia to CFO in American Oil & Gas Breaking Barriers: Svetlana Winters’ Journey from Russia to CFO in American Oil & Gas In this episode, we sit down with Svetlana Winters, CFO at Alteriver, whose journey from Russia to the executive boardroom of a U.S. oil & gas company is nothing short of inspiring. Svetlana shares how she left a top finance role in Russia to start over in the United States—facing language barriers, cultural challenges, and the uphill climb of rebuilding her career from the ground up. Her story is a testament to perseverance, adaptability, and the strength required to thrive in male-dominated industries. Key Insights You’ll Learn Starting Over with Courage: How Svetlana navigated language and cultural barriers while rebuilding her career in a new country. Leadership in Oil & Gas: The realities of being a woman leader in a highly male-dominated sector—and how she earned respect through expertise and resilience. The CFO’s Role Beyond Numbers: Why financial leadership is about relationships, trust, and proactive decision-making, not just balance sheets. Building Trust as a Leader: Svetlana’s three-part formula for becoming a trusted advisor: build credibility through action, anticipate needs, and communicate with clarity. Global Lessons in Leadership: The cultural differences in management styles she’s observed across Russia, the U.S., and beyond—and how they’ve shaped her approach. Svetlana’s journey shows that even when you have to start over, determination, strategy, and a positive outlook can take you to the very top. 🌐 Official Podcast Title Breaking Barriers: Svetlana Winters’ Journey from Russia to CFO in American Oil & Gas 🔗 Where to Find our Guest What Guest is Promoting: LinkedIn: 👤 Guest Bio – Svetlana Winters Svetlana Winters is a seasoned finance and accounting leader with over 25 years of experience spanning FP&A, regulatory compliance, and strategic financial management. Currently serving as CFO at Alteriver, Svetlana has driven transformative initiatives including a $70 million cost recovery, IPO-critical audits, and the overhaul of asset management systems. Her career includes senior roles at industry giants like Baker Hughes, CNJ Energy Services, and Tubular Solutions, where she led GAAP/IFRS compliance, tax strategy, and capital planning. Svetlana holds both a master’s and bachelor’s degree in accountancy and auditing from the East Siberian University of Technology, is a certified financial director and professional accountant through IFAC, and is fluent in English and Russian. Her global perspective, technical expertise, and passion for mentoring make her a powerhouse in the world of finance and a role model for aspiring leaders. /episode/index/show/artofconsultingpodcast/id/38304795

257 | Fractional CFOs: The Secret Weapon for Scaling, Selling, and Stress-Free Success 09/25/2025

257 | Fractional CFOs: The Secret Weapon for Scaling, Selling, and Stress-Free Success Fractional CFOs: Turning Financial Chaos Into Strategic Wins with Emily Statler In today’s episode, Cat welcomes Emily Statler, a seasoned Fractional CFO and Financial Coach who has spent more than 20 years helping consultants transform financial headaches into strategic victories. Emily shares how fractional CFOs are no longer just for big corporations — consultants, solopreneurs, and small-to-mid-sized firms can all benefit from high-level financial guidance without the burden of a full-time hire. Together, Cat and Emily dive into three key perspectives: For solopreneurs and consultants: How to know when it’s time to bring in financial expertise (hint: when your bank balance is always scraping zero or you’re working nonstop with little to show for it). For growing firms: Why having clean books, cash flow clarity, and an exit strategy early on is critical if you want to scale or eventually sell. For aspiring fractional CFOs: Emily’s own journey from bookkeeper to trusted financial partner, including how to land that first client and build confidence in this fast-growing field. They also unpack hot topics like: How CFOs often bridge finance and operations What buyers really look for when valuing a consulting business Why having a clear exit strategy is essential, even if you never plan to sell The mindset shift required to stop “DIY-ing” everything and start building a sustainable business This episode is packed with actionable insights for consultants who want to not only hit revenue goals but also build a business (and life) they actually love. 🔗 What Guest is Promoting Emily’s latest work can be found at . If someone enjoyed the show, shoot me a connection on LinkedIn—I'm all about meeting new people, swapping ideas, and growing together... 👉 👤 Guest Bio – Emily Statler Meet Emily Statler, a Fractional CFO and Financial Coach with 20+ years of experience helping consultants turn financial headaches into strategic wins. Emily empowers consulting professionals to master cash flow, boost profitability, and truly enjoy their financial journey. Her passion lies in connecting financial strategy to both business growth and personal fulfillment—ensuring clients not only hit revenue targets but also achieve the life goals that matter most. Emily’s approach goes beyond spreadsheets, focusing on financial freedom that lets consultants scale their impact and live their dream lifestyle. Outside of work, you’ll find her soaring on new adventures, spending time with family, and prioritizing self-care. /episode/index/show/artofconsultingpodcast/id/38304505

256 | How Returning a Man's Gloves Helped Move Me Forward 09/19/2025

255 | How to Use Consistency and Bursts to Achieve Goals 09/12/2025

254 | How to Deal with the Defining Project in Our Careers 09/05/2025

253 | The Ingredient for the Law of Abundance 06/21/2025

253 | The Ingredient for the Law of Abundance In this episode of The Art of Consulting, Andy Fry explores the transformative concept of the Law of Abundance, challenging the scarcity mindset that often limits our potential. He highlights the universe's boundless resources and emphasizes the need to move beyond beliefs such as "there’s not enough time, money, or opportunities." Through personal stories and actionable strategies, Andy offers guidance on shifting perspectives and embracing abundance as a pathway to success. From identifying how scarcity is used in sales tactics to underscoring the value of creativity and consistent effort, Andy provides practical tools for breaking mental barriers and unlocking hidden opportunities. His message is inspiring yet pragmatic: abundance is real, but achieving it requires belief, intentional action, and the willingness to collaborate. Episode Summary: Understanding the Law of Abundance: The universe provides abundant resources, but scarcity is a mindset that often limits us. Scarcity creates urgency and pressure, often used in sales tactics like "limited time offers" or "only a few left." Shifting the Mindset: Focusing on abundance allows for creative solutions and opportunities. Stress and limitations arise when scarcity dominates your thoughts. Work and Action: While resources are abundant, effort and work are required to access them. Examples include desalinating water from the ocean or mining natural resources. Belief and Creativity: Believing in abundance helps you see opportunities where others see limitations. Creativity plays a key role in defining and pursuing your goals. Personal Stories and Insights: The speaker shares a story about finding money at Legoland and the importance of effort, even when resources seem readily available. They highlight that collaboration and persistence are often necessary to achieve goals. The Takeaway: The law of abundance is not about waiting for things to magically appear but believing that resources exist and working towards them. Visualizing your goals, staying creative, and taking action are essential for success. Episode Highlights: Introduction to the Law of Abundance The Scarcity Mindset in Sales and Daily Life Overcoming Scarcity: A Framework Personal Story: Finding Time Through Belief Personal Story: Discovering Abundance in Unexpected Places Abundance Requires Action and Effort Creativity and Resourcefulness as Keys to Abundance Achieving Greatness Through Collaboration and Hard Work Closing Thoughts: Embrace Abundance /episode/index/show/artofconsultingpodcast/id/37096420

252 | Coffee Is For Closers - Revisited 03/21/2025

252 | Coffee Is For Closers - Revisited In this thought-provoking episode of The Art of Consulting podcast, Andy discusses the "50-Minute Focus" technique. Throughout the conversation, he sheds light on critical lessons about identifying productivity pitfalls, the significance of adapting dynamic strategies, and leveraging unconventional approaches to foster successful personal and professional habits. From the transformation of time management techniques to the essential role of prioritizing tasks, Andy offers a treasure trove of insights and practical guidance for consultants seeking to excel in their personal and professional lives. Episode Summary: Introduction and Reflections from 2020 (00:06 - 00:44): The episode begins with a reflection on previous discussions from 2020 and the changes brought on by COVID-19. The Impact of Distractions (00:44 - 01:18): The speaker highlights the constant distraction posed by social media and smartphones, and their effect on productivity. Increased Distractions Over Time (01:18 - 02:00): A discussion on how distractions have become more pervasive over time, despite advancements in app efficiency. Understanding "Coffee is for Closers" (02:01 - 02:34): The speaker explains the phrase "coffee is for closers" employed as a motivational tool in sales. Strategies for Maintaining Productivity (02:34 - 03:15): The speaker shares personal strategies for maintaining productivity, such as task lists and prioritization. The Importance of a Task List (03:15 - 03:50): Emphasizes the role of task lists in proactive work and productivity. Approach to Task Prioritization (03:50 - 04:23): The speaker shares his approach to task prioritization, considering due dates and personal satisfaction. Evaluating and Prioritizing Tasks (04:24 - 04:53): Further explanation on task evaluation and prioritization. Considering Personal Satisfaction in Task Prioritization (04:53 - 05:29): The speaker advises prioritizing tasks that bring personal satisfaction and a sense of accomplishment. Interdependencies in Task Prioritization (05:29 - 06:01): The speaker discusses the role of interdependencies when prioritizing tasks within a team. The Importance of Task Prioritization (06:02 - 06:31): A reiteration of the importance of prioritizing tasks for a productive day. Time Boxing Tasks (06:32 - 07:17): The speaker introduces the concept of time boxing tasks to manage workload and time effectively. Task List Preparation for the Next Day (07:18 - 07:50): Discusses the strategy of preparing a task list for the next day the night before. Concept of Time Boxing (07:51 - 08:29): The speaker discusses the concept of time boxing, a productivity strategy. Benefits of Time Boxing (08:31 - 09:06): Emphasizes the benefits of time boxing in managing tasks and time. Starting With Difficult Tasks (09:07 - 09:43): The speaker advises starting with the most difficult tasks to build momentum and ease into the day. Benefits of Time Boxing (09:44 - 10:17): The benefits of time boxing, particularly in managing unexpected schedule changes, are discussed. Reiterating Importance of Prioritization and Time Boxing (10:17 - 10:52): The speaker reiterates the importance of task prioritization and time boxing. Rewarding Oneself Upon Task Completion (10:53 - 11:37): The speaker emphasizes the importance of rewarding oneself after completing tasks. Tackling Difficult Tasks First (11:37 - 12:22): Discusses the strategy of tackling difficult tasks first to build momentum and reduce stress. Importance of Rewarding Oneself (12:23 - 13:02): A reiteration on the importance of self-reward after task completion. 50-Minute Increments for Larger Tasks (13:02 - 13:37): The speaker shares his strategy of working in 50-minute increments for larger tasks. Benefits of the Speaker's Approach (13:37 - 14:16): Discussion on the personal benefits of the speaker's approach, including better production and momentum. Risk of Burnout (14:18 - 14:55): Highlights the risk of burnout if one does not reward themselves and maintain a healthy work-life balance. Early Requests for Collaboration (14:56 - 15:28): The speaker discusses the importance of initiating collaborative requests early in the day. 50-Minute Increments for Larger Tasks (15:30 - 16:16): Reiteration of the strategy of breaking up larger tasks into 50-minute increments. Benefits of the Speaker's Strategies (16:17 - 16:58): The speaker emphasizes the benefits of his strategies, including increased productivity and improved personal life. Early Requests for Collaboration (16:59 - 17:28): A reiteration of the importance of sending tasks or requests to colleagues early in the day. Nightly To-Do List Preparation (17:29 - 18:07): The speaker recommends preparing a to-do list the night before for a productive start to the day. Early Morning Collaboration Requests (18:08 - 18:40): Discusses the benefits of sending collaborative requests first thing in the morning. 50-Minute Increment Time Boxing (18:40 - 19:11): The speaker re-emphasizes the concept of time boxing tasks into 50-minute increments. Benefits of the Speaker's Strategies (19:12 - 19:45): Reiterates the benefits of the speaker's strategies, including better productivity and momentum. Benefits of Task Management Strategies (19:46 - 20:23): The speaker reiterates the benefits of his task management strategies, including better productivity and momentum. Using 50-Minute Increments for Studying (20:23 - 21:04): Shares personal experience of using the 50-minute increment approach while studying for a certification. Importance of Rewarding Oneself (21:05 - 21:39): Reiterates the importance of rewarding oneself after completing tasks. Maintaining Momentum and Avoiding Burnout (21:40 - 22:47): Emphasizes the importance of maintaining momentum and taking adequate breaks to avoid burnout. Benefits of the Speaker's Strategies (22:47 - 23:32): The speaker discusses how his strategies have helped him stay productive and manage his workload. Benefits of the Speaker's Approach (23:32 - 24:06): The speaker emphasizes the benefits of his approach, including better productivity and momentum. Benefits of the Speaker's Approach (24:07 - 24:43): Reiterates the benefits of the speaker's approach, including better productivity and momentum. Reflection on Strategies for a Productive Week (24:44 - 25:29): The speaker reflects on how his strategies have contributed to his productivity and satisfaction during the week. Conclusion and Look Ahead (25:29 - 25:51): The speaker concludes the episode by encouraging listeners to implement his strategies and looks forward to future discussions. Episode Highlights: (00:06 - 00:44): The speaker reflects on changes brought on by COVID-19. (00:44 - 01:18): The speaker discusses the impact of social media and smartphones on productivity. (02:01 - 02:34): An explanation of the motivational phrase "coffee is for closers" is provided. (02:34 - 03:15): The speaker shares his strategies for maintaining productivity, such as task lists and prioritization. (03:50 - 04:23): The speaker's approach to task prioritization based on due dates and personal satisfaction is discussed. (04:53 - 05:29): The importance of personal satisfaction in task prioritization is highlighted. (06:32 - 07:17): The speaker introduces time boxing as a strategy to manage workload and time. (07:18 - 07:50): The speaker emphasizes the importance of preparing a task list for the next day. (08:31 - 09:06): The benefits of time boxing in managing tasks and time are discussed. (10:53 - 11:37): The speaker emphasizes the importance of rewarding oneself after task completion. (13:02 - 13:37): The speaker shares his strategy of breaking up larger tasks into 50-minute increments. (14:18 - 14:55): The speaker highlights the risk of burnout if one does not reward themselves and maintain a work-life balance. (14:56 - 15:28): The importance of initiating collaborative requests early in the day is discussed. (16:17 - 16:58): The speaker emphasizes the benefits of his strategies, including better productivity. (17:29 - 18:07): The speaker recommends preparing a to-do list the night before to kickstart a productive day. (19:46 - 20:23): The speaker reiterates the benefits of his task management strategies. (20:23 - 21:04): The speaker shares his experience of using the 50-minute increment approach for studying. (21:40 - 22:47): The importance of maintaining momentum and taking breaks to avoid burnout is emphasized. (24:44 - 25:29): The speaker reflects on how his strategies have contributed to a productive week. (25:29 - 25:51): The speaker concludes the episode by encouraging listeners to implement his strategies. /episode/index/show/artofconsultingpodcast/id/35789930

251 | How to Deal with Communication Challenges 03/14/2025

250 | How to Prepare for a Geo-Political Event 03/07/2025

249 | Unmasking Corporate Fraud and Cybersecurity: Real Stories and Practical Tips with Stephanie Forbes 11/09/2024

249 | Unmasking Corporate Fraud and Cybersecurity: Real Stories and Practical Tips with Stephanie Forbes In this compelling episode of The Art of Consulting podcast, Stephanie Forbes brings her expertise to the table, discussing the prevalent and often sophisticated issue of corporate fraud and cybersecurity. Throughout the conversation, we navigate the different ways in which fraud can occur within an organization, the impacts it can have, and the steps that can be taken to prevent it. From harrowing stories of payroll fraud to the intricacies of implementing governance models, Stephanie provides actionable insights to secure the financial and informational assets of companies. Episode Summary: [00:00-01:05] Introduction: Hosts recap previous discussions and introduce today’s focus on how funds may be fraudulently siphoned from organizations. [01:06-02:41] Stephanie Forbes on Payroll Fraud: Forbes shares insights on payroll vulnerabilities and fraud risks. [02:42-03:35] Payroll Fraud Case Study: Example of payroll fraud involving fictitious employees under a single manager. [03:36-05:11] Sophisticated Fraud Techniques: Discussion of fraud types, including wire fraud, and their significant impact. [05:12-07:20] Cybersecurity Incidents: Forbes recounts a cyber breach resulting in company system loss. [07:21-12:47] Cloud System Risks: Exploring cloud access risks and keychain security vulnerabilities. [12:48-18:05] Cyberattack Recovery: Strategies for recovery, backup importance, and governance frameworks. [18:06-21:16] SMB Cybersecurity Tips: Affordable, effective cybersecurity practices for small to medium businesses. [21:17-29:00] Final Tips: Emphasis on advanced authentication and data protection strategies. Catch Stephanie next at The P-World Conference in Toronto December 4th.Click here for more info Episode Highlights: [01:06] Money Leak Channels: Forbes agrees with the host on limited money outflow channels and details fraud-prone areas. [01:19] Payroll and Procure-to-Pay Systems: Identified as high-risk zones for fraud, with a reference to a 2023 fraud report. [02:42] Payroll Fraud Example: Case where one individual received 74 checks, linked to a manager's scheme. [03:36] Fraud Complexity: Forbes describes another fraud instance involving last-minute bank account changes. [06:21] Cybersecurity Focus: A real-world case where a company lost cloud control due to a cyberattack. [07:21] Cloud Security Explained: Forbes clarifies cloud risks, including hackers gaining access to a company’s keychain. [12:48] Cyberattack Recovery: Importance of offsite backups and system restoration strategies. [18:06] Governance Models: Forbes advocates for governance models covering people, processes, and technology to defend against fraud. [21:17] SMB Cybersecurity Advice: Tips on cybersecurity insurance and routine data backups for small and medium businesses. [29:01] Final Insights: Forbes calls for barriers between cloud and operational systems and highlights authentication protocol needs. About Our Guest: Stephanie Forbes is a seasoned executive with over two decades in business, risk management, and supply chain. Her extensive experience has driven high-profile projects across the energy and construction sectors. As interim vice chair of Supply Chain Canada, Alberta Institute, Forbes actively supports supply chain development, with expertise in governance and supplier lifecycle management. Where to Find Our Guest Online: LinkedIn – Stephanie Forbes: Website – /episode/index/show/artofconsultingpodcast/id/33807692

248 | Decoding Consulting Secrets: The Art of Knowledge Transfer 11/02/2024

248 | Decoding Consulting Secrets: The Art of Knowledge Transfer In this episode of The Art of Consulting podcast, hosts Andy and Cat reunite for a rare “together episode” discussing the nuances and importance of knowledge transfer in the consulting space. As consultants from various fields, they explore the idea of consulting as a temporary yet impactful role, emphasizing the value of effectively transitioning their knowledge to clients and the critical role of documentation and interpersonal skills in a consultant’s success. Episode Summary: [00:05] Andy and Cat kick off a special co-hosted episode, reflecting on their individual expert interviews and the rarity of their joint episodes these days. [00:38] They talk about their intense collaboration periods in the past, contrasting it with their recent individual projects. [00:46] Core Topic: The transfer of knowledge. They highlight the paradox of good consultants—working themselves out of a job—while maintaining strong client relationships, with clients often returning for help with new challenges. [01:37] They discuss the necessity of identifying a key person within the client's organization for knowledge transfer, ensuring smooth operations post-consultancy. [04:36] Discussion on the optimal timing for identifying a successor at the client site, stressing the importance of involving them from the start of the project. [06:46] Andy expresses concern about clients deferring knowledge transfer until after go-live, leading to gaps in understanding key project decisions. [10:47] The conversation shifts to the importance of moving from people-centric to system-centric operations and the risks of not having redundancy in organizational knowledge. [14:48] Andy and Cat discuss transferring not only technical knowledge but also the interpersonal skills and sensitivities critical to successful consulting. [16:55] They emphasize the need for user-friendly tools to document technical knowledge and the tact needed to convey information about team dynamics. [22:34] They provide an action plan for listeners on how to approach knowledge transfer. They advise identifying primary and secondary successors, choosing a starting point, using effective documentation tools, and considering the human aspect of knowledge transfer. [39:20] The episode closes by affirming the value of human relationships in the consulting process. Episode Highlights: [00:05] – Introduction: Andy and Cat discuss the rarity of co-hosting due to their individual interviews with experts. [00:38] – Reflection on past episodes and the evolution of their interactions. [00:46] – Consultant’s Paradox: Good consultants work to make themselves unnecessary while maintaining client relationships. [01:37] – Key Individual for Knowledge Transfer: The importance of identifying a key person within the client's organization. [04:36] – Timing of Knowledge Transfer: Optimal timing for selecting the right person for knowledge transfer. [06:46] – Continuity Concerns: Issues with waiting until post go-live for knowledge transfer. [10:47] – Shift to System-Centric Operations: Importance of having redundancy in organizational knowledge. [14:48] – Comprehensive Knowledge Transfer: Technical and soft skills are equally important. [16:55] – User-Friendly Documentation Tools: Creating effective documentation for knowledge transfer. [22:34] – Action Plan for Listeners: Steps to approach knowledge transfer in consulting. [39:20] – Conclusion: The human aspect remains central to consulting work. About the Hosts: Andy and Cat are seasoned consultants with a passion for sharing their insights and experiences. They specialize in guiding organizations and individuals through complex projects, advocating for knowledge transfer to ensure sustained excellence and growth. For listeners looking to enhance their consulting skills or gain insights into the art of knowledge transfer, this episode offers valuable strategies and field anecdotes. Join Andy and Cat as they unravel the complexities and rewards of consulting, where imparting knowledge is essential for success. /episode/index/show/artofconsultingpodcast/id/33689487

247 | Building Out an Expert Position in Consulting - with Mark Amtower 10/19/2024

247 | Building Out an Expert Position in Consulting - with Mark Amtower Welcome to another episode of The Art of Consulting, where we delve deep into the strategies and experiences of seasoned professionals in the consulting sphere. Today's guest is none other than Mark Amtower, the founder and partner of Amtower & Company, a firm specializing in marketing to the government. With a career spanning 39 years, Mark has been at the forefront of acknowledging and leveraging the nuances of marketing within the government contracting world. Episode Breakdown: 00:00 - 00:01: Speaker 1 (Host) opens the episode with a greeting to the audience. 00:15 - 00:22: Speaker 2 introduces Mark Amtower, highlighting his role as the founder of Amtower & Company. 00:23 - 00:25: Mark Amtower expresses his gratitude for being invited to the show. 00:25 - 00:36: The conversation touches upon a previous discussion, and Mark is prompted to share details about his background and focus. 00:38 - 01:27: Mark discusses the beginnings of his company in 1985, his background in literature, and his dive into the unique discipline of marketing to the government. 01:27 - 01:31: Mark humorously acknowledges the longevity of his career. 01:33 - 01:36: Speaker 2 jokes about Mark's long-standing career. 01:36 - 01:37: Mark responds with a light-hearted comment. 01:39 - 02:50: The dialogue shifts to the theme of non-traditional paths to consulting, highlighting the diverse skills that people bring to the industry. 02:50 - 03:04: Speaker 2 asks Mark how his non-traditional background shaped his consulting approach. 03:04 - 03:45: Mark recounts experiences, such as telemarketing and IT sales, that provided valuable skills for his consulting career. 03:45 - 04:27: Mark discusses his entry into advertising and how he identified a niche in marketing to government, which led to establishing his consulting presence. 04:28 - 05:14: Challenges of creating a client pipeline and managing financial concerns as a new consultant are discussed. 05:15 - 05:44: Speaker 2 reflects on the difficulty of securing subsequent contracts and the importance of building a client pipeline. 05:44 - 06:09: Speaker 2 asks how Mark identified and pursued the niche in government marketing. 06:09 - 06:54: Mark shares how he recognized unmet needs in the market and became the first to address federal marketing issues. 06:54 - 07:39: Mark explains positioning strategies and being first-to-market, referencing Jack Trout and Al Ries’ marketing insights. 07:40 - 08:21: Mark's journey of writing about government business and giving speaking engagements is discussed. 08:21 - 08:27: Mark mentions how ad agencies in D.C. often overlooked marketing to the government. 08:29 - 09:01: Speaker 2 discusses the concept of market awareness and recognizing gaps in the market. 09:01 - 09:32: Speaker 2 and Mark talk about the importance of acting on ideas when opportunities arise. 09:32 - 09:50: Mark shares his strategy for building expertise through experience and addressing industry issues like mailroom logistics. 09:51 - 10:37: Mark explains his innovative solution to improve mail delivery in federal agencies by understanding internal processes. 10:37 - 11:14: Mark discusses founding an association to facilitate collaboration between mailers and federal mail managers. 11:14 - 11:51: The importance of addressing industry-specific problems through communication and collaboration is emphasized. 11:51 - 12:29: Mark's experience with influencing mail routing in federal agencies is shared. 12:31 - 13:07: Speaker 2 appreciates Mark’s problem-solving approach and the importance of recognizing critical roles within organizations. 13:07 - 13:29: Speaker 2 relates Mark's experiences to modern challenges in delivering messages effectively. 13:29 - 14:16: Mark discusses how his business pivoted due to the rise of online platforms, affecting his direct mail business, and how he adapted. 14:21 - 14:35: Mark shares how engaging with a federal webmasters group helped him understand the changing landscape and adapt his consulting approach. 14:44 - 15:19: Speaker 2 highlights the importance of specialization and continuous learning in consulting. 15:19 - 15:51: Speaker 2 emphasizes the role of critical thinking and deepening domain expertise through industry involvement. 15:52 - 15:55: Speaker 2 notes the evolving nature of consulting and the need for specialization to stay competitive. 15:56 - 16:26: Mark discusses how consultants need to evolve their subject matter expertise to remain relevant in the industry. 16:26 - 16:29: Speaker 2 agrees with Mark's point. 16:27 - 16:29: Mark briefly mentions that his expertise doesn't cover all markets. 16:30 - 16:57: Speaker 2 talks about the dynamics of generalists versus specialists and how to find one's niche. 17:36 - 18:07: Mark shares a story about how Netscape disrupted the market, forcing him to pivot his business. 18:10 - 18:20: Mark emphasizes the ongoing need for consultants to adjust and innovate in response to technological changes like Web 2.0. 18:21 - 18:52: Mark and Speaker 2 discuss how Web 2.0 tools opened new opportunities for consultants to publish and share content. 18:53 - 19:38: Mark explains how he leveraged LinkedIn to establish his B2G (business-to-government) platform and his experience as a beta tester for LinkedIn's Pulse feature. 19:38 - 20:24: Mark talks about adapting to LinkedIn’s evolving features and becoming a prolific content creator. 20:24 - 21:09: Mark explains how LinkedIn helped him build thought leadership and connect with his target audience. 21:09 - 21:13: Speaker 2 affirms Mark's approach. 21:15 - 21:42: Mark advises on making a strong first impression on LinkedIn, including using the profile banner effectively. 21:57 - 21:58: Mark suggests using LinkedIn features strategically to enhance personal branding. 22:39 - 23:00: Mark and Speaker 2 discuss how LinkedIn evolved from a resume site into a networking and content publishing platform. 23:00 - 23:31: Mark stresses the importance of crafting a compelling LinkedIn 'About' section to create a positive first impression. 23:31 - 23:34: Speaker 2 humorously comments on common mistakes with LinkedIn profile banners. 23:34 - 24:17: Mark emphasizes the strategic use of every LinkedIn profile element to project a professional image and value proposition. 24:18 - 24:53: Speaker 2 appreciates Mark’s tips and underscores the need for attention to detail in presenting oneself professionally on LinkedIn. 25:35 - 25:54: Speaker 2 asks Mark about his content creation schedule on LinkedIn. 25:54 - 26:42: Mark shares that he doesn’t follow a strict calendar but publishes when inspiration strikes, along with commitments to other platforms. 26:42 - 27:20: Mark talks about his prolific writing and method of seeking feedback before publishing content. 27:20 - 28:09: Mark shares how feedback from trusted peers helps him refine his content for relevance and clarity. 28:09 - 28:37: Speaker 2 highlights the value of critical thinking and the iterative process of content creation. 28:37 - 29:11: Mark advises on capturing ideas and nurturing them for professional growth and content creation. 29:11 - 29:38: Mark suggests validating ideas with trusted peers to improve them and ensure professional growth. 29:39 - 30:07: Speaker 2 and Mark discuss the importance of continuous learning, feedback, and engaging with one's audience. 30:07 - 30:37: Speaker 2 reflects on sharing ideas and receiving feedback as key to enhancing one’s professional expertise. 30:47 - 31:20: Mark advises carrying a notebook to jot down ideas for later reflection and development. 31:28 - 32:04: Speaker 2 reflects on revisiting ideas over time and their potential for future relevance. 32:17 - 32:27: Mark humorously comments that everyone has a novel or country song in them, but not all ideas need to be shared publicly. 32:47 - 33:27: Mark shares an analogy from sports journalist Sally Jenkins about tennis margins, comparing it to consulting and handling setbacks. 33:50 - 34:28: Speaker 2 and Mark discuss the importance of nurturing even small ideas into valuable contributions. 34:58 - 35:40: The conversation shifts to building a pipeline for consulting work, and Mark advises defining a target audience and creating relevant content. 35:41 - 36:24: Mark shares a key lesson about realizing that the real decision-maker in a company was the CEO, not the marketing contact. 36:42 - 37:15: Speaker 2 and Mark discuss recognizing key decision-makers and influencers in organizations. 37:15 - 39:44: Mark emphasizes the value of connecting with executive assistants, understanding their preferences, and using LinkedIn to foster relationships with decision-makers. 39:10 - 39:44: Mark and Speaker 2 talk about nurturing influential connections and recognizing their contributions. 40:30 - 41:06: Mark continues discussing the importance of recognizing the power and influence of executive assistants in decision-making processes, sharing tips on building genuine relationships with them. 41:06 - 41:41: Mark emphasizes how consultants should research and understand the needs of both decision-makers and their assistants to provide better value. 41:41 - 42:12: Speaker 2 reflects on the vital role executive assistants play in shaping consulting engagements and client relationships. 42:12 - 42:44: Mark shares his experience using LinkedIn to connect with decision-makers and their assistants, noting how this approach has helped him open doors to new opportunities. 42:45 - 43:16: Mark advises using LinkedIn strategically to gather insights about companies and individuals, tailoring outreach efforts to resonate with the needs and interests of potential clients. 43:16 - 43:58: The conversation turns to building trust and credibility on LinkedIn. Mark stresses the importance of being consistent in messaging, content creation, and follow-ups to maintain visibility and authority. 43:58 - 44:34: Mark touches on how to nurture connections on LinkedIn over time, explaining that providing value and engaging authentically helps build long-term relationships with potential clients. 44:35 - 45:10: Speaker 2 asks Mark how he manages to stay on top of industry trends and maintain his relevance after decades in the consulting industry. 45:10 - 46:10: Mark shares his learning habits, including constantly reading, attending webinars, and keeping an eye on emerging technologies and market shifts, to ensure he can offer up-to-date advice to his clients. 46:10 - 47:02: Speaker 2 reflects on the importance of continuous learning and adapting to new trends in consulting, agreeing with Mark's approach of staying curious and informed. 47:02 - 47:52: Mark gives an example of how evolving technologies and changes in government policies have reshaped the way consultants need to approach marketing and business development strategies. 47:52 - 48:32: Mark discusses the rise of AI and automation tools in marketing and how they impact the role of consultants, especially in creating more personalized outreach. 48:32 - 49:02: Speaker 2 asks Mark for his thoughts on how consultants can use these new tools to improve their client relationships. 49:02 - 50:01: Mark emphasizes that while AI and automation are helpful, building personal relationships and trust remains critical. He encourages consultants to strike a balance between using technology and maintaining a human touch in client interactions. 50:01 - 50:43: Mark shares a final tip for consultants: to always remain flexible and open to new ways of solving problems, whether through technology, strategy, or networking. 50:44 - 51:10: Speaker 2 asks Mark to offer any parting advice for consultants looking to break into government marketing or consulting in general. 51:10 - 52:10: Mark advises consultants to focus on understanding the specific needs of their target market, build a strong personal brand, and consistently deliver value. He also emphasizes perseverance in developing relationships and gaining trust in the consulting world. 52:10 - 52:58: Mark reflects on the most rewarding aspects of his consulting career, sharing that seeing his clients succeed and making an impact on their businesses has been the highlight of his journey. 52:58 - 53:00: Speaker 2 wraps up the episode by thanking Mark for his time and insights, and closes the conversation. 53:00 - End: The episode concludes with a call to action for listeners to connect with Mark Amtower online and to stay tuned for future episodes. Episode Highlights: 00:15 - 00:22: Introduction of Mark Amtower, a seasoned expert in government contracting marketing. 00:38 - 01:27: Mark shares his unique journey into the niche of marketing to the government. 01:39 - 02:50: Discussion on the value of non-traditional paths to consulting. 04:28 - 05:14: Mark talks about the challenges of creating a client pipeline for consultants. 05:44 - 06:09: Insights into how Mark identified a marketing niche in the government sector. 08:21 - 08:27: Addressing the lack of marketing to government within ad agencies. 14:44 - 15:19: The importance of specialization and continuous learning in consulting. 23:34 - 24:17: Tips for making a strong first impression with your LinkedIn profile. 28:37 - 29:11: Keeping track of ideas and fostering creativity in professional growth. 35:41 - 36:24: Mark's lesson on identifying and engaging with decision-makers. 46:00 - 46:10: Mark emphasizes the significance of courtesy and empathy in professional settings. 49:43 - 50:22: Encouraging consultants to admit knowledge gaps and leverage their peer networks. About Our Guest Today: Mark Amtower is the founder and partner at Amtower & Company, a consultancy specializing in marketing to the government sector. With a masterful grasp of government marketing and an active presence on LinkedIn, Mark is a leading authority in government contracting and B2G marketing. With an impressive tenure of nearly four decades, Mark has shaped the landscape and discourse around marketing to the government. Where to Find Our Guest Online: LinkedIn - Mark Amtower: /episode/index/show/artofconsultingpodcast/id/33406752

246 | The Gift of Recurring Thought - with Katie Weldon 10/12/2024

246 | The Gift of Recurring Thought - with Katie Weldon In this insightful episode of The Art of Consulting podcast, we're joined by Coach Katie, also known as Katie Weldon, who not only excels as a business mentor and mindset coach but also shines in the real estate world as Katie the Mortgage Lady. With a rich history of bold decisions and transformative life changes, Katie opens up about her journey and the pivotal moments that led her to adopt a life-changing mindset. 00:13 - Introduction: We welcome Coach Katie to the show, discussing her multifaceted career and the courageous choices that have defined her path, from a drastic relocation to powerful personal developments. 00:59 - Life-Altering Decisions: Katie reflects on the significant decisions she's made, including a spontaneous move, medication changes, and notably, her choice to stop drinking—a frequent habit that pervaded her social and professional life. 02:50 - Intuition and Identity: A keynote moment at a Hay House conference triggers Katie's intuition, leading her to a decision that would not only alter her habits but challenge her identity. She narrates the process of facing and embracing her true self without alcohol. 05:34 - The Extrovert's Challenge: Katie discusses the surprising nervousness that comes with being an extrovert and the reliance on alcohol for social courage. She reveals the journey of redefining her social strategies and relationships in the absence of her previous crutch. 09:57 - Intuition's Role in Personal Change: The conversation shifts to the power of intuition, how it guided Katie's life choices, and the importance of acting upon these persistent inner calls for the sake of growth and alignment with one's true self. 15:19 - Dealing with Fear and Change: Katie and the host delve into the natural fear associated with change, the significance of being true to oneself, and the strength required to walk through uncertainty while reshaping one's identity. 22:48 - Acting on Intuitive Messages: We explore how vital it is to acknowledge and act on intuitive messages, recognizing the impact of those decisions on personal well-being and how they can manifest in unexpected and profound ways. 31:58 - Filling the Void with Positivity: Finally, Katie emphasizes the importance of consciously choosing what to fill the void with when removing a habit or element from one's life, ensuring it contributes positively to one's journey towards a fulfilling life. Episode Highlights: 00:13 - Introduction to Coach Katie Weldon, a business mentor, mindset coach, and also known as Katie the Mortgage Lady in the real estate industry. 00:59 - Katie shares her story of making life-altering decisions, including moving from Massachusetts to Florida, getting off medications, and her significant decision to stop drinking. 05:34 - Discussion on introverts, extroverts, and the surprising shyness extroverts can experience. Katie talks about the role of alcohol in social settings and her journey to navigate social interactions without it. 09:57 - The critical role of intuition in personal change and the importance of listening to those persistent internal messages that guide life choices. 15:19 - How fear and change can challenge one's identity, and the importance of staying true to oneself through the uncertainty of transformative periods. 22:48 - The necessity of acknowledging and acting upon intuitive messages for personal well-being and the profound impact these decisions can have. 31:58 - Katie emphasizes the importance of filling the void with positive actions and choices when removing a habit or element from one's life. About Our Guest: Katie Weldon is an entrepreneur combining her talents as a business mentor, mindset coach, and successful figure in the real estate industry. With a history of unabashed decisions leading to personal rediscovery, Katie inspires through her journey and passion for helping others find balance and success in both business and life. Where to Find Our Guest Online: For more on Katie Weldon's work and to connect, visit: Website: Facebook and Instagram: @Katiesimpsonweldon Facebook Group: KatieKollective /episode/index/show/artofconsultingpodcast/id/33332912

245 | Wired Wisdom: Unraveling the Mysteries of Procurement Fraud with Stephanie Forbes Part 2 10/05/2024

245 | Wired Wisdom: Unraveling the Mysteries of Procurement Fraud with Stephanie Forbes Part 2 Join us in a riveting discussion with Stephanie Forbes, a value chain virtuoso with more than two decades of experience overseeing multi-billion dollar projects. Serving as the interim vice chair of Supply Chain Canada, Alberta Institute, she is frequently sought out for her wealth of knowledge in the supply chain realm. In this episode, Stephanie delves into the complexities of procurement fraud, elucidating its various forms and imparting crucial strategies for preventing such deceptive practices within organizations. 00:13 - Introduction: Kat introduces Stephanie Forbes, an esteemed value chain expert renowned for her contributions to the field and her tenure in steering significant projects throughout Canada and the United States. 00:56 - Stephanie's Professional Background: The spotlight is on Stephanie's instrumental role in advancing the Supply Chain Excellence Forum and her collaboration with prominent entities like Shell and Chevron, reflecting her dedication to solving complex issues and building best-in-class governance models. 01:40 - Navigating the Topic of Fraud: Today's enlightening conversation ventures into the pressing issue of fraud within the supply chain ecosystem, with Stephanie emphasizing the criticality of understanding the different facets that contribute to vendor-related fraud and illicit cash flow activities. 02:22 - What is Procurement Fraud?: Stephanie lays down a clear definition of procurement fraud, highlighting the element of criminal deception in the procurement process, which aims for personal or organizational financial gain. 03:29 - Exploring Various Fraud Types: We dive deep into the murky waters of procurement fraud, discussing specifics like employee-contractor collusion and bribery, and how such practices circumvent fair processes and inflate organizational costs. 06:53 - The Mechanisms of Bid Rigging: Stephanie offers a breakdown of bid rigging, conflicts of interest, and the preventative measures that organizations can implement to safeguard against such deceptive activities. 08:22 - The Perils of Product Substitution: The conversation shifts to the significant risks associated with product substitution, particularly in sensitive sectors like oil and gas, underscoring the potential dangers and the importance of rigorous quality assurance. 09:55 - The Role of Quality Control and ERP Systems: The episode highlights the vital role of quality control measures and how ERP systems play an integral part in preserving compliance data and preventing procurement fraud. 13:05 - The Advantages of a Vertically Integrated Supply Chain: Stephanie speaks to the benefits of vertical integration in a supply chain, detailing how it can enhance predictability and control, while lowering overall risk. 16:23 - Tales of Fraudulent Activities: We hear chilling real-world accounts of fraud, including a case study of an employee's manipulation of ERP data leading to a significant financial loss for their company. 26:12 - Pinpointing Vulnerabilities and Remedies: The episode concludes with discussions on identifying weak spots in corporate processes susceptible to fraud and the measures that can be taken to train employees on recognizing and preventing these issues. About Our Guest Today: Stephanie Forbes is a seasoned executive with over two decades of experience in business, risk management, and supply chain, primarily within the energy and construction sectors. Her leadership has driven successful transformations in teams, projects, and programs. She is committed to advancing the supply chain profession by creating value for stakeholders through speaking engagements, mentoring, and leveraging her extensive network. Stephanie’s achievements include implementing best-in-class programs such as full life cycle governance and supplier life cycle management. Eager for new opportunities, she is motivated to make significant contributions to the energy and construction industries, as well as the field of supply chain management. Episode Highlights: 00:13 - Introduction to Stephanie Forbes: Stephanie is introduced as a highly experienced value chain expert and interim vice chair of Supply Chain Canada, Alberta Institute. 00:56 - Stephanie's Influence on the Supply Chain Industry: Her work with major North American organizations and contributions to the Supply Chain Excellence Forum are highlighted. 01:40 - Fraud in the Supply Chain: The conversation turns to how fraud can impact organizations and the need for awareness of various fraud types in the procurement process. 02:22 - Defining Procurement Fraud: Stephanie provides a definition of procurement fraud, emphasizing deception in acquiring goods or services. 03:29 - Types of Procurement Fraud: The discussion delves into different types of procurement fraud, including employee-contractor collusion, and its consequences. 06:53 - Preventing Bid Rigging and Conflicts of Interest: Stephanie discusses how organizations can mitigate the risk of bid rigging and conflicts of interest within procurement processes. 08:22 - The Dangers of Product Substitution: The risks associated with product substitution in critical industries are examined. 09:55 - Quality Control and ERP Systems: The importance of quality control and the role of ERP systems in upholding data compliance is explored. 13:05 - The Value of Vertical Integration: Stephanie speaks on how vertical integration can enhance predictability and reduce risks within supply chains. 16:23 - Real Cases of Fraud: A story is shared about an employee manipulating ERP system data to commit a multi-million-dollar fraud. 26:12 - Preventative Measures and Training: Strategies for fraud prevention, the importance of process reviews, and employee education are discussed. Where to Find Our Guest Online: LinkedIn - Stephanie Forbes: /episode/index/show/artofconsultingpodcast/id/33284897

244 | Wired Wisdom: Unraveling the Mysteries of Procurement Fraud with Stephanie Forbes Part 1 09/27/2024

244 | Wired Wisdom: Unraveling the Mysteries of Procurement Fraud with Stephanie Forbes Part 1 Welcome to a new episode of the Art of Consulting podcast, where we engage in deep discussions with some of the most knowledgeable and insightful professionals in the business world. Today, we are privileged to welcome Ms. Stephanie Forbes back to the show. Recognized as a national expert in value chain management, Stephanie brings over two decades of experience managing multi-billion dollar projects throughout Canada and the United States. Currently serving as interim vice chair of Supply Chain Canada, Alberta Institute, Stephanie is frequently sought after for her expertise and is known for her impact on the industry through her roles in leading panels, webinars, and podcasts, and as an international speaker. In this episode, Stephanie enlightens us on the complex and pressing issue of procurement fraud in the supply chain space. She shares her wealth of knowledge on the types of fraud organizations might encounter, the effects of such illegal acts, and the crucial steps necessary to prevent them. Prepare for an in-depth look at the importance of governance models, complex problem-solving, and the nuances of fraud prevention within the supply chain. 00:13 Introduction: We introduce Ms. Stephanie Forbes, a value chain expert with extensive experience in leading significant projects across North America. Her involvement with Supply Chain Canada and her reputation as an international speaker set the tone for our discussion on procurement fraud. 00:56 Stephanie's Vast Experience: Stephanie's rich background includes the creation of the Supply Chain Excellence Forum and her work with some of the largest organizations in North America. Her passion for complex problem-solving has made her an authoritative voice in the industry. 01:40 The Issue of Fraud in Supply Chains: We dive into the significant problem of fraud within supply chains, particularly its relation to ERP systems, and Stephanie's encounters with companies that fraudulent activities have victimized. 02:48 What Is Procurement Fraud?: Stephanie offers a precise definition of procurement fraud and discusses its impact on organizations, providing a foundation for further exploration of the subject. 03:29 Types of Procurement Fraud: Detailed explanation of various forms of procurement fraud, including employee collusion, bribery, conflicts of interest, bid rigging, and product substitution, shedding light on their intricacies and consequences. 05:29 The Case of Data Manipulation and Fraud: Stephanie shares a real-life example of data manipulation that led to a $9 million financial loss, emphasizing the need for stringent data management and control measures to prevent such fraud. 14:54 The Role of ERP Systems: The conversation turns to how Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems can play a crucial role in maintaining compliance data and acting as a deterrent against fraud. 22:43 Lessons Learned from Fraud Cases: Stephanie emphasizes the importance of being open about instances of fraud, sharing lessons learned, and implementing continuous education and robust auditing processes to mitigate future risks. 31:58 Importance of Training in Fraud Prevention: The discussion highlights the significance of training staff, sharing information on fraud occurrences, and encouraging a culture of continuous learning to prevent fraudulent activities. Episode Highlights: 00:13 - Introducing the expertise and contributions of Stephanie Forbes in the supply chain management sector. 05:29 - Insights into the complex world of procurement fraud and the real consequences for organizations. 14:54 - Discussing the preventative measures and governance that can be put in place to combat fraud within companies. 31:58 - The importance of employee education and transparent communication in preventing and addressing fraud. About Our Guest: Stephanie Forbes is a seasoned executive adept in business, risk management, and supply chain disciplines. She has driven transformation within teams, projects, and programs in the energy and construction sectors, leaving a lasting impact. Stephanie is dedicated to advancing the supply chain profession, creating value through her speaking engagements, mentorship, and network. Her achievements include implementing best-in-class programs like full life cycle governance and supplier life cycle management. With an eye toward future opportunities, Stephanie is driven to contribute significantly to her industry and the field of supply chain management. Where to Find Our Guest Online: LinkedIn - Stephanie Forbes: /episode/index/show/artofconsultingpodcast/id/33234497

243 | Navigating Success: Pat Kaiser's Trailblazing Journey in Tech Part 2 09/20/2024

243 | Navigating Success: Pat Kaiser's Trailblazing Journey in Tech Part 2 Welcome to another enlightening episode of the Art of Consulting podcast, where we delve into the personal and professional journeys of some of the most inspiring leaders in the industry. In today’s special installment, we are thrilled to welcome Ms. Pat Kaiser, a dynamic leader whose extensive background spans operations, marketing, sales, IT, HR, risk management, and mergers and acquisitions. Join us as we explore Pat’s journey, from her impactful career in consulting to her significant contributions to organizations like Agilus Work Solutions. Along the way, Pat shares invaluable insights on preparing a business for sale, the role of intellectual property in consulting, and navigating the challenges of being an independent contractor versus an employee. 00:13 - Introduction: Speaker 1 welcomes the listeners and introduces the guest, Pat Kaiser, who has been a role model and mentor throughout their career in consulting. 00:15 - 00:41 - Introduction Continued: Speaker 2 elaborates on Pat Kaiser’s impressive career in IT and consulting, highlighting her leadership roles in multinational organizations and her experience guiding companies through mergers and acquisitions. 00:41 - 01:38 - Preparing a Business for Sale: Pat discusses the process of preparing a business for sale, which involves ensuring documentation accuracy, maintaining clean financials, and setting up a data room. She explains the importance of keeping the staff unaware of the sale preparation to maintain business stability. 01:38 - 02:20 - Confidentiality and Preparation: Pat elaborates on the necessity of discretion while prepping the business for sale and creating a teaser document for potential buyers. She also talks about the development of a confidential information memorandum (CIM) that provides detailed business insights to interested parties. 02:20 - 02:58 - Engaging Interested Parties: Pat explains the role of letters of intent in the sale process and how they serve as binding agreements indicating serious interest from potential buyers. She highlights the competitive nature of these engagements, particularly when competitors are involved. 02:58 - 03:35 - Valuation of Consulting Firms: Pat discusses the importance of intellectual property, management team stability, and staff skills in the valuation of consulting firms. She emphasizes that the primary assets being acquired are the people and the goodwill with clients. 03:35 - 04:48 - Value of Intellectual Property: Pat underscores the value of intellectual property in a consulting firm, including software and documented best practices that can enhance business operations and client implementations. 04:48 - 05:33 - Importance of Client Lists: Pat emphasizes that client lists are often the most critical asset in a consulting firm’s valuation, followed by the skills and experience of the staff and intellectual property. 05:33 - 07:46 - Detractors from Business Value: Pat identifies factors that detract from a business’s value, such as restrictive client contracts, debt, poor reputation, and inexperienced staff. She explains the importance of managing these elements to maintain business value. 07:46 - 09:40 - Independent Contractor vs. Employee: Pat compares the pros and cons of being an independent contractor versus an employee. She discusses financial rewards, job stability, and opportunities for professional growth in both roles. 09:40 - 13:34 - Discipline in Consulting: Pat highlights the need for discipline as a consultant, from understanding client environments to managing time and continuous learning. She shares tips on how consultants can stay relevant and valuable in the industry. 13:34 - 14:36 - Continuous Learning: The discussion emphasizes the importance of continuous learning and investing in personal development to enhance one’s skills and certifications, ensuring long-term success in consulting. 14:36 - 24:47 - Closing Insights: Pat reflects on the significance of having intentional plans and being proactive in career development, both as an employee and a consultant. She shares personal anecdotes and advice on navigating the consulting industry successfully. Episode Highlights 00:13 - 00:15 - Introduction: Speaker 1 welcomes listeners and introduces the episode. 00:15 - 00:41 - Today's Guest: Speaker 2 introduces Pat Kaiser, highlighting her career in consulting and IT. 00:41 - 00:47 - Opening Question: Speaker 1 asks about preparing a business for sale. 00:48 - 01:38 - Preparing a Business for Sale: Pat explains key steps, focusing on documentation, financials, and confidentiality. 01:38 - 02:20 - Confidential Preparation: Pat discusses keeping sale plans discreet and creating teaser documents and CIMs. 02:20 - 02:58 - Engaging Buyers: Pat covers engaging buyers through letters of intent and binding agreements. 02:58 - 03:35 - Business Valuation: Key assets in a firm’s valuation, including intellectual property and client goodwill. 03:35 - 04:48 - Intellectual Property: The value of IP in improving business operations. 04:48 - 05:33 - Client Lists: Importance of client lists in increasing a firm's value. 05:33 - 07:46 - Detractors: Factors that detract from value, like contracts, debt, and poor reputation. 07:46 - 09:40 - Contractor vs. Employee: Pros and cons of being an independent contractor vs. employee. 09:40 - 13:34 - Discipline in Consulting: The need for discipline in managing time and continuous learning. 13:34 - 14:36 - Continuous Learning: Importance of investing in skills for long-term success. 14:36 - 20:12 - Career Planning: Pat reflects on intentional career planning and proactive development. 20:12 - 24:00 - Building a Consulting Organization: Insights on leading a successful consulting firm. 24:00 - 24:47 - Closing Remarks: Speaker 1 and Pat summarize key points and express gratitude. About Our Guest Today Ms. Patricia Kaiser (Pat) was President of the Office Professional & Light Industrial division of Agilus Work Solutions, a large national workforce solutions firm, where she brought over 25 years of experience to the role. Previously, she was the incoming President and VP of Corporate Development for The BOWEN Group, Interim President and Chief Operating Officer for MacKay CEO Forums, and Chief Operating Officer for Sierra Systems for almost a decade. Pat is on the Board of the Alberta Electric System Operator (AESO) and is the Chair of the Human Resources Committee as well as a member of the Audit Committee. She also served on the Board of the Calgary Homeless Foundation for a number of years and in her last year, served as the Board Chair. Pat holds a Bachelor of Commerce degree from the University of Saskatchewan, she attended Queens University’s Executive Marketing program, earned her ICD.D from the Rotman School of Business in Toronto, and has been a regular lecturer at the University of Calgary’s Haskayne School of Business. Where to find Our Guest online: LinkedIn - Patricia Kaiser: Agilus Work Solutions: /episode/index/show/artofconsultingpodcast/id/33126707

242 | Navigating Success: Pat Kaiser's Trailblazing Journey in Tech Part 1 09/13/2024

242 | Navigating Success: Pat Kaiser's Trailblazing Journey in Tech Part 1 Welcome to another enlightening episode of the Art of Consulting podcast, where we take deep dives into the personal and professional journeys of some of the most inspiring leaders in the industry. In today's special installment, we are thrilled to welcome none other than Ms. Pat Kaiser. Pat is a beacon of dynamic leadership, known for her hands-on approach and her uncanny ability to foster high-performing teams. Her extensive background covers a gamut of functions including operations, marketing, sales, IT, HR, risk management, and mergers and acquisitions, making her insights invaluable. Join us as we explore Pat's storied career, her role in shaping successful organizations like Agilus Work Solutions, and her profound impact on the community through her board positions with the Calgary Homeless Foundation and the Alberta Electric System Operator. Get ready for a session rich in wisdom, lessons learned, and strategies that drive both personal and organizational success. 00:13 Introduction: Welcome to the Art of Consulting podcast! In today's episode, we introduce Ms. Pat Kaiser, an inspiring leader and mentor to many. Pat's diverse background encompasses operations, marketing, sales, IT, HR, risk management, and M&A activities. She sets the stage for a deep dive into her remarkable career journey. 00:55 Pat Kaiser's Role at Agilus: Pat Kaiser served as the president of the Office Professionals and Light Industrial team at Agilus Work Solutions. Her commitment to building diverse, flexible, and resilient workforces is a testament to her leadership and passion for fostering collaborative environments that drive results. 01:52 Pat's Community Involvement: Beyond her corporate role, Pat is actively involved in the community, contributing her expertise as the board chair of the Calgary Homeless Foundation and a board member of the Alberta Electric System Operator (AESO). 02:42 Pat's Career Beginnings: Pat shares the serendipitous start to her career in IT consulting, which began with a neighbor's suggestion and led to her landing a job with Montage, a pivotal moment that would shape her career path. 03:29 Pat's Progression at Montage: Pat quickly moved from salesperson to branch manager at Montage, highlighting her natural leadership and operational skills that catalyzed the branch's success. 05:32 Sales Experience in IT: Pat discusses the parallels between sales and consulting, emphasizing the importance of networking, relationship building, and being a trusted partner to clients. 07:31 Consulting Insights: Drawing on her sales experience, Pat offers valuable advice to consultants on the importance of collaboration, establishing credibility, and the significance of strong work ethics. 08:18 Building Relationships: The discussion delves into the role of authenticity and the incremental process of building trust and forming lasting professional relationships. 10:10 Leadership and Team Building: Pat reflects on her ability to bring people together, the power of collaborative vision, and the joy she finds in creating a work culture that values and uplifts its members. 15:40 Pat's Time at Enable and Sierra Systems: Pat's journey took her from Enable to Sierra Systems, where she led as COO for nearly a decade, stressing the critical role of corporate culture and her efforts to replicate the vibrant environment she cherished at Montage. 19:57 Transition and Sale of Business: Pat outlines the strategic process of preparing and selling Sierra Systems to NTT Data Services, providing insight into the complexities of M&A activities involving multiple international branches. 22:30 Transition to Agilus Work Solutions: After the sale of Sierra Systems, Pat moved to Agilus Work Solutions, where she continued her executive trajectory, showcasing her expertise in corporate development and leadership. Episode Highlights: 00:13 - Introduction of Pat Kaiser's vast experience in various leadership roles. 05:32 - Insights into Pat's approach to building performance-driven teams and creating impactful work cultures. 00:55 - Pat's journey from entering the IT industry to becoming a key player in executive leadership. 05:32 - The importance of sales and consulting synergy in achieving business success. 08:18 - Strategies for effective networking, relationship building, and team collaboration. 19:57 - Pat's role in significant M&A ventures and transitioning organizations. About Our Guest Today: Ms. Pat Kaiser is known for her dynamic leadership and her ability to inspire and cultivate high-performance teams. With a proven track record in multiple business areas, Pat's expertise extends to community involvement, where she serves on various boards, contributing significantly to the organizations she supports. Where to find Our Guest online: LinkedIn - Patricia Kaiser: Agilus Work Solutions: /episode/index/show/artofconsultingpodcast/id/33046877

241 | Revolutionizing Energy: A Deep Dive with Renewell Energy's CTO on Repurposing Abandoned Oil Wells - Part 2 09/06/2024

241 | Revolutionizing Energy: A Deep Dive with Renewell Energy's CTO on Repurposing Abandoned Oil Wells - Part 2 In this engaging second part of our interview with Stefan Streckfus, CTO of Renewell Energy, we continue our exploration of the revolutionary approach to repurposing abandoned oil wells for renewable energy storage. Stefan delves deeper into the operational and technical aspects of this transformative technology, sharing insights from his background in innovation and commercialization. We also discuss the future of energy storage, environmental sustainability, and how Renewell Energy is paving the way for a cleaner, greener future. Welcome and Recap (00:13) Cat kicks off the episode by welcoming listeners and providing a brief recap of Part 1, setting the stage for this deep dive into energy storage innovations. Technical Overview of Repurposing Oil Wells (00:13 - 05:02) Stefan explains the detailed process of converting abandoned oil wells into energy storage systems, focusing on the engineering and technology behind it. Scaling the Technology for Broader Impact (05:03 - 10:45) The discussion turns to scaling this innovative solution, as Stefan outlines the challenges and opportunities in expanding to different regions and industries. Partnerships and Regulatory Challenges (10:46 - 15:29) Stefan discusses the importance of strategic partnerships with governments, energy companies, and regulatory bodies in making this solution a success. Environmental and Economic Benefits (15:30 - 21:15) Stefan shares how Renewell Energy’s technology offers both environmental and economic benefits, touching on cost-effective energy storage and reducing the environmental impact of abandoned oil wells. Lessons Learned and Next Steps (21:16 - 28:10) Reflecting on Renewell Energy's journey so far, Stefan highlights key lessons learned from recent installations and the company’s roadmap for future projects. Closing Thoughts and Future Innovations (28:11 - 34:10) Cat and Stefan wrap up the conversation by looking ahead to future innovations in renewable energy and how Renewell Energy plans to continue driving change in the industry. Outreach and Contact Information (34:11 - 34:40) Stefan invites listeners to connect with Renewell Energy and explore potential collaborations. Closing Remarks (34:41 - 35:02) Cat thanks Stefan for the insightful conversation and reminds listeners to stay tuned for more inspiring episodes. Outro (35:02 - 35:20) Cat wraps up the episode, encouraging listeners to subscribe and share their thoughts on the topics discussed. Where to Find Our Guest Online: Renewell Energy Website: Stefan’s LinkedIn: /episode/index/show/artofconsultingpodcast/id/32918972

240 | Revolutionizing Energy: A Deep Dive with Renewell Energy's CTO on Repurposing Abandoned Oil Wells - Part 1 07/26/2024

240 | Revolutionizing Energy: A Deep Dive with Renewell Energy's CTO on Repurposing Abandoned Oil Wells - Part 1 In this episode of The Art of Consulting Podcast, Cat sits down with Stefan Streckfus, co-founder and CTO of Renewell Energy. With nearly 5 years in renewable energy innovation and a background in designing scalable solutions for crises and commercial efficiency, Stefan shares his journey, challenges, and vision for the future of sustainable energy. Tune in for insights on impactful projects and advice for aspiring innovators. Welcome and Introduction 00:13 - 00:55 Hey, what is up you guys? It's Cat. Today we have a special guest, Stefan Streckfus, co-founder and CTO of Renewell Energy. With nearly 5 years in renewable energy innovation, Stefan is a Westgate fellow and former energy engineer at Mawaw Modular. He designed scalable renewable energy systems for refugee crises and founded Strekworks LLC, a consulting firm. He also led equipment innovation at Restaurant Brands International, improving efficiency and quality for brands like Burger King and Tim Hortons. Welcome, Stefan! Guest Introduction 00:56 - 03:40 Thanks, Cat! It’s great to be here. I’m excited to share my journey in the renewable energy sector and talk about some of the projects I’ve been involved with. Journey into Renewable Energy 03:41 - 08:15 Let's start with your journey. How did you get into renewable energy? It began with my engineering background. At Mawaw Modular, I worked on renewable energy solutions for refugee camps, which sparked my interest in this field. That experience led me to co-found Renewell Energy. Projects and Innovations 08:16 - 15:45 Can you share more about the projects you’ve worked on? Sure. At Renewell Energy, we focus on scalable solutions for sustainable energy. One notable project was developing a solar-powered water purification system for remote areas. At Strekworks LLC, I consulted on renewable energy projects, helping companies transition to greener solutions. Impact of Renewable Energy 15:46 - 20:10 What impact have these projects had on the communities and companies you worked with? The impact has been significant. For example, the solar-powered water purification system has provided clean water to thousands of people in remote areas. At Restaurant Brands International, the innovations led to improved energy efficiency and cost savings. Challenges in the Field 20:11 - 25:50 What are some of the challenges you’ve faced in the renewable energy sector? One major challenge is the initial cost of implementing renewable energy solutions. There’s also the need for continuous innovation to keep up with the growing demand for sustainable energy. Future of Renewable Energy 25:51 - 30:25 Where do you see the future of renewable energy heading? I believe we’ll see more integration of renewable energy into everyday life. Innovations in storage and efficiency will make renewable energy more accessible and affordable. Advice for Aspiring Innovators 30:26 - 35:10 What advice would you give to someone looking to get into the renewable energy field? Stay curious and keep learning. The renewable energy field is constantly evolving, so it’s important to stay updated with the latest technologies and trends. Networking and gaining hands-on experience are also crucial. Closing Remarks 35:11 - 36:30 Thank you so much, Stefan, for sharing your insights and experiences. Thank you, Cat. It’s been a pleasure talking with you. Outro 36:31 - 37:00 That’s all for today’s episode, folks. Thank you for tuning in. Don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review. See you next time! Episode Highlights: Welcome and Introduction 00:13 - 00:55 Cat introduces Stefan Streckfus, co-founder and CTO of Renewell Energy. Guest Introduction 00:56 - 03:40 Stefan shares his background and experience. Journey into Renewable Energy 03:41 - 08:15 How Stefan got into renewable energy. Projects and Innovations 08:16 - 15:45 Stefan discusses key projects and innovations. Impact of Renewable Energy 15:46 - 20:10 The impact of Stefan's projects on communities and companies. Challenges in the Field 20:11 - 25:50 Challenges faced in the renewable energy sector. Future of Renewable Energy 25:51 - 30:25 Stefan's vision for the future of renewable energy. Advice for Aspiring Innovators 30:26 - 35:10 Advice for those looking to enter the renewable energy field. Closing Remarks 35:11 - 36:30 Cat thanks Stefan for sharing his insights. Outro 36:31 - 37:00 Cat wraps up the episode and encourages listeners to subscribe. About Our Guest Today: Stefan Streckfus is the CTO at Renewell Energy. His career has focused on the development and implementation of new technologies in commercial settings. Prior to Renewell Energy, Stefan was Sr. Manager of Equipment Innovation at RBI (Burger King, Tim Hortons, and Popeyes) for 5 years, where he focused on equipment innovation, commercialization and deployment. In 2015, he received his first patent for a modification to the broiler. Stefan earned his MS in Civil and Environmental Engineering from Stanford University and his BS in Mechanical Engineering from Duke University. When he’s not working on Renewell’s mission, you can find him wandering the woods, links, or musical realms. Where to find Our Guest online /episode/index/show/artofconsultingpodcast/id/32307027

239 | From Tech Entrepreneur To Amazon: Da Li's Experience for Entrepreneurial Success Part 2 07/19/2024

239 | From Tech Entrepreneur To Amazon: Da Li's Experience for Entrepreneurial Success Part 2 In this episode, we had the pleasure of hosting Da Li, a serial entrepreneur who shared his remarkable journey from entrepreneurship in China to creating sustainable home products. Da Li's diverse experiences and insights provided an enriching conversation on entrepreneurship and cross-cultural engagement. 1. Entrepreneurial Journey in China (00:00-02:16) Da Li founded DEYA Tech, becoming a market leader in China, catering to major clients domestically and internationally, including regions along the Belt and Road initiative. He discussed the challenges faced in the evolving landscape of entrepreneurship in China, highlighting the impact of rising labor costs and changing market dynamics. 2. Challenges of Business in China (02:16-13:00) Da Li emphasized the increasing difficulty of bootstrapping and organic growth in the current market, reflecting on the changes in labor costs and the landscape compared to previous years. He shared lessons learned from DEYA Tech, including the importance of embracing failure, the significance of swift adaptation, and recognizing the right timing for pivoting in business. 3. Engaging with High-Profile Dignitaries (13:00-18:00) Da Li shared intriguing stories of interacting with high-profile dignitaries, providing insights into encounters with a Saudi Prince and the late Paul Allen, shedding light on the dynamics and behind-the-scenes interactions in such scenarios. 4. Creating Sustainable Home Products (18:00-29:12) Introduction to Kunaboo, a brand by Kingsway Global Inc., focusing on sustainable home products with a family-oriented touch, emphasizing the significance of the name and the inherent message behind it. The discussion included the principles of the brand, the family-oriented feel of the products, and the value of having such items in homes. 5. Life Lessons from Entrepreneurship (29:12-32:00) Da Li emphasized the empowering nature of entrepreneurship, highlighting the sense of agency, responsibility, and the lasting impact it has on personal growth and accountability. Episode Highlights: 00:00 - Entrepreneurial journey in China, founding DEYA Tech and serving major clients nationally and internationally. 2:16 - Challenges of business in China, rising labor costs, and the changing landscape of entrepreneurship. 13:00 - Lessons learned from DEYA Tech, embracing failure, and the importance of swift adaptation in business. 18:00 - Engaging with high-profile dignitaries, sharing encounters with a Saudi Prince and the late Paul Allen. 29:12 - Creating sustainable home products, introducing the brand Kunaboo and its significance. 32:00 - Life lessons from entrepreneurship, emphasizing agency, responsibility, and personal growth. About Our Guest Today Da Li is a serial entrepreneur with a wealth of experience in entrepreneurship, cross-cultural dynamics, and sustainable products. He founded Kingsway Global Inc. and leads Peer Communications and Wellcee. Where to find Our Guest online https://www.kunaboo.com/ https://www.facebook.com/mykunaboo/ https://www.instagram.com/mykunaboo/ https://www.wellcee.com/ /episode/index/show/artofconsultingpodcast/id/32216957

Art of Consulting Podcast

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