Episodes
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In episode 21 of season 2, we sit down with Charlene Li, New York Times bestselling author and expert in digital transformation and disruptive leadership. Known for her impactful books, including The Disruption Mindset, Open Leadership, and Groundswell, Charlene shares insights from her latest book, Winning with Generative AI: The 90-Day Blueprint for Success, which provides a strategic approach to harnessing the potential of generative AI as a leader.
In this episode, Charlene dives into the art of leading through disruption and creating growth-focused, purpose-driven organizations. She explores how leaders can shift from maintaining the status quo to actively pursuing change that aligns with future customer needs. Charlene also shares her unique framework for identifying “Big Gulp” moments — decisions that challenge leaders to embrace risk confidently — and practical methods to make AI a transformative force within teams and companies.
With real-world examples and actionable strategies, Charlene breaks down the three critical questions every leader should ask to stay aligned with evolving markets and build a resilient organization. She also shares stories from her career, and her journey from Harvard Business School to becoming a sought-after advisor for top executives.
Tune in to learn Charlene’s strategies for leading in a rapidly changing world, leveraging AI for competitive advantage, and fostering a company culture ready to tackle future challenges.
This episode is packed with wisdom for anyone looking to lead change, think strategically, and future-proof their organization!
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Like this episode? Be sure to leave a ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ review and share the podcast with your colleagues.
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TIME-STAMPED SHOW NOTES:
[03:04] Vulnerability makes you a better leader
[07:30] The connection between growth and disruption
[09:02] “Big G” versus “small g" growth
[11:33] Building a disruption-ready organization
[17:23] 3 questions every employee should be able to answer
[23:42] “Big Gulp” moments in decision-making
[28:49] The importance of decision-making preparedness
[29:59] Generative AI is an accelerating force
👉 Check out the resources mentioned here: https://fellow.app/supermanagers/charlene-li-quantam-networks-group
RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:
Connect with Charlene on LinkedIn
Check out Quantum Networks
Check out Charlene’s latest book, Winning with Generative AI: The 90-Day Blueprint for Success
Join the Supermanagers Slack community
Connect with Aydin on LinkedIn
Follow Fellow on LinkedIn -
In episode 20 of season 2, we sit down with Shivani Berry, CEO and founder of Arise Leadership, a program dedicated to helping women advance in their careers and excel in leadership roles.
In this episode, Shivani delves into the key leadership skills that professionals must master to succeed, including strategic influence and getting buy-in from dominant personalities. She also explores the importance of becoming a "feedback magnet" and the power of using reflection to overcome imposter syndrome.
With practical examples and actionable insights, Shivani explains how leaders can create a culture of development within their teams and organizations. She also shares her personal journey of transitioning from tech management to founding Arise Leadership, and the challenges she faced along the way.
Tune in to learn Shivani’s unique frameworks for leadership growth, strategies for navigating complex work environments, and how to unlock your full potential as a leader.
You’ll find this episode valuable if you’re looking to improve your leadership skills and drive success in your organization!
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Like this episode? Be sure to leave a ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ review and share the podcast with your colleagues.
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TIME-STAMPED SHOW NOTES:
[02:41] Mastering strategic influence is critical for leadership
[06:36] Getting buy-in from dominant personalities
[09:15] Building trust and credibility
[12:45] Why leaders fail to get buy-in and how to avoid them
[18:46] Techniques for effective reflection
[19:28] How to consistently receive high-quality feedback
[32:18] Senior leadership challenges
[34:02] Turning self-doubt into leadership strength
[41:10] How organizations can support and accelerate the growth of women in leadership
👉 Check out the resources mentioned here: https://fellow.app/supermanagers/shivani-berry-arise-leadership
RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:
Connect with Shivani on LinkedIn Check out Arise Leadership Read Shivani's article “The Best Leaders are Feedback Magnets — Here’s How to Become One” Read Radical Candor by Kim Scott Listen to Kim Scott on the Supermanagers Podcast Join the Supermanagers Slack community Connect with Aydin on LinkedIn Follow Fellow on LinkedIn -
Missing episodes?
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In episode 19 of season 2, we sit down with Aaron Hurst, a serial social entrepreneur and author of The Purpose Economy. Aaron is an expert on the science of purpose and fulfillment and has dedicated his career to helping individuals and organizations discover their purpose.
In this episode, Aaron shares his insights on building a purpose mindset within teams and the importance of fulfillment at work, as well as offers practical strategies for leaders, including storytelling, reflection, and creating space for employees to find meaning.
Throughout the conversation, Aaron dives deep into the science of purpose, offering compelling data from his research at NYU and PwC, and shares how leaders can implement these findings to foster engagement and growth in their organizations.
Tune in to learn how Aaron’s experience and research can help you create a more meaningful and fulfilling workplace, and discover why adopting a purpose-driven leadership style can lead to higher performance and satisfaction across your team.
You’ll find this episode valuable if you’re a leader looking to cultivate purpose in your organization and empower your team to thrive both personally and professionally!
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Like this episode? Be sure to leave a ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ review and share the podcast with your colleagues.
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TIME-STAMPED SHOW NOTES:
[02:15] Aaron's early entrepreneurial journey and family influence
[07:15] Purpose mindset vs transactional mindset
[09:20] Importance of hiring people with a purpose mindset
[11:30] How reflection and gratitude can create meaning at work
[16:05] Storytelling to drive team alignment and purpose
[19:10] The science behind purpose and why it matters in organizations
[22:50] Organizational strategies for fostering purpose and meaning
[29:00] Challenges in scaling teams and dealing with failure
[37:30] Using a portfolio approach to building multiple businesses
👉 Check out the resources mentioned here: https://fellow.app/supermanagers/aaron-hurst-the-purpose-economy
RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:
Connect with Aaron on LinkedIn
Read Aaron’s book The Purpose Economy
Learn more about Aaron’s organization: Taproot Foundation
Check out Aaron’s company Imperative
Check out Aaron’s platform Board.Dev
Join the Supermanagers Slack community
Connect with Aydin on LinkedIn
Follow Fellow on LinkedIn -
In episode 18 of season 2, we sit down with Patrick Ewers, founder of Mindmaven and author of Radical Delegation. Patrick is an expert on productivity and relationship building, and in this episode, he shares his powerful strategies for freeing up time and increasing impact as a leader.
Patrick discusses his concept of radical delegation, which allows leaders to regain 10 to 12 hours a week by delegating tasks more effectively. He emphasizes the importance of investing in relationships, explaining that strong relationships are key to success, yet often overlooked due to their lack of urgency.
Patrick also dives into the concept of positive alacrity, the simple but transformative habit of voicing positive thoughts immediately to strengthen relationships and improve workplace culture.
Tune in to learn how Patrick's innovative approach to delegation and relationship building can help you become a more effective and impactful leader!
You’ll find this episode valuable if you’re a leader looking to optimize your time, develop relationships, and delegate tasks effectively for long-term success.
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Like this episode? Be sure to leave a ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ review and share the podcast with your colleagues.
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TIME-STAMPED SHOW NOTES:
[04:42] How to free up time and increase productivity
[06:07] Patrick's mistake when trusting his gut in relationships
[09:46] The importance of body language and face-to-face communication
[14:34] The purpose of radical delegation
[18:58] Using an Engagement Manager for effective delegation
[22:07] Follow-up emails and dictation tools will build stronger relationships
[31:58] Inbox shadowing to increase efficiency
[39:10] Building trust with an engagement manager can enhance long-term productivity
👉 Check out the resources mentioned here: https://fellow.app/supermanagers/patrick-ewers-mindmaven
RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:
Connect with Patrick on LinkedIn
Read Patrick’s book Radical Delegation
Check out Patrick’s company Mindmaven
Join the Supermanagers Slack community
Connect with Aydin on LinkedIn
Follow Fellow on LinkedIn
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In episode 17 of season 2, we sit down with Jerry Colonna, the CEO of Reboot.IO and author of Reunion: Leadership and the Longing to Belong. Jerry is known for his radical approach to leadership and self-inquiry, and in this episode, he shares his insights on how leaders can create conditions of belonging within their organizations. He explores the concept of radical self-inquiry, emphasizing the importance of making the unconscious conscious to break free from recurring patterns that hinder personal and professional growth.
Jerry also delves into the power of empathy in leadership and how fostering real conversations can lead to more inclusive and supportive work environments. Through practical examples, Jerry discusses the importance of leaders taking responsibility for their role in shaping the culture of their organizations. He encourages leaders to look inward, challenge their belief systems, and actively create conditions where everyone can belong.
Tune in to learn how Jerry's philosophy can help you build a more inclusive and empathetic workplace. This episode offers profound insights for leaders looking to deepen their understanding of themselves and their role in creating a more connected and human-centered organization.
You’ll find this episode valuable if you’re a leader aiming to foster belonging, lead with empathy, and create a culture that embraces real conversations!
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Like this episode? Be sure to leave a ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ review and share the podcast with your colleagues.
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TIME-STAMPED SHOW NOTES:
[01:10] Discussing radical self-inquiry
[03:47] Radical self-inquiry’s importance in leadership
[07:01] Overview of Jerry’s new book, Reunion: Leadership and the Longing to Belong
[11:40] Creating conditions for belonging in the workplace
[16:38] The challenge of empathy and inclusion in the workplace
[18:41] How a CEO can foster an inclusive culture
[25:25] Dealing with divisiveness in organizations
[33:80] Stop thinking you have to have all the answers
👉 Check out the resources mentioned here: https://fellow.app/supermanagers/jerry-colonna-reboot
RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:
Connect with Jerry on LinkedIn Read Jerry’s NEW book Reunion: Leadership and the Longing to Belong Read Jerry’s book Reboot: Leadership and the Art of Growing Up Check out Jerry’s company Reboot.IO Join the Supermanagers Slack community Connect with Aydin on LinkedIn
Follow Fellow on LinkedIn -
In episode 16 of season 2, we sit down with Brian Gottlieb, author of Beyond the Hammer and a visionary business leader who scaled his home services company from a $3,000 startup to a $150 million enterprise. Brian shares his unique approach to leadership, focusing on hiring to your weaknesses and empowering others to fill the gaps where you fall short. He dives deep into how he built a culture of development, transforming his company into a training organization where employees are constantly learning and growing.
Brian also emphasizes the importance of problem-solving systems — creating scalable solutions that allow teams to work autonomously and solve issues without micromanagement. Through powerful examples from his own journey, Brian explains how leaders can build systems that enable sustainable growth and foster employee development.
Tune in to learn how Brian's leadership philosophy, rooted in empowering others and leading with purpose, can help you build a strong, high-performing culture in your organization.
You’ll find this episode valuable if you’re a leader looking to hire effectively, develop talent, and create scalable systems for long-term success!
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Like this episode? Be sure to leave a ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ review and share the podcast with your colleagues.
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TIME-STAMPED SHOW NOTES:
[02:45] Brian’s journey from a $3,000 startup to a $150 million company
[06:19] The importance of hiring to your weaknesses
[10:25] Brian’s epiphany about focusing on people development
[12:20] Transitioning a company to a training organization
[14:02] The Harvard Business School executive program
[19:01] Creating a manager training program to drive alignment and growth
[24:01] Using stay interviews to retain employees and gain feedback
[27:30] Aligning a business with clear mission and vision statements
[29:12] How daily huddles helped streamline communication and management
👉 Check out the resources mentioned here: https://fellow.app/supermanagers/brian-gottlieb
RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:
Connect with Brian on LinkedIn Read Brian’s book Beyond the Hammer Join the Supermanagers Slack community Connect with Aydin on LinkedIn Follow Fellow on LinkedIn -
In this episode, we sit down with Adam Coffey, a seasoned CEO with over 21 years of experience leading private-equity-backed service companies. Adam shares his journey from his military career to becoming a leader in the private equity world, where he has overseen 58 acquisitions and facilitated billions of dollars in successful exits.
In episode 15 of season 2, Adam delves into the critical lessons he's learned about leadership, including the importance of building a strong culture and being transparent as a leader. He discusses the concept of the 'Happy Meal effect' in startups and how it applies to scaling companies effectively. Adam also emphasizes the need for leaders to adapt to different stages of growth and highlights the value of ongoing learning and self-improvement.
You’ll gain insights into navigating different growth stages, the importance of hiring and empowering great people, and the role of a CEO in inspiring and leading a team. Adam's practical advice on performance management and building a transparent culture offers actionable strategies for leaders looking to enhance their organizations.
You’ll find this episode valuable if you're looking to elevate your leadership skills, build high-performing companies, and motivate your team.
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Like this episode? Be sure to leave a ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ review and share the podcast with your colleagues.
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TIME-STAMPED SHOW NOTES:
[00:46] Adam Coffey’s books
[04:56] Lessons from the military and General Electric (GE) on leadership and discipline
[06:52] Transitioning from CEO roles to consulting and teaching
[09:30] Defining the role of a CEO and the importance of company culture
[12:14] The 'Happy Meal effect' in startups and growth companies
[17:45] The importance of employee engagement and performance management
[28:38] Transparency in leadership and making tough decisions
[32:41] Building a strong company culture and engaging employees
👉 Check out the resources mentioned here: https://fellow.app/supermanagers/adam-coffey
RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:
Connect with Adam on LinkedIn Read Adam’s book The Private Equity Playbook Read Adam’s book The Exit Strategy Playbook Read Adam’s book Empire Builder: The Road to a Billion Join the Supermanagers Slack community Connect with Aydin on LinkedIn Follow Fellow on LinkedIn -
In this insightful episode, we sit down with Amy Edmondson, one of the world’s leading management thinkers. As the Novartis Professor of Leadership and Management at Harvard Business School, she is an expert in psychological safety and organizational learning.
In episode 14 of season 2, she discusses the importance of creating environments where team members feel safe to speak up and how this psychological safety is essential for learning and innovation. She also explores the balance between psychological safety and accountability, emphasizing that these concepts are not in opposition but rather complementary in high-performing teams.
You’ll gain valuable insights into how to foster a culture of inquiry, the role of clear goals in team performance, and practical steps for turning around fearful organizations. Amy’s examples from companies like Pixar and Southwest Airlines offer concrete illustrations of how these principles can be applied in real-world settings.
You’ll find this episode valuable if you're looking for actionable advice for leaders looking to enhance their team’s psychological safety, accountability, and overall performance.
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Like this episode? Be sure to leave a ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ review and share the podcast with your colleagues.
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TIME-STAMPED SHOW NOTES:
[02:13] Leadership mistakes and psychological safety
[05:26] The role of psychological safety in organizational learning
[08:58] Balancing psychological safety and accountability
[14:07] Characteristics of high-performing teams
[18:09] The impact of clear goals on team performance
[24:12] Turning around a fearful organization
[30:22] Lessons from Pixar and Southwest Airlines
[39:38] Tips for leaders on mastering the art of asking good questions
👉 Check out the resources mentioned here: https://fellow.app/supermanagers/amy-edmonson-harvard-business-school
RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:
Connect with Amy on LinkedIn Read Amy’s book The Fearless Organization Read Amy’s book Right Kind of Wrong: The Science of Failing Well Join the Supermanagers Slack community Connect with Aydin on LinkedIn Follow Fellow on LinkedIn -
In this episode, we sit down with Anthony Onesto, a visionary business leader and the founder of KAE.ai, an innovative AI-based HR platform. Anthony shares his extensive experience in empowering startups and tech companies to unlock their full growth potential. As the Chief People Officer at Suzy, a leading market research software company, and the author of "The New Employee Contract," Anthony provides a wealth of knowledge on leadership, delegation, and the evolving workplace.
Anthony addresses the unique characteristics and expectations of the Gen Z workforce, emphasizing their need for stability and proactive approaches to social issues. He also discusses the transformative impact of AI on business practices, highlighting how tools like ChatGPT are revolutionizing communication and efficiency.
Listeners will gain valuable insights into effective team management, the importance of understanding personal strengths, and the balance of autonomy and trust in leadership. Anthony's approach to meetings and his AI-first philosophy offer practical strategies for enhancing organizational productivity.
This episode will be valuable to you if you're looking to revolutionize your approach to leadership, delegation, managing Gen Z employees, and leveraging AI in the workplace!
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Like this episode? Be sure to leave a ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ review and share the podcast with your colleagues.
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TIME-STAMPED SHOW NOTES:
[03:28] Leadership mistakes and autonomy
[05:13] Importance of understanding personal strengths in delegation
[06:14] The role of brain awareness training in leadership
[09:02] Levels of autonomy and their application in team management
[14:34] Characteristics and expectations of Gen Z employees
[17:24] Gen Z's need for stability and their proactive approach to social issues
[24:39] Importance of diversity, equity, and inclusion in attracting Gen Z talent
[30:22] The impact of AI on communication and efficiency in HR practices
[34:28] Are all your meetings necessary?
👉 Check out the resources mentioned here: https://fellow.app/supermanagers/anthony-onesto-suzy
RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:
Connect with Anthony on LinkedIn
Read Anthony’s book “The New Employee Contract”
Read Radical Candor by Kim Scott
Join the Supermanagers Slack community
Connect with Aydin on LinkedIn
Follow Fellow on LinkedIn
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In this episode, Eytan Bensoussan, CEO and co-founder of NorthOne, a business banking platform for small businesses, shares his experiences. He has had a diverse career path, including time at McKinsey & Company to co-founding NorthOne.
In episode 12 of season 2, he delves into the importance of understanding team motivations, effective hiring practices, and the intricacies of decision making. He provides an in-depth look at his use of issue trees for breaking down complex decisions and emphasizes the significance of gut instincts in leadership.
Eytan also discusses his approach to feedback and performance management, highlighting the balance between frequency and effectiveness. Eytan's insights into building resiliency and maintaining mental health offer valuable strategies for leaders facing the ups and downs of entrepreneurship.
Tune in to learn from Eytan's experiences and receive actionable advice on transforming feedback culture, empowering team members, and building strong leadership systems.
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Like this episode? Be sure to leave a ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ review and share the podcast with your colleagues.
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TIME-STAMPED SHOW NOTES:
[05:11] Navigating employee expectations
[10:22] Issue trees and their importance in decision making
[16:17] Using an external network for decision validation
[21:09] Adjusting feedback methods based on seniority
[25:55] Monthly feedback sessions and synthesizing input
[30:47] Team meetings and daily stand-ups
[34:59] Strategic resets and adapting roadmaps
[41:16] Building confidence through past experiences
👉 Check out the resources mentioned here: https://fellow.app/supermanagers/eytan-bensoussan-northone
RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:
Connect with Eytan on LinkedIn Learn more about North One Join the Supermanagers Slack community Connect with Aydin on LinkedIn
Follow Fellow on LinkedIn -
In this episode, our host Aydin Mirzaee sits down with Matt Verlaque, COO of SaaS Academy and co-founder of High Speed Ventures. Matt’s unique career journey spans over a decade in firefighting and emergency services before venturing into technology and entrepreneurship. He shares how his experiences have shaped his approach to leadership and management, emphasizing the importance of servant leadership and continuous improvement.
In episode 11 of season 2, Matt delves into the critical aspects of building cohesive teams and the significance of investing in people over tasks. He discusses the evolution of team dynamics and the necessity for adapting systems as companies grow. Matt provides actionable insights on conducting effective one-on-one meetings, giving and receiving feedback, and maintaining a healthy balance between work and personal life.
Matt also introduces the concept of building unbreakable businesses and the common pitfalls founders face, particularly around pricing and self-worth. He shares his strategies for creating robust operational systems that scale with the company and highlights the importance of having a structured approach to quarterly planning and goal setting.
Tune in to explore Matt’s techniques and insights that have contributed to the success of multiple startups and his current role at SaaS Academy.
This episode offers a wealth of actionable advice for leaders looking to enhance their management practices, build strong team cultures, and lead with intention and impact.
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Like this episode? Be sure to leave a ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ review and share the podcast with your colleagues.
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TIME-STAMPED SHOW NOTES:
[01:53] Leadership differences in firefighting and tech
[07:48] Navigating seniority, advocacy, and building rapport
[11:51] Common mistakes CEOs and founders make
[18:46] Establishing team structure and communication as the team grows
[20:25] Balancing transparency and effective communication
[27:11] Quarterly planning and goal setting
[34:33] Efficiently setting goals and priorities in meetings
[38:01] SaaS Academy’s upcoming book "Software as a Science"
[40:46] Leaders should bring out greatness in others
👉 Check out the resources mentioned here: https://fellow.app/supermanagers/matt-verlaque-saas-academy
RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:
Connect with Matt on LinkedIn
Read Million Dollar Weekend by Noah Kagan
Learn more about SaaS Academy
Join the Supermanagers Slack community
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In this engaging episode, we sit down with Mark Macleod, a seasoned CFO, VC, and angel investor whose career has significantly impacted high-growth technology companies. Mark takes us through his extensive experience, from his roles at FreshBooks and Real Ventures to founding SurePath Capital Partners. He shares invaluable lessons on the evolution of the CEO role, emphasizing the critical aspects of communication, team building, and financial management.
In episode 10 of season 2, Mark explores the importance of maintaining boundaries and preventing burnout, offering practical advice on time management and self-care. He introduces the concept of the 24-hour rule for decision-making and discusses the necessity for CEOs to shift from working in the business to working on the business. Mark's insights on creating optionality for startups and navigating uncertain times provide listeners with robust strategies to enhance their leadership skills.
As a coach to high-growth company CEOs, Mark brings a unique perspective on balancing professional demands with personal well-being. He highlights the importance of being authentic and designing roles that align with your strengths and passions. Mark's ability to distill complex ideas into actionable advice makes this episode a must-listen for anyone aiming to excel in leadership positions.
This episode is filled with practical tips on preventing burnout, managing time effectively, and building high-performing teams. Tune in to gain Mark's wisdom on leading with intention and navigating the challenges of high-growth environments.
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Like this episode? Be sure to leave a ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ review and share the podcast with your colleagues.
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TIME-STAMPED SHOW NOTES:
[04:31] Career experiences and leadership, mistakes
[07:55] The Importance of pausing and avoiding panic
[11:45] The CEO's role in communication, vision, and values
[14:18] Burnout and time management as a leader
[21:58] Calendar audits = key to avoiding burnout.
[23:53] Design your role for personal happiness
[29:30] The roles and focus areas of a CEO
[34:23] Dealing with uncertainty and layoffs
[39:42] Be your authentic self to avoid burnout
👉 Check out the resources mentioned here: https://fellow.app/supermanagers/mark-macleod-startup-ceo-coach
RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:
Connect with Mark on LinkedIn Listen to Mark’s podcast: The Startup CEO Show Join the Supermanagers Slack community -
In this insightful episode, we sit down with Jessica Zwaan, COO of Talentful, whose impressive career journey spans roles in HR and operations across leading tech and SaaS companies. Jessica shares her transition from HR to the COO role, discussing the significant learnings and challenges faced along the way. She delves into the importance of commercial acumen within HR, the necessity of being outcome-driven, and how curiosity can shape effective leadership.
In episode 9 of season 2, Jessica provides an in-depth look at how she structures meetings to ensure transparency and accountability, including her unique approach to the weekly business review meetings. She emphasizes the need for HR to adopt a more product-oriented mindset and shares practical examples from her experience at Whereby, where innovative solutions to operational challenges significantly improved organizational efficiency.
As a hands-on Chief Operating Officer with a background scaling technology, e-commerce, and SaaS businesses, Jessica brings a wealth of experience to her roles. She is a regular panelist and speaker at local and international events, sharing her insights on business operations, culture influence, and how she thinks about companies as commercial products.
This episode is packed with actionable advice on transforming HR functions, fostering a culture of curiosity, and building strong leadership teams.
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Like this episode? Be sure to leave a ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ review and share the podcast with your colleagues.
. . .
TIME-STAMPED SHOW NOTES:
[04:30] Making the transition from HR to COO
[07:12] Purposeful career moves
[12:00] Challenges in HR roles
[17:57] The impact of organizational structures on HR functions
[22:30] The importance of open transparency and peer accountability in meetings
[27:27] Building workforce autonomy and reducing parental culture
[33:30] Incentivizing employees and practical solutions to business problems
[38:21] Being “mostly right” as a leader
👉 Check out the resources mentioned here: https://fellow.app/supermanagers/jessica-zwaan-talentful
RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:
Connect with Jessica on LinkedIn
Read Built for People by Jessica Zwaan
Learn more about Fellow.app - AI meeting management software
Join the Supermanagers Slack community
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In this special C-Suite Roundtable episode of Supermanagers, host Aydin Mirzaee brings together 4 top executives from diverse industries to tackle one of the biggest challenges in modern workplaces: meeting efficiency. This episode features Michael Koenig, CEO at Tucows, Rebecca Kacaba, CEO at DealMaker, Jeffrey Sullivan, CTO at Consensus, and Matthew O’Riordan, CEO at Ably.
Michael shares his innovative meeting approach at Tucows, a company spanning domain names, fiber internet, and telecom SaaS. He discusses the importance of flexible meeting policies and how implementing structured meeting frameworks like EOS Level 10 meetings can transform organizational productivity.
Rebecca delves into DealMaker's mission to revolutionize capital raising. She emphasizes the shift towards asynchronous communication and the critical role of effective tooling in managing meetings and team collaboration.
Jeffrey talks about the complexities of managing global teams and how the transition to remote work has necessitated a more intentional approach to meetings and asynchronous workflows. He highlights the creation of a living document that codifies Consensus’ remote work practices and meeting policies.
Matthew shares Ably's journey from an office-based to a remote-first organization, focusing on the challenges of meeting inefficiencies. He explains how implementing consistent tools and structured processes has been transformational, allowing for quicker decision-making and more effective collaboration across global teams.
Tune in to episode 8 of season 2 to explore these leaders' insights and strategies on optimizing meetings, fostering asynchronous communication, and enhancing productivity in remote and hybrid teams. This episode offers a wealth of actionable advice for leaders looking to improve their organization's meeting culture and overall efficiency.
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Like this episode? Be sure to leave a ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ review and share the podcast with your colleagues.
. . .
TIME-STAMPED SHOW NOTES:
[05:06] Guest introductions
[09:39] Guests share their biggest meeting pet peeves
[12:44] How meeting policies at Tucows evolved
[14:47] The transition to remote work
[17:05] Asynchronous communication
[24:18] Practical strategies for improving meetings.
[28:18] Creating meeting policies is collaborative
[35:30] Meeting templates and structures.
[43:04] The benefits and challenges of maintaining meeting policies
👉 Check out the resources mentioned here: https://fellow.app/supermanagers/csuite-roundtable-reducing-meeting-bloat
RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:
Read Death by Meeting by Patrick Lencioni Connect with Michael Koenig on LinkedIn Connect with Rebecca Kacaba on LinkedIn Connect with Jeffrey Sullivan on LinkedIn Connect with Matthew O’Riordan on LinkedIn Learn more about Fellow (AI meeting management platform) -
Ken’s role as COO at Hostaway, a SaaS startup transforming the vacation rental industry, showcases his innovative approach to remote work and leadership. In discussion with host Aydin Mirzaee, Ken delves into the diverse experiences that have shaped his career, including pivotal positions at Hotjar and his unique journey as a digital nomad. His transition from traditional corporate environments to leading fully remote teams illustrates his commitment to transparency, deliberate decision-making, and culture-driven hiring.
A cornerstone of Ken’s leadership philosophy is fostering an environment where communication and transparency are prioritized. He highlights Hostaway’s structured use of tools like Slack, emphasizing the importance of clear guidelines for synchronous and asynchronous communication. Ken also touches on the significance of building purposeful remote work rituals and the strategic benefits of hiring for culture add rather than culture fit.
In episode 7 of season 2, Ken emphasizes the importance of effective team management through deliberate processes. His insights into remote work dynamics, cultural values, and global team distribution provide listeners with valuable strategies to implement in their own organizations.
Tune in to explore Ken’s techniques and insights that have contributed to Hostaway’s success as a fast-growing, fully remote company with a team located across 40+ countries.
This episode offers a wealth of actionable advice for leaders looking to enhance remote work practices, build strong team cultures, and lead with intention and impact.
. . .
Like this episode? Be sure to leave a ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ review and share the podcast with your colleagues.
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TIME-STAMPED SHOW NOTES:
[03:58] Ken’s journey as a digital nomad
[07:12] Scaling success as former COO of Hotjar
[08:20] Balancing family life and remote work while traveling
[11:17] Remote vs. hybrid, and in-office work
[15:40] Hostaway’s approach to distributed teams and hiring across 40+ countries
[19:57] Synchronous vs. asynchronous communication
[24:30] Why transparency matters in operations
[32:21] Importance of culture add over culture fit
👉 Check out the resources mentioned here: https://fellow.app/supermanagers/ken-weary-hostaway
RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:
Connect with Ken on LinkedIn
Join the Supermanagers Slack community
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Albert’s role as CTO & SVP of Engineering at Rippling is marked by an impressive blend of technical expertise and leadership experience. In discussion with host Aydin Mirzaee, Albert delves into the diverse experiences that have shaped his career, including pivotal positions at Segment, Mesosphere, and Cloudflare. His journey from engineering roles to top-tier management illustrates his deep commitment to hands-on leadership and continuous improvement.
A cornerstone of Albert’s leadership philosophy is fostering an environment where both innovation and quality are prioritized. He highlights Rippling’s strategic planning processes, including the importance of setting clear, actionable goals and maintaining flexibility to adapt to new information. Albert also touches on the future of HR software, emphasizing the integration of AI and the critical role of understanding employee data to drive better business outcomes.
In episode 6 of season 2, Albert emphasizes the significance of effective project management through mechanisms like blitz meetings, which streamline decision-making and ensure efficient execution of critical initiatives. His insights into leadership, team dynamics, and the evolving landscape of HR technology provide listeners with valuable strategies to implement in their own organizations.
Tune in to explore Albert’s techniques and insights that have contributed to Rippling’s success as a fast-growing technology company, valued at over $13 billion.
This episode offers a wealth of actionable advice for leaders looking to drive innovation, maintain quality, and lead with intention and impact.
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Like this episode? Be sure to leave a ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ review and share the podcast with your colleagues.
. . .
TIME-STAMPED SHOW NOTES:
[03:26] Advice for aspiring leaders
[07:09] The importance of being hands-on leader
[11:58] Planning and prioritization in a rapidly growing company
[19:03] Utilizing Quality Weeks
[29:50] Strategic planning and setting goals
[34:48] The future of HR software and the role of AI
[40:40] Underrated leadership advice
👉 Check out the resources mentioned here: https://fellow.app/supermanagers/albert-strasheim-rippling/
RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:
Read The Goal by Eliyahu M. Goldratt
Connect with Albert on LinkedIn
Join the Supermanagers Slack community
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Vitaly’s journey from COO to CEO of StackAdapt, a thriving programmatic advertising company, is marked by substantial role diversification and a refined approach to leadership. In discussion with host Aydin Mirzaee, Vitaly highlights the nuanced differences between the roles.
👉 Visit our website to get all the details: https://fellow.app/supermanagers/vitaly-pecherskiy-stackadapt/
As COO, operational efficiency and internal management were his forte. However, stepping into the CEO role required a shift towards more strategic decision-making and external representation of the company.
Understanding that effective leadership requires reliance on his management team, Vitaly speaks about empowering this team. He emphasizes hiring a chief of staff and an executive assistant to better distribute tasks that pertain to decision-making and execution, allowing him to focus on overarching company goals and culture.
A cornerstone of Vitaly’s leadership philosophy is the importance of company culture, which he identifies as a dynamic rather than static element within the organization. He candidly shares an anecdote about a positive customer service experience that reshaped their office greetings, subtly yet significantly influencing the company’s culture. This story highlights how small changes can have far-reaching effects on an organization's atmosphere and employee morale.
In episode 5 of season 2, Vitaly notes that leadership is not just about leading others but also about continuous self-development and fostering an environment where both employees and the company thrive. His experiences and strategies shine a light on the path to being an adaptive, thoughtful, and impactful leader. As the podcast episode concludes, listeners are left with actionable insights and the encouragement to reflect, adapt, and lead with intention and innovation.
Tune in to explore Vitaly's techniques and insights that helped propel a bootstrapped company to monumental success, now operating with over 1100 employees across 10 countries.
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Rob Khazzam's tenure on Uber's first international launch team provided invaluable lessons that continue to shape his leadership as CEO of Float.
At Uber, Rob experienced an environment marked by an unwavering focus on talent, a bias for action, and relentless execution. Amidst the intense and fast-paced environment, Rob also recognized the importance of being willing to think really big and go for it.
Rob Khazzam is the CEO and Co-Founder of Float, a revolutionary fintech company helping companies simplify spending through a corporate card and spend management software. Prior to becoming a founder, Rob worked at Uber for 5 years in international expansion and general management in Eastern Europe and Canada.
In episode 4 of season 2, Rob shares his journey of intense growth from launching Uber in different countries to founding and leading Float. He emphasizes the importance of communication, organization, and reflection in becoming a better manager. Rob also discusses the culture at Float, focusing on values such as talent density, risk tolerance, urgency, customer obsession, and a culture of learning and growth. He shares his insights on hiring excellent talent and the importance of resilience and passion. Rob encourages leaders to stop coddling their teams and instead lead with transparency and context.
Tune in to hear all about Rob’s leadership journey and the lessons learned along the way!
. . .
Like this episode? Be sure to leave a ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ review and share the podcast with your colleagues.
. . .
TIME-STAMPED SHOW NOTES:
[03:11] Going from private equity to Uber
[08:48] How to know when to seize the rocket ship
[15:20] Accountability and focus: key drivers at Uber
[19:57] The problem with unproductive meetings
[23:21] Organizational growth and improved management
[29:05] Building a culture of talent and customer obsession at Float
[33:11] Hiring for culture and continuous growth at Float
[38:24] The importance of risk tolerance in startups
👉 Check out the resources mentioned here: https://fellow.app/supermanagers/rob-khazzam-float/
RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:
Connect with Rob on LinkedIn
Follow Rob on X
Subscribe to the Supermanagers TLDR newsletter
Join the Supermanagers Slack Community
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Mark Frein, COO of Oyster, discusses how he approaches his role as a multifunctional executive. He emphasizes the importance of focusing on the scope and responsibilities of the job, rather than the title.
Transitioning from a single-function to a multifunctional executive, like a COO, requires a significant shift in how you operate. According to Mark Frein, whether it's navigating a discussion on service metrics one moment and pivoting to product innovation the next, being able to adapt and change at a moment's notice is vital.
Mark Frein is a seasoned leader and the Chief Operating Officer at Oyster. With decades of experience in the tech industry, including roles as Chief People Officer and a professor in academia, Mark has established himself as a dynamic force driving organizational growth and operational excellence.
In episode 3 of season 2, Mark offers valuable perspectives on effective goal setting, prioritization, and the power of hypothesis-oriented goals in driving success. He delves into prioritizing job scope and responsibilities over titles and shares insights on aligning people practices with business objectives. Mark explores the challenges of fostering cross-functional collaboration and highlights the importance of fostering a cohesive team environment. Drawing from his expertise as an executive coach, he discusses the role of HR in a business context and the significance of systems thinking and multidisciplinary approaches in leadership. Mark also addresses the evolving landscape of remote work in 2024, advocating for inclusivity and equal opportunities in distributed work environments.
Tune in to hear all about Mark’s leadership journey and the lessons learned along the way!
. . .
Like this episode? Be sure to leave a ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ review and share the podcast with your colleagues.
. . .
TIME-STAMPED SHOW NOTES:
[04:02] Context switching as a multifunctional executive
[09:25] Shiny object syndrome
[14:28] Creating cross-functional collaboration
[20:19] Executive coaching in leadership
[28:11] Systems thinking and multidisciplinary approaches
[33:50] The state of remote work in 2024
[39:04] The never-ending craft of being a manager
👉 Check out the resources mentioned here: https://fellow.app/supermanagers/mark-frein-oyster/
RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:
Connect with Mark on LinkedIn
Follow Mark on Medium
Check out the book Range by David Epstein
Join the Supermanagers Slack community
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There’s a secret formula behind fostering innovation, driving success, and creating positive work environments in large corporations.
Optimism, coupled with curiosity and kindness, are traits that leaders must embody to create synergies, boost efficiency, and improve working relationships in their organizations. According to Mauro Porcini, these underrated characteristics allow leaders to see progress, stay motivated and overcome any obstacles.
Mauro Porcini is a visionary leader and the first-ever Chief Design Officer at PepsiCo. With a distinguished career spanning renowned organizations like 3M and Philips Design, Mauro has been at the forefront of infusing design thinking into corporate cultures worldwide. He hosts the podcast ‘In Your Shoes With Mauro Porcini,’ where he explores the creative minds shaping our world. Mauro is also an accomplished author, with his latest book, "The Human Side of Innovation,” has earned accolades for his insights into innovation, design, and leadership.
In episode 2 of season 2, Mauro Porcini discusses the importance of dreaming big and creating space for innovation within organizations. He shares his experience implementing the 15% time approach in PepsiCo, allowing employees to work on passion projects. He also highlights the importance of dreaming big and executing ideas through prototyping and experimentation. Mauro also discusses insights from his book, 'The Human Side of Innovation,' which highlights the importance of people in driving successful projects. He concludes by emphasizing the importance of love for the people served, love for what one does, and love for the people surrounding us as key drivers of success and happiness.
Tune in to discover Mauro’s wealth of insights in creating a culture of innovation and kindness in your organizations!
. . .
Like this episode? Be sure to leave a ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ review and share the podcast with your colleagues.
. . .
TIME-STAMPED SHOW NOTES:
[07:49] Surrounding yourself with inspiring people
[15:15] ‘The Human Side of Innovation'
[25:26] The 15% time rule
[30:55] The importance of optimism, curiosity, and kindness in business
[44:27] The three dimensions of love in the workplace
👉 Check out the resources mentioned here: https://fellow.app/supermanagers/mauro-porcini-pepsico/
RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:
Connect with Mauro on LinkedIn
Follow Mauro on Instagram and X
Read Mauro’s book ‘The Human Side of Innovation: The Power of People in Love with People’
Check out Mauro’s podcast In Your Shoes With Mauro Porcini
Join the Supermanagers Slack community
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