In this powerful episode, we sit down with Chad Foster, the first blind executive to graduate from Harvard Business School. Chad shares his incredible journey of losing his eyesight at a young age and how he built resilience to overcome life's challenges. He reveals the five key pillars of resilience that helped him succeed:Choosing our responseTelling ourselves empowering storiesVisualizing greatnessGetting comfortable with discomfortTurning disadvantages into opportunities.Chad also discusses the future of technology and leadership, highlighting the role of artificial intelligence and how leaders must embrace change while supporting their teams through it. Don't miss this inspiring conversation on finding your best self and thriving through adversity!
Gay Gaddis, founder of T3, shares her inspiring journey of building the largest women-owned independent digital ad agency in the U.S. Along the way, she’s focused on empowering the next generation of leaders by emphasizing the value of strong leadership, cultivating a solid team, and remaining genuine and authentic. Gay also delves into her book, Cowgirl Power, where she outlines key leadership lessons drawn from her experiences. Additionally, she highlights her work in creating the 'Women Who Mean Business' program at the University of Texas, reinforcing her commitment to empowering women in the business world.
In this episode, Melissa Aarskaug interviews Nishtha Jain, Head of Innovation and Digital Technologies at Takeda, about mental and emotional wellness in the workplace. They discuss the challenges employees face, such as burnout and stress, in remote and hybrid work environments. They also explore strategies for achieving work-life balance, including integrating mind, body, and soul, and the role of digital technology in managing stress. The conversation then shifts to the use of AI in supporting mental health, including virtual agents and personalized treatment plans.
Chris Hood, a seasoned digital strategist with deep experience in the digital entertainment industry, emphasizes the critical role of customer-centric transformation and digital strategy in driving business success. He advocates for building organizational cultures that prioritize customer needs, underscoring the direct link between employee satisfaction and customer satisfaction—happier employees create better customer experiences. Hood also highlights the power of storytelling, urging businesses to engage customers emotionally by sharing compelling narratives around their products and services. Looking to the future, he predicts that customer transformation will continue to evolve as consumer expectations shift, and businesses must remain agile, constantly adapting to these changes to stay competitive.
SummaryMelissa Aarskaug talks to Fanny Dunagan CEO and content strategist at PathLynks, LLC. She shares her journey from a shy, non-English speaking immigrant to a successful entrepreneur. She emphasizes the importance of personal branding in the technology field and provides tips on how to differentiate oneself and create engaging content on LinkedIn.Fanny also highlights the power of LinkedIn as a platform for networking, building thought leadership, and finding business and job opportunities. Shediscusses the challenges of content overload and provides strategies for managing and creating valuable content. She concludes by encouraging listeners to overcome their fears and start sharing their expertise and experiences to build a community and make a meaningful impact.#podcast #executive #marketing #brand #branding #marketingtips
In this episode, Melissa interviews Adele Gambardella and Chip, co-founders of The Convincing Company, about crisis management and persuasive communication strategies. Adele shares her journey from PR to crisis communications, while Chip discusses his transition from FBI to corporate crisis management. They discuss the importance of understanding the emotional elements of a crisis and using persuasive techniques to navigate difficult situations. Adele also provides advice for women in business on integrating persuasive communication strategies.
Morgan Adams, a holistic sleep coach, shares her journey of overcoming insomnia and becoming a sleep coach. She debunks common misconceptions about sleep, such as the belief that everyone needs 8 hours of sleep and that functioning on minimal sleep is possible. Morgan emphasizes the importance of consistency in sleep routines and the impact of sleep on productivity and relationships at work and provides practical tips for better sleep, including mindfulness practices, cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia (CBTI), and the role of nutrition and exercise.
Lauren Wambold Patel, founder of Keenan Reed Strategies, discusses her transition from BCG to starting her own consulting firm. She shares her journey and the challenges she faced along the way. Lauren explains how the fractional consulting model is transforming business strategies and how her firm works with Fortune 500 leaders. She also talks about her new venture, Consult CEO, which is a platform for fractional executives and independent consultants. Lauren emphasizes the importance of building communities and leveraging professional networks in order to succeed in the consulting industry.
Join Dr. Mary Donohue, a pioneering digital psychologist and CEO of The Digital Wellness Center, as she delves into her transformative journey from academia to entrepreneurship, sharing powerful insights on reducing workplace stress through innovative techniques like AI-driven micro breaks and gamification. Discover how her expertise in digital wellness is revolutionizing mental health in the workplace, with real-world success stories, including partnerships with the armed forces. Dr. Donohue also offers practical strategies for leadership, self-care, and creating a positive workplace culture that fosters productivity and well-being.
Dr. Denise Patrick shares her journey from investment banking to academia and consulting, highlighting the integration of faith and spirituality into leadership. She discusses how faith-based principles guide ethical decision-making and emphasizes bringing one's full self into the workplace.Dr. Patrick offers strategies for building resilience and transforming mindsets, stressing the importance of self-awareness, stress management, and developing a support system. The conversation also covers the significance of trust, openness, and vulnerability in leadership, concluding with insights on transformative influence and compassionate service as key leadership pillars.
In this episode, Gary Forni delves into his journey as an angel investor and his pivotal role as the chairman of the Central Texas Angel Network (CTAN). He offers a behind-the-scenes look at how CTAN identifies and selects startups to invest in, shedding light on their rigorous screening process and the critical importance of due diligence.Forney underscores the value of mentorship, emphasizing the robust support system CTAN provides to its members. He shares invaluable lessons from both successful and unsuccessful investments, offering a balanced perspective on the highs and lows of angel investing.Looking ahead, Forney discusses the future of angel investing, highlighting emerging trends and opportunities. He concludes the episode with practical advice for aspiring angel investors, encouraging them to join an angel network, immerse themselves in the process, and take their time to learn and grow.
In this episode of Executive Connect, we sit down with Brooke Dukes to explore the critical topic of burnout. Drawing from her personal journey, Brooke shares how her own experience with burnout prompted her to leave corporate America and embark on the path of entrepreneurship.She emphasizes the necessity of slowing down, tuning into the signals from our bodies, and aligning our lives with our core values. Brooke delves into the pivotal role that mindset and beliefs play in preventing burnout and attaining true success.Additionally, she reveals her unique coaching approach, dedicated to helping women redefine success on their own terms. Tune in for an enlightening conversation filled with practical insights and inspiration.
In this episode, Dave Fox, an expert in AI recruitment and personal development, delves into the transformative impact of artificial intelligence on human resources (HR). He begins by sharing his journey into the realms of HR and AI, illustrating how AI is revolutionizing HR by streamlining tasks such as resume screening and talent sourcing.Dave provides insights on how companies can develop their own AI models to enhance efficiency and productivity. He also discusses the challenges and benefits associated with remote and hybrid work models, emphasizing the crucial role of personal development and continuous learning in today's work environment.Additionally, Dave explores the intersection of emotional intelligence and AI, highlighting how AI can assist companies in building and maintaining a strong, positive culture.
Hall Martin, the founder and CEO of Ten Capital Network, delves into the evolution of startup funding over the past 25 years and the transformative impact of technology on venture capital. He discusses the emergence of new investment avenues such as crowdfunding, micro VC funds, and syndication groups. Martin underscores the significance of online platforms and tools in making the investment process more efficient. He shares his insights on how podcasts play a crucial role in educating both investors and entrepreneurs, and he explores the challenges and opportunities in various sectors, with a particular focus on healthcare and the convergence of technology and therapeutics. Additionally, Martin offers valuable advice for new founders, stressing the importance of building a strong network, staying at the forefront of industry trends, and contributing back to the angel investing community.
In this episode, Jason Anthoine discusses the challenges of communication within organizations and provides tips for effective communication. He emphasizes the importance of building relationships with employees and tailoring communication to their preferences. Jason also highlights the impact of culture on communication and the need for leaders to initiate difficult conversations. He suggests that leaders should create a safe and comfortable space for employees to give feedback and share their thoughts. Additionally, he encourages leaders to prioritize human connection and use analog methods, such as handwritten notes, to make a lasting impact.
Welcome to another episode of the Executive Connect Podcast, hosted by Melissa Aarskaug. Melissa spoke with Amiee Gindin, a Boston-based executive leadership coach, on her journey from therapist to unpaid marketing intern to CMO, and her expertise in marketing in the age of AI. Amiee shares valuable insights on leveraging marketing tools, understanding the target audience, and the importance of maintaining a personal and professional brand.Key Takeaways:0:00 - Introduction1:47 - The Evolution of Marketing Careers • The transition from traditional roles to marketing can be driven by diverse professional backgrounds.• Marketing offers a unique blend of creativity and business strategy, appealing to those interested in understanding human behavior and communication.5:19 - Marketing on Different Budgets• Effective marketing doesn’t require a massive budget. From $500 to $5 million, there are strategies for every financial situation.• Building a strong brand through storytelling and professional presentation is essential, regardless of budget size.9:42 - Leveraging Technology and AI in Marketing • The role of a marketing technologist is becoming increasingly important to manage and integrate various marketing tools.• AI is changing the skill set required for marketers, emphasizing the need for strong editing skills over traditional content creation.15:24 - Building and Maintaining a Personal Brand • Authenticity and consistent engagement are key to developing a strong personal brand.• Utilize tools like Canva and Hootsuite to create and manage professional content without extensive resources.26:29 - Business Branding Essentials• Maintain a substantial marketing budget (5-10% of revenue) to ensure effective promotion and demand generation.• Hire knowledgeable marketing technologists to streamline and optimize the tech stack, ensuring cohesive and efficient marketing operations.Guest Bio:Aimee Gindin is a leadership coach, keynote speaker and author of dozens of published business and lifestyle articles. With a background as both a former mental health clinician and a seasoned marketing executive, she combines her passion for personal growth with her business experience to create actionable steps for women aspiring to become senior leaders and executives looking to build more inclusive cultures.Personal LinkedIn – http://www.linkedin.com/in/aimee-gindinWebsite - https://www.aimeegindin.comAbout Melissa Aarskaug:I’m an energetic executive with 15+ years of experience steering companies to new heights of growth and scale. An engineer at heart (I started my career as an engineering manager on one of the world’s largest concrete bridges), I’ve become a trusted leader and business builder in the technology and cybersecurity space. Personal LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/melissa-aarskaug/Podcast LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/my-executive-connect/Website - https://www.executiveconnectpodcast.com/
From Process to People: How to Build High-Performance Sales TeamsIn this episode of the Executive Connect Podcast, host Melissa Aarskaug interviewed Joe Sulima, an expert in building high-performance sales teams. Joe shared his insights on the critical elements necessary for developing successful sales teams, from establishing robust sales processes to finding and nurturing the right talent. He emphasized the importance of empathy, confidence, and continuous learning for sales professionals. Additionally, Joe discussed strategies for maintaining motivation, differentiating from competitors, providing exceptional customer service, and using technology to engage with clients effectively.Key Takeaways:0:00 - Introduction1:53 - The Importance of a Sales ProcessBefore hiring, ensure a clear and effective sales process is in place.Onboarding should integrate new hires into the system and clarify marketplace differentiation.4:16 - Motivating Sales Teams Establish a mission to inspire and keep the team motivated.Regular check-ins help maintain motivation, especially in remote work environments.7:46 - Customer Service and DifferentiationExceptional customer service can significantly differentiate a business.Listening to customers’ needs and providing tailored solutions builds long-term loyalty.14:13 - Mentoring and Addressing UnderperformanceIdentify and address the root causes of underperformance, whether personal or skill-related.Implement performance plans to help employees get back on track, emphasizing support over termination.25:15 - Effective Communication and Relationship BuildingUse social media and video to build relationships and engage with potential clients.Establishing long-term relationships by providing value beyond immediate sales can lead to future opportunities.Tune in to this episode for an in-depth discussion on the strategies and practices that build and sustain high-performing sales teams.Guest Bio:As a Fractional Sales Manager and Sales and Sales Management Coach, Joe Sulima transforms underperforming sales teams into high-achieving powerhouses. With a proven track record of building and nurturing top-tier sales teams, he helps companies unlock their full potential and achieve exceptional sales performance.Personal LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/joe-sulima/About Melissa Aarskaug:I’m an energetic executive with 15+ years of experience steering companies to new heights of growth and scale. An engineer at heart (I started my career as an engineering manager on one of the world’s largest concrete bridges), I’ve become a trusted leader and business builder in the technology and cybersecurity space. Personal LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/melissa-aarskaug/Podcast LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/my-executive-connect/Website - https://www.executiveconnectpodcast.com/YouTube - https://youtu.be/2TLSBuSd7uU
In this episode of the Executive Connect Podcast, host Melissa Aarskaug spoke with Stacey Giulianti, the Chief Legal Officer at Florida Peninsula Insurance Company. Stacey shared his journey from a consumer attorney to leading a billion-dollar insurance company. They discussed the importance of strategic decision-making, effective delegation, and maintaining a customer-focused approach. Stacey also highlights the significance of building a strong team and empowering employees to take initiative, drawing on his extensive experience in the insurance industry.Key Takeaways0:00 - Introduction1:56 - The Role of Luck and Hard Work in Success• Success involves a combination of hard work and a bit of luck; acknowledging both is crucial.• Surrounding oneself with knowledgeable people and knowing one's limitations is essential for scaling a business.4:03 - Understanding Customer Perspective • Starting from a consumer-facing role provides valuable insights into customer needs and expectations.• Balancing the needs of customers and employees is key to maintaining a successful business.8:31 - Effective Delegation Strategies• Learning what and how to delegate tasks is vital for business owners to avoid burnout and focus on growth.• Outsourcing tasks that are not core competencies can be a practical approach in the early stages of a business.13:45 - Balancing Speed and Quality in Service • Customers often prioritize quality over speed; it's important to communicate this balance effectively.• Ensuring thoroughness in transactions and customer service builds trust and satisfaction among customers.23:19 - Empowering and Supporting Team Members• Encouraging and supporting team members' ideas fosters innovation and engagement.• Giving credit to team members for their contributions enhances their confidence and promotes a collaborative environment.Guest Bio:Stacey A. Giulianti, Esquire, is the Chief Legal Officer at Florida Peninsula Insurance Company/Windward Risk Managers, a Florida-based property insurance carrier group, where he oversees the Claims, Special Investigations, and Legal Departments. He founded the company with his partners in 2005, and has since helped it grow to become the 5th largest homeowners insurance company in Florida. As a licensed attorney, he has been a member of The Florida Bar since 1993 and The Maine Bar since 2018. He serves as a representative member of both the Florida Insurance Council and the Florida Property and Casualty Association. He has spoken on various insurance law subjects for the Academy of Florida Trial Lawyers, The Florida Bar, the National Business Institute, Professional Education Seminars, the Florida Department of Financial Services, and the National Underwriter Company. From 1998 to 2006, Mr. Giulianti served as a member of the judiciary as a Traffic Magistrate in Broward County. He is the Author of numerous published works, including Florida Insurance Law, Thomson West Publishing, 2007-2024. He graduated from the University of Miami School of Law cum laude in 1993 (staff member, University of Miami Law Review). Mr. Giulianti has been an adjunct professor of business at Southern Maine Community College, and as an adjunct professor of business law at Florida International University, where he taught for more than 12 years. He is an Accredited Claims Adjuster and a licensed Florida Auctioneer.Personal LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stacey-giulianti-8a9241105/About Melissa Aarskaug:I’m an energetic executive with 15+ years of experience steering companies to new heights of growth and scale. An engineer at heart (I started my career as an engineering manager on one of the world’s largest concrete bridges), I’ve become a trusted leader and business builder in the technology and cybersecurity space. Personal LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/melissa-aarskaug/Podcast LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/my-executive-connect/Website - https://www.executiveconnectpodcast.com/
In this conversation, Matt McCarthy discusses personal development, emotional intelligence, trauma, and goal setting. He shares insights on integrating emotional intelligence into coaching, understanding trauma's impact on achievement, and techniques for increasing emotional intelligence. Matt also emphasizes the importance of setting meaningful goals, building fulfillment, and preparing for setbacks. He offers an assessment for understanding trauma's impact and encourages reaching out for further support.
In this episode of the Executive Connect Podcast, host Melissa Aarskaug interviewed Raj Shroff, Director of Applied AI Research at Blu Artificial Intelligence. They discussed the evolving landscape of AI in business, the practical applications of AI in various industries, the ethical considerations surrounding AI, and its potential to drive sustainability and innovation. Raj shared insights from his experiences in AI strategy and education, offering valuable perspectives on how businesses can leverage AI to optimize operations and stay competitive.Key Takeaways0:00-Introduction10:12-The Evolution of AI in BusinessAI is transitioning from a niche technology to a mainstream tool across variousindustries.Businesses are leveraging AI for digital transformation, enhancing decision-makingprocesses and operational efficiency.15:05-Key Business Problems Solved by AIBusiness Insights: AI helps in understanding customer behavior, market trends, and company performance to make informed decisions.Risk and Cost Reduction: AI applications like fraud detection and inventory management systems reduce operational risks and costs.21:00-Cybersecurity and AIAI is enhancing cybersecurity by identifying unusual network activities and potential threats through machine learning models.Educating employees about cybersecurity threats, such as AI-generated phishing emails, is crucial in preventing cyber attacks