Cake on Tuesday: The Leadership Blueprint

Most entrepreneurs believe success requires working harder or spending more on marketing. Josh Thomas discovered the opposite: the businesses struggling the most are already surrounded by untapped opportunities—they're simply too disorganized to capture them. By implementing clear operational systems around sales, messaging, and follow-up, he transformed a thirty-thousand-dollar monthly business into one hundred fifty thousand dollars in ninety days with zero additional marketing spend. The real asset isn't talent or charisma; it's the invisible infrastructure that allows a business to function predictably and scale. Josh learned that founder-dependent businesses are fundamentally fragile. Customers care about results, not who delivers them, which means extracting yourself from delivery and building repeatable processes is essential for scaling. He also identified operational drift—the tendency for processes to degrade over time without oversight. This insight shaped his conviction that systems must be actively maintained. Additionally, the business landscape has shifted. Traditional advertising no longer works because buyers have been burned too many times. Success now depends on trust-based relationships and personal referrals rather than marketing claims. If you're overwhelmed by responsibilities or frustrated by scaling limitations, the solution is operational structure plus qualified capacity. At VAIQ, they place high-performing virtual assistants into your business and manage them within tightly structured systems with daily oversight. Unlike typical agencies, VAIQ's performance-based model requires no long-term commitment—you only pay when results are delivered. Whether you need to reclaim your time or expand your production, VAIQ helps you achieve sustainable growth through operational excellence. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Welcome to Cake Bites, where we go rapid-fire with this week's rule breaker—fast questions, real answers, zero corporate polish. Let's learn more about Roland Smart, CEO of TheraHive and mental health entrepreneur, and explore his journey from aspiring artist to business leader. Roland shares candid insights about navigating the complexities of the mental health sector, the importance of consumer education, and how creativity and structure coexist in his work. Roland's childhood dream of becoming an artist continues to shape his approach to business and creativity. He highlights a significant gap in the mental health market: consumers often lack the education and information needed to make informed decisions, especially when they're most vulnerable and seeking help. Through TheraHive, Roland Smart teaches DBT's wise mind skill—helping people integrate emotional and rational perspectives to make balanced, values-aligned decisions. His favorite cake? Vanilla cupcakes with fruit fillings, which he uses as a metaphor for MVPs in agile product development. With a focus on practical wisdom and real-world application, this conversation covers everything from daily productivity habits to business philosophy and the transformative power of mentorship. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Roland Smart recognized a fundamental gap: most people never learn the mental health skills that actually determine quality of life. Through TheraHive, he's democratizing Dialectical Behavior Therapy—translating expensive clinical interventions into accessible online education. His core insight is that transformation doesn't require years of insight-oriented therapy or understanding your past; it requires learning concrete skills like emotion regulation and distress tolerance that you can apply immediately when you need them most. Skills-based learning works because it changes behavior in the present moment, not through intellectual understanding alone. Roland's journey reveals a deeper wisdom about leadership and purpose-driven work. He understands that doing emotionally demanding work requires intentional practices: his weekly gratitude messages to the team model the very skills TheraHive teaches, filling people's emotional capacity so they can serve vulnerable populations with sustained compassion. His bootstrapped approach reflects strategic discipline—constraints force clarity about what truly matters, preventing the waste that unlimited resources often create. Roland embodies the principle he teaches: you don't need perfect conditions to create transformation. You need skill, practice, and commitment to what matters. To explore how mental health skills education can transform lives and create accessibility to evidence-based psychological interventions, connect with Roland Smart on LinkedIn or visit TheraHive. The future of human development lies not in replacing human connection, but in using education and technology to extend it—making essential skills available to everyone, not just those who can afford expensive therapy. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The best memories in professional life emerge not from hitting targets, but from moments when teams collectively acknowledged and celebrated milestones together. When leaders recognize that team members are navigating life achievements outside the sphere of work, they create cultures where people feel seen, valued, and connected as whole human beings. The timing of celebration matters profoundly, especially during the darkest and most challenging times. When frustration mounts, when loss weighs heavily, when pain threatens to overwhelm, that is precisely when teams need to laugh together, find moments of joy, and celebrate even the smallest victories. This is not escapism but a strategic recognition that joy and laughter serve as powerful antidotes to despair. Leaders who understand this principle become architects of resilience within their organizations. This Christmas season presents the perfect opportunity to transform your workplace culture by prioritizing celebration and joy. Do not let this moment pass by—gather your team, acknowledge their victories both big and small, celebrate the personal milestones and life achievements that make them whole human beings, and be the light in your organization when the nights are dark and the roads are long. Merry Christmas! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Dr. Craig Kaplan’s lifelong dedication to artificial intelligence is marked by his insistence on merging technical innovation with ethical responsibility. His extensive experience, from working alongside AI pioneers to leading research and startups, has shaped a vision where intelligent systems must be both powerful and aligned with human values. Kaplan embraces the necessity for society to actively engage with AI, advocating for mindfulness in online interactions, as every engagement helps shape the capabilities and ethics of emerging systems. Throughout his journey, Kaplan has underscored the impending transformation of AI from mere tools to autonomous entities, stressing the need to build systems that not only boost productivity but also embody transparency and safety. He believes success and fulfillment stem from following intrinsic passions, maintaining critical thinking when using AI, and understanding the collective impact of individual digital behaviors on the development of safer, more ethical technologies. For those eager to explore practical approaches and deeper insights into designing safer, more transparent AI, Dr. Kaplan offers valuable resources and ongoing research through iQ Company. To see how these principles are put into action and learn more about the future of ethical, responsible AI, visit https://www.iqco.com/about-iq. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Dr. Tamara Patzer is pioneering the future of digital visibility by shifting the focus from traditional SEO tactics to the emerging concept of AI suggestibility. Drawing from her multidisciplinary background in communications, instructional technology, and creative writing, she has developed innovative systems that help experts and organizations secure not only higher visibility but also greater trust and credibility, both with people and intelligent algorithms. Her distinctive approach centers on crafting fact-based, structured, and source-backed content that aligns perfectly with how leading AI models like ChatGPT, Gemini, and others now evaluate and recommend information. Through her work with the AI Visibility Project, Genesis Trust Verified, and various publishing initiatives, Dr. Patzer empowers doctors, authors, and thought leaders to amplify their media authority and build lasting legacies. She demonstrates that success in today’s digital world relies on more than visibility—it demands being recommended by AI and trusted by audiences. By helping clients publish professional books, run high-impact media campaigns, and create content ecosystems tailored to AI’s preferences, she enables them to stand out, build authority, and future-proof their message for the next wave of technological change. For anyone looking to elevate their visibility, increase their AI trust score, and establish media authority that endures, Dr. Tamara Patzer offers the proven expertise and systems to get there. Discover how you can optimize your brand and legacy for the digital age by connecting with her on Facebook and LinkedIn. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Erika Benadom’s professional journey exemplifies adaptive leadership fueled by a passion for empowering people and driving meaningful change. Drawing from early multicultural experiences and a foundation in education, she transitioned from teaching into technology leadership, guided by a deep commitment to equity, innovation, and operational excellence. Her roles have been defined by lifting obstacles for others and transforming organizations to better serve diverse communities. Throughout her career, Erika has demonstrated humility, resilience, and a keen ability to translate educational insights into value for high-growth tech companies. Her leadership emphasizes the importance of recognition, psychological safety, and building cultures where team members not only succeed but are celebrated for their unique contributions. By merging educational philosophy with business acumen in her current role at Zensai, she continues to bridge gaps between learning, engagement, and performance in corporate environments. For organizations looking to create cultures of growth and success, Erika’s journey is a blueprint for meaningful disruption and people-centric leadership. Discover how Zensai’s integrated HR and learning solutions can empower your teams and transform your workplace here. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this Thanksgiving special, Elizabeth Bieniek dives deep into the transformative power of gratitude as shared by some of the most innovative minds in the corporate world. She explores how leaders and professionals who embrace gratefulness not only foster resilience and personal growth but also drive organizational innovation by appreciating every step of their journey. Her insights reveal that true progress is measured not by distant goals, but by recognizing the value and lessons of each experience, ultimately nurturing humility and a relentless drive to learn and improve. Elizabeth highlights how many trailblazers attribute their career-defining moments to individuals who believed in them, often at a time when they couldn’t see their own potential. From mentors who offered pivotal encouragement to colleagues whose feedback inspired a new direction, these acts of acknowledgement have far-reaching impact. Gratitude, when expressed and paid forward, builds a culture of appreciation, boosts morale, and becomes a key ingredient for sustained innovation and collective success. As a call to action, Elizabeth urges you to actively express your thankfulness: identify one impactful person from your professional life and send them a thank-you message expressing your gratitude. Reach out to current colleagues or acquaintances to recognize and thank them for their unique contributions and positive influence. By doing so, you not only honor those who have shaped your path but also help create environments where collaboration and innovation flourish. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Dawn Kennedy brings together legal expertise, entrepreneurial experience, and operational know-how to help small business owners navigate the complexities of sustainable growth and risk management. She reinforces the significance of not only defining what a business stands for but also establishing clear boundaries around what it will not do. Using Convoy Road Coffee Roasters as a case study, Dawn illustrates how non-negotiable standards—like never offering flavored coffee or opening a cafe—inform all business decisions, helping maintain strategic focus and a strong brand identity even when market trends or peer pressure point in other directions. Dawn advocates for the development and documentation of internal doctrines and decision-making frameworks that go deeper than simple branding or values statements. She encourages small businesses to use strategic intelligence and market research, bolstered by accessible AI tools, to gather actionable data, adapt to shifts in the industry, and avoid the chaos of constant reaction. By making strategic choices—such as adding value rather than slashing prices in response to market changes—businesses can stay resilient without losing sight of their core purpose. Dawn’s methods emphasize the balance of thoughtful, patient planning with agility, empowering business owners to navigate challenges confidently. If you want to strengthen your business’s foundations, minimize risk, and position yourself for long-term growth, connect with Dawn Kennedy. Visit her consulting company at dawnkkennedy.com for insights on strategy, operations, and business resilience, or reach out through dawnkennedylaw.com for expert legal support tailored to entrepreneurs and small business owners. Dawn’s guidance can help you build the frameworks and systems needed to make confident decisions and thrive in today’s fast-changing market. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Matt Maples has dedicated his career to addressing the critical and often overlooked challenges that veterans face as they reintegrate into civilian life. Through his leadership with USA Cares, he has focused on ensuring that veterans and their families receive the emergency support they need during moments of crisis—often stepping in to prevent homelessness, utility shutoffs, and catastrophic financial instability. Matt’s mission recognizes the complexity of the veteran experience, acknowledging the difficulties veterans face when navigating bureaucratic processes for benefits and the mental health burdens that can intensify during times of uncertainty. A key takeaway from Matt’s work is the urgent need for both rapid intervention and long-term, holistic care for those who have served. He stresses that veterans require more than delayed promises; they need immediate help that provides stability and peace of mind, breaking the cycle that too often leads from financial adversity to mental health crises. His approach extends beyond financial assistance—it is about restoring hope, dignity, and a sense of community for veterans who may be at the edge of despair. The stories shared from grateful veteran families are a testament to how timely, compassionate aid can change—and even save—lives. Matt calls on the public to take direct, meaningful action by donating to support Texas veterans. This simple, recurring contribution has the power to provide essential resources and life-saving intervention for those in need. To join this vital mission and help protect the lives of veterans, please visit here. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Laurie Kenley’s approach to innovation is built on the principle that technology should serve as a true partner in unlocking human creativity and potential. Drawing upon her systems engineering expertise, she has demonstrated how intelligent agents and AI can be integrated into everyday workflows to solve real-world challenges—making processes like personal branding, shopping, and project management not only faster and more efficient, but also uniquely tailored to individual needs and preferences. By leveraging AI in this way, Laurie empowers individuals to reclaim time, save resources, and enjoy a more personalized and joyful creation experience, all without sacrificing quality or the human touch. A key part of Laurie’s philosophy is her insistence on reliability and consistency within AI tools, which ensures that technology remains a trustworthy foundation for ongoing innovation. The systems and solutions she crafts are designed to be both adaptable and dependable, supporting long-term growth for users and organizations alike. Laurie’s methods emphasize that impactful change happens at the intersection of robust technology and intuitive, human-centered design—a core value embedded in her work at Silica Intelligence. Silica Intelligence is dedicated to making AI accessible, practical, and enriching for everyone—whether you’re an individual looking to amplify your creative process or a business seeking to optimize innovation through human-first solutions. Laurie invites you to be part of this mission by following her journey, engaging with Silica Intelligence’s updates and resources, and experiencing firsthand how a playful yet purposeful approach to AI can transform both productivity and personal fulfillment. For early access or inquiries, reach out to them here, and stay tuned for the launch of the Silica Intelligence website coming soon. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Aurora Winter's expertise spans from innovative content creation to leveraging personal experiences for impactful storytelling. Her approach offers aspiring authors and business leaders a fresh perspective on efficiently transforming ideas into powerful narratives. Whether you're looking to write your first book, enhance your business communication, or explore the power of storytelling, Aurora's methods can help you achieve your goals. Same Page Publishing, founded by Aurora, provides a unique platform for authors to bring their ideas to life. The company's innovative spoken author method allows writers to quickly and effectively create high-quality manuscripts. This approach is particularly beneficial for busy professionals who want to share their knowledge and experiences but struggle to find time for traditional writing methods. Ready to unlock your potential as an author or storyteller? Visit her website to discover how Aurora's techniques can revolutionize your writing process. Explore different resources, guidance, and services to help you amplify your message and make a lasting impact through the power of books. Don't let your valuable insights and stories remain untold – start your author journey today. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Ariana Smetana, Accel IQ Digital's Founder and CEO, reveals how AI can supercharge business growth. She shares her vision of AI augmenting human capabilities, not replacing them. Ariana's company is developing an AI-native software that tackles business challenges through smart data management and insight generation, promising to revolutionize how companies harness AI's potential. From PwC to Shell Oil, Ariana's corporate background shaped her entrepreneurial journey. She candidly discusses the mindset shifts needed when transitioning from corporate life to startup culture. Her evolving definition of success offers a fresh perspective on achievement in the AI-driven business world. Curious about leveraging AI for your company's growth? Explore Ariana's groundbreaking work here. For more AI insights and updates, connect with her on LinkedIn. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Mark Oden's journey from Cisco engineer to CEO of BIM Designs showcases the unpredictable nature of entrepreneurship. His company's rapid growth during the COVID-19 pandemic, followed by market shifts and increased competition, led to a critical decision point. Mark's approach to this challenge offers valuable lessons in leadership, emphasizing the importance of reflection, seeking diverse perspectives, and maintaining strong relationships. The process of winding down BIM Designs demonstrates how to handle difficult transitions with integrity. Mark's candid acknowledgment of fear, followed by a sense of clarity once the decision was made, resonates with many leaders facing tough choices. His commitment to transparent communication and supporting employees through the transition highlights the possibility of making hard decisions while upholding personal values and maintaining strong relationships. For entrepreneurs and business leaders facing similar crossroads, Mark's story serves as a powerful reminder that fear often precedes clarity. His experience underscores the importance of creating space for deep reflection, seeking diverse input, and prioritizing relationships throughout the decision-making process. If you're navigating a challenging business transition, consider reaching out to Mark on LinkedIn for insights and support. His willingness to share his experiences can provide valuable guidance as you chart your own path forward in the ever-evolving landscape of entrepreneurship and leadership. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Fred Schonenberg, founder of VentureFuel, shares his unique perspective on bridging the gap between large corporations, startups, and venture capital. He discusses VentureFuel's role in fostering innovation and navigating the rapidly evolving AI landscape. Fred's approach involves identifying key challenges for large organizations and connecting them with cutting-edge startups to solve these problems efficiently. Reflecting on his career journey, Fred shares how his experiences, from aspiring athlete to startup founder, shaped his approach to helping startups work with large corporations. He introduces the concept of creative adjacency in problem-solving, emphasizing the importance of looking beyond obvious solutions and exploring ideas from seemingly unrelated industries. This approach has led to surprising and innovative solutions for clients across various sectors. To learn more about Fred's work in innovation and how VentureFuel is shaping the future of corporate-startup partnerships, visit his website or connect with Fred on LinkedIn. Discover how creative problem-solving and strategic partnerships can drive growth and innovation in your organization. Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply HERE. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode of Cake on Tuesday: The Leadership Blueprint, host Elizabeth Bieniek interviews Alex Blinov, Chief Product Officer at Zendrop, about his 16-year journey in product management. Alex shares insights on leadership, the evolving role of product managers, and the importance of communication and discovery in building successful products. He discusses fostering team autonomy, the impact of AI, and his guiding mantra, “Dare to build.” The conversation highlights the value of empowering teams, celebrating achievements, and continuously learning to drive innovation and create products that make a meaningful difference. Check out Alex's work at Zendrop HERE. Connect with Alex on LinkedIn. Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply HERE. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode of Cake on Tuesday: The Leadership Blueprint, Elizabeth Bieniek interviews the CEO and Chairman at Nav Technologies, Levi King. Levi shares his journey from small business owner to fintech entrepreneur, highlighting the importance of business credit and financial management for small businesses. He discusses the challenges entrepreneurs face, Nav Technologies’ mission to simplify business financing, and the company’s focus on trade credit and supplier relationships. Levi also reflects on company culture, the role of luck in success, and his evolving definition of achievement. Check out Levi's work HERE. Connect with Levi on LinkedIn. Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply HERE. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode of Cake on Tuesday: The Leadership Blueprint, Elizabeth Bieniek interviews the Founder at DarkHorse Security, Grant McCracken. Grant shares his journey from cybersecurity expert to entrepreneur, discusses common misconceptions, and highlights the importance of simplifying security for smaller businesses. He explains how DarkHorse leverages crowdsourced expertise and explores future trends like AI-driven penetration testing. Grant also offers practical advice for founders on how to avoid burnout and challenge assumptions. Check out Grant's work HERE. Connect with Grant on LinkedIn. Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply HERE. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode of Cake on Tuesday: The Leadership Blueprint, Elizabeth Bieniek interviews the Owner at Ral West Livin’ The Dream, Ral West. Ral shares her journey from hands-on business owner to successful mentor. Drawing on four decades of experience, Ral discusses building and selling businesses—including a major sale to Alaska Airlines—and the mindset shifts needed to transition from operator to owner. She emphasizes freedom as the ultimate measure of success and now guides entrepreneurs through her "Ral West Livin’ The Dream" Mastermind, helping them create scalable businesses and fulfilling lives. Check out Ral's work HERE. Connect with Ral on LinkedIn. Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply HERE. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode of Cake on Tuesday: The Leadership Blueprint, Elizabeth Bieniek interviews the VP of Product at Mozilla, Raj Singh. Raj shares insights on navigating startup and corporate cultures, the impact of generative AI on productivity, and the evolving definition of success. He discusses the emotional challenges founders face post-acquisition, leadership communication in fast-paced environments, and creative growth strategies—like his cooking app’s global holiday recipe campaign. Raj also reflects on balancing professional ambition with family life, offering valuable advice for founders and tech professionals adapting to today’s rapidly changing landscape. Check out Raj's work HERE. Connect with Raj on LinkedIn. Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply HERE. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.