Enterprise Alchemy

Should women 'act like a man', to win?In this conversation, Courtney Meyers shares her unique journey from aspiring ER doctor to combat medic, and eventually to a leadership role in the corporate world. She discusses the intense experiences she faced in the military, the lessons learned about resilience and grit, and how these experiences shaped her leadership style. Courtney emphasizes the importance of authenticity, the challenges of navigating gender dynamics in male-dominated fields, and the value of flexible work arrangements for individuals with diverse needs. Finally, she highlights the significance of learning and development in the workplace and the role of intuition in effective leadership.We interview C-Suite folks, who are living and breathing proof that a people first leadership approach, will always provide a return on investment.Chapters00:00 From ER Dreams to Combat Medic02:38 Lessons from the Military Experience05:25 Navigating a Male-Dominated Environment08:07 Coping Mechanisms in High-Pressure Situations10:47 Leadership at Its Rawest13:21 Transitioning to Corporate Life16:14 Challenging Gender Norms in Leadership20:56 Building Confidence in Women’s Careers25:18 The Impact of Female Leadership29:57 Flexibility and Empowerment in the Workplace35:38 Learning and Development in Adult Education40:04 Advice to My Younger Self

"AI is coming to eat us alive."In this conversation, Meg Schirnhofer interviews Mari Parker, the Chief Operating Officer of Boldr, discussing the challenges and opportunities presented by AI, the importance of company culture during rapid growth, and the personal mission of raising feminist sons. Mari shares insights on work-life integration, the significance of building strong relationships with clients and suppliers, and the need for awareness around rare health issues affecting her family. The discussion emphasises the balance between professional responsibilities and personal values, advocating for a compassionate and inclusive approach in both business and parenting.Chapters00:00 The Future of AI: Opportunities and Threats03:28 Navigating AI: Embracing Change and Innovation06:14 The Impact of AI on Entry-Level Jobs09:27 Critical Thinking in the Age of AI12:07 Scaling Operations: Lessons from Rapid Growth15:18 Building Long-Term Relationships with Suppliers18:01 Unified Culture: Internal and External Perspectives24:27 Embracing Authenticity in Team Culture25:35 The Journey of a Generalist28:16 Lessons from Amazon: Purpose vs. Compensation32:15 Raising Feminist Sons: A Mother's Perspective35:57 Creating Safe Spaces in the Workplace41:09 Work-Life Integration: A New Approach44:31 Advice to My Younger Self46:07 Raising Awareness for Rare CancerFind out more and support Nico here: Website: https://www.runfornico.com/ GoFundMe: https://www.gofundme.com/f/support-nicos-battle-against-ewing-sarcoma?lang=en_US&utm_campaign=man_ss_icons&utm_medium=customer&utm_source=copy_link&attribution_id=sl%3A6eb2cc54-e1d8-4a22-af6d-b67cf6c1f596

"You can never take your foot off the gas."In this engaging conversation, Dr. Jermaine King shares his multifaceted career journey, from being a sniper in the Air Force to becoming a Chief Human Resources Officer. He discusses the importance of time management, the drive for success, and the value of continuous learning. Jermaine emphasizes the significance of leadership and mentorship, the impact of comparison on personal growth, and the need for transparency in organizational culture. He also explores the balance between people and profit, the role of AI in learning and development, and offers insightful advice for overcoming imposter syndrome.Chapters00:00 The Journey of a Sniper: Time and Perspective03:26 Living with Intention: The Importance of Proactivity06:42 Defining Success: Personal Journeys and Comparisons09:12 The Role of Leadership: Impact and Responsibility12:14 Continuous Learning: Unlocking Potential in Others15:13 Navigating People and Profit: The Leader's Dilemma17:46 The Cost of Bad Leadership: Risks and Consequences29:33 The Law of Mimicry in Leadership32:23 Rethinking Learning and Development35:30 The Role of AI in Learning and Development40:14 Data-Driven Leadership Development45:12 Building a Positive Organizational Culture48:53 Overcoming Imposter Syndrome53:51 Advice to My Younger Self

"We do marry our parents."In this engaging conversation, Megan Schirnhofer interviews relationship expert Helena Marston, exploring the intricate connections between personal relationships and professional success. They discuss the psychological implications of marrying someone similar to one's parents, the importance of self-awareness, and the necessity of setting non-negotiables in dating. Helena shares her journey from corporate leadership to relationship coaching, emphasising the need for emotional intelligence and clarity in both personal and professional realms. The discussion also touches on the challenges faced by high achievers in maintaining healthy relationships and the significance of open communication in navigating love and life.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Relationship Dynamics03:17 The Impact of Childhood on Adult Relationships06:21 Coaching High Achievers in Relationships09:23 Establishing Non-Negotiables Early11:17 Emotional Habits of High Achievers15:11 Balancing Personal Needs and Relationships18:08 Identifying Relationship Red Flags21:17 Preventing Relationship Breakdowns24:22 Navigating Intimacy and Boundaries27:14 Navigating Boundaries in Relationships28:29 The Importance of Early Conversations in Dating29:58 Revisiting Beliefs About Love and Relationships32:39 Embracing Authenticity in Relationships33:17 Career Journey: From Recruitment to Leadership40:18 Crisis Management and Leadership at Purple Bricks50:10 Building Resilience and Self-Belief57:41 Advice to My Younger Self

"Growth can destroy a company."In this engaging conversation, CEO Bob Oros shares his insights on leadership, emphasizing the importance of caring for people as a foundational principle. He discusses his journey of scaling a company from $50 million to $400 million, the challenges of leadership, and the significance of mental health in the workplace. Oros also reflects on the evolving role of technology in business and the need for financial literacy among the younger generation. His advice to aspiring leaders includes the importance of patience, diverse experiences, and the courage to express their ambitions.Chapters00:00 The Essence of Leadership: Caring for People 07:48 Inspiration and Engagement: The CEO's Mantra 16:33 Navigating Growth: Questions for Success 27:53 The Art of Acquisitions 37:03 The Changing Value of Money 42:04 Financial Literacy for the Next Generation 50:40 Advice to My Younger Self

"What is your biggest problem right now?"In this engaging conversation, Megan Schirnhofer speaks with Ben Joe Markland about the intersection of communication, creativity, and technology. They explore Ben's passion for typewriters, the importance of effective communication in sales, and how AI is reshaping the landscape of customer service. The discussion highlights the need to balance traditional communication methods with modern technology, emphasising the value of human connection in an increasingly digital world.Chapters00:00 The Fascination with Typewriters 03:32 Communication in the Digital Age 06:08 Creative Job Hunting: The Power of Unconventional Approaches 11:53 Sales as a Service: Helping People Make Decisions 17:41 The Art of Communication: Beyond Words 21:51 Cultivating Listening Skills in a Digital World 23:03 The Evolution of AI and Communication 26:03 AI in Customer Experience 31:18 Balancing AI and Human Interaction 39:18 Integrating Old and New Communication Skills

"You're not broken, you're just misunderstood."In this episode, Julia Gibney shares her profound journey of self-discovery, revealing her late diagnosis of autism and the impact it has had on her life and career. She discusses the challenges faced by neurodivergent individuals, particularly women, in a society that often misunderstands them. Julia emphasises the importance of allyship, the need for systemic change in workplaces, and the evolving landscape of education and career paths. Through her experiences, she advocates for a more inclusive and understanding environment for future generations, while also addressing the significance of mental health and personal growth.Chapters00:00 Discovering Autism Later in Life03:09 Understanding Neurodivergence and Its Implications06:29 The Next Generation and Non-Traditional Learning Paths09:26 The Importance of Allyship in Male-Dominated Fields12:26 Challenging Gender Pay Gaps and Workplace Equity26:31 The Impact of DEI Policy Rollbacks28:32 Conversations for Change in Leadership29:46 The Role of Middle Management32:56 Navigating Toxic Leadership39:47 Coping with Anxiety and Depression44:10 Advice to My Younger Self50:58 Books and Resources for Personal Growth

"20 seconds of courage can open doors."In this engaging conversation, Megan Schirnhofer speaks with Robin Barbacane, Chief Talent and Development Officer, about the transformative power of courage, the essential role of leaders in fostering growth, and the integration of AI in HR. They explore the importance of trust, communication, and financial responsibility, while also discussing the challenges and strategies for organizational transformation. Robin shares her insights from her extensive experience in corporate environments, emphasizing the need for continuous learning and personal development.Chapters00:00 20 Seconds of Courage: A Life-Changing Mantra03:37 Embracing Uncomfortable Growth06:20 The Courage to Speak: Personal Stories09:10 Leadership Challenges in Organizations12:10 The Role of AI in HR15:12 Coaching: The Path to Leadership Development18:22 Navigating Fear and Uncertainty in Leadership21:17 Corporate Culture and Its Impact on Success26:28 Navigating Leadership Challenges30:15 Implementing AI in Organizations33:31 The Transformation Journey37:57 Evaluating Company Culture42:23 Continuous Learning and Growth49:42 Financial Responsibility for Young Professionals

"It's easier than ever to start a business now."In this engaging conversation, Megan Schirnhofer interviews Kelli Dragovich, a seasoned HR leader with experience at major tech companies like Google and Yahoo. They discuss the chaotic nature of large organizations, the significance of job titles, and the evolving work ethic of younger generations. Kelli shares insights on the challenges of traditional HR practices, the importance of building genuine connections, and the skills needed for future success in the workplace. The conversation also touches on the impact of AI on employment and the necessity of adapting to a rapidly changing work environment.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Initial Thoughts on Podcasting00:54 Insights from Google: The Chaos Behind Big Companies04:00 The Importance of Titles in Large Organizations06:59 Changing Perspectives on Work and Titles10:31 The Next Generation's Approach to Work12:58 Adapting to Changing Work Environments16:03 Navigating Career Transitions19:32 Challenging Traditional HR Norms22:20 Working with Founders: Empathy and Understanding25:45 The Mindset Shift in Work Culture32:07 Navigating the AI Landscape and Workforce Trends38:54 Building Genuine Connections and Personal Branding45:40 Reflections and Advice for the Future

"AI is a tool, not a decision maker."In this conversation, Mark Gilham, a VP of Global Advisory shares insights on the importance of prioritizing people and processes over technology in organisations. He emphasises the need for curiosity in leadership, understanding business context, and fostering relationships with suppliers and team members. Mark discusses the distinction between strategy and operations, the human element in technology adoption, and the value of an MBA in enhancing leadership skills. He also addresses the challenges of decision-making in investments and the role of AI as a supportive tool rather than a replacement for human judgment.Chapters00:00 Navigating AI and Organizational Change03:32 The Importance of People in Technology Adoption05:46 Leadership Decisions: Mass Rollouts vs. Nurtured Approaches07:40 Understanding Business Context and Curiosity10:33 Supplier Relationships and Sustainable Partnerships13:08 Strategy vs. Operations: Defining the Difference16:10 The Role of CFOs in Influencing Business Decisions19:06 Balancing Technology and Human Resources22:01 The Value of Measurement in Business Strategy25:08 Building Respect and Trust as a Leader28:14 Encouraging Ideas from Frontline Employees31:05 Navigating Investment Decisions and Sunk Costs34:06 Lessons from an MBA: Soft Skills and Corporate Culture36:33 AI as a Tool: Productivity vs. Strategy39:00 Advice for Future Generations

"You're not safe, absolutely not."In this conversation, Andres Andreu discusses the pervasive issues of trust in technology, particularly in the context of cybersecurity and AI. He emphasises the importance of scepticism towards tech claims, the vulnerabilities in communication methods, and the evolving landscape of cyber threats. The discussion also touches on the dark web, the necessity of internal security measures, and the importance of maintaining a healthy paranoia in a world increasingly reliant on technology. As the conversation progresses, Andreu shares insights on building trust in corporate environments and the future of cybersecurity amidst rapid technological advancements.Chapters00:00 The Trust Dilemma in Technology11:11 Surveillance and Communication Vulnerabilities18:16 The Dark Web and Its Implications23:41 Awareness and Corporate Security Misconceptions29:41 The Importance of Healthy Paranoia34:38 Building Trust in a Distrustful World39:14 Vetting Companies and Candidates44:14 The Future of Cybersecurity and AI

Beyond 5G, what's next?In this conversation, Megan Schirnhofer interviews Milan Parmar, Chief Operating Officer at Ericsson, discussing the transformative journey of data in the telecom industry. Milan shares insights on data collection, processing, and the importance of customer experience. He highlights trends in data usage, the future of AI, and the challenges organizations face in implementing machine learning. The discussion also touches on the role of Ericsson in enhancing mobile connectivity and the importance of leadership in technology-driven environments.Chapters00:00 The Journey of Data: From Collection to Insight07:02 Understanding Trends in Customer Experience11:25 The Role of AI in Future Predictions17:11 Balancing Technology and Environmental Impact18:41 Challenges in Machine Learning Implementation24:01 Managing AI Trust and Reliability28:59 The Human Element in Technology33:10 Leadership in a Tech-Driven World39:48 Advice to My Younger Self

"What are we optimising for?"In this engaging conversation, Oscar Chavarria, a seasoned Chief Operating Officer, shares his insights on optimizing operations, strategic planning, and the importance of communication in crisis management. He emphasizes the need for agility in business, the value of customer insights in product development, and the significance of continuous learning and curiosity. Oscar also discusses the challenges of being a COO, the balance between planning and thinking ahead, and the necessity of embracing imperfection. He concludes with personal reflections on growth, mentorship, and the importance of taking action.Chapters00:00 Navigating Operational Chaos07:33 Crisis Management and Adaptability13:44 Customer Insights and Product Development21:22 Planning vs. Thinking Ahead27:04 Embracing Imperfection32:32 The Influence of Role Models38:12 Learning from Unexpected Sources43:11 Embracing Fear and Vulnerability52:02 Advice to My Younger Self

"Negotiating from a place of knowledge is key."In this conversation, Megan Schirnhofer speaks with Bel Tejeda about navigating corporate landscapes, the impact of brand names on career trajectories, and the importance of building culture in large organizations. They discuss negotiation strategies for salary, the significance of showcasing skills beyond a resume, and how to manage career gaps. Bel shares insights on overcoming hustle culture, humanizing the recruitment process, and the importance of communication in hiring. The conversation concludes with advice for future candidates, emphasizing the need for adaptability and self-awareness in career decisions.Chapters00:00 Navigating Corporate Landscapes: Amazon and Beyond04:00 The Value of Brand Names in Job Searches07:03 Building Culture in Large Organizations09:34 Negotiating Your Worth: Understanding Salary Expectations10:21 Customizing Your Interview Approach18:22 Pivoting Careers: Identifying Transferable Skills21:27 Embracing Career Gaps and Emotional Resilience29:48 Challenging Hustle Culture: Finding Balance33:41 Humanizing the Recruitment Process37:12 Skills Employers Secretly Value39:30 Advice to My Younger Self: Trust the Process

"Scaling a service business isn’t about hustling harder, it's about..."In this conversation, Brad Beach shares his entrepreneurial journey, emphasizing the importance of efficiency, employee empowerment, and the balance between sales and growth. He discusses the challenges of scaling service-based businesses, the significance of passion in work, and the innovative model of Jobvious, which decentralizes talent acquisition. Brad also reflects on the role of failure in success and the importance of building a supportive team culture.Chapters00:00 Foundational Focus for Founders03:20 The Role of Sales in Business Success06:02 Marketing vs. Distribution09:10 The Evolution of Sales Strategies12:03 Service vs. Product: The Entrepreneur's Choice15:02 Scaling Challenges in Service Businesses18:06 Empowering Employees to be Entrepreneurs 20:58 The Journey of a Founder28:22 The Power of No Plan29:39 Resilience Through Failure: Learning from Setbacks31:37 Trust and Responsibility in Leadership34:55 The Birth of Jobvious: Innovating Talent Acquisition39:30 A New Approach to Hiring44:16 Overcoming Fear: The Challenge of Innovation46:58 The Importance of People: Building a Supportive Team50:27 Paying It Forward: The Value of Genuine Relationships

"I need to fill my cup first."In this episode, Meg Schirnhofer interviews Caroline Bishop, who shares her inspiring journey of losing over 100 pounds and the emotional healing that accompanied her transformation. Caroline discusses the importance of self-awareness, leadership, and the impact of personal experiences on professional life. She emphasizes the significance of morning rituals, self-care, and vulnerability in both personal and work environments. The conversation highlights how personal growth can enhance professional relationships and recruitment processes, ultimately leading to a more fulfilling life.Chapters00:00 Personal Transformation Journey06:11 Leadership and Self-Discovery12:14 Overcoming Food as a Crutch18:18 Morning Rituals for Success24:16 Transforming Recruitment through Personal Growth26:13 Navigating Career Transitions30:51 Rituals for Managing Work Stress33:54 Finding Purpose Through Adversity38:10 Identifying Company Culture and Values42:16 The Importance of Gut Feelings in Recruitment46:47 Embracing Vulnerability for Growth

Distribution vs. MarketingIn this engaging conversation, Megan Schirnhofer interviews Paul Cooper, the Chief Operating Officer of Cinch, who shares insights on transforming the media landscape, the journey of Cinch from startup to market leader, and the importance of user experience in driving consumer engagement. They discuss the effectiveness of advertising spend, the evolution of marketing strategies, and the resurgence of out-of-home marketing. Paul emphasizes the significance of distribution over marketing, the challenges businesses face in a changing economy, and the role of AI in shaping future strategies. He also reflects on the importance of networking, timing, and data-driven decisions in entrepreneurship, concluding with valuable advice for aspiring business leaders.Chapters00:00 Launching Cinch During Lockdown10:31 The Importance of User Experience14:54 Advertising Spend and Market Saturation18:58 Innovative Campaigns in Digital Marketing23:33 Distribution vs. Marketing26:48 Navigating Current Economic Challenges30:23 Consumer Behavior and Economic Trends32:43 The Role of AI in Business34:28 Luck and Timing in Success36:37 Networking and Relationships in Business39:33 Data-Driven Decision Making42:35 Growth Mindset and External Perspectives46:03 Marketing Strategies for Startups51:46 The Future of Advertising56:02 Advice to My Younger Self

"Stablecoins are a way to access the dollar."In this conversation, Andy Werner shares his insights on innovation in big tech, particularly his experiences at Meta and the challenges of fostering a culture of innovation in large organizations. He discusses the importance of stablecoins in the financial ecosystem, the role of AI in shaping future experiences, and the need for building trust in the crypto space. Andy emphasizes the significance of understanding oneself and the value of sharing personal experiences to inspire others.Chapters00:00 Engaging the Unfamiliar: Making Tech Accessible03:16 Innovation in Big Companies: The Challenge of Cultural Change06:20 Lessons from Meta: Culture and Growth in Tech09:09 Disruption vs. Innovation: Understanding the Landscape11:55 The Inevitable Rise of AI in Tech15:09 Building Trust in Crypto: Moving Beyond Speculation17:54 Stablecoins: The Future of Currency?24:44 The Rise of Stablecoins and Their Impact29:49 The Future of Payments: Stablecoins in Retail34:45 Understanding Risks in the Crypto Space38:38 Personal Insights: Lessons from a Career Journey

"You can't protect everybody."In this conversation, Dan Christensen, an industrial hygiene labs director, shares insights from his unique upbringing as a military brat and how it shaped his career in industrial hygiene. He discusses the importance of understanding industrial hygiene, the necessity of risk assessment across all industries, and the lessons learned from navigating the COVID-19 pandemic. Dan emphasizes the value of genuine engagement in safety culture and the need for organizations to prioritize worker health and safety. He also highlights his podcast, The Analyte, where he explores stories related to industrial hygiene and worker protection.Chapters00:00 Growing Up Military: A Unique Perspective08:08 From Factory Floors to Safety Leadership10:19 Understanding Industrial Hygiene15:50 The Importance of Risk Assessment19:42 Navigating the Challenges of COVID-1923:04 Identifying Hidden Health Issues at Work23:55 Lessons from the COVID-19 Pandemic29:38 The Role of Industrial Hygiene in Safety33:54 Engaging Workers in Safety Culture39:10 The Importance of Safety Spending41:49 Advice to My Younger Self45:33 Introducing The Analyte Podcast

SummaryIn this conversation, Megan Schirnhofer interviews Amie Amosa, Chief People Officer at Jade Software, exploring her career journey from hospitality to technology, the importance of customer-centric HR, and the value of recognizing hidden potential in individuals. They discuss the significance of a growth mindset, the role of coaching in personal development, and how HR can shift from a reactive to a strategic function within organizations. Amosa emphasizes the need for organizations to challenge legacy processes and focus on creating meaningful customer experiences.Chapters00:00 Recognizing Hidden Potential03:02 The Role of HR in Organizations06:16 Career Journeys and Transitions09:20 Customer Experience vs. Customer Satisfaction12:01 Growth Mindset and Failure15:09 Learning from Different Industries18:06 The Importance of Research in Career Choices20:50 Disruption and Innovation in Tech and Hospitality28:04 Understanding Customer Reactions31:05 The Role of HR in Customer Experience32:38 Shifting Corporate Mindsets35:16 Customer-Centric HR Practices40:42 Challenging Legacy Processes44:55 Transformational Coaching Insights48:57 The Importance of Early Coaching52:31 Embracing the Journey Over the DestinationABOUT LEADERSHIP SUCCESSEnterprise Alchemy partners with Leadership Success, now moving to a contextualised AI Coach that adapts to your organisation’s language, roles and priorities. Built on proven assessments and coach-led programmes, we deliver scalable, individualised development with real-time dashboards tracking progress and ROI. Results to date: 30k+ assessed, 10k+ coached, 80k+ hours; 97% satisfaction and 40% performance improvement.