The CEO Project Podcast

Are your current growth strategies actually increasing your business worth—or are hidden constraints quietly keeping you stuck as your company scales? If you're feeling stretched thin, hitting growth ceilings, or wondering why scaling feels harder than it should—this episode is for you. Carl Gould breaks down the real stages of business growth and the predictable pinch points that trip up founders, especially as AI disruption accelerates change and raises the bar for how companies scale, systemize, and create long-term value. By listening, you'll walk away with: A clear framework for identifying exactly where your business is stuck—and what that says about your next growth move Practical insight into how to shift from founder-driven hustle to scalable systems without killing momentum A sharper understanding of how to build a company that's not just growing, but increasing in enterprise value and exit readiness Hit play now and steal proven growth strategies that help you scale smarter, protect your time, and build a business that's actually worth more at every stage. Check out: [~12:30] – Carl explains why most founders get stuck in Stage 3 and how ego and control quietly cap business growth [~28:45] – A clear breakdown of systems vs. flexibility—and why consistency (not creativity) is what actually scales companies [~47:10] – The moment your business becomes a true asset, including the leadership shifts that dramatically increase business worth About Carl Gould Carl Gould is a globally recognized authority on business growth and entrepreneurship who built three multi-million-dollar companies by age 40. He is the Chief Growth Advisor at 7 Stage Advisors and has mentored the launch and scaling of over 5,000 businesses, with his methodologies now used in 35 countries and by more than 7,000 certified coaches worldwide. A multi-award-winning author and speaker, Carl co-authored Blueprint for Success with Stephen R. Covey and Ken Blanchard and wrote the bestselling The 7 Stages of Small Business Success. Known for his high-energy, real-world approach, he has delivered over 1,200 keynote speeches and lectures at institutions including MIT and Rutgers.

Is your business worth more when AI writes faster—or when you show up as an authentic leader your team actually trusts? You're under constant pressure to communicate clearly, move quickly, and keep up with AI without losing your voice in the process. In this episode, Jim Schleckser talks with Allison Shapira about the real tension leaders face today: using AI to gain efficiency while still sounding human, credible, and genuinely connected to the people who matter most. By listening, you'll gain: Clear guidance on how to use AI to strengthen your voice instead of diluting it as an authentic leader Insight into why AI-generated communication can quietly erode trust—and how to prevent it Practical ideas for balancing speed, clarity, and culture in leadership communication Hit play to discover how leading with authenticity—while using AI wisely—can increase trust, impact, and the long-term value of your business. Check out: 08:45 – Allison explains why AI-written emails can quietly destroy trust—and how leaders can spot when efficiency starts replacing authenticity. 22:10 – A practical breakdown of how to "train" AI to reflect your voice, values, and lived experience as an authentic leader. 41:30 – A cautionary story about leaders trusting AI over their team—and what it signals about culture, credibility, and leadership judgment. About Allison Shapira Allison Shapira is an executive advisor, Harvard lecturer, keynote speaker, bestselling author, and trained opera singer who helps senior leaders speak with confidence, clarity, and authenticity—especially in high-stakes, high-visibility moments. Since 2003, she has advised leaders from prime ministers to Fortune 50 executives and has designed leadership communication programs that drive trust, alignment, and measurable results. An entrepreneur and global expert in leadership and communication, Allison brings over two decades of experience to every engagement. Her practical frameworks integrate cutting-edge AI tools to help executives sharpen their message, amplify their voice, and Speak With Impact℠. An adjunct lecturer at the Harvard Kennedy School since 2015, her work has been featured in The Wall Street Journal, Bloomberg, The New York Times, and Harvard Business Review. She is the author of three books: the Washington Post best-seller Speak with Impact: How to Command the Room and Influence Others (HarperCollins Leadership), the companion e-guide Speak with Impact VIRTUALLY, and her newest book, AI for the Authentic Leader: How to Communicate More Effectively Without Losing Your Humanity (Spa Creek Press).

Have you thought about what your founder futures look like if you're suddenly not here—and whether your business worth is actually protected? You spend your time thinking about growth, valuation, exits, and risk—but many founders avoid the uncomfortable questions about legacy, control, and continuity. This episode connects estate planning to founder futures, showing how personal preparedness, governance decisions, and AI disruption all shape what really happens to the value you've built when circumstances change. By listening, you'll gain: A practical framework for protecting your founder futures by understanding how estate plans, healthcare directives, and digital assets prevent chaos for your family and your company. Clear insight into scaling a venture-backed platform the right way, including term sheets, preference stacks, board control, and why "IPO-ready" thinking matters more than chasing an IPO. A CEO's perspective on AI disruption and defensibility, including how category leaders must rebuild for an AI-native future before competitors force the change. Press play and learn how to safeguard your founder futures while building a company—and a legacy—that holds up under real-world pressure. Check out: ~06:30–09:30 Why estate planning matters even if you "don't have much" Cody explains why wills, healthcare directives, and digital assets matter regardless of net worth—and why certainty beats assumptions for families and founders. ~32:00–38:00 Venture capital reality: term sheets, preferences, and board control A candid CEO-to-CEO discussion on VC tradeoffs, preference stacks, governance, and why founders must be willing to walk away from bad terms. ~1:07:00–1:14:00 AI disruption and rebuilding to protect the business Cody outlines why AI is both the biggest threat and opportunity, and how Trust & Will is thinking about becoming AI-native before a challenger forces the change. About Code Barbo Cody Barbo is the Co-Founder & CEO of Trust & Will, the leading digital estate planning platform in the U.S., trusted by over one million families. Since launching in 2017, Trust & Will has modernized legacy planning with simple, secure, and attorney-approved online solutions tailored to state-specific laws. Under Cody's leadership, the company has raised over $75 million in funding, and its customers report more than $100 billion in estate assets on the platform. Trust & Will supports 20,000+ financial advisors and 200+ banks and enterprise partners, including AARP, Fifth Third Bank, UBS, and USAA. Recently, the company introduced EstateOS, the first intelligent estate planning platform designed to revolutionize legacy planning through embedded AI guidance, streamlined workflows, and enhanced collaboration between families and financial professionals. Trust & Will was recognized on the Inc. 5000 list for the second consecutive year in 2024. Cody was named an EY Entrepreneur Of The Year® 2023 Pacific Southwest Award Winner and regularly contributes to Forbes, Fast Company, and Inc. He is passionate about leveraging technology to transform estate planning from a transactional task into a deeply meaningful and personal experience.

Is your company's "AI disruption" happening with you—or quietly without you… and putting your business worth at risk? If you're leading a mid-to-large company right now, you're probably feeling two pressures at the same time: move faster with AI and don't blow up the business while you do it. Because AI isn't a future trend anymore—it's already being built, tested, and used across departments, geographies, and teams (often without a single unified view). And that creates a real leadership headache: how do you scale AI for competitive advantage while still keeping guardrails in place? In this episode, Jim Schleckser talks with Pete Foley (CEO of ModelOp) about what happens when AI spreads "like wildfire" inside an organization—and how to regain control without killing momentum. You'll walk away with: A practical way to get visibility into AI across your organization so you know what models exist, what they're doing, and where the biggest risks are hiding. A framework for putting governance and guardrails in place without slowing innovation—so you can move faster than competitors and sleep at night. A clearer path to scaling AI investments into real business outcomes (revenue, cost reduction, risk control) instead of letting models sit stuck in limbo for 9–12 months. Hit play now to learn how to build AI guardrails that protect your brand and accelerate results—so you can boost business worth before the market decides who survives the disruption. Check out: [02:10] "In five years, there'll be two kinds of companies…" — Jim frames the stakes of AI disruption and why ignoring it threatens long-term survival and business worth. [10:45] The real AI bottleneck: why models take 9–12 months to reach production — Pete explains what's slowing companies down and why that pace won't survive the next wave. [23:30] The "air traffic controller" approach to AI governance — visibility, risk assignment, guardrails, and real-time monitoring so AI can scale without chaos. About Pete Foley With more than 25 years of executive and entrepreneurial experience in enterprise software and a track record of successful business exits, Pete Foley's leadership gives ModelOp customers, partners and employees a high level of trust and confidence in the company and its future. Prior to co-founding ModelOp, Pete held several chief executive roles, including CEO of RingCube Technologies, a desktop virtualization software solution provider acquired by Citrix in 2011; CEO of PortAuthority Technologies, a provider of data leak protection systems, from 2005 through its acquisition by Websense in 2007; and CEO of Infoblox (BLOX) from 2002 through 2005. In addition, Pete was the Executive Chairman of Graphite Systems, a low latency, flash-based big data appliance that was acquired by EMC, from 2012 to 2015.

Ever catch yourself wondering, "What is my business worth—like, the real number, not the cocktail-party guess?" If your business represents the majority of your net worth (and for most CEOs, it does), not knowing your true valuation is risky. You could be planning an exit, thinking about succession, considering a partnership change, or even just trying to make smarter growth decisions—but without a real valuation framework, you're basically relying on back-of-the-napkin math. In this episode, you'll get a clear, CEO-friendly breakdown of how valuations actually work and what drives value up (or quietly drags it down). You'll walk away with: A practical understanding of the real valuation methods (market comps, public peer multiples, discounted cash flow, and when asset-based valuation applies) so you can stop guessing and start thinking like an investor. A sharper perspective on what increases or decreases your company's value—especially risk factors like customer concentration, shaky financials, key-person dependency, and unreliable forecasts. A clearer playbook for "valuation readiness" so you can improve value before a buyer, a partner, or the IRS forces the question. Press play now and steal the same valuation lens buyers use—so you can protect your wealth, reduce risk, and increase what your business is worth before the next big decision hits. Check out: 0:03:10 — The 3 main ways your business is valued (market comps, public peer multiples, and discounted cash flow—plus why valuation is forward-looking). 00:10:55 — How to value intangible assets like patents and trademarks (including the "relief from royalty" method that's surprisingly practical). 00:22:40 — The biggest value drivers you can actually control (clean financials, forecasting confidence, reducing key-person risk, and de-risking the business for buyers). About Dave Bookbinder Dave Bookbinder is a corporate finance executive with a focus on business and intangible asset valuation. Known as a collaborative consultant, Dave has served thousands of client companies of all sizes and industries. Dave has conducted valuations of the securities and intangible assets of public and private companies for various purposes including acquisition, divestiture, financial reporting, stock-based compensation, fairness and solvency opinions, reorganizations, recapitalizations, estate planning, S-Corp. conversion, exit strategy, and succession planning. 

Have you ever bailed on a "seat at the table" moment because imposter syndrome convinced you you didn't belong? This episode is basically a reality check for that spiral. If you've ever walked into a room of bigger titles, bigger experience, bigger confidence—and immediately started listing all the reasons you're "not enough," Megan Reilly's story will feel uncomfortably familiar (in the best way). She breaks down what imposter syndrome costs you, how to stop self-eliminating, and how to stay in the game long enough to actually grow—whether you're building a company, scaling a team, or just trying to lead without burning yourself out. What you'll walk away with A simple way to quiet imposter syndrome when you feel outmatched—so you stay in the room and find your value instead of fleeing. A scrappy growth mindset you can copy (no perfect plan required): how momentum, feedback, and "green lights" can guide your next move. A healthier approach to scaling in real life by recognizing seasons—so you can build something meaningful without feeling like you're failing at everything else. Press play and borrow Megan's mindset reset for imposter syndrome—so the next time you get the opportunity, you take the seat and don't look back. Check out: 10:00 – The imposter syndrome turning point Megan tells the D1 basketball walk-on story and the moment she quit—then reframes it into her core lesson: why imposter syndrome makes you walk away from rooms you've already earned entry into. 25:00 – From "side gig" to real business The shift from teaching dance as a flexible college job to realizing, "Wait, this actually works," and how trusting momentum (not a formal plan) led to massive growth. 50:00 – Scaling, seasons, and not doing it all at once A candid conversation about building a 70-location franchise while raising kids—and why recognizing life seasons is critical to sustainable leadership and sanity. About Megan Reilly Megan Reilly started as an entrepreneur at age 19 and over the last two decades has built an international franchise, received multiple offers on Shark Tank, started a top 12 podcast, and ignited crowds all around the country as a keynote speaker.  Megan is the creator and host of one of the Top 12 Parenting Podcasts on Apple Podcasts,  Who Is Your Momma Podcast, where she speaks to the mothers of some of the world's most successful, CEOs, athletes, and entertainers. Megan speaks to organizations all across the country, sharing the lessons she has learned from more than 20 years as a thriving entrepreneur.

What if the expertise that makes your company valuable today could be replicated—or even surpassed—by AI within a year? If you're running or leading a business, you're already feeling the pressure: AI disruption is moving faster than your operating model can adapt. This episode helps you understand why the ground is shifting so quickly, what it means for the expertise inside your organization, and how you can stay ahead instead of getting blindsided by competitors who adopt AI more strategically and more rapidly. You'll walk away with clarity on: How AI is lowering the cost of expertise—and what that means for your competitive advantage. A practical way to rethink your business and operating model so you can adopt AI at an exponential pace, not a linear one. How to help your team embrace AI without fear by understanding new working modes like centaurs, cyborgs, and self-automators. Hit play now to learn the specific mindset and moves CEOs are using to turn AI disruption into a strategic edge. Check out: 06:45 — How Karim shifted from open-source innovation to AI This is where Karim explains the surprising path from crowdsourcing and NASA experiments to machine-learning breakthroughs—and why those early signals showed him AI would reshape business, not just technology. 22:10 — The big insight: AI is lowering the cost of expertise A must-hear moment. Karim explains why AI isn't just another tool—it fundamentally changes what expertise means within a company — and why CEOs need to view their business as a "bundle of expertise" being rewired. 36:55 — The three ways humans actually work with AI This section introduces centaurs, cyborgs, and self-automators—and what these modes reveal about adoption, resistance, identity, and where value will come from as AI accelerates. About Dr. Karim Lakhani Karim R. Lakhani is the Dorothy & Michael Hintze Professor of Business Administration at the Harvard Business School. He specializes in technology management, innovation, digital transformation and artificial intelligence (AI). His innovation-related research is centered around his role as the founder and co-director of the Laboratory for Innovation Science at Harvard and as the principal investigator of the NASA Tournament Laboratory. Karim is known for his original scholarship on open source communities and innovation contests and has pioneered the use of field experiments to help solve innovation-related challenges while simultaneously generating rigorous research in partnership with organizations like NASA, Harvard Medical School, The Broad Institute, TopCoder, The Linux Foundation and various private organizations. His digital transformation research investigates the role of analytics and artificial intelligence (AI) in reshaping business and operating models. This research is complemented through his leadership as co-founder and chair of the The Digital, Data, and Design (D^3) Institute at Harvard and as co-founder and co-chair of the Harvard Business Analytics Program, a university-wide online program transforming mid-career executives into data-savvy leaders.

Ever feel like you want to embrace AI, but it is moving so fast? What you just learned is already outdated—and you're worried your competitors might be pulling ahead while you're still figuring it out? This episode is basically a reality check for you as a leader: AI isn't a "someday" thing anymore. It's here, it's democratized, and it's about to split industries into the "haves" who use it to accelerate growth and the "have-nots" who get left behind. If you're trying to grow a mid-to-large company, keep your team relevant, and avoid getting blindsided by tools your people are already experimenting with, this conversation meets you right where you are. You'll hear why AI-first thinking isn't hype—it's how you protect your business and unlock more creativity, speed, and capacity across every function. By listening, you'll walk away with: A clear, CEO-level way to think about AI as a multiplier, not just an efficiency tool—so you can free your team from the mundane and push more energy into innovation and growth. Practical guidance on adopting AI without freezing up, including how to handle the very real fear of job disruption by leveling up faster instead of resisting change. Concrete, cross-functional use cases you can copy immediately, from smarter customer and HR communications to rapid code generation, finance/M&A insight spotting, legal review, and hiring support—plus the "hybrid model" mindset to keep humans in the loop where it matters. Hit play now and steal these AI-first leadership moves so you can get ahead of the curve this quarter—not six months from now when the gap is harder to close. Check out: 04:30 — "AI will split the world into haves and have-nots" Jim tees up the urgency, and Eric immediately reinforces that this divide is coming in months, not years. 12:00 — "AI as the 5th tectonic tech shift + democratization" Eric walks through the internet → PC → web → iPhone → GenAI progression, and why democratized access changes everything for CEOs. 27:30 — "AI-first mindset + real business use cases (HR, finance, legal, hiring)" The conversation shifts into practical deployment: AI-first workflows, hybrid human+AI supervision, and concrete examples like HR response automation, M&A insight spotting, and interview-transcript evaluation. About Eric Vaughan Eric Vaughan is a globally sought-after speaker and pioneer of AI-driven digital clones, leading IgniteTech's AI-first transformation and reinventing products, services and the workforce while shaping the future of enterprise AI. He's known for launching two innovative AI products in just ten months and steering the high-profile acquisition of Khoros. Eric founded and led three successful software companies and managed over 50 major M&A deals. He's also a regular writer, tech educator and passionate runner who has completed 50 marathons and more than 50 ultramarathons.

Ever feel like your "new product" ideas stall out — not because they're bad, but because the team can't stay aligned long enough to bring them to life? If you're trying to grow in a world of constant AI disruption, you can't afford ideation that dies in committee or teams that melt down under pressure. This episode hits the real blocker most CEOs run into: brilliant people get promoted, but nobody ever taught them how to lead, think clearly under stress, or build a team that can take an idea from "interesting" to "in market." You'll hear how misdefined problems, ego-driven leadership habits, and check-the-box people programs quietly slow your growth — and what to do instead. A practical way to spot why ideas aren't turning into products (hint: it's usually a problem-definition gap, not a talent gap). A clearer read on your own leadership wiring — what's hardwired, what's learned, and how that mix impacts trust, communication, and execution. Simple, high-leverage moves to elevate your team's thinking so you can stop living in the tactical weeds and lead more strategically. Hit play now and steal Curtis Sprouses' tools for sharpening your team (and your own leadership) so your next big idea actually makes it to market — with fewer headaches and better results. Check out: 06:30 — The perfectionist founder example + why EQ can cap your growth Curtis walks through the real profile of a biotech CEO (high dominance, extreme perfectionism, low emotional intelligence) and shows how that combo derails fundraising, trust, and team performance — even when talent is off the charts. 18:45 — "Do you want to be remembered as the leader who grew people… or the one everyone avoided?" Curtis shares a sharp coaching story about a long-tenured exec who'd been rewarded for harsh habits for decades — and the one reframing that finally got him to shift how he led (with ripple effects at work and home). 28:00 — The #1 fatal flaw: CEOs define the problem wrong Curtis explains the "pressure vs. problem" distinction and gives a quick diagnostic (person vs. process vs. resources vs. priorities). This is the core "aha" for why teams spin and boards get frustrated. About Curtis Sprouse Curtis Sprouse is the founder of EurekaConnect and the Institute for Biomedical Entrepreneurship (IBE), where he helps leaders and teams outperform through strategic behavioral programs. With over 5,000 professionals coached and 200+ biomedical innovations advanced, Curtis specializes in turning science and technology into viable, impactful ventures. His programs have helped companies raise tens of millions in capital and bring real products to market. Curtis speaks on leadership, team building, personal development, and the future of business and society.

What if the real competitive edge in your company isn't another strategy shift—but your human sustainability as a leader? You're expected to perform like a high-level athlete: stay sharp, set direction, handle pressure, and keep your team moving—often while AI disruption speeds everything up. But here's the catch: if your internal system is running at red line, your decision-making, culture, and results eventually pay the price. In this episode, Jim Schleckser talks with Pearce Cucchissi, a former Army Ranger turned executive performance coach, about how leaders build the stamina, clarity, and resilience to thrive long-term—without burning out or becoming the bottleneck themselves. By listening, you'll gain: A fresh way to think about leadership as human sustainability—how to keep your mind and body durable enough for the pace you're running. Tools to identify "people bottlenecks" on your team, including what's really behind wrong-person/wrong-seat issues. A practical, data-informed approach (like psychometric assessments) to reduce stress deltas, improve fit, and increase longevity for you and your leaders—especially during growth or acquisitions. Press play to learn Pearce's battle-tested methods for building human sustainability into your leadership—so you can win the long game with more energy, focus, and staying power. Check out: 04:30 – "Business athlete" framing Jim and Pearce connect elite athletic performance to executive leadership—stamina, mental state, keeping score, and bringing the team along. 12:40 – Operator syndrome → CEO burnout bridge Pearce explains "operator syndrome" (stuck in fight-or-flight) and why the same pattern shows up in CEOs, athletes, and PE-backed exec teams. 24:10 – Psychometric delta + right person/right seat The Culture Index / psychometric "delta" idea: how to spot misalignment, stress, disengagement, and predict longevity—plus what to do with hotspots on a leadership team. About Pearce Cucchissi Pearce is a former military special operator who brings battlefield-tested strategic thinking and elite team dynamics to the boardroom. As the founder of Built to Evolve, he helps executives and teams unlock peak performance through a cutting-edge blend of neuroscience, psychology, and physiology. His mission is to create business athletes, leaders with the stamina, clarity, and resilience to thrive under pressure and deliver maximum positive impact. Pearce has worked with top-tier organizations including Citibank, The Las Vegas Raiders, and Charter Communications. Today, he advises executives within Private Equity-backed portfolio companies, where the stakes are high and the mental toll is real. His coaching style is direct, data-driven, and deeply human, balancing performance optimization with personal well-being to ensure leaders are built to evolve, not burn out.

Do you ever wonder why, no matter how much your business grows, your personal finances still feel out of control? If you've ever felt like your success at work doesn't translate to financial peace at home, this episode is your wake-up call. Jim Schleckser sits down with money expert and bestselling author Mike Michalowicz—creator of Profit First—to talk about why most people, even entrepreneurs, struggle with money and how simple behavior shifts can create real financial freedom. In this episode, you'll discover: How to "pay yourself first" in a way that guarantees profit instead of hoping for it. The behavioral money trap that keeps even smart business owners broke—and how to intercept it. A simple system to reduce financial stress for you and your employees, leading to happier, more productive teams. Hit play now to learn Mike's practical, life-changing approach to mastering your money habits—and start keeping more of what you earn today. Check out: [08:45] – The "Profit First" Mindset: Mike explains how reversing the traditional approach to profit—taking it off the top instead of waiting until the end—can transform how you run your business. [22:10] – The Behavioral Intercept: A powerful discussion on why most people fail with budgets and how simple systems at the bank level can automatically change your financial behavior for good. [39:25] – Redefining Retirement: Jim and Mike challenge the traditional idea of retirement and explore how to plan for a meaningful, flexible, and financially confident future. About Mike Michalowicz Mike Michalowicz is the entrepreneur behind four multi-million-dollar companies and the author of bestselling business books including Profit First, Clockwork, The Pumpkin Plan, and All In. His newest book, The Money Habit, is a groundbreaking approach to personal finance. The television host of The 4 Minute Money Maker and a former columnist for The Wall Street Journal, Mike now travels the world helping individuals grow thriving businesses and live richer lives.  

Are you ready to face the AI facts about what it really takes to lead in the age of disruption? If you're a CEO or senior leader trying to navigate the chaos of AI transformation, this episode is your roadmap. Jim Schleckser sits down with Geoff Woods, bestselling author of The AI-Driven Leader, to reveal the hard truths and surprising opportunities behind AI adoption. You'll see how Geoff went from leading a global industrial powerhouse to helping executives turn AI into their ultimate competitive advantage. You'll discover how to: Use AI as a thought partner to sharpen strategy and decision-making. Separate hype from the AI facts that actually drive performance and growth. Lead your team through change with clarity, confidence, and purpose. Listen now to uncover the AI facts that can transform how you think, lead, and compete in the years ahead. Check out: [00:10:45] – The Skill That Changes Everything: Geoff shares the career-defining advice that led him to focus on mastering skills that stay valuable no matter how technology evolves—setting the stage for his journey into AI leadership. [00:38:20] – The "AI Boardroom" Breakthrough: Hear how Geoff helped a CEO save his executive team's jobs by using AI to simulate board members' personalities and predict meeting outcomes—a real-world example of AI as a strategic thought partner. [01:12:05] – The 100x Value Lesson: Geoff reveals how his assistant used AI to multiply her impact and redefine her role, illustrating what it means to become an AI-driven leader instead of just an AI user. About Geoff Woods Geoff Woods is the #1 international bestselling author of The AI-Driven Leader, host of the AI-Driven Leader podcast and the Founder of AI Leadership where he empowers leaders to harness AI, escape operational overwhelm, and think strategically to accelerate growth. As the former Chief Growth Officer of Jindal Steel & Power, his guidance helped their market cap grow from $750 million to over $12 billion in four years. He also co-founded the training and consulting company behind The ONE Thing, where he coached and advised companies with annual revenues from $10 million to $60 billion.

Ever feel like your gut tells you one thing, but the numbers tell you another—and you're not sure which to trust as a CEO? If you've ever felt overwhelmed by financial reports, hesitant to ask "basic" money questions, or unsure how your cash flow can look great on paper but tight in practice, this episode is for you. You'll hear how understanding your company's finances at a deeper level can help you make smarter, faster decisions—without needing to become an accountant. In this conversation with financial leader Pam Meissner, you'll learn how to: Simplify financial statements so you actually use them to lead, not fear them. Build cash flow confidence by spotting problems before they become crises. Turn financial data into clear, actionable strategies for growth. Listen now to discover how trusting your gut and mastering your numbers can transform the way you lead your business. Check out: [07:45] – Pam shares her bold early-career leap from Pricewaterhouse to privatization work in post–Cold War Poland, setting the tone for her "say yes to risk" philosophy. [26:20] – A powerful exchange on why CEOs shouldn't be afraid to admit they don't fully understand the balance sheet—and how asking the right questions can transform financial confidence. [48:10] – Jim and Pam break down practical, real-world cash flow forecasting tips, including how to spot "bad money" and avoid the traps that quietly sink growing businesses. About Pam Meissner Pam Meissner is a seasoned financial and operational leader with experience as CFO, COO, and CEO across multiple industries. She's helped scale companies to billion-dollar valuations by turning complex financial data into clear, actionable strategies for growth. With a global outlook shaped by extensive travel and cultural immersion, Pam champions adaptability, innovation, and diverse thinking in leadership. Her career is marked by resilience—recently widowed after 30 years of marriage, she continues to lead with purpose and strength. She's also a proud mother: her son, who has autism, recently graduated from college, and her daughter runs marathons to raise funds for autism research.

Are you ready for the AI disruption that's changing not just how you market—but how you show up as a leader? AI disruption isn't just shaking up industries—it's redefining how executives connect with customers, present themselves, and make smarter business decisions. In this episode, you'll learn how embracing AI-driven innovation can help you stand out, streamline your work, and future-proof your brand in a rapidly evolving digital world. You'll discover: How to turn your company's unique data into a lasting competitive edge in the era of AI disruption. The power of blending personal style with technology to project confidence and save time. Real-world examples of how AI is transforming marketing, customer feedback, and even product design. Tune in now to hear how forward-thinking CEOs are navigating AI disruption with confidence—and how you can use these insights to stay sharp, efficient, and ahead of the curve. Check out: [08:15] — The Real Source of Competitive Advantage in the AI Era Anya breaks down why unique data—not algorithms—is what gives companies an edge in the age of AI disruption. She shares examples from industries like dentistry and fashion to show how data becomes the real differentiator. [24:40] — Reinventing the Clothing Industry Through Circular, AI-Driven Design The discussion shifts to how Taelor's rental model leverages AI and feedback loops to reduce waste, personalize experiences, and help brands rethink "ownership." It's a great example of circular economy principles meeting digital innovation. [45:10] — How to Win at AI Search and Content Strategy Anya reveals how her team beat GQ and other big names to the top of AI search rankings by combining human creativity with AI-generated content—a must-listen for marketers navigating the changing landscape of SEO and ChatGPT-driven discovery. About Anya Cheng Anya Cheng is the Founder and CEO of Taelor, a leading men's clothing subscription service that provides personal styling and curated rentals, powered by expert stylists and AI. A Girls in Tech 40 Under 40 honoree, she previously led eCommerce and digital innovation teams at Meta, eBay, Target, and McDonald's. 

What if the winning strategies for your business weren't locked in the boardroom—but hidden in the minds of your frontline team? If you've ever hesitated to share financials or key metrics with your employees, you're not alone. But what if open-book management could turn your entire team into business thinkers who drive profit, accountability, and innovation? In this episode, Jim Schleckser talks with Kylie Jackson from The Great Game of Business about how transparency can transform the way your people play—and win—at work. By listening, you'll discover how to: Turn financial literacy into a powerful driver of motivation and performance. Build a culture of ownership where every employee contributes to results. Use storytelling and transparency to strengthen trust and alignment company-wide. Hit play now to learn how open-book management can unlock your team's winning strategies—and your company's next level of success. Check out:  [08:42] – Kylie explains the "game" in The Great Game of Business—how rules, scoreboards, and stakes create a culture of shared success. [23:15] – The conversation dives into the power of transparency and how open-book management turns accountability into empowerment. [41:30] – Kylie shares inspiring stories of employees who took financial literacy home—transforming not just their work, but their lives. About Kylie Jackson Kylie Jackson is the Learning and Development Manager and internal coach at The Great Game of Business, as well as a dynamic speaker known for her storytelling and practical insight. With a background in theatre and a career that began in talent representation, Kylie helps people grow through financial literacy, leadership development, and open-book management. Whether she's delivering a keynote, leading a workshop, or facilitating a panel, Kylie sparks fresh thinking, builds trust, and inspires people to step into their potential.

What does it really take to turn a good product into a great brand—one that people can't stop talking about (or eating)? If you've ever wondered how to revive a once-famous brand or stand out in a crowded market, this conversation is for you. Host Jim Schleckser talks with David Clarke, CEO of Chipwich, about how he brought a nostalgic favorite back to life and built a great brand story that connects with both retailers and consumers. In this episode, you'll learn how to: Identify undervalued brands with untapped potential and bring them back to relevance. Turn operational setbacks into opportunities for growth and stronger customer trust. Build a great brand by focusing on consistent quality, retail partnerships, and real consumer connection. Treat yourself—press play now to hear how Chipwich became a great brand comeback story that every business leader can learn from. 🍦 Check out: [00:14:45] — The "Real Estate" Mindset Behind a Great Brand David Clarke shares why he sees grocery shelves as real estate—and how treating retailers as your real customers (not just end consumers) changes everything about how you build a great brand that lasts. [00:31:10] — Reviving the Chipwich: From Forgotten to Great Brand Hear the origin story of how David rediscovered the Chipwich name, realized its massive latent brand equity, and brought it back to life—proving that a great brand can be reborn with the right focus and persistence. [00:55:20] — The Listeria Crisis: Protecting a Great Brand Under Pressure When a contract manufacturer's listeria issue threatened the company, David explains how decisive action, transparency, and leadership kept the great brand reputation intact—and even strengthened retailer trust. About David Clarke David Clarke has 25 years of food & beverage leadership experience. From 2004 – 2013, Clarke was CEO of DeMet's Candy Company, where he revitalized the Flipz™ and Turtles™ brands after acquiring them from Nestle growing them from $9MM and $32MM in annual sales respectively to over $130MM combined. In 2014, Yildis (owner of Godiva) acquired DeMet's and named Clarke CEO of the wholesale chocolate business. Prior to DeMet's, Clarke led a similar brand comeback in the sweet popcorn business, growing a set of struggling brands from $21MM to $78MM. Clarke's connection to the ice cream category is derived from his time working in distribution for Häagen-Dazs, and his family's ownership of the Klondike brand from 1978-1989.

What if the secret to stronger client relationships isn't about selling more — but about creating experiences people can't stop talking about? If you've ever wondered how to make clients feel genuinely valued instead of just served, this episode is for you. Jim Schleckser chats with leadership strategist and author Neen James about how luxury brands like Ritz-Carlton and Rolex master the art of human connection — and how you can apply the same principles to elevate every client and team interaction. You'll learn how to: Apply Neen's "Experience Elevation Model" to strengthen both client and employee relationships. Design moments of surprise and delight that transform loyal clients into enthusiastic advocates. Combine personalization with technology to create meaningful, lasting connections that set your business apart. Hit play now to discover how to turn every client interaction into an exceptional experience that builds loyalty for life. Check out: [08:45] — Neen breaks down the Experience Elevation Model and explains how leaders can use it to design exceptional client and employee experiences. [21:30] — A powerful discussion on how surprise and delight builds emotional loyalty — with real examples from luxury brands like Ritz-Carlton and Delta. [36:10] — Neen and Jim dive into the balance between AI efficiency and human connection, revealing how technology can enhance — not replace — authentic client relationships. About Neen James Over the past two decades, Neen James has partnered with some of the most iconic brands in the world, including Comcast, Paramount Pictures, Four Seasons Hotels, and Virtuoso Travel, helping them challenge the status quo by focusing on one fundamental principle: exceptional experiences are built on intentional focus and connection. Her groundbreaking luxury mindset research—the only study of its kind—shows that luxury isn't about things, it's about a way of thinking and communicating that transforms how businesses connect with their audiences. As the author of Attention Pays and the forthcoming Exceptional Experiences, she brings a wealth of insights that have transformed how Fortune 500 CEOs, luxury brands, and global organizations lead and grow their market share.

Are you struggling to find the right people—and wondering if you've been fishing in the wrong talent pool all along? With birth rates down and skilled workers in short supply, the talent pool feels tighter than ever. But what if you could widen your reach by engaging an overlooked group of professionals eager to bring their experience, leadership, and skills back into the workforce—if only given the right flexibility? In this episode, you'll learn: How to uncover a hidden talent pool of highly educated, seasoned professionals ready to make an impact. Why creative approaches like flexible schedules, part-time roles, and returnships can help you stand out in the war for talent. What cultural shifts leaders need to embrace to successfully integrate this overlooked workforce segment. Hit play now to discover how expanding your talent pool could give your company a powerful competitive edge. Check out:  [06:45] The hidden talent pool — Why millions of highly educated, experienced women are sitting outside the workforce and how this represents a huge opportunity for CEOs. [21:30] Flexibility as the key to unlocking talent — A candid discussion about how part-time roles, fractional leadership, and returnships can help companies attract top performers. [39:15] Rethinking hiring practices — How CEOs can overcome biases about résumé gaps and skill gaps to successfully integrate this overlooked talent pool.

What if banana ball held the secret to building a business culture that fans can't stop talking about? This episode takes you inside the world of the Savannah Bananas—a team that has turned baseball upside down by creating banana ball, a fast-paced, joy-filled experience that keeps fans lining up for more. And the lessons go way beyond sports. You'll see how putting customers first, eliminating friction, and daring to innovate can transform your own organization just like it did for theirs. In this episode, you'll discover: How banana ball grew from one small experiment into a nationwide phenomenon. Why "fans first" thinking is the mindset shift every leader needs. Practical ways to build culture, spark innovation, and scale without losing your edge. Press play now to learn how the bold moves behind banana ball can inspire you to reinvent your own playbook for success. Check out: 09:45 – The birth of banana ball on the road Tyler explains how a small test in one city turned into a touring phenomenon that now sells out stadiums across the country. 21:10 – Fans first in action Discover the creative ways the Savannah Bananas removed friction—like all-you-can-eat tickets and fan-caught foul balls counting as outs—that made banana ball unforgettable. 47:30 – Scaling culture while scaling teams Tyler shares how the Bananas are building a Championship League, expanding teams, and keeping "fans first" at the core as they grow nationwide. About Tyler Gillum Tyler Gillum is a coach, educator, and entrepreneur who's dedicated his life to helping others believe in themselves and chase their biggest dreams. His mantra, "Bet on Yourself" isn't just a phrase, it's how he lives, leads, and speaks. From growing up on the rodeo circuit to leading the Savannah Bananas as Head Coach, his journey has been built on resilience, vision, and servant leadership. He has seen firsthand what happens when you bet on yourself, and more importantly, what happens when you help others do the same.

What if the secret to keeping up with rapid change isn't just better strategy—but joining the right ceo peer advisory or networking groups? In a world where technology is evolving faster than organizations can adapt, you need more than just headlines to guide your decisions. This episode dives into how networking groups for CEOs and executives create the conversations, connections, and peer learning that help leaders stay ahead of disruption. Alan Murray—former CEO of Fortune Media and now leading the Wall Street Journal's Leadership Institute—shares why these groups are becoming essential for tackling today's toughest challenges. Here's what you'll take away: How networking groups provide real-time insights into AI, geopolitics, and workforce shifts that no report can match. Why connecting with peers outside your company helps you solve problems faster and see blind spots sooner. The specific ways top executives use networking groups to strengthen leadership and drive business transformation. Listen now and learn how the right networking group can give you the clarity, confidence, and edge to lead in uncertain times. Check out: [12:45] – Alan Murray explains why large organizations struggle to adapt as fast as technology and how networking groups help close that gap. [28:10] – A candid look at how CEOs are using networking groups to navigate AI adoption, geopolitics, and supply chain risks. [44:30] – The future of leadership: how peer exchange and networking groups shape smarter strategies for today's unpredictable business environment. About Alan Murray Alan Murray is the former CEO of Fortune Media. He oversaw the business and editorial operations of the independent media company and is known for expanding its digital and conference franchises. Until April 2024, Murray also wrote a closely-read daily newsletter for Fortune, CEO Daily. Prior to joining Fortune in 2015, Murray led the rapid expansion of the Pew Research Center's digital footprint as president of that organization. Before that, Murray was at the Wall Street Journal for many years, serving as deputy managing editor, executive editor online, Washington bureau chief, and author of the Political Capital and Business columns. He served for several years as Washington bureau chief for CNBC, and cohost of the nightly show Capital Report. He is the author of multiple books, including Showdown at Gucci Gulch: Lawmakers, Lobbyists, and the Unlikely Triumph of Tax Reform.