Confessions of an Implementer

Welcome to Confessions of an Implementer, a podcast by Talent Harbor. We share unique stories of implementers and the companies they’ve transformed to give you a rare glimpse into the system's successes and challenges. I'm your host, Ryan Hogan.   Let’s dive in!   In this episode, I sit down with CJ Dube, an EOS Implementer, who shares why building an intentionally healthy culture is the foundation for long term business success. From slowing down hiring to strengthen teams, to developing strong middle management and giving timely feedback, she explains how structure, clarity, and care work together to drive growth. CJ also highlights how shifting leadership styles and using tools like the VTO help companies align values, motivate teams, and navigate generational change.   00:00 CJ Dube’s EOS Journey & Style 02:59 Scaling Mountains and Altitudes 07:39 Recruiting Background and Lessons 14:39 The Art of Hiring and Training 22:23 Avoiding Hiring Mistakes: Due Diligence 27:00 The Power of Middle Management 31:34 Evolving Business Cultures 38:07 The Journey to EOS Implementation 41:25 Accountability & Tough Conversations 47:07 The Implementer’s Role and Ideal Clients   Episode Resources   Website: https://www.eosworldwide.com/cj-dube LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cjdube/ Email: cj.dube@eosworldwide.com

Welcome to Confessions of an Implementer, a podcast by Talent Harbor. We share unique stories of implementers and the companies they’ve transformed to give you a rare glimpse into the system's successes and challenges. I'm your host, Ryan Hogan.   Let’s dive in!   In this episode, I sit down with Dan Wallace, an EOS Implementer, who shares how leading with questions instead of commands shaped his approach to business and leadership. From reframing challenges to uncover real solutions, to building teams that thrive without relying on him, Dan emphasizes the power of trust, accountability, and curiosity. Hear how having open conversations, enabling problem solving, and focusing on intent, reliability, and competence create stronger teams and lasting impact.   03:31 BCG and the Consulting Journey 06:28 M&A Failures & Business Insights 10:06 The Integrator Role and EOS 14:51 Identifying Business Anomalies 19:19 The Investment Reframe 25:25 Communication and Emotional Intelligence 35:07 Talent Harbor Ad Break 36:30 Consulting and Client Trust 40:59 Transitioning from Consulting to Leadership 44:01 Openness About Employee Departures 48:24 The Power of Delegating and Ignorance 52:33 Working Yourself Out of a Job 55:20 Developing Everyone, Not Just Leaders 59:00 Three Definitions of Accountability 01:03:36 Right Person, Right Seat, and Building Trust 01:08:35 The Three Prerequisites for Trust 01:13:44 Conclusion and Contact Information   Episode Resources   Website: https://www.eosworldwide.com/dan-wallace LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/danwallace1 Email: dan.wallace@eosworldwide.com

Welcome to Confessions of an Implementer, a podcast by Talent Harbor. We share unique stories of implementers and the companies they’ve transformed to give you a rare glimpse into the system's successes and challenges. I'm your host, Ryan Hogan.   Let’s dive in!   In this episode, I sit down with Jackie Kibler, an EOS Implementer, shares how active listening, genuine care, and clear EOS practices shape stronger teams and healthier businesses. From spotting potential in people to balancing metrics with human connection, she explains why consistent communication, honest feedback, and empowering problem solving are the keys to building lasting culture and performance.   05:16 Transition to Sales and Mentorship 13:38 Hiring for Potential with EOS 22:52 Challenging Preconceived Notions 29:49 Managing Direct Reports and One-on-Ones 38:51 Don’t Take the Monkey 40:47 Connecting in a Remote World 43:40 The Super Connector’s Innate Drive 46:08 Connecting in a New City 49:53 Scaling Ecosystem Connections 52:00 Client Selection and Growth Mindset   Episode Resources   Website: https://www.eosworldwide.com/jackie-kibler LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jackiekiblereos/

Welcome to Confessions of an Implementer, a podcast by Talent Harbor. We share unique stories of implementers and the companies they’ve transformed to give you a rare glimpse into the system's successes and challenges. I'm your host, Ryan Hogan.   Let’s dive in!   In this episode, I sit down with Adam Hill, a legacy CEO and EOS Implementer, who shares how implementing EOS helped transform a fourth-generation family business by shifting focus from tradition to traction. From breaking through a “time card culture” to embracing healthy conflict and personal growth, he unpacks what it takes to lead with clarity, courage, and resilience, while honoring their past and driving real results.   03:10 Growing Into the Family Business 05:10 Navigating Family Dynamics in Business 08:10 The Transition to CEO 11:10 Learning from Generational Leadership 14:10 The Challenges of Leadership 17:10 Discovering EOS 20:10 Key Components of EOS Success 22:10 Implementing Vision in a Family Business 25:10 Navigating Relationships as a New Leader 28:22 Resilience Through Adversity 31:22 The Power of Personal Development 32:22 Breaking Through Organizational Ceilings 33:22 The Journey Through Bankruptcy 35:22 Convincing the Leadership Team 37:22 Navigating Leadership Changes 39:22 The Visionary vs. Integrator Dilemma 41:22 Hiring a Visionary: Challenges and Opportunities 43:22 Finding the Right Clients as an EOS Implementer 45:22 The Path to Building Value in Family Businesses 47:22 Identifying Obstacles in Organizations 49:22 Connecting with Adam: Next Steps   Episode Resources   Website: https://www.eosworldwide.com/adam-hill LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adamchill/ Email: adam.hill@eosworldwide.com

Welcome to Confessions of an Implementer, a podcast by Talent Harbor. We share unique stories of implementers and the companies they’ve transformed to give you a rare glimpse into the system's successes and challenges. I'm your host, Ryan Hogan.   Let’s dive in!   In this episode, I sit down with Jim Bramlett, a Vistage Chair, who shares how early lessons in customer service shaped his leadership approach and why intentional culture, continuous innovation, and a buyer first mindset are key to standing out in a crowded market. Learn that real value isn’t about flashy features, it’s about saving time, cutting costs, and building trust.   00:48 A Journey Begins 01:51 Lessons from Early Experiences 03:48 The Importance of Culture 05:28 Creating an Intentional Culture 07:59 Navigating Change with Tiger Teams 09:10 Career Beginnings and Entrepreneurial Ventures 11:12 Lessons from Failed Ventures 13:30 The Birth of a Successful Business 16:15 Defining Value Propositions 20:25 Customer-Centric Leadership 24:38 The Four Criteria of Buying Decisions 30:00 The Challenge of Balancing Innovation 31:26 Lessons from Netflix: Innovation in Action 34:04 The Role of Research and Development 37:02 Understanding Customer Needs 41:02 Balancing Customer Focus and Competitive Analysis 44:12 The Importance of Trust and User Experience 47:24 Product as the Foundation of Success   Episode Resources   Website: https://www.jimbramlett.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jimbramlett1/

Welcome to Confessions of an Implementer, a podcast by Talent Harbor. We share unique stories of implementers and the companies they’ve transformed to give you a rare glimpse into the system's successes and challenges. I'm your host, Ryan Hogan.   Let’s dive in!   In this episode, I sit down with Chris White, an EOS Implementer and Coach, who shares that great leadership starts with empathy and ends with action. Hear how compassionate leadership, clear partnerships, and smart systems like “Profit First” help build strong teams and sustainable businesses. Learn how tools like the “One, Three, One” rule, “Trust but Verify,” and continuous self improvement can protect your time, empower your team, and drive long term success.   01:11 Finding Balance in Time Management 03:10 The Transformative Power of EOS 08:25 The Art of Effective Partnerships 13:10 Navigating Conflict in Partnerships 18:10 Learning from Leadership Mistakes 26:22 Caring and Empathy as Leadership Foundations 31:26 The Power of Human Connection 31:58 Reevaluating One-on-Ones 33:36 Coaching Through Performance Reviews 35:23 Setting Boundaries in Leadership 37:30 Protecting Your Time as a Leader 40:42 The Balance of Trust and Oversight 43:11 The Entrepreneurial Journey and Giving Back 47:46 Understanding Financial Fundamentals 52:24 Launching the Profit First App 57:37 Final Thoughts and Resources   Episode Resources   Website: https://www.microbusinessacademy.io LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/coach-chris-white/

Welcome to Confessions of an Implementer, a podcast by Talent Harbor. We share unique stories of implementers and the companies they’ve transformed to give you a rare glimpse into the system's successes and challenges. I'm your host, Ryan Hogan.   Let’s dive in!   In this episode, I sit down with Bobby Rouse, an EOS Implementer, who shares how great leadership starts with listening. Hear how clarity, commitment, and intentional progress create lasting impact. From balancing leadership and management to planning for succession and aligning priorities, he unpacks how going all in and slowing down can actually move your business forward faster.   01:17 From Cherry Farming to Adobe 03:51 Lessons from Honduras 06:11 The Power of Immersion 12:22 Cherry Farming Insights 14:51 Leadership vs. Management 19:21 Communication in Leadership 25:01 Corporate Experience and Entrepreneurship 29:13 Evolving Leadership Styles 32:25 Navigating Change in Corporations 34:26 The Challenge of Innovation in Large Organizations 36:28 Bringing Others Along in Change 40:52 Understanding Organizational Dynamics 43:24 Diving Deep into Business Pressures 50:23 Resilience Through Experience 56:27 Finding the Right Fit in Coaching   Episode Resources   Website: https://www.eosworldwide.com/bobby-rouse LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bobby-rouse-2887613/

Welcome to Confessions of an Implementer, a podcast by Talent Harbor. We share unique stories of implementers and the companies they’ve transformed to give you a rare glimpse into the system's successes and challenges. I'm your host, Ryan Hogan.   Let’s dive in!   In this episode, I sit down with Zach Arend, keynote speaker and EOS Implementer, who shares how self leadership, trust, and personal responsibility are the foundation of authentic leadership. From navigating fear and reactive habits to embracing creative problem solving and honest communication, he outlines a path to leading with intention starting from within.   02:11 The Art of Bronco Riding: Lessons in Resilience 04:16 Raising High and Lifting: Overcoming Fear 06:12 Trusting Yourself in High-Pressure Situations 08:13 The Balance of Learning and Experience 10:10 The Power of Determination and Messy Learning 12:15 Creating an Environment for Leadership Growth 14:24 The Bridled Leader Trap 17:30 Embracing Uncertainty in Leadership 21:16 Transforming Leadership Styles for Growth 26:36 Navigating Demotion and Reinvention 31:36 Facing Fears: The Table Dilemma 33:32 The Inner Journey: Discovering True Aspirations 31:32 The Shift: From VP to EOS Implementer 37:22 The Inner Horse and Rider: Balancing Instinct and Direction 40:29 Owning Your Leadership: The Power of Perspective 44:52 The Art of Feedback: Sharing Perspectives 50:27 Current Endeavors: Workshops and Keynotes 53:23 Empowerment in Leadership: Nobody’s Coming   Episode Resources   Website: https://www.zacharend.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/zacharend/ Free Resource: https://www.zacharend.com/toolkit

Welcome to Confessions of an Implementer, a podcast by Talent Harbor. We share unique stories of implementers and the companies they’ve transformed to give you a rare glimpse into the system's successes and challenges. I'm your host, Ryan Hogan.   Let’s dive in!   In this episode, I sit down with Tom Tompkins, an EOS Implementer, who shares how EOS empowers leaders to make faster, more effective decisions, especially in smaller companies where impact is immediate. From aligning culture and hiring, to focusing sales strategy on real customer needs, Tom unpacks what drives lasting organizational change.   00:47 Journey from Engineering to Sales 02:50 The Allure of Small Businesses 04:53 From Sales to Business Development 09:47 The Fragrance Industry Turnaround 13:05 Navigating Family Ownership and Partnerships 14:23 Building a Revenue Function 19:17 The Role of Retailers in Sales 21:35 Creating a Collaborative Sales Process 27:25 Formulating Scents: The Science Behind the Art 30:52 The Importance of Accountability in Teams 33:23 Discovering EOS: A Turning Point 35:59 Building a Consulting Practice During the Pandemic 37:32 The Point of Transformation in Leadership 40:35 Preparing for EOS Implementation 42:32 Defining Target Markets: A Common Misunderstanding 45:05 The Role of Culture in Hiring 47:24 The Cost of Bad Hires 50:22 Finding the Right Clients 53:40 Connecting with the EOS Community   Episode Resources   Website: https://www.eosworldwide.com/tom-tompkins LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thomas-tompkins-tct/ Email: tom.tompkins@eosworldwide.com

Welcome to Confessions of an Implementer, a podcast by Talent Harbor. We share unique stories of implementers and the companies they’ve transformed to give you a rare glimpse into the system's successes and challenges. I'm your host, Ryan Hogan.   Let’s dive in!   In this episode, I sit down with Justin Boling, an EOS Implementer, who shares that Change isn’t easy, but with the right communication, clarity, and culture, it doesn’t have to be chaotic. Learn how setting expectations, building trust, and laying solid foundations can help teams navigate resistance, retain talent, and solve the right problems at the right time.   01:40 The Journey of a Change Agent 04:00 Understanding Resistance to Change 06:59 Navigating Conversations About Change 10:33 The Muscle of Comfort in Uncomfortable Situations 13:37 From Employee Number 11 to Growth 17:46 The Cost of Bad Hires 25:01 Implementing EOS for Sustainable Growth 29:14 Curiosity and Impact 30:06 Lessons from the Integrator Seat 31:10 The Importance of Slowing Down 32:01 Challenges in Implementation 33:00 Navigating Accountability and Expectations 35:39 Building Execution Mindsets 38:05 Identifying and Prioritizing Issues 40:01 From Ideas to Action 43:02 Tipping Points in Implementation 45:07 Balancing Structure and Flexibility 47:21 Finding the Right Fit 48:34 Closing Thoughts and Future Connections   Episode Resources   Website: https://www.eosworldwide.com/justin-boling LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/justin-boling-47056411/ Phone: (970) 556-2348

Welcome to Confessions of an Implementer, a podcast by Talent Harbor. We share unique stories of implementers and the companies they’ve transformed to give you a rare glimpse into the system's successes and challenges. I'm your host, Ryan Hogan.   Let’s dive in!   In this episode, I sit down with Rachel Lebowitz, Author and EOS Implementer, to learn what makes a visionary and integrator duo thrive.  Hear how she breaks down the unique dynamics between these roles, highlighting how trust, tailored coaching, and strong boundaries allow integrators to lead with clarity, and help visionaries feel free to win without micromanaging.   02:40 Behavioral Insights in Business 04:40 The Role of Visionaries and Integrators 06:29 Understanding Micromanagement 08:40 Creating Ownership Without Title 10:13 The Characteristics of Effective Integrators 12:30 Navigating the Visionary-Integrator Relationship 18:01 The Importance of Boundaries 21:14 Empowering Integrators Through Support 27:13 Coaching for Integrators vs. Visionaries 30:03 Facing the Fear of Failure 31:36 The Power of Self-Reflection 33:09 The Rise of Fractional Integrators 35:58 Navigating the Transition to Fractional Roles 39:07 Building Trust in the Visionary-Integrator Dynamic 43:07 Traits of an Ideal Integrator 47:45 Rachel’s Empowerment Initiatives   Episode Resources   Website: https://www.empoweredcoo.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rachel-lebowitz-528011224

Welcome to Confessions of an Implementer, a podcast by Talent Harbor. We share unique stories of implementers and the companies they’ve transformed to give you a rare glimpse into the system's successes and challenges. I'm your host, Ryan Hogan.   Let’s dive in!   In this episode, I sit down with Josh Kosnick, Coach and EOS Implementer, where he shares how facing a false lawsuit, stepping into leadership after a legacy, and discovering EOS helped him rebuild with purpose. From hiring smarter to building a strong culture and personal brand, he unpacks how clarity, consistency, and mental strength build lasting impact.   00:35 A Unique Journey into Wealth Management 02:34 Leadership and Legacy 04:49 Navigating Challenges During COVID-19 06:24 The Sudden Shift: Termination 09:25 Lessons from Leadership Failures 10:35 Defining Purpose and Growth 12:35 Building Trust as a New Leader 16:23 Addressing Employee Concerns 19:00 Navigating Legal Challenges 24:01 Recognizing Toxic Behavior 29:00 Recognizing Recruitment Mistakes 31:27 Building a Strong Company Culture 34:37 Lessons Learned from Business Challenges 38:48 The Power of Retreats 40:58 Building a Personal Brand 46:18 The Kairos Code: A New Book 52:53 Finding the Right Fit in Coaching   Episode Resources   Website: https://www.joshkosnick.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joshkosnick/

Welcome to Confessions of an Implementer, a podcast by Talent Harbor. We share unique stories of implementers and the companies they’ve transformed to give you a rare glimpse into the system's successes and challenges. I'm your host, Ryan Hogan.   Let’s dive in!   In this episode, I sit down with John Klick, Entrepreneur and EOS Implementer, who shares how EOS helped him pivot from promotional merchandise to launching a brewery, to becoming and EOS Implementer, offering clarity, structure, and tools like the V/TO and Scorecard to guide a startup through uncertainty. From embracing healthy conflict to building trust and driving decisions with data, this episode shows how EOS builds alignment, accountability, and momentum in any business.   01:00 From Marketing to Brewing 02:42 The Vision for Success 03:51 The Role of EOS in Startups 06:08 Business Plans Reimagined 08:21 Navigating Team Dynamics 10:53 Capacity Challenges in Startups 12:06 Breaking Through Ceilings 14:21 The Integrator’s Role 17:00 Values and Culture in Business 19:38 Aligning Vision and Purpose 21:25 Entering the Danger Zone 24:50 Tactics for Encouraging Open Dialogue 30:07 Performance vs. Capacity: Understanding Team Dynamics 32:07 The People Analyzer: A Tool for Leadership Transparency 34:44 Navigating Resistance to Change in EOS Implementation 39:59 The Power of EOS: Freedom Through Accountability 42:16 Pivoting in Startups: The Need for Agility 46:12 Diverse Industries: The Beauty of EOS Across Sectors 49:38 The Value of ‘Windshield Time’ for Clarity and Reflection 50:02 Connecting with John: Resources and Community   Episode Resources   Website: https://www.eosworldwide.com/john-klick LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/johnklick/

Welcome to Confessions of an Implementer, a podcast by Talent Harbor. We share unique stories of implementers and the companies they’ve transformed to give you a rare glimpse into the system's successes and challenges. I'm your host, Ryan Hogan.   Let’s dive in!   In this episode, I sit down with Chris Castillo, Strategic Coach and EOS Implementer, who shares how EOS became the game changer for scaling, structure, and freedom in his coaching business, before becoming an Implementer. Learn why coaching, peer groups, and knowing your numbers are essential for any business owner, and how the right implementer can transform not just your business, but your mindset.   00:32 From Corporate to Coaching 02:44 Scaling and Systems 04:06 The Pool Business Experience 09:00 The Learning Curve of Entrepreneurship 12:00 Finding Your Niche 14:04 Understanding Life Coaching 17:30 The Role of a Coach 22:00 Getting Unstuck 25:00 The Entrepreneurial Journey 29:00 The Loneliness of Entrepreneurship 30:27 Building a Supportive Network 32:04 The Value of Peer Groups 34:14 Finding the Right Coach 35:03 Challenges of Self-Implementation 39:03 Overcoming Stagnation 44:01 Facilitating Difficult Conversations 49:10 Connecting with an Implementer 51:12 A Dream Collaboration   Episode Resources   Website: https://www.eosworldwide.com/chris-castillo LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chriscastillo-eos/ Phone: (916) 717-3332

Welcome to Confessions of an Implementer, a podcast by Talent Harbor. We share unique stories of implementers and the companies they’ve transformed to give you a rare glimpse into the system's successes and challenges. I'm your host, Ryan Hogan.   Let’s dive in!   In this episode, I sit down with Brian Brown, the President and Partner at Ingredient Food Marketing, to learn more about why he wanted to use EOS at his company and how it has helped. He highlights how EOS helped him clarify his role, strengthen company culture, and integrate core values into every aspect of the business. Brian emphasizes the power of swift, consensus driven action and the importance of arranging people, clients, and decisions with a shared set of values.   03:21 The Early Days of Web Development 06:07 From Development to Agency Ownership 09:10 Embracing the Role of Visionary 12:31 The Need for Leadership Structure 15:06 Identifying Personal Strengths 17:40 Strengthening Company Culture with EOS 20:07 Living the Core Values 23:01 Navigating Growth and Transition 25:40 Embracing Core Values in Hiring 28:15 Navigating Client Relationships with Values 31:49 Turning Challenges into Opportunities 34:30 Implementing EOS: Lessons Learned 39:34 Overcoming Implementation Hurdles 42:56 The Right Time to Act 46:28 Understanding Ingredient: A Food Content Marketing Agency   Episode Resources   Website: https://ingredient.mn LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brian-brown