CXO Conversations
CXO Conversations joins business leaders as they share their personal journey to the top: where they started, how they got here, and any advice they may have for those of us on the way. I'm your host, Michael Mitchel. For more than twenty years, I've been a search consultant, specializing in hiring for executive positions. Through my boutique search firm, OC National Search, I work with clients ranging from startups, middle market to Global F10 companies. In 2019, I started CXO Conversations as a way to connect more deeply with my clients and community in Colorado. You'll hear from people from startups to global brands, from tech to energy, and the occasional astronaut. Join me today and kick start your leadership journey.
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CXO Conversations Season Finale + AI Tips
04/12/2024
CXO Conversations Season Finale + AI Tips
As CXO Conversations wraps up another season, host Michael Mitchel reflects on the increasing role of AI in our daily lives. From streamlining tasks to enhancing productivity, Michael shares practical examples of how AI is making an impact, both personally and professionally. Join us for a brief yet insightful episode, and stay tuned for the return of engaging interviews next spring! More episodes and resources: Thank you to for being a sponsor of CXO Conversations Podcast. Association for Corporate Growth in its role as the hub of the middle market business community for quality networking, education and events. Connections are made, deals are formed and thought leadership is exchanged. Enjoy the show? – thanks!
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C Suite Skills for all Industries with John Vranas
03/20/2024
C Suite Skills for all Industries with John Vranas
In this special edition of CXO Conversations, host revisits an engaging dialogue with , who at the time was the Chief Development Officer for the Humane Society of America. This episode covers a breadth of topics that all can benefit from; from program creation to donor ( or sales) engagement and executive leadership preparation. John's insights transcend organizational boundaries, offering actionable strategies applicable to both for-profit and nonprofit sectors. His journey from volunteering to leadership underscores the transformative power of personal experiences, while his emphasis on engagement, storytelling, and strategic alignment provides invaluable guidance for driving impact and fostering a culture of purpose and innovation. Regardless of whether you're in a nonprofit, for-profit, or volunteering role, John's wisdom provides actionable strategies for fostering a culture of purpose and innovation. Full show notes and resources: Key highlights include: Organizational Distinction: Understanding the roles of the Humane Society and the Humane Society of the United States clarifies their collaborative efforts. Leadership Essentials: Engagement, storytelling, and strategic thinking are crucial for Chief Development Officers. Strategic Planning: Clear direction and accountability drive consistent growth and success. Fundraising Balance: Aligning funds with strategic goals ensures sustainability and impact. Program Innovation: Collaboration and effective execution are key in implementing innovative initiatives. Team Dynamics: Hiring based on values and fostering teamwork parallels successful sports rosters. Ethical Engagement: Authentic storytelling respects donors' sensitivities and maintains trust. Leadership Clarity: Providing clear direction in fundraising efforts is essential for success. Management Development: Middle managers seeking leadership experiences contribute to organizational growth. Personal Growth: Curiosity fuels innovation and personal development within nonprofits. Commitment to Learning: Fully committing to diverse perspectives fosters effective problem-solving and relationship-building. Timestamps John Vranas and his role at the Humane Society of the United States (00:00:00) Distribution of funds and lobbying efforts within the organization (00:07:16) Career path and skills required for a Chief Development Officer (00:14:23) Importance of engagement and storytelling in fundraising (00:19:21) Convergence of development, strategy, and marketing roles in nonprofits (00:20:30) Balancing unrestricted and restricted funds in fundraising efforts (00:21:26) Process of implementing innovative programs and initiatives (00:26:57) Criteria for hiring key personnel and building cohesive teams (00:30:38) Ethical considerations in storytelling and donor engagement (00:34:41) Importance of providing clear direction in fundraising efforts (00:36:55) Parallels between fundraising strategies and investment portfolios (00:37:50) Value of middle managers seeking experiences demonstrating leadership (00:39:32) Personal anecdotes shaping career path and leadership qualities (00:42:17) Significance of curiosity in contributing to nonprofit organizations (00:44:23) Importance of showing work and committing to different perspectives (00:45:36) Lessons learned from past experiences and advice received (00:48:10) Thank you to for being a sponsor of CXO Conversations Podcast. Association for Corporate Growth in its role as the hub of the middle market business community for quality networking, education and events. Connections are made, deals are formed and thought leadership is exchanged. Enjoy the show? – thanks!
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Transforming a Company: From Warehouses to Tech with Food Maven's CEO Ben Deda
03/06/2024
Transforming a Company: From Warehouses to Tech with Food Maven's CEO Ben Deda
Join host Michael Mitchel as he welcomes back Ben Deda, CEO of Food Maven, for a revealing look at the company's four-year journey. Explore key milestones, strategic shifts, and insights into navigating challenges in the food industry. Gain valuable lessons in leadership, resilience, and adaptability while gaining optimism for the future of Denver's startup ecosystem. Full show notes and resources: Key highlights include: Strategic Evolution: Ben Deda outlines Food Maven's strategic shift towards a tech-centric model, reflecting on their trajectory over the past four years. Tech-Driven Solutions: The episode explores Food Maven's transition into a technology-driven provider, spotlighting the introduction of their Procurement API. Navigating Stakeholder Dynamics: The intricacies of managing stakeholders amidst uncertainty and transformation, emphasizing effective communication strategies. Market Fit and Resistance: Reflecting on industry challenges, Ben highlights strategic shifts made to align with market demands, overcoming resistance to change. Investor Relations: The importance of investor buy-in during strategic pivots and setbacks is discussed, shedding light on managing expectations. Lessons Learned: Insights gleaned from Food Maven's journey, stressing the significance of adaptability and maintaining a clear business narrative. Leadership Traits: Drawing from experience, Ben elaborates on essential leadership traits and decision-making skills crucial for navigating uncertain environments. Timestamps 00:00:00 - Introduction 00:01:41 - Challenges Faced During the Pandemic 00:02:11 - Growth Strategies and Acquisitions 00:03:14 - Impact of COVID-19 on Fundraising Efforts 00:04:07 - Transitioning to a Tech-Centric Business Model 00:05:16 - Introduction of Food Maven's Procurement API 00:06:27 - Challenges and Opportunities in Food Procurement 00:07:32 - Transformation from Tech-Enabled to a Tech Company 00:09:15 - Managing Stakeholders and Communication Strategies 00:14:48 - Strategy evolution and go-to-market approaches 00:16:24 - Overcoming challenges in stakeholder engagement 00:17:39 - Industry resistance to change and finding the right market fit 00:18:43 - Dealing with investor expectations and buy-in 00:19:31 - Lessons learned and the importance of creating optionality 00:20:27 - Gaining wisdom and skills through experience 00:21:04 - Leadership traits and decision-making in uncertain environments 00:22:22 - Reflections on Denver Startup Week and adapting to changing community dynamics 00:25:15 - Goals and considerations for the future of Denver Startup Week 00:27:00 - Building optionality and maintaining a clear narrative in business Thank you to for being a sponsor of CXO Conversations Podcast. Association for Corporate Growth in its role as the hub of the middle market business community for quality networking, education and events. Connections are made, deals are formed and thought leadership is exchanged. Enjoy the show? – thanks!
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Food for Thought: Revisiting Food Maven's Impact with CEO Ben Deda
02/21/2024
Food for Thought: Revisiting Food Maven's Impact with CEO Ben Deda
In this episode of CXO Conversations, host Michael Mitchel revisits an insightful interview with Ben Deda, CEO of Food Maven, and co-founder of Denver Startup Week. This conversation dives deep into Food Maven's mission to combat food waste by revolutionizing the distribution model, prioritizing sustainability, efficiency, and community impact. Ben shares his personal journey transitioning from tech to CEO, and provides insights into the inception and growth of Denver Startup Week, highlighting its format, impact, and key lessons learned. Join Michael and Ben as they explore sustainable business practices, community-building, and visionary leadership, offering a compelling exploration of the challenges and opportunities in driving positive change. Plus, stay tuned for the next episode, where Ben shares updates on Food Maven's journey over the past four years. Key highlights include: Fighting Food Waste: Ben Deda discusses Food Maven's mission to transform food distribution, focusing on sustainability and community impact. Tech-Driven Solutions: Food Maven's platform connects surplus food with buyers, reducing waste and supporting local suppliers. CEO Journey: Ben shares his transition from tech to CEO, highlighting leadership and collaboration. CEO Focus Areas: Ben outlines key areas of focus for CEOs, shaped by influential roles in his career. Denver Startup Week: Ben explores the origins and impact of Denver Startup Week, sharing valuable insights and lessons learned. Timestamps Introduction of Ben Deda - (00:00:00) Overview of Food Maven's Mission and Operations - (00:01:42) Addressing Food Waste Challenges - (00:03:22) Tech Integration and Business Model Evolution - (00:04:39) Transitioning to CEO Role and Leadership Insights - (00:06:05) Mentors, Board Management, and Succession Planning - (00:08:28) CEO Preparedness and Learning from Experiences - (00:10:26) Ben's Key Focus Areas as CEO - (00:13:42) Influential Roles in Ben's Career Journey - (00:15:31) Advice for Aspiring CEOs - (00:16:09) Co-founding Denver Startup Week - (00:19:04) Evolution and Impact of Denver Startup Week - (00:23:26) Lessons Learned from Organizing Denver Startup Week - (00:25:15) Transition from Day-to-Day Operations to Board - (00:28:13) Temperature Adjustment in Warehouse Setting - (00:29:20) Resources Ben Deda’s LinkedIn - Ben Deda´s original episode: Thank you to for being a sponsor of CXO Conversations Podcast. Association for Corporate Growth in its role as the hub of the middle market business community for quality networking, education and events. Connections are made, deals are formed and thought leadership is exchanged. Enjoy the show? – thanks!
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Leading with Impact: Laura Ortman's Journey to CEO at COLOGIX
02/07/2024
Leading with Impact: Laura Ortman's Journey to CEO at COLOGIX
In this episode of CXO Conversations, host engages with , CEO of , to explore her dynamic journey from the athletic fields through various pivotal roles in the tech industry to her current position at the helm of a leading network-neutral interconnection and Hyperscale Edge data center company. Laura shares her comprehensive insights into the power of teamwork, perseverance, and a broad understanding of business operations that shaped her into a results-driven leader. She delves into the nuances of customer experience, the importance of culture, and the collaborative ethos underpinning successful leadership. Through her narrative, Laura provides invaluable advice for aspiring leaders, emphasizing the significance of building relationships, embracing risks, and the continuous pursuit of learning, making this episode a treasure trove of leadership wisdom and inspiration. Key highlights include: Laura’s diverse career path across tech, DOD, and aviation, culminating in her role as CEO of COLOGIX. How Laura’s leadership philosophy was shaped by an athletic background, emphasizing teamwork, resilience, and a broad operational understanding. The pivotal role of customer experience in business success, illustrated by her approach to rebuilding trust and driving customer retention. The significance of culture, network building, and embracing risks as foundational elements for reaching the C-suite and fostering a successful organization. Tune in for an inspiring conversation that unveils the secrets of resilient leadership in the fast-paced business world. Timestamps Introduction to Laura Ortman and COLOGIX (00:01:06) Overview of COLOGIX's Business Model (00:01:58) Differences Between Public and Private Companies (00:03:48) Athletic Background Influence on Leadership (00:06:23) Attraction to the CEO Role (00:08:48) Moment of Realization for CEO Ambition (00:10:47) Leadership Philosophy: Presence, Listening, and Leading (00:15:19) Implementing 'Together We Win' Mantra (00:16:20) Adapting Leadership Approaches Post-2020 (00:17:57) Advice for Aspiring C-Suite Executives (00:20:41) The Importance of Building a Trustworthy Team (00:22:17) Role and Challenges in Customer Experience (00:25:32) Acquiring Listening Skills and Importance of Crucial Conversations (00:29:33) Reflections on Building a Network and Importance of Culture in Organizations (00:32:56) Resources Laura Ortman’s LinkedIn - Book: Crucial Conversations: Tools for Talking When Stakes are High - Thank you to for being a sponsor of CXO Conversations Podcast. Association for Corporate Growth in its role as the hub of the middle market business community for quality networking, education and events. Connections are made, deals are formed and thought leadership is exchanged. Enjoy the show? – thanks!
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From Ambition to CEO: The Role of Resilience in Leadership with Grant Stanis
01/17/2024
From Ambition to CEO: The Role of Resilience in Leadership with Grant Stanis
In this episode of "CXO Conversations," host Michael Mitchel welcomes , a dynamic CEO renowned for his resilience and strategic acumen in the corporate world. Stanis shares his compelling journey from his first student council campaign to the helm of major corporations, revealing the pivotal role of resilience in climbing the corporate ladder. Delve into his insightful reflections on the multifaceted challenges of a CEO, from transforming struggling companies to fostering team growth and innovation. Stanis's unique approach, blending disciplined execution with a positive mindset, offers invaluable lessons for aspiring executives. Key highlights include: Exploring his early ambition and path to becoming a successful CEO. Discussing the comprehensive responsibilities and transformative influence of a CEO on an organization and its team. Emphasizing how bouncing back from setbacks and learning from mistakes are crucial for business success. Highlighting that effective execution is often more critical than the strategy itself in business growth and success. Tune in for an inspiring conversation that unveils the secrets of resilient leadership in the fast-paced business world. Timestamps 🎯 Grant Stanis' Leadership Ambition (00:01:42) 🌿 CEO Growth and Team Evolution (00:03:04) 🧭 Mentorship in CEO Journey (00:05:08) 🔄 Business Resilience (00:07:56) 🌐 From CFO to CEO: Learning Journey (00:10:14) ✨ Embracing Risks for Success (00:14:06) 💪 Leadership Resilience (00:17:47) 🌞 Positive Leadership Approach (00:19:30) 📚 Lessons from Each Role (00:20:10) 🔑 Consistency and Discipline (00:22:33) 🤔 Resilient Executive Leadership (00:24:09) 📈 Discipline in Business Success (00:25:36) 👥 Right People, Right Roles (00:27:45) 🌟 Positive Resilience in Leadership (00:29:07) 🌱 Young Executives: Resilience Key (00:32:28) 👏 Closing Remarks (00:33:49) Resources Grant Stanis LinkedIn - Thank you to for being a sponsor of CXO Conversations Podcast. Association for Corporate Growth in its role as the hub of the middle market business community for quality networking, education and events. Connections are made, deals are formed and thought leadership is exchanged. Enjoy the show? – thanks!
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From Soldier to Statesman and Venture Capitalist: Patrick J. Murphy's Journey
01/03/2024
From Soldier to Statesman and Venture Capitalist: Patrick J. Murphy's Journey
Dive into 'CXO Conversations' with host as he welcomes The Honorable . From a U.S. Army officer to a congressman and venture capitalist, Murphy's journey is a tale of resilience and leadership. In this episode, explore his transition from military service to influential roles in Congress and the private sector. Discover how Murphy's leadership philosophy, shaped by experiences in the armed forces and public office, guides his current role at Stoney Lonesome Group, a venture capital firm supporting veteran-owned businesses. Key highlights include: Murphy's leadership philosophy combining confidence, humility, and empathy. Transition from military service to Congress and the private sector. Insights into veteran unemployment and equality in the armed forces. Murphy's venture into television with MSNBC and his work in venture capitalism. The importance of a growth mindset and inclusive leadership for emerging leaders. Tune in for an inspiring journey of transformation and lessons in leadership with Patrick Murphy. Timestamps 🎤 Introduction (00:00:00 🛣️ Patrick Murphy's Diverse Career (00:00:45) 🏅 Veteran Entrepreneurship (00:01:05) ❤️ Passion for Making a Difference (00:02:20) 🚀 Challenges in Business Ventures (00:04:47) 🗳️ Public Service and Politics (00:09:40) 🏛️ Decision to Run for Congress (00:10:55) 📺 Murphy's Transition to MSNBC (00:11:26) 🎙️ Media Appearances and Public Speaking (00:13:00) 🎥 First Day Hosting Own Show (00:14:48) 💼 Veteran Entrepreneurship and Investment (00:19:33) 🔑 Key Takeaways for Emerging Leaders (00:25:37) 🌈 Career Reflection and Lessons Learned (00:27:30) Resources Patrick J. Murphy's Book Recommendation: $100M Careers: The 5 Fastest Career Paths to Wealth Beyond Your Wildest Dreams Hardcover – December 1, 2022 by Emmy Sobieski (Author) - Patrick’s Website - Thank you to for being a sponsor of CXO Conversations Podcast. Association for Corporate Growth in its role as the hub of the middle market business community for quality networking, education and events. Connections are made, deals are formed and thought leadership is exchanged. Enjoy the show? – thanks!
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Season Recap: A Year of Executive Insights and Leadership Lessons
12/21/2023
Season Recap: A Year of Executive Insights and Leadership Lessons
In this season finale of CXO Conversations, host takes a moment to reflect on the remarkable year of 2023, revisiting the wealth of knowledge and diverse experiences shared by prominent executives, like Eric Lougher, David Cox, Craig Cummings, Janine Davidson, and many more. Michael’s Key Highlights: Stephen Brown's journey to becoming a President at 32, emphasizing confidence, seizing opportunities, and continual learning. Rand Lewis’s insights on the hallmarks of great leadership and his experience as a successful investor. Raphael Crawford Mark's transition from Founder to CEO at Bonusly, mirroring Michael’s own transition in the nonprofit sector. As we bid farewell to this season, Michael teases the exciting lineup for the upcoming year, featuring notable guests like the Honorable Patrick Murphy, Grant Stanis, Christopher Lochhead, and Laura Ortman. Their forthcoming stories promise to bring fresh and inspiring perspectives to the podcast. Special thanks to the talented CXO Conversations team for their invaluable contributions throughout the season. Tune in and gear up for another year of engaging, insightful conversations that bridge the gap between ambition and achievement in the corporate world. Happy holidays, and here's to a new year filled with more inspiring CXO Conversations! Thank you to for being a sponsor of CXO Conversations Podcast. Association for Corporate Growth in its role as the hub of the middle market business community for quality networking, education and events. Connections are made, deals are formed and thought leadership is exchanged. Enjoy the show? - thanks! Thank you for lending your award-winning banjo skills to CXO Conversations.
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From West Point to the Boardroom: Jack Blaha's Leadership Odyssey
12/06/2023
From West Point to the Boardroom: Jack Blaha's Leadership Odyssey
Join host in a conversation with , CEO of , as they delve into his journey from and military service to becoming a prominent figure in the corporate world. Blaha delves into the synergy between his military discipline and his achievements in the fast-paced world of SaaS industries like hospitality and social media marketing. He sheds light on the pivotal role of emotional intelligence in shaping company culture and the profound impact of a CEO's leadership style, offering invaluable advice for ambitious leaders on mastering the art of adaptability, the art of building robust professional networks, and the subtle art of leading successful teams. What you will learn in this episode: How military experience can be effectively leveraged in corporate leadership. The significance of adaptability and leadership skills in business success. Strategies for transitioning successfully from a military to a civilian career. The impact of emotional intelligence on shaping company culture and performance. The importance of mentorship and building a robust professional network. Best practices for team building and operational efficiency in new companies. Insights into navigating different sectors within the SaaS industry. Key lessons learned from various CEO roles and how they can apply to your career. Practical advice for aspiring leaders on career advancement and skill development. Timestamps 🎙️ Meet Jack Blaha: A Leader's Journey (00:00:48) 🏛️ Why West Point? Unveiling Jack's Choice (00:01:36) ⚔️ Battlefield to Boardroom: Military Impact (00:02:04) 🔄 The Soldier to CEO Transition (00:03:11) 🛠️ Skills Forged in Service (00:03:43) 📊 Melding Military Tactics with Business Strategy (00:04:31) 👨💼 CEO Chronicles: Hard-Earned Lessons (00:05:39) 📚 Embracing Feedback and Lifelong Learning (00:08:29) 🤔 Confronting Leadership Hurdles (00:09:40) 🚀 CEO Success Stories and Challenges (00:10:21) 🌐 Diving into Diverse SaaS Domains (00:11:03) 🏅 First-Time CEO: Thrills and Fears (00:12:11) 🤝 The Power of Networking and Mentorship (00:13:40) 🧠 The Emotional Intelligence of a CEO (00:15:53) 🙏 A Word of Thanks to Our Sponsors (00:18:35) 💼 Private Equity vs. Public Markets Leadership (00:19:01) 📈 The Sweet Spot of Mid-Market Leadership (00:20:53) 🌟 Guiding VPs to CEO Success (00:21:02) 🔗 Cultivating a Strong Professional Network (00:22:42) 🏢 Assembling Winning Teams in New Ventures (00:23:37) 🚀 Fostering Future Leaders (00:24:49) 🌐 Broadening Horizons: Beyond Core Functions (00:27:44) ⚙️ Military Precision in Corporate Strategy (00:29:19) 🔄 Never Stop Evolving as a Leader (00:30:52) This episode is not just a journey through Blaha's life but a great resource for anyone aspiring to climb the corporate ladder or seeking to refine their leadership prowess. Thank you to for being a sponsor of CXO Conversations Podcast. Association for Corporate Growth in its role as the hub of the middle market business community for quality networking, education and events. Connections are made, deals are formed and thought leadership is exchanged. Enjoy the show? - thanks! Thank you for lending your award-winning banjo skills to CXO Conversations.
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The Importance of Community Engagement for Your Career
11/15/2023
The Importance of Community Engagement for Your Career
As the leader of a large public university and former undersecretary of the U.S. Navy, has dedicated 30 years of her career to academic, civilian, and military service. Since 2017, she has been the President of , where she has been a staunch advocate for underrepresented students, DACA recipients, and military and veteran students. Prior to her work in higher education, she was appointed by former President Barack Obama as the 32nd undersecretary of the . She's also a trailblazing pilot, being the first woman to fly the 's tactical C-130. In today’s episode, Janine reflects on her career: The interview process to become undersecretary of the U.S. Navy Engaging with the local community as President of MSU Denver Becoming one of the first female pilots in the air force Janine has been awarded many accolades, including the HillVets Top 100 Most Influential Veterans and the Secretary of the Navy Medal for Distinguished Public Service. At the national level, she is chair of the and serves on the . Locally in Denver, Janine serves on the boards of numerous organizations, including the , , and the . Thank you to for being a sponsor of CXO Conversations Podcast. Association for Corporate Growth in its role as the hub of the middle market business community for quality networking, education and events. Connections are made, deals are formed and thought leadership is exchanged. Enjoy the show? - thanks! Thank you for lending your award-winning banjo skills to CXO Conversations.
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Building Your Career Transition Elevator Pitch
11/01/2023
Building Your Career Transition Elevator Pitch
From the frontlines in Afghanistan to the center of the Texas startup ecosystem, has built an incredible career developing technology that solves real-world problems. He’s now General Partner at a venture capital firm in Austin that invests in technology startups, with a special focus on those founded by military veteran entrepreneurs. Join us as we delve into Craig's inspiring journey, his insights into technology investments, and the unique perspective he brings to the entrepreneurial world. In this episode, Craig shares with Michael his experience: Crafting an elevator pitch that advances your career Building a strong local entrepreneurship community in Austin Helping other talented veteran entrepreneurs succeed Before he became an entrepreneur, Craig spent 17 years in the Army, most of that time as an Intelligence Officer serving in support of the National Security Agency (NSA). Craig deployed to Afghanistan with the Joint Special Operations Command where he was awarded the Bronze Star. Craig holds a B.S. in Political Science from the , where he was recognized as their first Truman Scholar. He also has a Ph.D. in Political Science with a minor in Econometrics from . Thank you to for being a sponsor of CXO Conversations Podcast. Association for Corporate Growth in its role as the hub of the middle market business community for quality networking, education and events. Connections are made, deals are formed and thought leadership is exchanged. Enjoy the show? - thanks! Thank you for lending your award-winning banjo skills to CXO Conversations.
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How Unlocking Human Potential is True Servant Leadership
10/18/2023
How Unlocking Human Potential is True Servant Leadership
Perry Kamel has served in numerous leadership roles; Global executive, COO, CEO many times. He has led many organizations through growth and turn arounds by focusing on the people- not the numbers. Perry shares his experiences and thoughts on: Difference between management and leadership It’s all about the people- the rest will follow Never stop learning- never stop reading Also, Perry speaks to how his experience in the US Navy created his servant leadership skills. Siemens, Accenture, McKinsey, BroadPoint Communications, Ciena, Maxamine … Perry has been a CEO, CMO, EVP for brand names. His first CEO role was withing six years of separating from the US Navy. Perry served as a Service Warfare Officer in the United States Navy and quickly earned a reputation for advancing the careers of those around him. After earning a BSEE at Cornell, his education continued with a MSEE and Wharton MBA. Thank you to for being a sponsor of CXO Conversations Podcast. Association for Corporate Growth in its role as the hub of the middle market business community for quality networking, education and events. Connections are made, deals are formed and thought leadership is exchanged. Enjoy the show? - thanks! Thank you for lending your award-winning banjo skills to CXO Conversations.
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Sean Odendahl on the Importance of Direct Feedback & Candid Mentorship
10/04/2023
Sean Odendahl on the Importance of Direct Feedback & Candid Mentorship
Sean Odendahl has worked for only four organizations, including his current employer of 17 years. For the last three years, Sean has been serving at the Chief Transformation Officer for the global law firm Bryan Cave Leighton Paisner. Sean shares his perspective on: The importance of direct feedback as a path to improvement Power of candid mentor relationships for professional growth What a successful mentorship looks like Also, Sean speaks to how his experience in the US Army influenced his leadership skills and approach. Sean’s legal and professional career has been guided by the counsel he provides to buyers and sellers in private equity investments, transactions and M&A related issues. Sean served in the US Army for over four years with the 82nd Airborne and deployed to Operation Desert Sheild/Storm. After graduating law school, he clerked with in the Ninth Circuit, US Court of Appeals. For five years, Sean was an attorney before moving to Bryan Cave that has become BCLP, a global law firm. Thank you to for being a sponsor of CXO Conversations Podcast. Association for Corporate Growth in its role as the hub of the middle market business community for quality networking, education and events. Connections are made, deals are formed and thought leadership is exchanged. Enjoy the show? - thanks! Thank you for lending your award-winning banjo skills to CXO Conversations.
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Community Service by Applying CFO skills to City Council Appointment
10/03/2023
Community Service by Applying CFO skills to City Council Appointment
As was wrapping up being CFO of , after a Accel KKR transaction to Terminus Capital Partners, he was asked to complete the final year of a City Council seat, provided he would not run for reelection. Tyson readily agreed - he wanted to give back to his community. Tyson shares his thoughts on: How serving as a Company Executive helps him be a good public servant Corporate skills and experiences that he is able to utilize as a City Council member Shared thoughts to those who are interested in serving their community Tyson served as COO/CFO for Delta Data until a change of control in early 2023. Prior experience includes management consulting for Accenture, Morgan Stanley, Diamond Management and others. Tyson holds an MBA from Duke University. Thank you to for being a sponsor of CXO Conversations Podcast. Association for Corporate Growth in its role as the hub of the middle market business community for quality networking, education and events. Connections are made, deals are formed and thought leadership is exchanged. Enjoy the show? - thanks! Thank you for lending your award-winning banjo skills to CXO Conversations.
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Leading an iconic brand through a global transformation
09/11/2023
Leading an iconic brand through a global transformation
While a CFO for , led the iconic brand through a global transformation from print to digital and live events globally. David shares his thoughts on: Early digital adoption and transformation of a globally respected brand Listening to the client base What he learned and advice offered from the global experience David led the project management of the transformation with consulting selling both internally and externally. He also listened to clients and subscribers as they went from weekly print only to digital and took the brand live with events from Africa, Europe to North America and Asia. Thank you to for being a sponsor of CXO Conversations Podcast. Association for Corporate Growth in its role as the hub of the middle market business community for quality networking, education and events. Connections are made, deals are formed and thought leadership is exchanged. Enjoy the show? - thanks! Thank you for lending your award-winning banjo skills to CXO Conversations.
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Creating the President role for yourself at 32 years old
08/16/2023
Creating the President role for yourself at 32 years old
After Travelers Insurance acquired several companies, as a Director, wrote a transition memo and proposed he lead the initiative. His superiors countered by promoting him to President, relocating him to California and told him to run the whole thing. Stephen speaks to: Experience of going from Director to President overnight and how he prepared Overcoming self-doubt by continuously learning and improving As a 32-year-old, leading an older C suite Generation Advice 55-year-old Stephen would give to 32-year-old Stephen Stephen went from Director to President overnight and never looked back. He’s been a CEO ever since and in this intimate interview, shares those experiences and lessons learned. Thank you to for being a sponsor of CXO Conversations Podcast. Association for Corporate Growth in its role as the hub of the middle market business community for quality networking, education and events. Connections are made, deals are formed and thought leadership is exchanged. Enjoy the show? - thanks! Thank you for lending your award-winning banjo skills to CXO Conversations.
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CTO Leadership Skills from Engineering to C Suite
08/02/2023
CTO Leadership Skills from Engineering to C Suite
has served as a CTO for numerous technology companies in France and the US. He speaks to the differences in managing technical vs non technical staff and aligning to their motivations. Frederic talks to: Differences in leading technical and non-technical professionals Role of the CTO on the executive leadership team Advice to those who seek the C suite. For the last seven years, Frederic has served as the CTO for and held the CTO chair at 3 other companies after serving as a Project Manager for IBM. Thank you to for being a sponsor of CXO Conversations Podcast. Association for Corporate Growth in its role as the hub of the middle market business community for quality networking, education and events. Connections are made, deals are formed and thought leadership is exchanged. Enjoy the show? - thanks! Thank you for lending your award-winning banjo skills to CXO Conversations.
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Entrepreneurial Passion from Big 4 to business owner then CFO
07/18/2023
Entrepreneurial Passion from Big 4 to business owner then CFO
, CFO for talks to her creativity and passion for embracing challenges as opportunities with an entrepreneurial spirit. During the interview, Kathleen speaks to: · Being promoted from VP to CFO · Overlooked Roles and responsibility of being a CFO · How being a Big 4 consultant helped prepare her for the C Suite Kathleen was a partner track consultant at KPMG when after 13 years, she decided to become a small business owner. Then Kathleen joined and took ownership of projects and firm needs that included ERP implementations, HR, M&A due diligence, accounting, and more. She was promoted from Controller, VP to CFO within four years. Her next role was CFO at and now CFO for Bonfire. Thank you to for being a sponsor of CXO Conversations Podcast. Association for Corporate Growth in its role as the hub of the middle market business community for quality networking, education and events. Connections are made, deals are formed and thought leadership is exchanged. Enjoy the show? - thanks! Thank you for lending your award-winning banjo skills to CXO Conversations.
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Upcoming guests include CFOs, CTO and CEO
07/05/2023
Upcoming guests include CFOs, CTO and CEO
CXO Conversations is excited to share some great insights from a global CFO and CTO, curious CFO and CEO who created a President role for himself at age 32. CFO of Bonfire airs on July 19th, followed by Dashlane CTO , Briotix Health CEO and former CFO for The Economist, .
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The Hallmark of a Great Leader
06/21/2023
The Hallmark of a Great Leader
An accomplished investor, is the Managing partner and co-founder of . Rand has invested in many well-known companies such as Zayo, Cloud Sherpa, LogRhythm, Iterable, Chegg and others. For over 24 years, Rand has been investing and hiring executives for portfolio companies and he’s learned and observed a lot about what makes an executive a great leader and successful. In this episode, Rand discusses: He invests not only dollars, but real relationships with people Advice to current and emerging CEOs What makes a leader successful and how he finds it in candidates After earning an MBA from Northwestern, Rand was a consultant at McKinsey before joining Centennial Ventures. After a successful 10 year run with Centennial, he co-founded Delta-v that focuses on technology companies. Enjoy the show? - thanks! Thank you for lending your award-winning banjo skills to CXO Conversations.
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Industrial shop floor to tech C suite
06/07/2023
Industrial shop floor to tech C suite
is a CRO who started his sales career at an industrial supply company and observed what was happening in the technology sector and said - I want in on that. For those who wonder how to make the transition from one sector to another, this is a conversation not to be missed. In this episode, Jay discusses: How he transitioned from the industrial shop floor to a tech company How he demonstrated his skills to overcome lack of Tech experience As a member of the executive committee, how the CRO contributes to company strategy David has held leadership roles at companies such as Amdocs, Ericsson and others. He truly enjoys sales, relationship building and serving as a trusted advisor to his clients. Enjoy the show? Review us on - thanks! Thank you for lending your award-winning banjo skills to CXO Conversations.
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Pushing Boundaries Leads to Executive Growth
05/17/2023
Pushing Boundaries Leads to Executive Growth
, an Executive Coach and founder of , has gone through the challenge of changing a career path and embracing new opportunities. Carla speaks to the advantages and growth (both personal and professional) of pushing yourself and getting outside of your comfort zone. Professionals achieve career accomplishments by continuing to push oneself, learning, tackling new projects and improving. That’s how Executives are formed. Carla talks to; Realizing path one is on isn’t always the right one Pushing your boundaries and trying new things She agrees UDub is the best university- Go Huskies! After dedicating over 10 years of education, training, and long hours to become an MD, Carla had a long hard self-reflective journey that in the end said, ‘This isn’t what I want to do’, and she became an executive coach. If anyone can appreciate a great career pivot and the personal journey that is required, Carla can. Referenced prior podcast guest: Enjoy the show? Review us on - thanks! Thank you for lending your award-winning banjo skills to CXO Conversations. For more insightful episodes with some of C-Suites’ big names
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VP to CCO: the Move from Tactical to Strategic
05/03/2023
VP to CCO: the Move from Tactical to Strategic
David Parkhurst is the Chief Customer Officer (CCO) and Managing Partner for Omni Interactions. Additional roles he has served as includes Chief Revenue Officer (CRO) and Chief Growth Officer. David discusses: The differences between CCO, CGO and CRO Moving from VP to C Level and the shift in revenue responsibilities When a deal falls apart at zero hour & lessons learned David has held leadership roles at ServiceSource, Skykes Enterprises and Alpine Access focusing on customer care solutions. This has given David insight into economic cycles and client business conditions in a fresh angle. And we share our love of cold calling! Enjoy the show? - thanks! Thank you for lending your award-winning banjo skills to CXO Conversations.
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CEO Insights & Self care with Chris Younger
04/19/2023
CEO Insights & Self care with Chris Younger
is the CEO of and is an executive with many chapters in his career. As President of Expanets, a telcom reseller, he acquired 27 companies in 3 years then sold it to Avaya. He owned a Private Equity Firm and now provides transactions and strategic advisory services to middle market businesses. Chris provides insight into: · Managing the stress of leadership- why you must · Importance of executive presence · The Dinner Test with CEOs Chris has bought, sold, led companies across all business sectors and advises organizations and family offices on transactions. This provides Chris with insights on C level leaders that he shares in this episode. He also shares the physical toll of being an overworked President and how it changed him. Enjoy the show? - thanks! Thank you for lending your award-winning banjo skills to CXO Conversations.
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Transitioning from Founder to CEO with Raphael Crawford Marks
04/05/2023
Transitioning from Founder to CEO with Raphael Crawford Marks
In a very honest conversation, onsite in Boulder, Colorado, we speak with , who founded over 11 years ago by accident. It was a off shoot of another project that has since taken off and recently secured it’s Series B funding. Raphael speaks to several points: · The transition from being hands on to leading · Differences between being a Founder and CEO what it is like · How the role of CEO continues to evolve and the company setback of a bad hire Raphael discusses the challenges and learning moments moving from being a hands on start up Founder to a governing company CEO. His job as CEO is still constantly changing- it changes every three months. He also embraces hiring those who are smarter than himself, talks about why, learning new leadership skills, the value of a support network and mentors. Bonusly is an enterprise platform that helps companies create a high-performance, high-engagement workplace. Prior to founding Bonusly, Raphael was an early employee at several startups, a Peace Corps volunteer in Honduras, and an instructor for Year Up. Raphael dropped out of high school to work as a software engineer in the mid-nineties, but did eventually earn his BA in cognitive science from Hampshire College, where he wrote his senior thesis on artificial intelligence. Also, in a Medium article, Raphael discusses “ Raphael also contributed to benefitnews.com where he On , Raphael has several articles discussing employee feedback, communications and how to harness staff evaluations. Enjoy the show? - thanks! Thank you for lending your award-winning banjo skills to CXO Conversations.
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The Art of Being a CFO with Eric Lougher
03/22/2023
The Art of Being a CFO with Eric Lougher
is a versatile CFO who comes from an investor background. He has served as Chief Financial Officer for both VC and PE backed companies that provides Eric a balanced and insightful view of today’s CFO. Eric talks to two key points: The art of balance various department budgetary needs and fiscal health of the company and achieving strategic goals Board relations and the role of the CFO during and in between the quarterly meetings. Eric views balance needs of sales, marketing, HR, IT and others with the overall vision and trend of his company. Sometimes that leads to an awkward conversation with a department head. His relationship and management style is one of trust, collaboration and openness. When it comes to Board relationships, Eric’s sees teamwork as the key communication, strategy alignment as the cornerstone of trust with the Board. Enjoy the show? - thanks! Thank you for lending your award-winning banjo skills to CXO Conversations.
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Season 5 of CXO Conversations starts next week!
03/16/2023
Season 5 of CXO Conversations starts next week!
Upcoming interviews include of Taskray who discusses the role of today’s CFO and Board relations, CEO on the transition from Founder to CEO, and , successful executive and CEO of Class VI Partners on advice to CEOs. Other guests include , a Chief revenue Officer who decided to accelerate his career by switching from industrial materials to start ups and , , an MD who pivoted to C suite Executive coaching who about getting outside of your comfort zone and be willing to try new things. I’m truly excited with the 2023 line up of guests and please visit for our all-new podcast episode page. Michael Mitchel, Host
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Welcome 2023!
01/11/2023
Welcome 2023!
2022 was a year of achievements and 2023 brings new challenges and opportunities
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CEO William Toti, Have Those Hard Conversations to Improve and Advance
10/20/2022
CEO William Toti, Have Those Hard Conversations to Improve and Advance
after naval career of distinction that included commanding an attack submarine and Commadore went on to a successful career in corporate America. We discuss having the hard conversation between yourself and your boss. William also provides insightful advice on how to reach the gain experience to reach the C suite. Show Notes: Former joins CXO Conversation to discuss having hard conversations with senior executives to learn and improve your career. Bill discusses three main points: His boss pointedly told him “Bill, you’re screwing this up”. Bill shares lessons learned. What skills he brought to Corporate America from the Navy What Leadership Development meant at Raytheon and how it positively impacted his executive career. It wasn’t what he initially thought. Bill is the author of and a former Submarine Commadore who retired as a United States Naval Captain. His post Naval career includes Deputy Vice President for Raytheon Space and Airborne Systems, Vice President Hewlett-Packard (HP), VP at DXC Technology President of Cubic Corporation, and President of L3 Technologies for the Maritime Systems sector. Bill discusses personal transition experiences from the Navy to corporate America and the importance of hard conversations with executives. He felt that there was lacking meaningful information for transitioning Veterans. Most of the Veteran employment related books were written by Recruiters for senior officers, not lower grade officers or enlisted personnel. While attending the United States Naval Academy, he met the legendary , father of the nuclear Navy. Enjoy the show? - thanks! Thank you for lending your award-winning banjo skills to CXO Conversations.
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Executive Coach Chuck Mollor, The Pressures of the Modern CEO
10/06/2022
Executive Coach Chuck Mollor, The Pressures of the Modern CEO
is the CEO of MCG Partners, an advisory and executive coach firm as well as the author of “The Rise of the Agile Leader”. For over 15 years Chuck has advised executives on a wide range of areas from one-on-one coaching, team effectiveness, assessments and more. In our interview, Chuck provides unique insight into the challenges today’s CEOs face. And we hear about being a Cranberry Farmer! Show Notes: CEO and Executive Coach joins the show to discuss the pressures of the modern CEO. Chuck started 15 years ago. Author of Chucks discusses three key points: The evolution of the success & skills needed for today’s CEO Provides advice for future C level executives What gets overlooked in the hybrid work from home model and how do leaders instill trust to employees The average tenure of a CEO is now three years. They face intense pressure from outside and inside forces. Be it start up, mid-size or Fortune 500 companies. The cycle of change and intensity is getting faster while cycles of innovation is getting shorter. Expectations are higher and the complexity of management is increasing; different age demographics, DEI, access and ensuring all voices are being heard. Life cycle of companies are getting shorter due to M&A or closing their doors due to lack of innovations or opportunities. CEOs must be more externally focused, while constantly learning and seeking feedback from peers and key stakeholders. CEOs must ensure they have a network of peers that they can turn to for advice and be a sounding board. An effective leader must hold other executive team members accountable so that culture starts from the top and filters down. He has also been a Cranberry Farmer. Enjoy the show? - thanks! Thank you for lending your award-winning banjo skills to CXO Conversations.
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