The Enlightened Family Business Podcast

What if governance, succession, and leadership weren’t just business strategies—but sacred opportunities for growth, healing, and transformation? Welcome to The Enlightened Family Business Podcast with Chris Yonker—author, trusted advisor to ultra-high-net-worth families, and 7th-degree black belt whose work bridges legacy with soul. This isn’t your typical family business podcast. Each episode dives deep into the inner and outer dimensions of generational success—where family dynamics, conscious leadership, custom-fit governance, and soul-purpose clarity come together to shape continuity that feels as good as it looks. Rooted in Chris’s Governance 2.0™ framework, the show explores: • Strategic governance aligned with family values • Transparent communication and relational repair • Mental, emotional, and physical well-being as business drivers • Personal development and transformation at every level • Succession planning that honors identity, meaning, and legacy Chris has guided some of the most complex family systems in the world—blending deep psychological insight, trauma-informed process, and spiritual intelligence. Whether you’re a founder, rising gen leader, or advisor to family enterprises, this podcast will challenge, inspire, and equip you to lead with intention—and fulfill the purpose your soul came here to live. Subscribe now to discover what’s possible when families align from the inside out.

The Inner Work of Leadership in a Family Business with Kevin Hancock 11/17/2025

The Inner Work of Leadership in a Family Business with Kevin Hancock The Enlightened Family Business Podcast Ep. 147: The Inner Work of Leadership in a Family Business with Kevin Hancock In this episode of the Enlightened Family Business Podcast, host Chris Yonker interviews Kevin Hancock, Chair of Hancock Lumber, about his journey and transformation in leadership. Kevin shares his personal and professional challenges, including losing his father to cancer, navigating a significant economic recession, and coping with a rare voice disorder. Kevin's experiences led him to initiate major cultural changes at Hancock Lumber, focusing on putting employees first and fostering authentic, meaningful work environments. He also discusses his connection with the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation, where he found inspiration and a new perspective on leadership and the human experience. The episode delves into themes of self-discovery, healing, family business governance, and preparing future generations to lead with heart and authenticity. · 00:54 Meet Kevin Hancock: A Legacy of Resilience · 03:42 Navigating Personal and Professional Challenges · 13:36 The 2008 Economic Crisis and Its Impact · 18:58 A Journey of Self-Discovery and Healing · 27:25 Finding Purpose at Pine Ridge · 32:22 The Emotional Draw to Pine Ridge · 36:25 The Power of Presence and Authenticity · 40:21 The Impact of Prioritizing Employee Experience · 50:47 The Role of Ownership and Family Legacy · 59:24 The Importance of Inner Work and Self-Discovery Websites: · . · · · Kevin’s Books Kevin’s Bio: KEVIN HANCOCK is the Executive Chairman of one of America’s oldest family businesses as well as an award-winning author and nationally recognized public speaker. Established in 1848, Hancock Lumber Company is led by its 720 employees operating 12 lumberyards, 3 sawmills, a truss manufacturing facility, and timberlands in Maine, New Hampshire, and Massachusetts. Since 2014, Hancock Lumber has been recognized with the ‘Best Places to Work in Maine’ award. The company is also a recipient of the Maine Family Business of the Year Award, the Governor’s Award for Business Excellence, the ProSales National Dealer of the Year Award, and the Maine Retailer of the Year Award. Kevin is a past chairman of the Northeastern Retail Lumber Association, the National Lumber & Building Material Dealers Association, and the Bridgton Academy Board of Trustees. Kevin has also served of the Board of Directors for the Hussey Seating Corporation in Maine, the Seneca Sawmill Corporation in Oregon, and the Maine Indian Tribal State Commission. Kevin is a recipient of the Ed Muskie ‘Access to Justice’ Award, the Habitat for Humanity ‘Spirit of Humanity’ Award, the Maine Development Foundation ‘Ken Curtis Leadership Award’, and the Maine Basketball Hall of Fame ‘Directors Award’. Kevin also partners with the executive coaching firm to provide senior management training programs around the concepts of shared leadership, dispersed power, and deep employee engagement. Kevin is a frequent visitor to the in South Dakota and an advocate of strengthening the voices of all individuals—within a company or a community —through listening, empowering, and shared leadership. He is a graduate of Bowdoin College and lives in Maine with his wife Alison. /episode/index/show/thesecretthoughtsofceospodcast/id/39066695

How Great Leaders Turn Challenges into Puzzles with Radhika Dutt 11/03/2025

How Great Leaders Turn Challenges into Puzzles with Radhika Dutt The Enlightened Family Business Podcast Ep. 146: How Great Leaders Turn Challenges into Puzzles with Radhika Dutt In this, the first episode of the Enlightened Family Business Podcast, host Chris Yonker engages with guest Radhika, a seasoned advisor and published author, to discuss transformative strategies for family businesses. They delve into the concept of replacing traditional goal setting with a 'puzzle setting and puzzle solving' approach, emphasizing curiosity, adaptability, and collaborative learning. The discussion explores how family businesses can navigate succession, integrate innovative thinking, and balance risk while fostering clear communication and family alignment. This episode offers valuable insights for family business owners and leaders seeking sustainable growth and harmonious leadership transition. · 00:55 The Old Model of Goal Setting · 01:49 Guest Introduction: Radhika's Background · 06:37 The Puzzle Setting Approach · 07:38 The Importance of Succession Planning · 16:52 The Problems with KPIs and Target Setting · 21:48 Shifting from Goals to Puzzles in Business · 23:44 Implementing Puzzle Solving in Sales · 28:02 Collaborative Learning and Curiosity · 33:11 Navigating Family Business Transitions · 38:54 Balancing Risk in Family Businesses · 41:24 Learning from Other Industries · 43:59 Conclusion and Resources Websites: · . · · · Radhika’s Bio: Radhika Dutt is the author of which has been translated into Chinese and Japanese. The methodology she introduced in her first book is now used in over 40 countries. She is an entrepreneur, speaker, and product leader who has participated in five acquisitions, two of which were companies that she founded. She is currently Advisor on Product Thinking to the Monetary Authority of Singapore (Singapore’s central bank and financial regulator), and does consulting and training for organizations ranging from high-tech startups to multinationals on building radical products that create a fundamental change. Radhika has built products in a wide range of industries including broadcast, media and entertainment, telecom, advertising technology, government, consumer apps, robotics, and even wine. She graduated from MIT with an SB and M.Eng in Electrical Engineering, and speaks nine languages. Radhika is now working on her second book – it’s about why goals and targets backfire and what actually works. /episode/index/show/thesecretthoughtsofceospodcast/id/38863555

Welcome to the Enlightened Family Business Podcast 10/31/2025

The ROI of Inner Work: Why Conscious Leaders Outperform with Michael Brabant 10/20/2025

The ROI of Inner Work: Why Conscious Leaders Outperform with Michael Brabant Secret Thoughts of CEOS Ep. 145 The ROI of Inner Work: Why Conscious Leaders Outperform with Michael Brabant In this episode of 'Secret Thoughts of CEOs and Business Leaders,' host Chris Yonker delves into a profound conversation with Dr. Michael Brabant, a PhD, who specializes in leadership and personal development. They explore the future of leadership, emphasizing the importance of vulnerability, authenticity, and psychological safety within organizations. Dr. Brabant shares his personal journey, discussing his work on integrating higher states of consciousness into leadership and recounting his path from academia to leading meditation retreats and coaching top executives. The discussion also covers the interplay between individual and collective growth, the significance of nervous system regulation, and the transformational potential when leaders model true openness and humility. This episode offers valuable insights for leaders looking to deepen their impact and foster a more connected and empowered workplace. · 01:01 Exploring Leadership with Dr. Michael Brabant · 02:38 Michael's Journey and Insights · 07:46 The Importance of Vulnerability in Leadership · 15:52 Navigating Family Systems and Truth · 25:28 Codependency and Sovereignty in Leadership · 31:33 Inner and Outer Leadership Dynamics · 36:41 Emergent Leadership and Consciousness · 44:11 The ROI of Inner Work for Leaders · 48:46 Conclusion and Resources Quotes · ” I think that in a world of AI and spoken wisdom that's not lived. People can try to close the gap of who they want to be and who they actually are by rhetoric and by tactics, and by complexity.”[03:36] · ” Most people aren't vulnerable unless they have to be.”[11:40] · “ And if my sparkler is lit because I'm lit, I have a lit relationship with my wife. I have a healthy relationship with my body. I'm connected spiritually. When I'm in my leadership role, I'm catalytic. I'm spiritually contagious, and it helps to light people's sparklers.’ [45:04] Websites: · . · · · /episode/index/show/thesecretthoughtsofceospodcast/id/38646880

Family Business at a Crossroads: Navigating Relationships, Governance & Legacy with Ruschelle Khanna 10/06/2025

Family Business at a Crossroads: Navigating Relationships, Governance & Legacy with Ruschelle Khanna Secret Thoughts of CEOS Ep. 144 Family Business at a Crossroads: Navigating Relationships, Governance & with Ruschelle Khanna. In this episode, host Chris Yonker delves into the intricacies of family business management with guest expert Ruschelle Khanna. They discuss the importance of family governance, handling narcissistic family members, and breaking cycles of resentment. Ruschelle shares her journey from therapy to working with ultra-high-net-worth families and offers actionable advice for next-gen leaders in family businesses. Listeners are encouraged to seek support and set clear boundaries to foster healthier family dynamics and long-term business success. · 01:31 Guest Introduction: Rochelle's Journey · 07:08 Chris Yoker's Background and Personal Story · 08:09 Understanding Family Dynamics and Trauma · 15:40 Navigating Family Business Challenges · 23:49 Dealing with Narcissistic Family Members · 28:42 Navigating Narcissistic Relationships · 30:52 Setting Boundaries with Narcissists · 32:32 The Importance of Family Governance · 37:14 Educating the Next Generation · 43:04 Addressing Family Resentments · 49:53 Taking Action on Family Issues Quotes · ”I started to see this overlap between. Money and health and family patterns and how it's all, we can't separate it at all.” [05:58] · ” Do some work yourself, because you're the ripple that is gonna start impacting the rest of the family. And when you shift your whole family shifts.”[19:02] · “ Yeah, because it's both, right? There's what a lot of times it's like, look, I believe you. Your family's difficult. I am not discrediting that. But you also are bringing a bunch of stuff that is probably not helpful, and that's usually what I see.’ [52:09] Websites: · . · · · /episode/index/show/thesecretthoughtsofceospodcast/id/38491260

Stop Leading on Autopilot: Mastering Conscious Communication with Chuck Wisner 09/22/2025

Stop Leading on Autopilot: Mastering Conscious Communication with Chuck Wisner Secret Thoughts of CEOS Ep. 143 Stop Leading on Autopilot: Mastering Conscious Communication. With Chuck Wisner In this episode, Chris Yonker dives into the family business world and effective communication strategies, with this week’s guest, Chuck Wisner. Chuck is a seasoned advisor and coach in communication and leadership. Together, they discuss Chuck’s book The Art of Conscious Conversations. The discussion explores themes such as the importance of examining hidden thoughts and stories that influence our communication patterns, the process of improving listening and communication skills, and strategies for facilitating effective conversations in high-stakes environments. Chuck shares insights on the value of awareness, vulnerability, and intention in transforming how we talk, listen, and interact, both in family settings and professional teams. · 01:31 The Importance of Conscious Conversations · 04:27 Understanding Conversational Patterns · 09:44 The Power of Stories in Communication · 14:29 Navigating Communication Challenges · 17:45 Improving Listening and Understanding · 20:36 The Practice of Managing Triggers · 23:27 Building Better Conversations · 25:19 The Power of Open-Handed Communication · 28:02 Navigating Hostility in Teams and Families · 28:58 Facilitation Techniques for Effective Dialogue · 30:16 The Importance of Listening and Perspective Sharing · 33:05 Leadership and the Power of Influence · 41:09 Self-Awareness and Changing Behavioral Quotes · ” I think we never were taught the ABCs of conversations, it's like, your notion about the fish and water. I use a similar quote all the time. We're like humans in conversation, not aware of the water we're swimming in, you know, we're just in it, because it's so habitual [07:58] · ” It’s this ego thing of holding onto your position tightly, having the answer. Rather than saying, can I learn something, Can I be a little humble? [26:11] · “My basic theory is the bigger the gap between what I'm seeing out loud and what I'm thinking, the more stress we live in.’ [39:33] Websites: · . · · · · Facebook: · LinkedIn: /episode/index/show/thesecretthoughtsofceospodcast/id/38300975

The Art of Transitions, Maintaining Harmony, and Heritage with Scott Anderson 09/08/2025

The Art of Transitions, Maintaining Harmony, and Heritage with Scott Anderson Secret Thoughts of CEOS Ep. 142 The Art of Transitions, Maintaining Harmony, and Heritage with Scott Anderson In this deeply revealing episode, Chris Yonker sits down with Scott Anderson, founder and CEO of Doubledare Executive Coaching and a licensed mental health therapist, to unpack the silent epidemic of burnout among entrepreneurs and executives. With personal experience as a serial entrepreneur and trauma-informed therapist, Scott shares the real definition of burnout, why high performers are most susceptible to it, and how to reverse it—quickly and permanently. They explore the psychology behind overworking, the nervous system’s role in stress addiction, and the cultural myths that keep us in cycles of burnout. Scott outlines a practical path to healing and freedom, including how to neutralize the stories that drive compulsive behavior, how to regulate stress in real-time, and what life looks like on the other side of burnout. 02:00 - What is burnout and how do we define it 04:20 - Scott’s personal story: serial entrepreneurship and collapse 06:40 - The official definition and symptoms of burnout 08:30 - When rest doesn’t help: signs it’s not “just stress” 10:15 - The dangerous story behind entrepreneurial drive 14:00 - How childhood trauma contributes to burnout patterns 18:30 - Somatic stress recovery vs. “figuring it out” in your head 22:00 - R&R technique for real-time stress release 26:30 - What life after burnout looks like 32:00 - How to neutralize your most toxic stories Quotes · “Working harder and worrying more works - until it doesn’t.” [09:10] · “The most dangerous part is that burnout actually predicts financial success. That’s what makes it so insidious.” [37:20] · “Life beyond burnout is not a compromise. It’s a profound upgrade.” [39:30] Websites: · . · · · – Learn more about Scott’s programs and book · – Schedule a free 15-minute triage call · – Available through Scott’s site Scott’s Bio: Scott Anderson is the founder and CEO of Doubledare Executive Coaching and Consulting, and is a licensed mental health therapist. He has been featured in both Forbes and Entrepreneur Magazines, and has helped hundreds of entrepreneurs and high-performance executives break through painful plateaus and achieve even higher levels of success and fulfillment at work and at home. /episode/index/show/thesecretthoughtsofceospodcast/id/38110515

Balancing Boardrooms and Bedrooms - When You and Your Spouse are in a Family Business Together 08/25/2025

Balancing Boardrooms and Bedrooms - When You and Your Spouse are in a Family Business Together Secret Thoughts of CEOS Ep. 141 Balancing Boardrooms and Bedrooms - When You and Your Spouse are in a Family Business Together With Gabriela Embon In this powerful and practical episode, Chris Yonker is joined by transformational coach and author Gabriela Embon to explore what it really takes to sustain a legendary marriage—especially when love and business intertwine. Gabriela shares insights from her journey from engineer to relationship strategist and introduces the Four Pillars of Legendary Marriage from her book Becoming a Power Couple. Together, they dive into boundaries, communication, conflict repair, intimacy, self-awareness, co-leadership, and how couples can integrate their personal and professional lives with more grace, connection, and fulfillment. Whether you and your partner work together or not, this episode is packed with real-life tools to deepen your bond while still pursuing ambitious goals. 02:14 – Why relationships fall apart when home gets the “leftovers” 07:00 – “Your spouse comes first” - navigating loyalty and family friction 13:00 – Creating new identities when becoming a spouse and parent 16:00 – When both partners are drained - how disconnection begins 18:30 – Presence over performance: love is not about taking 24:00 – Operational vs. connection rituals to run a marriage well 26:30 – The power of “communication on demand” and weekly planning 28:00 – Physical intimacy as a foundation for emotional intimacy 30:00 – Couples working together: blending romance with strategy 35:30 – How affairs and breakdowns begin: the warning signs 38:00 – The bedroom is the sanctuary: why sleeping apart is a red flag 41:00 – Resentment, indifference, and relationship repair 44:25 – About Gabriela’s book and where to learn more Quotes · “Your spouse comes first—even before your children, your parents, your business partners. Nothing should come between you.”[07:32] · “When one partner feels like they’re getting the leftovers, it’s often because they’ve abandoned the co-creation of the relationship.”[16:07] · “Love is beautiful—but it’s not a strategy. Commitment is. Rituals are. Showing up even when you don’t feel like it is.”[28:30] Websites: · . · Gabriela’s Book: Own Your Choices Own Your Life: Own Your Creativity: Forgive and Thrive: /episode/index/show/thesecretthoughtsofceospodcast/id/37983720

Succession without Sabotage: How to Pass the Baton and Protect Your Culture with Andy Busser 08/11/2025

Succession without Sabotage: How to Pass the Baton and Protect Your Culture with Andy Busser Secret Thoughts of CEOS Ep. 140 Succession without Sabotage: How to Pass the Baton and Protect Your Culture with Andy Busser In this high-level conversation, Chris Yonker interviews Andy Busser, President and CEO of Pitcairn, a multi-family office with a deep legacy of serving ultra-wealthy families. Together, they unpack what it means to lead a family-owned enterprise, especially as a non-family CEO, and how modern governance, culture, and communication influence business longevity. Andy shares strategic insights and lived experience from both inside and outside the boardroom, including best practices for building fiduciary boards, designing family councils, developing rising generations, and aligning leadership around shared values. From employment policies to emotional landmines, this episode offers a rare look into the psychology, strategy, and heart of enduring family enterprises. Timestamps 02:00 - Meet Andy Busser: from consulting and PE to Pitcairn’s CEO 07:15 - Working with wealthy families: early client relationships that changed everything 11:10 - Educating the next generation: where and how to start the conversation 15:45 - Aligning values, interests, and business literacy in rising generations 20:00 - Family employment policies and why billion-dollar firms still lack them 24:10 - Hiring non-family CEOs and building fiduciary boards 28:40 - How to handle founder resistance, power transitions, and board pushback 32:20 - Addressing accountability and culture as primary family values 36:00 - Philanthropy: how separate pools can create clarity and harmony 39:30 - The importance of conflict, clarity, and governance documentation 45:15 - Trends in family business: what’s changing, and what’s still missing 50:30 - Why family retreats matter—and how to design them well 55:00 - Decision-making frameworks, role clarity, and culture building 1:00:00 - Andy’s perspective on culture, hiring, and leadership assessments 1:04:15 - Where to learn more about Pitcairn and connect with Andy Quotes · "If you want to own the business for generations, P&L has to come last. It’s not unimportant, it’s a byproduct of vision, people, and strategy."[31:30] · "Problems age like milk, not wine. If you let them fester, they only get worse."[48:10] · "We’re very intentional about the culture we want. Then we hire people who are great carriers of that culture."[60:45] Websites: · . · · Andy Busser President & Chief Executive Officer Bio: As CEO, Andy is responsible for guiding the firm’s client-centric culture and overseeing all of Pitcairn’s operations. His vision for the company is to continually evolve the Pitcairn client experience by enhancing the firm’s integrated approach to sophisticated family office services for multi-generational families. Andy has a passion for solving complex problems. He also has a gift for establishing meaningful, lasting professional relationships. These traits were instrumental over the past decade as he spearheaded efforts to make Pitcairn’s client experience a standard of excellence for family office service. His enthusiasm and curiosity inspire the entire Pitcairn team toward an unwavering focus on integration, innovation, and lifelong learning. Though known for his commitment to objective analysis, Andy sees Pitcairn as a driver of growth for both wealth and family relationships. His key priorities for Pitcairn are delivering an outstanding client experience, investing in talent, and leveraging technology. Andy’s previous professional positions positioned him to acquire the knowledge, proficiency, and insight needed to steer a 100-year-old family office into its next century. Before becoming CEO in 2023, he served as Pitcairn’s President of Family Office, where he led the firm’s team of relationship managers, analysts, and client communications professionals. Prior to joining Pitcairn in 2015, Andy was a partner at Symphony Capital, a healthcare-focused investment manager of private equity and hedge funds, and a management consultant at The Wilkerson Group/Wilkerson Partners. A steadfast advocate for the importance of helping families become successful stewards of wealth, Andy is an in-demand public speaker and frequently presents at events hosted by industry organizations, such as Family Wealth Alliance, Family Office Exchange, and Family Business Magazine’s Transitions and Family Business Legacy conferences. He is also sought out for his industry perspective by the business media and has been quoted in Barron’s, Bloomberg, Crain Currency, NPR, Family Business Magazine, and elsewhere. He is also a regular contributor to Forbes where he writes a column about issues relevant to family office operations. Andy is a member of the Wigmore Association, a global collaboration of chief executive officers and chief investment officers from five leading family offices around the world. Additionally, he has served on multiple boards and is currently on the CEO Council of Family Wealth Alliance and is a trustee of the National Committee on American Foreign Policy. A graduate of Colgate University, where he majored in history, Andy is naturally creative and enjoys painting, especially landscapes. He is an avid reader and usually travels with a history or economics book in hand. Originally from Columbus, Ohio, Andy, his wife, and two sons now call suburban Philadelphia home. Whenever possible, Andy enjoys skiing in the Rockies or fishing the waters off Cape Cod. /episode/index/show/thesecretthoughtsofceospodcast/id/37765470

Leadership Evolution & Strategy with Nicole Van Valen 07/28/2025

Leadership Evolution & Strategy with Nicole Van Valen Secret Thoughts of CEOS Ep. 139 Leadership Evolution & Strategy with Nicole Van Valen In this inspiring and energizing conversation, Chris Yonker sits down with resilience strategist, author, and former NFL and NBA dancer Nicole Van Valen to explore the real ingredients behind sustainable leadership. From burnout recovery to joyful performance, Nicole shares how leaders can build emotional and strategic resilience in today’s fast-paced business world. They also dive into generational shifts in the workplace, the role of joy in high-performance leadership, and how managers can meet employees with empathy while maintaining accountability. Nicole’s therapeutic background and executive coaching experience combine to deliver a masterclass on modern leadership for anyone navigating stress, change, or challenge. Timestamps 02:10 – Introducing Nicole Van Valen: therapist, resilience strategist, former pro dancer 05:45 – From corporate burnout to joyful leadership 07:00 – Joy as a resilience resource: how dance kept Nicole grounded 10:45 – Should we do what we’re good at or what we love? 13:10 – Defining resilience: the basketball metaphor for bouncing forward 16:05 – The razor’s edge: individual pathways through adversity 19:45 – Resilience lessons from COVID and beyond 22:15 – Empathy vs. accountability: navigating messy leadership moments 28:30 – Cross-generational workplace friction and expectations 30:55 – Sick pets, hot days, and what’s really going on with your team 33:45 – Coaching your team without becoming their therapist 36:45 – A surprising example of values-based leadership in action 39:00 – Nicole’s top tip: put joy on your calendar 41:00 – Dessert first: the value of doing what lights you up 42:45 – Nicole’s book, assessment tool, and free resources Quotes · “If you tap into the joys of your life, you’re more energized to go into your organization and deliver.” - Nicole Van Valen [06:50] · “Resilience is about bouncing forward. It’s having a goal in mind—and a plan for when the stressors come.” - Nicole Van Valen [13:15] · “Empathy doesn’t mean we stop holding people accountable. It means we understand where they’re coming from.” - Nicole Van Valen [24:45] Websites: · . · · · – The Joyful Leader · – Take Nicole’s 8-domain self-assessment for leaders Nicole Van Valen, M.S., L.M.F.T., SHRM-SCP is an internationally recognized speaker, consultant, and published author of The Joyful Leader. With more than 25 years of experience across healthcare, behavioral health, and entertainment, she helps executives and organizations navigate stress, build resilient cultures, and lead with greater empathy and impact. Nicole is the Founder and CEO of Keane Insights, where she merges neuroscience, mental health, and leadership strategy to create high-performing, inclusive workplaces. A former Miami Dolphins Cheerleader and Miami HEAT Dancer, she brings unmatched energy and authenticity to her work—championing transformation through joy. /episode/index/show/thesecretthoughtsofceospodcast/id/37626940

Self Awareness & Emotional Intelligence with Stephanie Chung 07/15/2025

Self Awareness & Emotional Intelligence with Stephanie Chung Secret Thoughts of CEOS Ep. 138 Self Awareness & Emotional Intelligence with Stephanie Chung In this electric and eye-opening episode, Chris Yonker sits down with aviation pioneer and leadership strategist Stephanie Chung to unpack what it truly takes to lead in today’s world of diverse teams, generational differences, and ever-shifting business landscapes. Stephanie, the first African American president of a private aviation company in the U.S. and former CGO of Wheels Up, blends boardroom brilliance with neuroscience-backed leadership insight. From building trust through body language to unlocking innovation by embracing difference, Stephanie shares stories from her jet-fueled career and her newest book Ally Leadership. Whether you're a CEO, a team leader, or a parent navigating complex human dynamics, this episode will stretch your perspective on influence, equity, and modern leadership. Timestamps 01:45 - Meet Kristi Baxter and Chris Yonker: their backgrounds in family business, coaching, 01:45 – Introduction to Stephanie Chung and her aviation leadership journey 05:10 – Why we default to leading and selling in our own style - and why it limits us 07:15 – Six generations in the workforce: a communication and leadership wake-up call 09:45 – How the brain evaluates trust - and the power of facial expressions 13:00 – Ask, Listen, Learn, Act: the “ALLY” leadership model and its impact 19:00 – Dropping preconceived notions: how bias forms and how to meet people where they are 23:00 – Finding business in unlikely places: a story of jet sales and chicken farms 29:30 – Navigating generational differences around work-life values 33:00 – Meeting dynamics and how to create true psychological safety 35:00 – E.A.R.N. Model: How to truly earn allyship as a leader 39:00 – Why every team member should walk a mile in another’s shoes 44:45 – One question every leader should ask to connect personally and meaningfully 46:30 – Where to learn more from Stephanie and access her leadership resources Quotes · “It’s not about how you communicate. It’s about how they prefer to be communicated with.” [08:25] · “Bias isn’t always bad. But we must be aware of it - especially when we’re leading people who aren’t like us.” [19:30] · “Employees want leaders who are better communicators. Not just with words, but with presence and action.” [44:50] Websites: · . · · · - Sign up for Stephanie’s neuroscience-backed leadership newsletter Stephanie is not just an #1 international best-selling author; she's a force of strategic innovation, a beacon of change, and a titan in the world of business growth and human capital management. With over 30 years of experience, Stephanie has cultivated a reputation for turning challenges into opportunities and transforming growing businesses into thriving hubs of success. In her book, Ally Leadership: How to Lead People Who Are Not Like You, Stephanie Chung provides practical strategies for leaders willing to admit they don’t have all the answers, accept that their perspective isn’t the only one, and commit to learning about people different from themselves. /episode/index/show/thesecretthoughtsofceospodcast/id/37417535

Succession Beyond the Transition: Gaining confidence while strengthening leadership and family relationships with Kristi Baxter 06/30/2025

Succession Beyond the Transition: Gaining confidence while strengthening leadership and family relationships with Kristi Baxter Secret Thoughts of CEOS Ep. 137 Succession Beyond the Transition: Gaining confidence while strengthening leadership and family relationships with Kristi Baxter In this masterclass-style episode, Chris Yonker and Kristi Baxter deliver a powerful, holistic perspective on the complex realities of succession planning. With decades of experience working with privately held and family-owned businesses—from $1M operations to $10B enterprises—Chris and Kristi unpack the emotional, strategic, and structural dimensions of continuity planning. This session goes far beyond strategy and legal frameworks; it ventures into the inner work required for a successful transition across generations. Whether you're preparing to step back, step in, or steward a legacy across generations, this episode offers the roadmap—and reflection prompts—you need now. Timestamps 01:45 - Meet Kristi Baxter and Chris Yonker: their backgrounds in family business, coaching, and enterprise leadership 08:30 - The story of Jeff: when life changes the plan and succession gets real 13:10 - Why succession is not an event, but a journey 16:30 - The top concerns facing family businesses today 21:00 - Common succession mistakes: replacing ourselves, unequal contribution, and CEOs who won’t let go 29:45 - Should we sell or keep the business? The family-first lens on exit decisions 33:15 - Why traditional advisors aren’t enough and how to build a holistic team 38:10 - Chris & Kristi’s five-part succession methodology 43:00 - Diving deeper: self-awareness, readiness, and leadership development 49:00 - Governance, continuity, and what makes a transition successful 54:10 - Blind spots that derail transitions and how to name them 59:45 - The importance of facilitating difficult conversations in family systems 1:05:30 - Where to begin: tools, surveys, and one powerful question Quotes · "Succession isn't an event, it's a journey of stewardship. And the journey starts now." [13:10] · "You can't build the future with the emotional weight of the past running the show." [53:45] · "Your organization is only as strong as the people in it. You are in the people business first." [43:15] Websites: . Contact Kristi: Take the /episode/index/show/thesecretthoughtsofceospodcast/id/37241665

What if growth isn't the goal? 06/17/2025

What if growth isn't the goal? Secret Thoughts of CEOS Ep. 136 What if growth isn't the goal? with Perrin DesPortes In this deeply reflective and energizing episode, Chris Yonker and Perrin DesPortes engage in a rare bidirectional dialogue, unpacking the hidden costs of ambition, the personal reckoning that comes with burnout, and the awakening that’s possible when business success is aligned with inner fulfillment. Perrin, founder of The Next Level Executive, shares his evolution from a high-powered career in dental distribution and M&A to building a purpose-driven coaching practice for healthcare entrepreneurs. Together, they explore the illusions of success, the cultural shifts shaping dentistry and family business today, and how to create a life, and business, you actually want to live in. This is a conversation about course correction, conscious entrepreneurship, and building legacy from the inside out. Timestamps 02:00 - Meet Perrin DesPortes and his journey from corporate leadership to entrepreneurship 08:45 - Chris shares his path out of 3M and into legacy-centered coaching 16:15 - Why many entrepreneurs wake up inside a life they don’t want 22:50 - Burnout, overwork, and boredom: what triggers the desire for change 29:40 - Dentistry’s consolidation, private equity, and chasing someone else’s dream 38:10 - The power of clarity: asking “What do I really want?” 44:55 - Family business succession, ego, identity, and the real work of letting go 52:35 - The sacred role of the advisor: holding discomfort and navigating emotional fire 58:00 - Partnerships, misalignment, and the silent cost of avoidance 1:04:20 - Entrepreneurship doesn’t have to be lonely: the value of coaching and counsel 1:09:00 - Resources, next steps, and how to work with Perrin or Chris Quotes · "Bored people make bad business decisions because they start chasing a dream that’s not even their own."[22:50] · "Wherever you go, you take yourself with you."[41:35] · "Entrepreneurship can be a very lonely road - but it doesn’t have to be."[1:04:20] Websites: . Perrin DesPortes is the Founder of The Next Level Executive. He is a Washington & Lee University graduate and earned his MBA from the Darla Moore School of Business at the University of South Carolina. Perrin has over 25 years of experience in the business side of dentistry, having run three different business units for Patterson Dental Supply over a 15-year career. For the last decade, he has built and exited two very successful start-ups in TUSK Partners and Polaris Healthcare Partners, both of which focus in the Group Practice Consulting and Transactional space. Perrin is happily married with an 11 year-old daughter at home. In his spare time, he is an avid cyclist; enjoys cooking and reading; and loves good red wine and strong coffee. The Next Level Executive combines Perrin’s decades of experience working in Corporate America and consulting directly with healthcare entrepreneurs on their growth journey all distilled into actionable content and practical wisdom. Next Level Executives have: · clarity in understanding how their business truly fits together · confidence in their ability to lead from a position of strength · an edge to make the right decisions at the right time If you’ve mastered practice ownership and are wanting to evolve from “a Clinician who owns a Practice to an Entrepreneur who leads a Business,” then you need to focus on your own professional development to become a more effective executive – and becoming a more effective executive is what The Next Level Executive is all about… /episode/index/show/thesecretthoughtsofceospodcast/id/37043795

Legacy in Limbo: Why So Many Leaders Avoid Succession Planning 06/02/2025

Legacy in Limbo: Why So Many Leaders Avoid Succession Planning Secret Thoughts of CEOS Ep. 135 Legacy in Limbo: Why So Many Leaders Avoid Succession Planning with Dr. Mohanakrishnan Raman In this eye-opening episode, host Chris Yonker speaks with Dr. Mohanakrishnan Raman, an organizational psychologist and international expert on family business dynamics. With decades of experience consulting Indian family enterprises, Dr. Raman shares how cultural norms, succession planning, and next-gen development intersect in often overlooked ways. The conversation touches on Indian traditions, evolving gender roles, leadership readiness, and the emotional complexity of legacy handoffs. Whether you're in a family-run business or leading succession elsewhere, this episode is packed with deeply human—and highly strategic—insights. Timestamps 02:00 – Meet Dr. Mohanakrishnan Raman 07:35 – Realizing the influence of family systems in OD work 11:55 – Cultural inheritance, COVID’s impact, and India's family business awakening 18:10 – Gender, legal reforms, and complexities in succession structures 24:00 – Case studies: sibling tension, conflicting interests, and decentralizing roles 37:15 – The 3 Capitals: Financial, Knowledge, and Social – and why they matter 42:40 – Creating learning journeys through values, mentorship, and exposure 54:10 – The tension between honoring legacy vs. pursuing personal calling Quotes · "To win the relay race, you have to hand over at the right spot, at the right time, and at the right speed."[59:30] · "The current generation is coming from abundance. The previous one came from scarcity. Their motivations—and expectations—are fundamentally different."[53:00] · "When designing a succession plan, you're not just training for business. You're transferring values, identity, and a legacy of relationships."[39:50] Websites: . . Resources & Links: · Connect with Dr. Raman on LinkedIn: /episode/index/show/thesecretthoughtsofceospodcast/id/36763520

Navigating Change: Insights for Family Business Leaders with Dr. Barrett C. Brown 05/19/2025

Navigating Change: Insights for Family Business Leaders with Dr. Barrett C. Brown Secret Thoughts of CEOS Ep. 134 Navigating Change: Insights for Family Business Leaders with Dr. Barrett C. Brown In this powerful episode, Chris Yonker is joined by global executive advisor and developmental strategist, Dr. Barrett Brown, for a profound and eye-opening conversation about what it really takes to lead in today’s ever-accelerating world. With experience working across six continents and coaching C-suite executives through high-stakes transformation, Dr. Brown brings hard-earned wisdom about the inner capacities required for high-impact, conscious leadership. Together, Chris and Barrett explore: Timestamps · 08:21 Navigating Complex Leadership Challenges · 20:58 Decision Making in Complex Environments · 39:50 Balancing Work and Life in Family Businesses · 46:42 Navigating Succession with Competing Visions · 49:46 The Empowerment Dynamic and Low Drama Culture · 52:34 Masculine Compassion in the Workplace · 54:07 Coaching and Developing the Younger Generation Quotes · "Life is like a grindstone—it either grinds you into dust or polishes you into a diamond."[13:45] · "The world is never going to be a psychologically safe environment where we can just fully show up without any threat… The superpower is to be deeply at peace in the midst of intensity.” [24:12] · "Every time I get triggered or frustrated or irritated or judgmental—that is 100% my own inner game. That’s where I have the greatest power."[1:16:35] Websites: . . Resources & Links: Dr. Barrett Brown’s Work: Recommended Reading: Dr. Barrett C. Brown Bio Dr. Barrett C. Brown is a global expert on how to develop leaders to successfully navigate complex challenges and rapid change. Barrett works across six continents with C-suite executives and teams from Fortune 500 companies and international non-profits. He has lived in The Netherlands, Brazil and throughout the US, and has worked and traveled in nearly 40 countries. Barrett is a regular advisor and senior faculty for a global tech company as well as the largest environmental NGO in the world. With them, he focuses on how leaders can better manage complexity and drive transformational change. He also serves as the executive coach for a select group of senior leaders. He has delivered dozens of keynotes and leadership programs for 5000+ CEOs, organizational leaders, and government officials. He has co-designed and delivered executive development, team development and/or strategic alignment programs for some of the largest technology, engineering, healthcare, sportswear, and consumer goods companies in the world - as well as for major environmental and social NGOs. Barrett holds a PhD in Human and Organizational Systems and also has over a decade experience advising on and leading strategic visioning, execution, and change initiatives for US, Dutch, British, and Brazilian companies and institutions. Barrett’s award-winning research on the has been used in executive education programs worldwide, including the Yale MBA. He produced an award-winning business case study on a large-scale market transformation program he helped lead - in partnership with Unilever and Rainforest Alliance - that is used in business schools globally. Barrett’s writings on leadership and sustainability have been translated into 6 languages, have been used in the United Nations system, and have been included in half a dozen mainstream leadership books. Barrett served on the selection committee of the Katerva Awards - considered the Nobel Prize for sustainability - and has held consultancy status to the United Nations. He has delivered leadership briefings and presentations at global tech companies, the Conscious Capitalism CEO Summit, the Society for Organizational Learning European Summit, Esalen Institute, the National Bioneers Conference, the United Nations World Summit on Sustainable Development, the US Department of State, the Inter-American Development Bank and UNDP headquarters. Originally from the Green Mountains of Vermont, Barrett lives near a 300,000 year old volcanic crater in Hawaii. /episode/index/show/thesecretthoughtsofceospodcast/id/36539330

Navigating Legacy and Wealth in Family Business with Jason Smith 05/05/2025

Navigating Legacy and Wealth in Family Business with Jason Smith Secret Thoughts of CEOS Ep. 133 Navigating Legacy and Wealth in Family Business with Jason Smith In this powerful episode, host Chris Yonker sits down with Jason L Smith, founder of JL Smith Group, author of The Bucket Plan, and a nationally recognized financial advisor. Jason opens up about being fired by his own father, building a purpose-driven business from the ground up, and the holistic philosophy that now guides his wealth management firm—which oversees more than $4 billion in assets. Jason also shares deeply personal stories about resilience, raising grounded kids, and how intentional structure and values shape both his legacy and his clients’. Timestamps 03:30 – Jason’s origin story: Fired by his dad, starting from scratch 14:20 – "Everything’s fine" vs. proactive planning: health + financial parallels 22:45 – The biggest tax mistake business owners make 34:00 – Educating next-gens: Financial stewardship in action 41:45 – The Bucket Plan: Now, Soon, Later framework 53:15 – Self-worth after financial collapse and bouncing back Quotes · “I’m actually the youngest of 11 and, um, it was a mixed marriage like my mom and dad, you know, both had kids came together and had me kinda like the Brady Bunch and I was like, uh, Alice or the dog.”[03:24] · “Yeah, I. I. I feel like unfortunately our educational system is pretty broken in, in, in regards to teaching basic, you know, financial literacy, right?” [27:32] · “And my top five are the top five most important things to me, like my true north in life. And you know, my top five is number one is health. Mind, body, and soul. Number two is Holly, my wife. Number three is my kids. Number four is my family and friends. And number five is leading and learning.” [48:45] Websites: . . Buy “The Bucket Plan” book Facebook: Instagram: LinkedIn: /episode/index/show/thesecretthoughtsofceospodcast/id/36422695

Priorities for Family Offices Working in a Fractured World with Angelo Robles 04/21/2025

Priorities for Family Offices Working in a Fractured World with Angelo Robles Secret Thoughts of CEOS Ep. 132 Priorities for Family Offices Working in a Fractured World with Angelo Robles In this episode of the Secret Thoughts of CEOs and Business Leaders podcast, host Chris Yonker interviews Angelo Robles, a prominent figure in the family office sector. The discussion covers various topics crucial to family businesses, such as the importance of hiring the right people, the disruptive impact of AI, and how geopolitical changes are reshaping the business landscape. Angelo shares his thoughts on the future of AI, the significance of understanding global trends, and how family offices can better prepare for rapid changes. Chris and Angelo also delve into the complexities of governance within family offices and the critical need for adaptability and continuous learning. Angelo Robles is a global authority on family offices, renowned for his forward-thinking approach and bold vision for the future. As a family office strategist and futurist, Angelo has dedicated over 20 years to helping elite families navigate the complexities of wealth management, governance, and legacy building in an era of rapid change. With a deep understanding of the evolving landscape—from the rise of AI to increasing geopolitical risks—Angelo empowers families to break free from outdated models and build future-forward family offices designed to thrive for generations. Timestamps · 03:50 Angelo's Background and Career Journey · 07:19 The Concept and History of Family Offices · 18:08 Top Trends in Family Offices: People, Technology, and Systems · 33:09 Integrating AI in Family Offices · 35:14 First Steps for Family Offices · 39:47 Geopolitical Shifts and Their Impact · 46:55 The Role of AI in Global Power Dynamics Memorable Quotes · “ So the majority of family offices are built for a world that no longer exist.” [13:25] · ” AI is being under hyped. Under hyped. You look at the math behind it, Jensen Wong and Nvidia doubling its quote unquote power once every 1.08 years. Do the math behind that.” [29:23] · ” It’s rare, rare to find people who are willing to change their minds on topics they refuse to investigate.” [56:12] Websites: Facebook: Instagram: LinkedIn: . . /episode/index/show/thesecretthoughtsofceospodcast/id/36197005

Unlocking Leadership Potential: How Shadow Work Transforms Leaders with Kim Barta 04/07/2025

Unlocking Leadership Potential: How Shadow Work Transforms Leaders with Kim Barta Secret Thoughts of CEOS Ep. 131 Unlocking Leadership Potential: How Shadow Work Transforms Leaders with Kim Barta In this episode of 'Secret Thoughts of CEOs and Business Leaders’, host Chris Yonker delves into deep discussions with Kim Barta, a renowned psychotherapist and thought leader. Kim shares insights into his work around shadow therapy, explaining how our unconscious beliefs and patterns shape our lives. He talks about the nuances of family dynamics, personal growth, and healing from trauma. Listeners learn practical strategies for identifying and overcoming shadow aspects, fostering greater joy and fulfillment in both personal and professional realms. Chris also promotes the Family Business Executive Forum, a resource aiding those in family businesses to navigate issues like succession, financial management, and sibling rivalry. Timestamps · 03:45 Kim Barta's Background and Early Influences · 07:02 Developing a Metamodel for Healing · 13:34 Understanding Shadow Work · 23:03 Identifying and Addressing Shadow Patterns · 30:42 Awakening to the Problem · 42:13 Practical Steps for Escaping Abuse · 45:33 Adapting Systems for Healing Memorable Quotes · “ If you really tune in to the nuances of their micro behaviors, you can create change that helps people move to greener pastures a lot sooner. [05:40] · ”Everywhere I go, my shadow comes with me. I can't outrun my shadow. [22:08] · ” I say, no, what you've been living is not you. You've been living the lie. That you believe? Mm, if we take away the lie, you don't know who you are and I don't know who you are. We only know who you are when you're holding the lie. Let's take away the lie and discover who you are. [25:03] Websites: . . LinkedIn: Kim Barta is an internationally award-winning lecturer, multi-culturally informed developmental psychotherapist, spiritual guide, author, workshop creator, and speaker. His work is grounded in an experiential practice, blending his unique, sophisticated healing with practical everyday usability. He has written and lectured on diverse topics such as Shadow, Spiritual Development, Developmentally Informed Meditation, Developmental Psychology, Shadow and Health at Every Developmental Level, Healthy Power, Developmental Leadership, Organizational leadership, Power and Bliss, Grief, Parenting, Relationships, and Love, to name a few. He has developed several new forms of therapy, including The Evolution of Shadow Resolution, Psychosocial Cartography, Stages of Developmentally Informed Psychotherapy, Shadow to Spirit, and more. Kim Co-founded Stages International with Dr. Terri O’Fallon, PhD., an organization focused on researching and teaching evolutionary consciousness. Kim is releasing his latest trilogy on love: Love, Relationship, and Flow, The Love, Relationship and Flow Journal, and Love Letters from Consciousness. They are available at Barnes and Noble, Amazon, and other outlets. Kim's Shadow books are available on his website. You can find kim at . /episode/index/show/thesecretthoughtsofceospodcast/id/36032130

Unlocking Family Business Potential Through Advisory Teams with Dr. Jeremy Lurey 03/24/2025

Unlocking Family Business Potential Through Advisory Teams with Dr. Jeremy Lurey Unlocking Family Business Potential Through Advisory Teams with Dr. Jeremy Lurey In this episode of the 'Secret Thoughts of CEOs and Business Leaders' podcast, host Chris Yonker discusses the complexities of managing family business transitions with Dr. Jeremy Lurey. The episode covers key topics such as building effective advisory teams, succession planning, and the nuances of family dynamics in business settings. Chris and Jeremy explore the importance of external advisors, the challenges of sibling rivalries, and how to prepare for pivotal moments like selling a business. They also offer insights into identifying the right advisors and emphasize the importance of continuous learning and personal development for effective leadership. What You’ll Learn · Why it’s important to have an independent advisor · The necessity of being a continuous learner to belong in the field. Timestamps 03:07 Introduction to Dr. Jeremy Lurey 05:20 The Role of Family Business Advisors 20:06 Navigating Family Business Relationships 32:46 The Importance of Independent Advisors 38:42 Generational Transitions and Family Harmony 44:47 The Importance of Personal Connection Memorable Quotes · “Common sense is not that common. Right. People just don't stop and think about how I'm interacting with my partner, my child, my cousin, my uncle, my whomever it is. And so we get to shine the flashlight in places where people typically don't look..” [11:16] · ”for my dad, I will always be the 16 year old who wrapped a car around the tree. I always will be because I did. I did stupid things when I was 16 and 17 year old when I got my driver's license..” [17:34] · ”We could all get hit by the buff. I prefer the metaphor of when the lottery and move to Fiji myself. But regardless life happens when we least expect it. So having a plan is critical.” [23:01] Websites: . . LinkedIn: Jeremy Lurey PhD Bio: Family Advisor & Leadership Coach Dr. Lurey is a talented family advisor, executive coach, and business consultant with more than 25 years of experience helping clients—from families of significant wealth to Fortune 500 corporations—achieve their strategic objectives and build sustainable futures. He specializes in leadership development, succession planning, governance, and strategic planning, guiding family offices and family businesses through critical transitions and long-term planning. A PhD in Organizational Psychology, Dr. Lurey is a US Ambassador for the Global Family Office Community and frequently speaks at industry events. Recognized as a “40 Under 40” executive, he is known for his compassionate approach, enabling clients to unlock their leadership potential and focus on what matters most. /episode/index/show/thesecretthoughtsofceospodcast/id/35731240

Balancing Tradition & Innovation: What Businesses Can Learn from Harley Davidson with Ken Schmidt 03/10/2025

Balancing Tradition & Innovation: What Businesses Can Learn from Harley Davidson with Ken Schmidt STOC 129: Balancing Tradition & Innovation: What Businesses Can Learn from Harley Davidson with Ken Schmidt In this episode of 'Secret Thoughts of CEOs and Business Leaders,' host Chris Yonker interviews Ken Schmidt, a former Harley Davidson executive renowned for his innovative repositioning strategy. They discuss the key elements holding back family businesses and privately held companies, including family harmony, succession, financial management, and innovation. Ken shares insights into Harley Davidson's transformation, emphasizing the need for businesses to connect on a human level, foster a strong internal culture, and leverage their unique history. They explore how companies can balance maintaining core values with embracing new innovations to delight and retain customers. What You’ll Learn · Humans naturally seek and return to sources of delight, regardless of how minor they are. · When the human connection is made, business wins. Timestamps 03:48 Ken Schmidt's Journey to Harley Davidson 20:16 The Importance of Company Identity 32:04 The Role of Technology in Customer Interaction 34:30 Human Connection 37:55 Building a Memorable Business 43:20 Creating a Culture of Delight Memorable Quotes · “Harley does all this other stuff that, that hits people at a human level. And at the end of the day, that makes the business more desirable. It makes people willing to pay more, for the privilege of being part of that community.” [19:45] · ” How can we do what we do faster, better, and cheaper to get more stuff out into the marketplace? That's exactly what customers are not looking for.” [27:55] Websites: . . LinkedIn: Ken Schmidt Bio: It’s an impersonal world, where so many products and services are seen as easily-replaced, indistinct commodities. Whether you stand out or get lost in the crowd is a choice. A mindset. Ken Schmidt faced those same challenges himself and gained acclaim for his role in the extraordinary turnaround of the legendary Harley-Davidson Motor Company. That transformation was based on a change in mindset and a focus on answering three key strategic questions. While times have changed, what humans want and need from the businesses they buy from and work for hasn’t. In his high-energy speeches, Ken inspires companies and individuals to shift their thinking and ride a path to success by becoming memorable – not for what they do or what they make, but for how they connect with people. Ken is author of Make Some Noise: The Unconventional Road to Dominance. He’s also host of the Tailgating with Geniuses podcast and co-founder of Torque Sessions Leadership Training. In all of his endeavors, Ken brings an unconventional perspective that helps organizations and individuals reframe how they engage with their marketplace. Ken Schmidt’s career in the motorcycle industry began in 1985 as a specialist in corporate positioning and media relations for the then-struggling Harley-Davidson. He was tasked with helping the company restore its image, improve its competitiveness, and create demand for its motorcycles. Within a few short years, sales of Harley-Davidson motorcycles skyrocketed, and the company returned to prominence as one of the most respected, profitable, and frequently reported-on companies in the world. In 1990, Ken became director of Harley-Davidson’s corporate and financial communications, serving as its primary spokesperson to the media and the financial communities. He frequently appeared in mainstream and business media to offer insights on nontraditional communications, customer attraction, and brand-building. His expertise and success at Harley- Davidson ultimately led to consulting assignments and speaking invitations from all over the world. In 1997, Ken left Harley-Davidson to take an ownership position with a highly successful Chicago-based marketing firm, VSA Partners. In addition to Harley-Davidson, VSA served a virtual who’s who of the world’s best-known brands. In 1999, he sold his portion of VSA to start his own business, Ken Schmidt Company, to combine two of his greatest passions, motorcycling and speaking. He uses motorcycles as a metaphor to expose people to proven ideas and concepts they’ve likely never imagined. In addition to speaking and consulting, Ken is co-founder of Torque Sessions Leadership Training. Through a combination of hands-on training and interactive workshops, these sessions help individuals and organizations re-position themselves to become dominant competitors, maximize leadership effectiveness, build a people-first culture of innovation and foster loyalty among customers and employees. Ken is also the host of the popular podcast Tailgating with Geniuses, wherein he talks with some of the most innovative and successful leaders in a variety of industries to discuss their unique perspectives on leadership, major challenges, and success. Ken's relatable and engaging hosting style has made the podcast a hit with listeners looking to learn from the best and achieve their own personal and professional goals. Ken authored Make Some Noise: The Unconventional Road to Dominance, which gives business leaders an easy-to-follow roadmap for improving their competitiveness, using many of the techniques he championed at Harley-Davidson. He considers his work on 100 Years of Harley-Davidson, a global best seller, to be one of his greatest and most rewarding achievements. After all he has accomplished, Ken remains committed to his philosophy of standing out, taking risks, and having fun in both his personal and professional life. He says, “Never do what’s expected, make yourself as noticeably different as possible, and have a lot more fun than you’re supposed to.” /episode/index/show/thesecretthoughtsofceospodcast/id/35494680

Building Family Legacy and the Keys to Early Education Success with Richie Huffman 02/24/2025

Building Family Legacy and the Keys to Early Education Success with Richie Huffman Building Family Legacy and the Keys to Early Education Success with Richie Huffman In this episode of 'Secret Thoughts of CEOs and Business Leaders,' host Chris Yonker talks with Richie Huffman, the founder, president, and CEO of Celebrate Schools, and a leader in early childhood education. The discussion delves into Richie's entrepreneurial journey, approaches to building a family legacy, and the innovative ways he runs his family akin to a business. The conversation highlights the importance of family vision, quarterly family huddles, and good stewardship. Richie shares valuable insights on the evolving landscape of early education and emphasizes parental involvement in children’s education. Additionally, Chris promotes the Family Business Executive Forum, a resource offering expert advice on overcoming challenges in family businesses. Richard O. Huffman is the founder, President, and CEO of Celebree Schools. Richie founded Celebree in 1994, growing our brand from a single preschool into the company we are today. In his current role, Richie shares his expertise, insights, and leadership with Celebree School franchisees, while continuing to shape Celebree’s short-term and long-term vision. Over the course of more than two decades, Richie has grown Celebree from a single location into Maryland’s largest privately held chain of childcare centers. With Celebree’s entry into the franchise sector, Richie now shares the secrets to his success with Celebree franchisees. In his work with Celebree School franchise owners, Richie shares more than 20 years of industry experience and entrepreneurial expertise. He offers direct support to franchisees as they develop their locations while challenging assumptions that could impede their business. He is committed to the success of every franchisee and is available on a daily basis for one-on-one support. As the President and CEO of Celebree Schools, Richie continues to guide the core vision of our brand: a vision that embraces change, innovation, and the constant pursuit of self-improvement. Thanks to Richie’s combination of leadership and experience, Celebree continues to set industry standards within the early childhood education sector. Richie has also shaped Celebree’s dynamic corporate culture, helping us attract some of the most forward-thinking leaders and executives in our industry. What You’ll Learn · Emphasizing the importance of building a family legacy and raising children with strong values and stewardship. · The role of parents in shaping a child's future · The significance of family vision and mission Timestamps · 04:04 Richie's Entrepreneurial Journey · 10:41 Building a Family Legacy · 15:01 Family Vision and Mission · 25:25 The Importance of Early Education · 34:44 Setting Expectations and Covenants · 40:04 Where to Learn More Memorable Quotes · “I knew at a very young age, I knew 2 things. I knew that I wanted to do it my way. I knew I wanted to be an entrepreneur. I knew I probably would not do well working for somebody else. And at a very young age, I knew one thing and I struggle with saying this, but I have to say it was true. I knew that I wanted to be wealthy.” [04:54] · “I’m not a know it all. I know nothing. Right? Which is another right? I know nothing and that's my philosophy. I surround myself with really, really great people that are committed as much as I am to achieving the vision of the mission.” [14:27] · I reach over. I take his cell phone and I ask him the next. I ask him the same question over again. Now, let's try this again. What did you do yesterday in history class? And now at least I got a 50 percent chance because I just put the distraction away. [32:08] Websites: . . /episode/index/show/thesecretthoughtsofceospodcast/id/35397860

Trust, Transparency, and Culture: The Cornerstones of Leadership with Susan Riley 02/10/2025

Trust, Transparency, and Culture: The Cornerstones of Leadership with Susan Riley Trust, Transparency, and Culture: The Cornerstones of Leadership with Susan Riley Susan Riley is a resident of Exeter, NH and is married with two children. She started her career with a technical foundation (undergraduate and graduate education in Chemistry (Boston College, Brandeis University), followed later by an MBA at Babson College. She then spent the majority of her 40-year career in the life sciences industry. Having started in research and development, Susan gradually expanded her skillset and experience by spending significant time in international business development, marketing & sales, production & operations. In the last decade of her career, she was appointed Vice President & General Manager for two mid to large size divisions of Fortune 100 companies having revenues of $750M+. Susan was known as a straight shooter that built strong teams and executed well. She set high expectations yet was very nurturing to her employees. She always rolled up her sleeves and never asked anyone to do something she would not do herself. Susan recently retired and now resides in Exeter, NH. She views her most significant accomplishment as being able to have coupled a wonderfully fulfilling career with a fabulous family life. She credits her husband of 40+ years as her secret sauce in being able to come as close to “having it all” as is possible and looks forward to enjoying her retirement with him and her two grown daughters What You’ll Learn ● What it takes to uplevel an organization. ● How to secure trust by being authentic. ● The importance of the value proposition. ● How to navigate male-dominated spaces. ● Why we should make space for life experiences. Timestamps · [04:17] Susan’s background. · [09:30] Upleveling an organization. · [13:30] Prioritizing key areas. · [18:36] How to secure trust by being authentic. · [24:39] The value proposition. · [30:09] Creating a culture for success. · [33:45] Navigating the male-dominated spaces. · [39:34] Blocking off time to prioritize life experiences. Memorable Quotes · “People can sniff you out if you’re not [authentic].” – Susan Riley [20:05] · “You’ve got to learn from your mistakes.” – Susan Riley [27:25] · “You really have to start thinking about what’s important to your life.” – Susan Riley [44:54] Websites . . . /episode/index/show/thesecretthoughtsofceospodcast/id/35199895

Holistic Success: Mind, Body, Spirit, and Leadership with Shane Carter 01/27/2025

Holistic Success: Mind, Body, Spirit, and Leadership with Shane Carter Holistic Success: Mind, Body, Spirit, and Leadership with Shane Carter Shane is President and CEO of Hampshire Capital, LLC based in NH. Hampshire Capital, LLC buys, develops, renovates, repositions and holds apartment buildings, commercial assets and land in New England and the Southern states. Since 1996, Shane has acquired and managed more than $315M in multi-family and commercial assets and has developed and built over $120M in real estate through his construction and development firm. Shane's first book entitled "Optimize Your Life" is soon-to-be-released in 2024. With a mission to help others succeed, the book distills many personal life lessons and details Shane's recipe for fulfillment with relationships, personal passions, and business. With over 25 years of active real estate experience under his belt, Shane balances his business with passions for fitness, wellness, the outdoors and travel while prioritizing being a dad to three awesome kids. All of this is 'in bounds' and Shane is thrilled to discuss how he built a thriving lifestyle with audiences on their own growth & wealth building journeys What You’ll Learn ● Shane's personal approach to reducing disappointments by lowering expectations of outcomes and others ● Shane continues to challenge the status quo, advocating for a life that harmonizes professional success with personal fulfillment Timestamps · [00:05:35] Writing a book for oneself. · [00:10:53] Authentic leadership through experience. · [00:18:17] Optimize your life holistically. · [00:21:48] Mindset and health connection. · [00:30:37] Attachment to outcomes in entrepreneurship. · [00:35:28] Dealing with disappointment effectively. · [00:40:49] Culture of decentralized ideas. · [00:46:15] Balancing life and business. Memorable Quotes · "All of the work, all of the benefits of the work are not in knowing what to do. It's in actually doing the work." · "I personally have less disappointments because I have less expectations of outcomes and I have less expectations of others." · "The more I empower, the more I'm compassionate and empathetic, the more I attract others that resonate with me and want to be in the environment that we've created at our company, the more success we have." Websites · · · /episode/index/show/thesecretthoughtsofceospodcast/id/35038380

The Addicted Brain: Rewriting the Narrative on Alcohol with David Andrews 01/13/2025

The Addicted Brain: Rewriting the Narrative on Alcohol with David Andrews The Addicted Brain: Rewriting the Narrative on Alcohol with Dave Andrews Dave Andrews, “America’s #1 Sobriety Coach,” CEO of The 30-Day Solution, and Co-Author of The 30-Day Sobriety Solution, is the leading expert in helping others recover, reclaim, and reinvent their lives without alcohol, and serves on the Board of Directors of the nonprofit organizations, Young People in Recovery, and Advocates for Recovery. As a speaker, sobriety coach, author, and Certified Coach in Positive Psychology, Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP), and Strategic Intervention, he has been a featured “Sobriety Expert” on numerous national and international talk shows. Dave has, himself, been sober for over eight years. What You’ll Learn ● How to undo the patterns of addiction. ● The prospects of drugs helping end addictions. ● How to get to a place of indifference. ● How to release any negative experience. Timestamps · [08:55] The patterns of addiction. · [12:07] “Why now is not a good time.” · [18:06] Drugs and addiction. · [23:32] Controlling the mind. · [31:01] Getting to a place of indifference. · [40:33] Releasing any negative experience. · [47:21] The lies that limit you. · [57:24] Spiritual awakening. · [64:00] Relinquishing control. · [66:07] How to let go. Memorable Quotes · “Only 58% of adults in America drink alcohol.” – Dave Andrews [10:02] · “We associate happiness with freedom.” – Dave Andrews [42:37] · “Drink with love.” – Dave Andrews [52:50] · “Trying to control the uncontrollable is the greatest source of suffering in the world.” – Dave Andrews [64:33] Websites . . . . /episode/index/show/thesecretthoughtsofceospodcast/id/34833895

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Why coaching beats training for lasting leadership impact 12/16/2024

Why coaching beats training for lasting leadership impact Why Coaching Beats Training for Lasting Leadership Impact with Ted Kulawiak, Kristi Baxter, & Thomas Ted Kulawiak is a highly respected sought-after sales management, leadership coach, and business consultant. As the president of Ted Kaye Sales Management Training LLC, Ted utilizes his significant business experience coupled with a personalized and innovative problem-solving approach to guide clients to reach their desired business goals. He held senior sales leadership and training positions in advertising and media over the course of 25 years, the majority of which he spent working for the 3M Company. Post advertising career, Ted transitioned to higher education and enjoyed a 20-year career in executive leadership positions. In addition to his leadership and coaching consulting work, Ted teaches English at the local community college. Kristi Baxter is a mind shifter, mental fitness trainer and thought partner to extraordinary individuals. As a trusted guide she helps people identify and purse a created life, by clarifying goals, identifying, and removing self-imposed obstacles and creating the space to make magic. Her superpower is helping people change the lens through which they experience their life. When not working, Kristi loves spending time with her family, hiking, biking, boating, beaching, cooking, creating, traveling, and laughing out loud. Thomas is our Optimal Vision Coach, aka The Optimalogist. His superpower is his incredible insightfulness and unique ability to see the best in others when they can’t. He helps clients to refocus and get clear about their Vision and Purpose in their work and life while getting clear of the invisible restraints that keep them from being, living and giving their best. When not working, Thomas enjoys sports, music, and travel What You’ll Learn ● The importance of doing the deeper work. ● How firms could navigate training resources. ● How to find the right person to coach. ● How to vet a consulting firm. Timestamps · [04:45] A bit about Ted. · [05:33] A bit about Tom. · [07:14] A bit about Kristi. · [11:20] The importance of doing the deeper work. · [15:19] Solving performance problems. · [19:54] Navigating training resources. · [23:33] The value of coaching. · [26:53] Work-life balancing. · [32:40] Key attributes of future executives. · [37:04] The impact of 360’s. · [45:50] Interviewing a consulting firm. · [51:50] Thinking about ROI. Memorable Quotes · “Coaching is not something you half-ass.” – Kristi Baxter [34:34] · “They will leave companies if there’s not a path to development.” – Kristi Baxter [53:41] Websites . . . . . /episode/index/show/thesecretthoughtsofceospodcast/id/34330580

How to Redesign Your Internal Programming with Chris Yonker 12/02/2024

How to Redesign Your Internal Programming with Chris Yonker How Can You Redesign Your Internal Programming a Live a Full(er) Life? On today's episode I was a guest on Steven Lawson’s podcast Potent, and we dive into overcoming trauma, the power of spirituality and self-awareness, the impact of mentorship, and the journey toward self-acceptance and deeper connections. About Today's Guest Chris is a Certified Family Business Advisor accredited through The Family Firm Institute. Chris helps to consciously navigate the challenges of succession, leadership transitions and family conflict, while creating long-term strategies for business continuity. Dubbed a “Life Journey Sherpa,” Chris’ holistic approach allows each individual in the family to be seen as an integral piece to the work. He uses his experience as a Neuro- Linguistic practitioner, a student of Philosophy and Psychology, and a thought leader on Personal Performance and Transformation to create a one-of-a-kind methodology that fuses heart and soul — helping families achieve extraordinary results that become permanent ways of being. Drawing upon more than 25 years of driving change and leading sales with 3M, and over a decade in Family Business and Executive consulting, Chris has built a process that has become his special sort of alchemy. His strategy helps clients move beyond the obstacles family organizations face that often prevent them from leading deeply fulfilling lives, both individually as well as collectively. Many of Chris’s clients say the process of working with him leads to profound healing within their families, bringing a sense of deep peace, better relationships and higher levels of happiness alongside a thriving organization. As a sought-after speaker, Chris has been a special guest of Camden Family Wealth, The Institute for Family-Owned Business, and The Center for Family Enterprise, and has been a featured contributor to Forbes. Education Chris is a Certified Family Business Advisor accredited through The Family Firm Institute. He holds a Bachelor's Degree in Business and a Minor in Communication from Western Michigan University. He was personally mentored by Tony Robbins’ original trainer in Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP). Personal Chris is a seventh-degree black belt in an Okinawan style of karate and a student of yoga and meditation. He enjoys fishing, travel, cooking and spending time with his wife of 28 years and their daughter Show Notes · Chris early life · Connecting with God · Martial arts, validation · Mentorship · What is God teaching me? · Developing a practice of connection · Coaching thru end of life · Immersion · Developing personal presence · Fear of loneliness · Emotions, awareness, and karate · The elevator from heart to head · Potent presence; it's a soul massage · Healing our bodies · Parenting, upbringing, self-parenting · Being/doing, Values alignment · Community affiliation, fear of lone wolf, searching out your people · Trusting the process This podcast is brought to you by the Monk Manual. The monk manual is dedicated to providing best-in-class tools for helping you build a more potent life, and experience peaceful being and purposeful doing on a daily basis. If you’d like to be more intentional with your time and energy - please visit . /episode/index/show/thesecretthoughtsofceospodcast/id/34171900

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