Episodes
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In this episode, host Michael Mitchel interviews Laura Hamirani, a speech language pathologist specializing in therapy for voice disorders. They discuss vocal executive presence and preventing vocal strain in the new Zoom culture. Laura emphasizes the importance of vocal warm-ups, breathing techniques, and vocal hygiene for maintaining a healthy voice. They also explore the impact of remote work and virtual platforms on voice issues. Laura shares advice on improving executive presence vocally and how it can prevent vocal cord strain.
Takeaways
• Speaking in a comfortable pitch and controlling cadence can enhance executive presence.
• Remote work and virtual platforms can contribute to vocal strain and voice issues.
• Be mindful of vocal hygiene, such as staying hydrated and avoiding throat clearing.
• Practice vocal warm-ups and breathing techniques to maintain a healthy voice.
An accomplished Soprano singer, Laura earned a Masters in Speech Language and
Learning focusing on Pathology from Northwestern University. For over five years,
Laura has been a Speech-Language Pathologist specializing in voice disorders. -
In this episode of CXO Conversations, Michael Mitchel interviews Anna Conrad,
CEO of Impact Leadership Solutions, about executive coaching and the changing
landscape of executive presence. They discuss the importance of reflection, self-
awareness, and personal growth in executive coaching. They also explore how
executive presence has evolved over the years, emphasizing the need for
authenticity, connection, and integrity. Anna shares tips for projecting executive
presence in virtual meetings, including being mindful of backgrounds, showing up
fully, and being present. They also touch on the importance of concise
communication and the power of silence in conversations.
Key Takeaways:
• Executive coaching focuses on reflection, self-awareness, and personal
growth.
• Executive presence has evolved to emphasize authenticity, connection, and
integrity.
• Anna share tips for projecting executive presence in virtual meetings
include being mindful of backgrounds, showing up fully, and being present.Anna Conrad JD has been an executive coach for over 17 years. She is the Founder
and moderator of Executive Voices, a panel series with leading senior leadership
from Colorado’s premier companies. Anna also teaches at University of Denver, a
campus she knows well – she graduated from their DU law school. -
Episodes manquant?
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In this episode of CXO Conversations, Michael interviews Mike Murphy, Managing Partner of Sunstone Management Advisors, about the skills he gained during his career growth in the insurance industry and the advice he received throughout his career.
They discuss the importance of building a diverse skill set and over earning your pay. They also
emphasize the value of having an internal Sherpa who actively promotes and advocates for your career growth.he key takeaways from the conversation are:
1) Build your skill set and portfolio to enhance your career prospects,
2) Find an internal Sherpa who can guide and support your professional development.After over 20 years within the insurance industry, Mike founded Sunstone Management Advisors. Offering consulting services leveraging executive skillset and expertise in the healthcare and insurance industries to help clients improve operations and accelerate growth. Services included Strategic Planning, Operations, Performance Metrics, Product Development, Distribution, and Sales Effectiveness.
Mike has served as COO for American Medical and Life Insurance Company, EVP with National
General Insurance and CEO of HRGi Holdings. -
Abbas Udawala is the CFO of Hexagon Digital Wave who is a seasoned financial veteran with a track record of turning companies around. He joins us today to share his insights on leadership and building a strong personal brand.
With a resume that includes nine transactions and executive roles in multiple industries, Abbas knows a thing or two about navigating the complex world of business. He's been involved in everything from high-growth startups to turnarounds, giving him a unique perspective on the challenges and opportunities facing today's leaders.
During the conversation, Abbass discusses the importance of your personal brand:
Earn the Trust- through authentic conversations
Transparency-Open dialogue and trust building
Self Awareness- be honest with yourself to maximize your strengths and identify areas to improve
Two key takeaways:
Honesty in leadership- have those direct conversations while being proactive
Operational ownership- you have to know your business
In addition to Hexagon Digital Wave, Abbass has been a CFO for Custom Window Systems (sold to strategic buyers), US Fence Solutions, Antelope Oil Tool & Mfg. Co, Griffen Dewatering, PGI International (Sold to a strategic buyer) and more. He holds an MBA from Tulane University and volunteers with business and social nonprofits.
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Veracode’s CRO Andre Cuenin joins CXO Conversations and shares his journey
from sales to the C suite. He doesn’t like the title Chief Revenue Officer as it puts
the focus on him versus the customer.
Andre moved from presales to sales by having a post presentation conversation
with a customer; he casually asked for the signature.
Authenticity; be more authentic, gain and share experiences and value
During the conversation, Andre shares his three core management philosophies:
wisdom Importance of having a plan; don’t chase the money- chase the dream Go the extra mile; there’s no traffic jam thereAndre discusses the value and importance of always being curious and learning.
Be who you are and be truthful to yourself Go outside your comfort zone Passion gives you confidence
Key take aways from the conversation with Andre:In addition to Veracode, Andre has served in C level roles for Rapid7, Cherwell
Software and President for the Americas and Europe for IR.
Andre also led worldwide sales for StrataVia until it was acquired by HP and held
many leadership roles for CA in both Europe and the US. He earned his BSC in Computer Science from the University of Applied Sciences and Arts Northwestern
Switzerland. -
In this episode, Dave Wynne, CFO of Hootsuite, discusses his career journey, from starting as a consultant to becoming a leading financial executive. He shares how his foundational consulting experience applies across different industries and shaped him into the leader he is today.
Dave dives into his unique perspective on the CFO role, comparing it to the central nervous system of a company. He also explores the evolution of the CFO position and the changing demands it requires.
Key takeaways for listeners include:
The importance of finding a work culture aligned with your values and ethics.
How setting goals and cultivating the right mindset are crucial for achieving success.
The art of receiving recognition for your accomplishments while maintaining humility.
Dave's extensive career covers a wide range of companies, including those in technology, apparel, manufacturing, and private equity (PE) and venture capital (VC) sectors. He also spent five years at The Riverside Company, a leading private equity firm with over $14 billion in assets under management (AUM).
This episode is packed with valuable insights for anyone looking to build a successful career in finance or business leadership.
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Join Michael Mitchel for a sneak peek into the upcoming season of CXO Conversations. We've lined up a stellar lineup of guests who share their invaluable perspectives and experiences on leadership, innovation, and success. From Dave Wynne, CFO of Hootsuite, discussing the power of internal sponsorship, to Carlos Abisambra, former CEO of Travelers Haven, sharing insights on scaling a business successfully. Abbas Udawala, CFO of Hexagon Digital Wave, dives into building trust and transparency, while Andre Cuenin, CEO of Veracode, shares his management philosophies. Get ready for a season packed with actionable advice and inspiring stories. Stay tuned!
More episodes and resources: https://ocns.co/podcast/
Thank you to ACG Denver for being a sponsor of CXO Conversations Podcast. Association for Corporate Growth in its role as the hub of the middle market business community for quality networking, education and events. Connections are made, deals are formed and thought leadership is exchanged.
Enjoy the show? Leave us a review on iTunes – thanks!
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As CXO Conversations wraps up another season, host Michael Mitchel reflects on the increasing role of AI in our daily lives. From streamlining tasks to enhancing productivity, Michael shares practical examples of how AI is making an impact, both personally and professionally. Join us for a brief yet insightful episode, and stay tuned for the return of engaging interviews next spring!
More episodes and resources: https://ocns.co/podcast/
Thank you to ACG Denver for being a sponsor of CXO Conversations Podcast. Association for Corporate Growth in its role as the hub of the middle market business community for quality networking, education and events. Connections are made, deals are formed and thought leadership is exchanged.
Enjoy the show? Leave us a review on iTunes – thanks!
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In this special edition of CXO Conversations, host Michael Mitchel revisits an engaging dialogue with John Vranas, who at the time was the Chief Development Officer for the Humane Society of America. This episode covers a breadth of topics that all can benefit from; from program creation to donor ( or sales) engagement and executive leadership preparation.
John's insights transcend organizational boundaries, offering actionable strategies applicable to both for-profit and nonprofit sectors. His journey from volunteering to leadership underscores the transformative power of personal experiences, while his emphasis on engagement, storytelling, and strategic alignment provides invaluable guidance for driving impact and fostering a culture of purpose and innovation.
Regardless of whether you're in a nonprofit, for-profit, or volunteering role, John's wisdom provides actionable strategies for fostering a culture of purpose and innovation.
Full show notes and resources: https://ocns.co/podcast/
Key highlights include:
Organizational Distinction: Understanding the roles of the Humane Society and the Humane Society of the United States clarifies their collaborative efforts.
Leadership Essentials: Engagement, storytelling, and strategic thinking are crucial for Chief Development Officers.
Strategic Planning: Clear direction and accountability drive consistent growth and success.
Fundraising Balance: Aligning funds with strategic goals ensures sustainability and impact.
Program Innovation: Collaboration and effective execution are key in implementing innovative initiatives.
Team Dynamics: Hiring based on values and fostering teamwork parallels successful sports rosters.
Ethical Engagement: Authentic storytelling respects donors' sensitivities and maintains trust.
Leadership Clarity: Providing clear direction in fundraising efforts is essential for success.
Management Development: Middle managers seeking leadership experiences contribute to organizational growth.
Personal Growth: Curiosity fuels innovation and personal development within nonprofits.
Commitment to Learning: Fully committing to diverse perspectives fosters effective problem-solving and relationship-building.
Timestamps
John Vranas and his role at the Humane Society of the United States (00:00:00)
Distribution of funds and lobbying efforts within the organization (00:07:16)
Career path and skills required for a Chief Development Officer (00:14:23)
Importance of engagement and storytelling in fundraising (00:19:21)
Convergence of development, strategy, and marketing roles in nonprofits (00:20:30)
Balancing unrestricted and restricted funds in fundraising efforts (00:21:26)
Process of implementing innovative programs and initiatives (00:26:57)
Criteria for hiring key personnel and building cohesive teams (00:30:38)
Ethical considerations in storytelling and donor engagement (00:34:41)
Importance of providing clear direction in fundraising efforts (00:36:55)
Parallels between fundraising strategies and investment portfolios (00:37:50)
Value of middle managers seeking experiences demonstrating leadership (00:39:32)
Personal anecdotes shaping career path and leadership qualities (00:42:17)
Significance of curiosity in contributing to nonprofit organizations (00:44:23)
Importance of showing work and committing to different perspectives (00:45:36)
Lessons learned from past experiences and advice received (00:48:10)
Thank you to ACG Denver for being a sponsor of CXO Conversations Podcast. Association for Corporate Growth in its role as the hub of the middle market business community for quality networking, education and events. Connections are made, deals are formed and thought leadership is exchanged.
Enjoy the show? Leave us a review on iTunes – thanks! -
Join host Michael Mitchel as he welcomes back Ben Deda, CEO of Food Maven, for a revealing look at the company's four-year journey. Explore key milestones, strategic shifts, and insights into navigating challenges in the food industry. Gain valuable lessons in leadership, resilience, and adaptability while gaining optimism for the future of Denver's startup ecosystem.
Full show notes and resources: https://ocns.co/podcast/
Key highlights include:
Strategic Evolution: Ben Deda outlines Food Maven's strategic shift towards a tech-centric model, reflecting on their trajectory over the past four years.
Tech-Driven Solutions: The episode explores Food Maven's transition into a technology-driven provider, spotlighting the introduction of their Procurement API.
Navigating Stakeholder Dynamics: The intricacies of managing stakeholders amidst uncertainty and transformation, emphasizing effective communication strategies.
Market Fit and Resistance: Reflecting on industry challenges, Ben highlights strategic shifts made to align with market demands, overcoming resistance to change.
Investor Relations: The importance of investor buy-in during strategic pivots and setbacks is discussed, shedding light on managing expectations.
Lessons Learned: Insights gleaned from Food Maven's journey, stressing the significance of adaptability and maintaining a clear business narrative.
Leadership Traits: Drawing from experience, Ben elaborates on essential leadership traits and decision-making skills crucial for navigating uncertain environments.
Timestamps
00:00:00 - Introduction
00:01:41 - Challenges Faced During the Pandemic
00:02:11 - Growth Strategies and Acquisitions
00:03:14 - Impact of COVID-19 on Fundraising Efforts
00:04:07 - Transitioning to a Tech-Centric Business Model
00:05:16 - Introduction of Food Maven's Procurement API
00:06:27 - Challenges and Opportunities in Food Procurement
00:07:32 - Transformation from Tech-Enabled to a Tech Company
00:09:15 - Managing Stakeholders and Communication Strategies
00:14:48 - Strategy evolution and go-to-market approaches
00:16:24 - Overcoming challenges in stakeholder engagement
00:17:39 - Industry resistance to change and finding the right market fit
00:18:43 - Dealing with investor expectations and buy-in
00:19:31 - Lessons learned and the importance of creating optionality
00:20:27 - Gaining wisdom and skills through experience
00:21:04 - Leadership traits and decision-making in uncertain environments
00:22:22 - Reflections on Denver Startup Week and adapting to changing community dynamics
00:25:15 - Goals and considerations for the future of Denver Startup Week
00:27:00 - Building optionality and maintaining a clear narrative in business
Thank you to ACG Denver for being a sponsor of CXO Conversations Podcast. Association for Corporate Growth in its role as the hub of the middle market business community for quality networking, education and events. Connections are made, deals are formed and thought leadership is exchanged.
Enjoy the show? Leave us a review on iTunes – thanks!
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In this episode of CXO Conversations, host Michael Mitchel revisits an insightful interview with Ben Deda, CEO of Food Maven, and co-founder of Denver Startup Week. This conversation dives deep into Food Maven's mission to combat food waste by revolutionizing the distribution model, prioritizing sustainability, efficiency, and community impact.
Ben shares his personal journey transitioning from tech to CEO, and provides insights into the inception and growth of Denver Startup Week, highlighting its format, impact, and key lessons learned.
Join Michael and Ben as they explore sustainable business practices, community-building, and visionary leadership, offering a compelling exploration of the challenges and opportunities in driving positive change. Plus, stay tuned for the next episode, where Ben shares updates on Food Maven's journey over the past four years.
Key highlights include:
Fighting Food Waste: Ben Deda discusses Food Maven's mission to transform food distribution, focusing on sustainability and community impact.
Tech-Driven Solutions: Food Maven's platform connects surplus food with buyers, reducing waste and supporting local suppliers.
CEO Journey: Ben shares his transition from tech to CEO, highlighting leadership and collaboration.
CEO Focus Areas: Ben outlines key areas of focus for CEOs, shaped by influential roles in his career.
Denver Startup Week: Ben explores the origins and impact of Denver Startup Week, sharing valuable insights and lessons learned.
Timestamps
Introduction of Ben Deda - (00:00:00)
Overview of Food Maven's Mission and Operations - (00:01:42)
Addressing Food Waste Challenges - (00:03:22)
Tech Integration and Business Model Evolution - (00:04:39)
Transitioning to CEO Role and Leadership Insights - (00:06:05)
Mentors, Board Management, and Succession Planning - (00:08:28)
CEO Preparedness and Learning from Experiences - (00:10:26)
Ben's Key Focus Areas as CEO - (00:13:42)
Influential Roles in Ben's Career Journey - (00:15:31)
Advice for Aspiring CEOs - (00:16:09)
Co-founding Denver Startup Week - (00:19:04)
Evolution and Impact of Denver Startup Week - (00:23:26)
Lessons Learned from Organizing Denver Startup Week - (00:25:15)
Transition from Day-to-Day Operations to Board - (00:28:13)
Temperature Adjustment in Warehouse Setting - (00:29:20)
Resources
Ben Deda’s LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/benjamindeda/
Ben Deda´s original episode: https://ocns.co/ceo-ben-deda-changing-industries-and-building-communities/
Thank you to ACG Denver for being a sponsor of CXO Conversations Podcast. Association for Corporate Growth in its role as the hub of the middle market business community for quality networking, education and events. Connections are made, deals are formed and thought leadership is exchanged.
Enjoy the show? Leave us a review on iTunes – thanks! -
In this episode of CXO Conversations, host Michael Mitchel engages with Laura Ortman, CEO of COLOGIX, to explore her dynamic journey from the athletic fields through various pivotal roles in the tech industry to her current position at the helm of a leading network-neutral interconnection and Hyperscale Edge data center company. Laura shares her comprehensive insights into the power of teamwork, perseverance, and a broad understanding of business operations that shaped her into a results-driven leader. She delves into the nuances of customer experience, the importance of culture, and the collaborative ethos underpinning successful leadership.
Through her narrative, Laura provides invaluable advice for aspiring leaders, emphasizing the significance of building relationships, embracing risks, and the continuous pursuit of learning, making this episode a treasure trove of leadership wisdom and inspiration.
Key highlights include:
Laura’s diverse career path across tech, DOD, and aviation, culminating in her role as CEO of COLOGIX.
How Laura’s leadership philosophy was shaped by an athletic background, emphasizing teamwork, resilience, and a broad operational understanding.
The pivotal role of customer experience in business success, illustrated by her approach to rebuilding trust and driving customer retention.
The significance of culture, network building, and embracing risks as foundational elements for reaching the C-suite and fostering a successful organization.
Tune in for an inspiring conversation that unveils the secrets of resilient leadership in the fast-paced business world.
Timestamps
Introduction to Laura Ortman and COLOGIX (00:01:06)
Overview of COLOGIX's Business Model (00:01:58)
Differences Between Public and Private Companies (00:03:48)
Athletic Background Influence on Leadership (00:06:23)
Attraction to the CEO Role (00:08:48)
Moment of Realization for CEO Ambition (00:10:47)
Leadership Philosophy: Presence, Listening, and Leading (00:15:19)
Implementing 'Together We Win' Mantra (00:16:20)
Adapting Leadership Approaches Post-2020 (00:17:57)
Advice for Aspiring C-Suite Executives (00:20:41)
The Importance of Building a Trustworthy Team (00:22:17)
Role and Challenges in Customer Experience (00:25:32)
Acquiring Listening Skills and Importance of Crucial Conversations (00:29:33)
Reflections on Building a Network and Importance of Culture in Organizations (00:32:56)
Resources
Laura Ortman’s LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/lauraortman/
Book: Crucial Conversations: Tools for Talking When Stakes are High - https://www.amazon.com/Crucial-Conversations-Tools-Talking-Stakes/dp/1260474186
Thank you to ACG Denver for being a sponsor of CXO Conversations Podcast. Association for Corporate Growth in its role as the hub of the middle market business community for quality networking, education and events. Connections are made, deals are formed and thought leadership is exchanged.
Enjoy the show? Leave us a review on iTunes – thanks! -
In this episode of "CXO Conversations," host Michael Mitchel welcomes Grant Stanis, a dynamic CEO renowned for his resilience and strategic acumen in the corporate world. Stanis shares his compelling journey from his first student council campaign to the helm of major corporations, revealing the pivotal role of resilience in climbing the corporate ladder. Delve into his insightful reflections on the multifaceted challenges of a CEO, from transforming struggling companies to fostering team growth and innovation. Stanis's unique approach, blending disciplined execution with a positive mindset, offers invaluable lessons for aspiring executives.
Key highlights include:
Exploring his early ambition and path to becoming a successful CEO.
Discussing the comprehensive responsibilities and transformative influence of a CEO on an organization and its team.
Emphasizing how bouncing back from setbacks and learning from mistakes are crucial for business success.
Highlighting that effective execution is often more critical than the strategy itself in business growth and success.
Tune in for an inspiring conversation that unveils the secrets of resilient leadership in the fast-paced business world.
Timestamps
🎯 Grant Stanis' Leadership Ambition (00:01:42)
🌿 CEO Growth and Team Evolution (00:03:04)
🧭 Mentorship in CEO Journey (00:05:08)
🔄 Business Resilience (00:07:56)
🌐 From CFO to CEO: Learning Journey (00:10:14)
✨ Embracing Risks for Success (00:14:06)
💪 Leadership Resilience (00:17:47)
🌞 Positive Leadership Approach (00:19:30)
📚 Lessons from Each Role (00:20:10)
🔑 Consistency and Discipline (00:22:33)
🤔 Resilient Executive Leadership (00:24:09)
📈 Discipline in Business Success (00:25:36)
👥 Right People, Right Roles (00:27:45)
🌟 Positive Resilience in Leadership (00:29:07)
🌱 Young Executives: Resilience Key (00:32:28)
👏 Closing Remarks (00:33:49)
Resources
Grant Stanis LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/grantstanis/
Thank you to ACG Denver for being a sponsor of CXO Conversations Podcast. Association for Corporate Growth in its role as the hub of the middle market business community for quality networking, education and events. Connections are made, deals are formed and thought leadership is exchanged.
Enjoy the show? Leave us a review on iTunes – thanks!
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Dive into 'CXO Conversations' with host Michael Mitchel as he welcomes The Honorable Patrick J. Murphy. From a U.S. Army officer to a congressman and venture capitalist, Murphy's journey is a tale of resilience and leadership. In this episode, explore his transition from military service to influential roles in Congress and the private sector. Discover how Murphy's leadership philosophy, shaped by experiences in the armed forces and public office, guides his current role at Stoney Lonesome Group, a venture capital firm supporting veteran-owned businesses.
Key highlights include:
Murphy's leadership philosophy combining confidence, humility, and empathy.
Transition from military service to Congress and the private sector.
Insights into veteran unemployment and equality in the armed forces.
Murphy's venture into television with MSNBC and his work in venture capitalism.
The importance of a growth mindset and inclusive leadership for emerging leaders.
Tune in for an inspiring journey of transformation and lessons in leadership with Patrick Murphy.
Timestamps
🎤 Introduction (00:00:00
🛣️ Patrick Murphy's Diverse Career (00:00:45)
🏅 Veteran Entrepreneurship (00:01:05)
❤️ Passion for Making a Difference (00:02:20)
🚀 Challenges in Business Ventures (00:04:47)
🗳️ Public Service and Politics (00:09:40)
🏛️ Decision to Run for Congress (00:10:55)
📺 Murphy's Transition to MSNBC (00:11:26)
🎙️ Media Appearances and Public Speaking (00:13:00)
🎥 First Day Hosting Own Show (00:14:48)
💼 Veteran Entrepreneurship and Investment (00:19:33)
🔑 Key Takeaways for Emerging Leaders (00:25:37)
🌈 Career Reflection and Lessons Learned (00:27:30)
Resources
Patrick J. Murphy's Book Recommendation: $100M Careers: The 5 Fastest Career Paths to Wealth Beyond Your Wildest Dreams Hardcover – December 1, 2022 by Emmy Sobieski (Author) - https://www.amazon.com/100M-Careers-Fastest-Career-Wildest/dp/B0BMKP4R26
Patrick’s Website - https://www.patrickjmurphy.com/
Thank you to ACG Denver for being a sponsor of CXO Conversations Podcast. Association for Corporate Growth in its role as the hub of the middle market business community for quality networking, education and events. Connections are made, deals are formed and thought leadership is exchanged.
Enjoy the show? Leave us a review on iTunes – thanks!
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In this season finale of CXO Conversations, host Michael Mitchel takes a moment to reflect on the remarkable year of 2023, revisiting the wealth of knowledge and diverse experiences shared by prominent executives, like Eric Lougher, David Cox, Craig Cummings, Janine Davidson, and many more.
Michael’s Key Highlights:
Stephen Brown's journey to becoming a President at 32, emphasizing confidence, seizing opportunities, and continual learning.
Rand Lewis’s insights on the hallmarks of great leadership and his experience as a successful investor.
Raphael Crawford Mark's transition from Founder to CEO at Bonusly, mirroring Michael’s own transition in the nonprofit sector.
As we bid farewell to this season, Michael teases the exciting lineup for the upcoming year, featuring notable guests like the Honorable Patrick Murphy, Grant Stanis, Christopher Lochhead, and Laura Ortman. Their forthcoming stories promise to bring fresh and inspiring perspectives to the podcast.
Special thanks to the talented CXO Conversations team for their invaluable contributions throughout the season.
Tune in and gear up for another year of engaging, insightful conversations that bridge the gap between ambition and achievement in the corporate world.
Happy holidays, and here's to a new year filled with more inspiring CXO Conversations!
Thank you to ACG Denver for being a sponsor of CXO Conversations Podcast. Association for Corporate Growth in its role as the hub of the middle market business community for quality networking, education and events. Connections are made, deals are formed and thought leadership is exchanged.
Enjoy the show? Leave us a review on iTunes - thanks!
Thank you Jalan Crossland for lending your award-winning banjo skills to CXO Conversations.
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Join host Michael Mitchel in a conversation with Jack Blaha, CEO of Cendyn, as they delve into his journey from West Point and military service to becoming a prominent figure in the corporate world. Blaha delves into the synergy between his military discipline and his achievements in the fast-paced world of SaaS industries like hospitality and social media marketing. He sheds light on the pivotal role of emotional intelligence in shaping company culture and the profound impact of a CEO's leadership style, offering invaluable advice for ambitious leaders on mastering the art of adaptability, the art of building robust professional networks, and the subtle art of leading successful teams.
What you will learn in this episode:
How military experience can be effectively leveraged in corporate leadership.
The significance of adaptability and leadership skills in business success.
Strategies for transitioning successfully from a military to a civilian career.
The impact of emotional intelligence on shaping company culture and performance.
The importance of mentorship and building a robust professional network.
Best practices for team building and operational efficiency in new companies.
Insights into navigating different sectors within the SaaS industry.
Key lessons learned from various CEO roles and how they can apply to your career.
Practical advice for aspiring leaders on career advancement and skill development.
Timestamps
🎙️ Meet Jack Blaha: A Leader's Journey (00:00:48)
🏛️ Why West Point? Unveiling Jack's Choice (00:01:36)
⚔️ Battlefield to Boardroom: Military Impact (00:02:04)
🔄 The Soldier to CEO Transition (00:03:11)
🛠️ Skills Forged in Service (00:03:43)
📊 Melding Military Tactics with Business Strategy (00:04:31)
👨💼 CEO Chronicles: Hard-Earned Lessons (00:05:39)
📚 Embracing Feedback and Lifelong Learning (00:08:29)
🤔 Confronting Leadership Hurdles (00:09:40)
🚀 CEO Success Stories and Challenges (00:10:21)
🌐 Diving into Diverse SaaS Domains (00:11:03)
🏅 First-Time CEO: Thrills and Fears (00:12:11)
🤝 The Power of Networking and Mentorship (00:13:40)
🧠 The Emotional Intelligence of a CEO (00:15:53)
🙏 A Word of Thanks to Our Sponsors (00:18:35)
💼 Private Equity vs. Public Markets Leadership (00:19:01)
📈 The Sweet Spot of Mid-Market Leadership (00:20:53)
🌟 Guiding VPs to CEO Success (00:21:02)
🔗 Cultivating a Strong Professional Network (00:22:42)
🏢 Assembling Winning Teams in New Ventures (00:23:37)
🚀 Fostering Future Leaders (00:24:49)
🌐 Broadening Horizons: Beyond Core Functions (00:27:44)
⚙️ Military Precision in Corporate Strategy (00:29:19)
🔄 Never Stop Evolving as a Leader (00:30:52)
This episode is not just a journey through Blaha's life but a great resource for anyone aspiring to climb the corporate ladder or seeking to refine their leadership prowess.
Thank you to ACG Denver for being a sponsor of CXO Conversations Podcast. Association for Corporate Growth in its role as the hub of the middle market business community for quality networking, education and events. Connections are made, deals are formed and thought leadership is exchanged.
Enjoy the show? Leave us a review on iTunes - thanks!
Thank you Jalan Crossland for lending your award-winning banjo skills to CXO Conversations.
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As the leader of a large public university and former undersecretary of the U.S. Navy, Dr. Janine Davidson has dedicated 30 years of her career to academic, civilian, and military service.
Since 2017, she has been the President of Metropolitan State University of Denver, where she has been a staunch advocate for underrepresented students, DACA recipients, and military and veteran students.
Prior to her work in higher education, she was appointed by former President Barack Obama as the 32nd undersecretary of the U.S. Navy. She's also a trailblazing pilot, being the first woman to fly the Air Force's tactical C-130.
In today’s episode, Janine reflects on her career:
The interview process to become undersecretary of the U.S. Navy
Engaging with the local community as President of MSU Denver
Becoming one of the first female pilots in the air force
Janine has been awarded many accolades, including the HillVets Top 100 Most Influential Veterans and the Secretary of the Navy Medal for Distinguished Public Service.
At the national level, she is chair of the Department of Defense Policy Board and serves on the State Department Foreign Affairs Policy Board. Locally in Denver, Janine serves on the boards of numerous organizations, including the Colorado Concern, Downtown Denver Partnership, and the Rose Community Foundation.
Thank you to ACG Denver for being a sponsor of CXO Conversations Podcast. Association for Corporate Growth in its role as the hub of the middle market business community for quality networking, education and events. Connections are made, deals are formed and thought leadership is exchanged.
Enjoy the show? Leave us a review on iTunes - thanks!
Thank you Jalan Crossland for lending your award-winning banjo skills to CXO Conversations.
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From the frontlines in Afghanistan to the center of the Texas startup ecosystem, Craig Cummings has built an incredible career developing technology that solves real-world problems. He’s now General Partner at Moonshots Capital, a venture capital firm in Austin that invests in technology startups, with a special focus on those founded by military veteran entrepreneurs.
Join us as we delve into Craig's inspiring journey, his insights into technology investments, and the unique perspective he brings to the entrepreneurial world.
In this episode, Craig shares with Michael his experience:
Crafting an elevator pitch that advances your career
Building a strong local entrepreneurship community in Austin
Helping other talented veteran entrepreneurs succeed
Before he became an entrepreneur, Craig spent 17 years in the Army, most of that time as an Intelligence Officer serving in support of the National Security Agency (NSA). Craig deployed to Afghanistan with the Joint Special Operations Command where he was awarded the Bronze Star.
Craig holds a B.S. in Political Science from the U.S. Military Academy at West Point, where he was recognized as their first Truman Scholar. He also has a Ph.D. in Political Science with a minor in Econometrics from Columbia University.
Thank you to ACG Denver for being a sponsor of CXO Conversations Podcast. Association for Corporate Growth in its role as the hub of the middle market business community for quality networking, education and events. Connections are made, deals are formed and thought leadership is exchanged.
Enjoy the show? Leave us a review on iTunes - thanks!
Thank you Jalan Crossland for lending your award-winning banjo skills to CXO Conversations.
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Perry Kamel has served in numerous leadership roles; Global executive, COO, CEO many times. He has led many organizations through growth and turn arounds by focusing on the people- not the numbers.
Perry shares his experiences and thoughts on:
Difference between management and leadership
It’s all about the people- the rest will follow
Never stop learning- never stop reading
Also, Perry speaks to how his experience in the US Navy created his servant leadership skills.
Siemens, Accenture, McKinsey, BroadPoint Communications, Ciena, Maxamine … Perry has been a CEO, CMO, EVP for brand names. His first CEO role was withing six years of separating from the US Navy.
Perry served as a Service Warfare Officer in the United States Navy and quickly earned a reputation for advancing the careers of those around him. After earning a BSEE at Cornell, his education continued with a MSEE and Wharton MBA.
Thank you to ACG Denver for being a sponsor of CXO Conversations Podcast. Association for Corporate Growth in its role as the hub of the middle market business community for quality networking, education and events. Connections are made, deals are formed and thought leadership is exchanged.
Enjoy the show? Review us on iTunes- thanks!
Thank you Jalan Crossland for lending your award-winning banjo skills to CXO Conversations.
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Sean Odendahl has worked for only four organizations, including his current employer of 17 years. For the last three years, Sean has been serving at the Chief Transformation Officer for the global law firm Bryan Cave Leighton Paisner.
Sean shares his perspective on:
The importance of direct feedback as a path to improvement
Power of candid mentor relationships for professional growth
What a successful mentorship looks like
Also, Sean speaks to how his experience in the US Army influenced his leadership skills and approach.
Sean’s legal and professional career has been guided by the counsel he provides to buyers and sellers in private equity investments, transactions and M&A related issues.
Sean served in the US Army for over four years with the 82nd Airborne and deployed to Operation Desert Sheild/Storm. After graduating law school, he clerked with in the Ninth Circuit, US Court of Appeals. For five years, Sean was an attorney before moving to Bryan Cave that has become BCLP, a global law firm.
Thank you to ACG Denver for being a sponsor of CXO Conversations Podcast. Association for Corporate Growth in its role as the hub of the middle market business community for quality networking, education and events. Connections are made, deals are formed and thought leadership is exchanged.
Enjoy the show? Review us on iTunes- thanks!
Thank you Jalan Crossland for lending your award-winning banjo skills to CXO Conversations.
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