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© Copyright 2025 Elizabeth Bieniek
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Cake on Tuesday: The Leadership Blueprint spotlights the rule-breakers, underdogs, and disruptive innovators who heard "it won't work" and proved everyone wrong. Host Elizabeth Bieniek dives into the untold stories of entrepreneurs and leaders who don't fit the mold—the "let's try it anyway" crowd turning crazy ideas into game-changing reality. If you're a disruptor who's navigated rejection, broken the rules, and built something extraordinary against the odds, this is the place for you. Join us for inspiring conversations about innovation, resilience, and the power of refusing to quit. https://podcast.cakeontuesday.com/
25 Episodes
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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.
In this episode of Cake on Tuesday: The Leadership Blueprint, Elizabeth Bieniek interviews the Owner of the Phineas Wright House, Wendy Harrop. Wendy shares her journey from wedding planner to creating curated experiences on her New England flower farm, including workshops, retreats, and culinary trips for solo female travelers.
She discusses her meticulous “Wedding Wendy precision,” the evolution of her definition of success, and the importance of crafting memorable, welcoming events. Wendy also reveals her plans to restore a historic barn to expand her offerings and encourages listeners to embrace new experiences with a positive mindset.
Check out Wendy's work HERE.
Connect with Wendy 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 Capital Gains Tax Solutions, Brett Swarts. Brett shares his expertise in capital gains tax exit planning, focusing on strategies like deferred sales trusts to help clients achieve truly passive income and financial freedom.
He discusses his faith-driven approach to stewardship, the importance of purposeful living, and the upcoming generational wealth transfer. Brett also offers practical advice for entrepreneurs and invites listeners to learn more through his book and website, emphasizing collaboration and personalized solutions for complex financial needs.
Check out Brett's work HERE.
Connect with Brett 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 President and CEO at Executive Help Now, Renee Hastings. Renee shares her journey from corporate executive assistant to entrepreneur, highlighting the importance of meaningful work, strong company culture, and value-driven hiring.
She explores the challenges of entrepreneurship, the power of delegation, and the necessity of open communication in virtual assistant partnerships. Renee recounts client success stories, discusses supporting her team’s growth, and introduces new services like podcast production.
Check out Renee's work HERE.
Connect with Renee 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 and CEO of Intentionally Inspirational, Jason Wright. Jason shares his philosophy of simplifying marketing by focusing on relationships, the importance of taking action over perfection, and fostering innovation within his team.
He discusses lessons from his book, "The Backwards Route to Forward Progress," and reflects on mindset, resilience, and redefining success.
Check out Jason's work HERE.
Connect with Jason 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 President of Anago Cleaning Systems, Adam Povlitz. Adam shares his journey from the family business to leading innovation in the industry, emphasizing Anago’s unique three-tier franchise model and commitment to technology.
He discusses building a culture of innovation, the importance of clear communication, and lessons learned about leadership and hiring. He also covers industry misconceptions, the value of empathy, and practical advice for aspiring CEOs.
Check out Adam's work HERE.
Connect with Adam 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 of Wish Wear Accessories, Ashley Hamic. Ashley shares her journey from a high-tech career to creating accessible, fun clothing and accessories for children with disabilities, inspired by her experiences as a rare disease mom.
She highlights the importance of innovation, community support, and celebrating small wins. Ashley discusses her design process, the value of real-world feedback, and the power of connection among families facing similar challenges, offering inspiration and practical advice to listeners.
Check out Ashley's work HERE.
Connect with Ashley 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 of Fiscal Advocate, Jon Morris. Jon shares his journey from building and selling a major marketing agency to helping entrepreneurs with financial management.
He discusses finding joy in everyday business tasks, building a positive company culture, and fostering innovation. Jon offers practical advice on financial metrics for service businesses and emphasizes the importance of customer care.
Check out Jon's work HERE.
Connect with Jon 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 President and Bilingual Telemarketing Trainer of Costa Rica's Call Center, Richard Blank. Richard shares his innovative approach to telemarketing, emphasizing authentic communication, phonetic microexpressions, and the power of workplace gamification.
He discusses building a positive company culture through play, his passion for vintage pinball machines, and the importance of personal connections. Richard also offers practical advice on self-reflection, leadership, and patience in communication, drawing from his experiences in Costa Rica.
Check out Richard's work HERE.
Connect with Richard 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.
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