Chief Change Officer

Vince Chan
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Dec 30, 2024 • 28min

#127 From Rivals to Allies: Dr. Bridget Burns’ Mission to Transform Higher Ed — Part Two

What if universities worked together instead of competing like contestants on a reality TV show? In this episode, we explore the “Higher Ed Hunger Games,” where rivalry rules the day. Dr. Bridget Burns, CEO of the University Innovation Alliance (UIA) and host of The Innovating Together Podcast, shares her journey from a small-town upbringing in rural America to becoming a trailblazer in educational reform. Her mission? To unite academic institutions, boost graduation rates, and create better employment opportunities for low-income students—all through collaboration and innovation. No drama, just teamwork. Key Highlights of Our Interview: Who Actually Likes Change? Spoiler: No One “Everyone who says they like change is a liar. You only like change that is your idea and that you actively participate in creating.” 30:07—Mending Hearts in the Office: When Leaders Turn into Heartbreakers "There are a lot of people walking around with broken hearts because they’ve had a leader who’s betrayed them." 33:39—The AI Rat Race: Why Can’t We All Just Get Along? "This natural tendency to compete with each other. There’s like an arms race and that’s what’s happening with AI.” 38:41—From Cap and Gown to Capable and Grown: Reinventing the Grad-to-Gig Highway "There should be coaches for faculty to embed career readiness into every single classroom, starting from the first class a student takes." Connect with Us: Host: Vince Chan | Guest: Bridget Burns ______________________ --Chief Change Officer-- Change Ambitiously. Outgrow Yourself. Open a World of Deep Human Intelligence for Growth Progressives, Visionary Underdogs, Transformation Gurus & Bold Hearts. 6 Million+ All-Time Downloads. Reaching 80+ Countries Daily. Global Top 3% Podcast. Top 10 US Business. Top 1 US Careers. >>>100,000+ subscribers are outgrowing. Act Today.<<< --Chief Change Officer--Change Ambitiously. Outgrow Yourself.Open a World of Expansive Human Intelligencefor Transformation Gurus, Black Sheep,Unsung Visionaries & Bold Hearts.EdTech Leadership Awards 2025 Finalist.20 Million+ All-Time Downloads.80+ Countries Reached Daily.Global Top 1% Podcast.Top 5 US Business.Top 1 US Careers.>>>180,000+ are outgrowing. Act Today.<<<See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
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Dec 29, 2024 • 31min

#126 From Rivals to Allies: Dr. Bridget Burns’ Mission to Transform Higher Ed — Part One

What if universities worked together instead of competing like contestants on a reality TV show? In this episode, we explore the “Higher Ed Hunger Games,” where rivalry rules the day. Dr. Bridget Burns, CEO of the University Innovation Alliance (UIA) and host of The Innovating Together Podcast, shares her journey from a small-town upbringing in rural America to becoming a trailblazer in educational reform. Her mission? To unite academic institutions, boost graduation rates, and create better employment opportunities for low-income students—all through collaboration and innovation. No drama, just teamwork. Key Highlights of Our Interview: Overcoming Adversity: Bridget's Journey from Isolation to Empowerment “I grew up in a cul de sac of racism, homophobia, misogyny—very rural America—and getting out was super important.” Problem in Universities: Unveiling the Diffusion of Innovation Problem “We don’t know if what we’re doing is any good, or how to scale it.” Higher Ed Hunger Games: Tackling the Cutthroat Competition "Higher education is highly competitive, hierarchical, set up to pit you against others, which leaves very little space to share about shared problems." Real Change or Just for Show? Scouting for True Innovators in Academia "We need to figure out who else is a worker bee, who's interested in doing the really hard stuff and not just drawn to the image." Who Actually Likes Change? Spoiler: No One “Everyone who says they like change is a liar. You only like change that is your idea and that you actively participate in creating.” Connect with Us: Host: Vince Chan | Guest: Bridget Burns ______________________ --Chief Change Officer-- Change Ambitiously. Outgrow Yourself. Open a World of Deep Human Intelligence for Growth Progressives, Visionary Underdogs, Transformation Gurus & Bold Hearts. 6 Million+ All-Time Downloads. Reaching 80+ Countries Daily. Global Top 3% Podcast. Top 10 US Business. Top 1 US Careers. >>>100,000+ subscribers are outgrowing. Act Today.<<< --Chief Change Officer--Change Ambitiously. Outgrow Yourself.Open a World of Expansive Human Intelligencefor Transformation Gurus, Black Sheep,Unsung Visionaries & Bold Hearts.EdTech Leadership Awards 2025 Finalist.20 Million+ All-Time Downloads.80+ Countries Reached Daily.Global Top 1% Podcast.Top 5 US Business.Top 1 US Careers.>>>180,000+ are outgrowing. Act Today.<<<See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
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Dec 28, 2024 • 29min

#125 Waverly Deutsch’s Final Act: Uplifting Entrepreneurs Who Need It Most

This is the final instalment of our three-part series, “Love and Logic.” We spotlight Waverly Deutsch, an inspiring member of the LGBTQ community and a fierce advocate for women entrepreneurs. From theater enthusiast to PhD, STEM scholar to MBA professor, and now a retiree turned venture coach, Waverly’s multifaceted identity shines through in everything she does. Often called the “Simon Cowell of Chicago Booth,” she pairs candid feedback with actionable strategies, a hallmark of her work at WyseHeart Advisory, where she uplifts underrepresented entrepreneurs with passion and purpose. Key Highlights of Our Interview: A Coach’s Secret Weapon “The key to trust and transformation in coaching lies in active listening. People often speak in long, winding narratives. The magic is in boiling it down to the core message—a few sentences that make them feel truly understood and heard. By distilling and refining, you don’t just hear—they feel heard, understood, and empowered to act.” AI Can Polish, But Can’t Replace the Human Spark “AI can help craft a polished pitch or refine a resume, but it can’t simulate the deep understanding and personal experience that resonate in real-life interactions. The investor meeting? That’s where your own knowledge and authenticity come into play.” The Dating Analogy for Entrepreneurs “Pitching to investors is like dating. The 10-minute pitch? That’s the coffee date. The in-depth meeting? That’s the dinner date. The term sheet? That’s the engagement ring. True commitment comes when the contracts are signed and the check is in the bank.” The Age and Cost Equation “Older professionals face a harsh reality: companies often trade senior salaries for multiple junior hires. This economic shift means adapting, whether through freelancing, consulting, or pursuing entirely new avenues of work.” Consulting as the Bridge “Many transitioning entrepreneurs find opportunities as consultants. Whether it’s an interim CFO role or building sales strategies, the key is to be willing to revisit foundational work while leveraging years of expertise to establish credibility in new ventures.” _________________________ Connect with Us: Host: Vince Chan | Guest: Waverly Deutsch --Chief Change Officer-- Change Ambitiously. Outgrow Yourself. Open a World of Deep Human Intelligence for Growth Progressives, Visionary Underdogs, Transformation Gurus & Bold Hearts. 6 Million+ All-Time Downloads. Reaching 80+ Countries Daily. Global Top 3% Podcast. Top 10 US Business. Top 1 US Careers. >>>100,000+ subscribers are outgrowing. Act Today.<<< --Chief Change Officer--Change Ambitiously. Outgrow Yourself.Open a World of Expansive Human Intelligencefor Transformation Gurus, Black Sheep,Unsung Visionaries & Bold Hearts.EdTech Leadership Awards 2025 Finalist.20 Million+ All-Time Downloads.80+ Countries Reached Daily.Global Top 1% Podcast.Top 5 US Business.Top 1 US Careers.>>>180,000+ are outgrowing. Act Today.<<<See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
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Dec 27, 2024 • 37min

#124 Waverly Deutsch’s Coaching Wisdom: 22 Years of Love, Logic, and AI at Chicago Booth

Ever had a mentor who became more than just a coach, someone who changed your perspective and your path? This is Part 2 of “Love and Logic,” our special three-part Pride Month podcast series celebrating authenticity and transformation. Waverly Deutsch, a proud LGBTQ advocate and champion of women entrepreneurs, shares her incredible journey—from theater enthusiast to PhD, STEM major to MBA professor, and now, a venture-building coach and founder of WyseHeart Advisory. Known for her candid yet constructive feedback, Waverly’s tough love inspires transformative growth for entrepreneurs worldwide. Key Highlights of Our Interview: Blending Heart and Head “Whether it’s calming executives’ cautious approaches or reining in overly ambitious young entrepreneurs, success lies in balancing heart (vision) with head (practicality). It’s about building a compelling story that resonates with both emotions and logic.” Executives: Breaking the Incremental Mold “Executives often pitch ideas that feel safe but lack innovation. They’re so aware of corporate barriers that their creativity gets stifled. My role? Push them to think beyond incremental improvements and aim for groundbreaking changes that truly stand out.” “Executives often present highly calculated plans—‘$5 million investment for $7 million returns.’ While safe, it doesn’t excite investors. Encouraging them to aim higher, to envision $50 million, injects the passion and ambition their pitches often lack.” Unleashing Undergraduate Imagination “Undergraduates are brimming with ideas because they haven’t yet encountered the roadblocks of the corporate world. The challenge is teaching them the process—how to take their boundless creativity and add logic, research, and structure to turn dreams into sustainable ventures.” Overzealous Optimism Meets Reality “On the flip side, young entrepreneurs brim with optimism, promising billion-dollar outcomes for modest investments. The challenge? Bringing logic into their bold dreams—helping them see the steps, resources, and realistic pathways to scale.” The Power of Experimentation “Sometimes, all it takes is encouraging an entrepreneur to think bigger—just as an exercise. That simple shift in perspective can unlock enormous potential, as it did with Simple Mills, now a model for blending passion and pragmatism to scale innovation.” _________________________ Connect with Us: Host: Vince Chan | Guest: Waverly Deutsch ______________________ --Chief Change Officer-- Change Ambitiously. Outgrow Yourself. Open a World of Deep Human Intelligence for Growth Progressives, Visionary Underdogs, Transformation Gurus & Bold Hearts. 6 Million+ All-Time Downloads. Reaching 80+ Countries Daily. Global Top 3% Podcast. Top 10 US Business. Top 1 US Careers. >>>100,000+ subscribers are outgrowing. Act Today.<<< --Chief Change Officer--Change Ambitiously. Outgrow Yourself.Open a World of Expansive Human Intelligencefor Transformation Gurus, Black Sheep,Unsung Visionaries & Bold Hearts.EdTech Leadership Awards 2025 Finalist.20 Million+ All-Time Downloads.80+ Countries Reached Daily.Global Top 1% Podcast.Top 5 US Business.Top 1 US Careers.>>>180,000+ are outgrowing. Act Today.<<<See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
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Dec 26, 2024 • 42min

#123 From Curtain Calls to Business Cases: Waverly Deutsch’s Path from Theatre Historian to Chicago Booth Professor

Kicking off our “Love and Logic” series, Part 1 features Waverly Deutsch, who shares how her career and life choices have been shaped by a blend of passion and reason. This episode unpacks her journey, with the following installments focusing on her impact at Chicago Booth and her entrepreneurial coaching with WyseHeart Advisory, driven by “tough love for entrepreneurs.” Why Waverly? Known for her direct approach, Waverly has earned the nickname “the Simon Cowell of Chicago Booth,” but with a key difference—her feedback always comes with actionable solutions. She might point out, “You just talked for ten minutes and we have no idea what you do,” but she’ll also say, “Here’s what we can do to make it crystal clear.” That’s the hallmark of her coaching—honest, constructive, and deeply invested in your success. Key Highlights of Our Interview: A Love for Theater and Logic “I fell in love with theater and acting as a child. My mother and I would go to the theater together—it was a special time for us. At the same time, I was good at math and logic puzzles. I ended up with two majors, one in theater and one in computer science. They were separate disciplines, but in my mind, I was always bringing them together.” The Gut-Driven Leap “At 29, with a fresh PhD, analysis didn’t guide my career move. Joining Forrester was pure gut instinct. I saw it as a chance to dive back into technology, learn from brilliant people, and expand my horizons—no spreadsheets, no market evaluations, just a leap of faith.” Academia or Impact? The Career Crossroads “Graduating with a PhD in theater history during a recession, teaching jobs were scarce. Colleges were cutting back on theater programs, and the research focus in humanities felt too esoteric. I wanted to do something more contemporary, more impactful.” Burnout and Breakthroughs “After nearly eight years at Forrester, experiencing explosive growth, an IPO, and 60-hour weeks, I needed a reset. By 1999, I was ready for a new direction and decided to approach my next move more strategically.” Empathy for Everyone “Emotions aren’t just a ‘women’s thing.’ I’ve sat with many men who’ve cried during challenging discussions. The key is understanding that emotions are human, not a weakness, and they have a place in even the most logic-driven conversations.” _________________________ Connect with Us: Host: Vince Chan | Guest: Waverly Deutsch ______________________ --Chief Change Officer-- Change Ambitiously. Outgrow Yourself. Open a World of Deep Human Intelligence for Growth Progressives, Visionary Underdogs, Transformation Gurus & Bold Hearts. 6 Million+ All-Time Downloads. Reaching 80+ Countries Daily. Global Top 3% Podcast. Top 10 US Business. Top 1 US Careers. >>>100,000+ subscribers are outgrowing. Act Today.<<< --Chief Change Officer--Change Ambitiously. Outgrow Yourself.Open a World of Expansive Human Intelligencefor Transformation Gurus, Black Sheep,Unsung Visionaries & Bold Hearts.EdTech Leadership Awards 2025 Finalist.20 Million+ All-Time Downloads.80+ Countries Reached Daily.Global Top 1% Podcast.Top 5 US Business.Top 1 US Careers.>>>180,000+ are outgrowing. Act Today.<<<See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
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Dec 26, 2024 • 23min

#122 Building People, Not Products: César Couto Ferreira’s Journey from Entertainment to Legacy

What happens when a media mogul trades the spotlight for purpose? César Couto Ferreira, former MTV and Vice Media executive, knows the answer. From working with global icons like Madonna and Coldplay to launching media operations in Europe and Brazil, César mastered the art of navigating fame and business. But he chose to step away from the bubble of glamour to build a legacy that’s uniquely his. Now, César is shaping the future of media through business development at olio.is and Streamhub, blending his philosophical vision with practical innovation. Key Highlights of Our Interview: MTV: From a Dream to Daily Life “Watching MTV as a kid, I thought, ‘That’s the dream.’ By 2003, I was living it. From Portugal to London, I went from fan to colleague—working with my idols and hanging out with heroes.” A Front-Row Seat to Media Transformation “From analog to digital, concerts to streaming, I’ve been at the frontline of media’s biggest shift. And yes, I saw REM’s last concert—jealous yet? Launching MTV Portugal, mentoring MTV Base Africa, bringing MTV Italy and Greece to life—it was a whirlwind of concerts, launches, and 1 billion viewers streaming the EMAs from Lisbon.” The Dark Side of the Spotlight “Being immersed in the industry, I witnessed its pitfalls. Amy Winehouse, a radiant talent, was in the wrong hands. Seeing how brilliance was overshadowed by exploitation made me question the industry’s priorities. When Amy died, it wasn’t just a loss; it was a wake-up call. I couldn’t be part of a system that profits from pain. That day, I knew—I needed to change the game.” A Quest for a Better Industry “Creativity deserves care, not exploitation. That realization sparked a mission to create spaces where artistry thrives without the shadows of industry’s darker sides.” Designing Society, One Summit at a Time “As a self-proclaimed ‘designer for society,’ I worked with governments and innovators to connect tourism and tech. The Web Summit is proof that big ideas and small countries can make magic.” _________________________ Connect with Us: Host: Vince Chan | Guest: Cesar Couto Ferreira ______________________ --Chief Change Officer-- Change Ambitiously. Outgrow Yourself. Open a World of Deep Human Intelligence for Growth Progressives, Visionary Underdogs, Transformation Gurus & Bold Hearts. 6 Million+ All-Time Downloads. Reaching 80+ Countries Daily. Global Top 3% Podcast. Top 10 US Business. Top 1 US Careers. >>>100,000+ subscribers are outgrowing. Act Today.<<< --Chief Change Officer--Change Ambitiously. Outgrow Yourself.Open a World of Expansive Human Intelligencefor Transformation Gurus, Black Sheep,Unsung Visionaries & Bold Hearts.EdTech Leadership Awards 2025 Finalist.20 Million+ All-Time Downloads.80+ Countries Reached Daily.Global Top 1% Podcast.Top 5 US Business.Top 1 US Careers.>>>180,000+ are outgrowing. Act Today.<<<See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
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Dec 25, 2024 • 41min

#121 Chief Burnout Officer Michael Levitt: How Surviving a Heart Attack Changed His Approach to Life and Tech

Imagine losing your job, your car, your home—and on top of it all, surviving a heart attack. That was Michael Levitt’s reality more than ten years ago, caused by the silent epidemic of burnout. Now, as the Chief Burnout Officer and Founder of Breakfast Leadership Network, Michael has transformed his life’s biggest challenges into a mission to help others. With a career spanning accounting, finance, IT, healthcare, and more, he’s authored Burnout Proof and hosts a Top 200 podcast, sharing strategies for navigating stress in work and life. Key Highlights of Our Interview: Turning Pain into Purpose “Burnout gave me the business idea I never wanted but absolutely needed. Now, I help others dodge the burnout bullet. It’s fulfilling work, though I wouldn’t mind a world where burnout is just a myth.” Reboot, Don’t Overhaul “Burnout recovery doesn’t require burning your whole life down. Most people don’t need a dramatic reinvention—they just need a couple of tweaks. Think of it as upgrading your OS, not switching to a whole new system.” Secrets of the C-Suite “Burnout among executives is a taboo topic. Publicly traded CEOs can’t just say, ‘I’m burnt out,’ without sending their stock into a tailspin. My job? Help them recover in secret, like the James Bond of workplace wellness.” Sleep: The Real Magic Pill “Forget apps and quick fixes—good sleep is the ultimate burnout buster. Invest in a killer mattress, toss your phone out of the bedroom, and let your body do its thing. Pro tip: A real alarm clock beats your buzzing smartphone every time.” Food Matters (And Yes, That Includes the Red Page) “Turns out, your body might hate your favorite foods. A food intolerance test revealed my love for certain snacks wasn’t mutual. Now, I dodge the red-listed foods like a ninja and feel way better for it.” _________________________ Connect with Us: Host: Vince Chan | Guest: Michael Levitt ______________________ --Chief Change Officer-- Change Ambitiously. Outgrow Yourself. Open a World of Deep Human Intelligence for Growth Progressives, Visionary Underdogs, Transformation Gurus & Bold Hearts. 6 Million+ All-Time Downloads. Reaching 80+ Countries Daily. Global Top 3% Podcast. Top 10 US Business. Top 1 US Careers. >>>100,000+ subscribers are outgrowing. Act Today.<<< --Chief Change Officer--Change Ambitiously. Outgrow Yourself.Open a World of Expansive Human Intelligencefor Transformation Gurus, Black Sheep,Unsung Visionaries & Bold Hearts.EdTech Leadership Awards 2025 Finalist.20 Million+ All-Time Downloads.80+ Countries Reached Daily.Global Top 1% Podcast.Top 5 US Business.Top 1 US Careers.>>>180,000+ are outgrowing. Act Today.<<<See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
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Dec 25, 2024 • 34min

#120 From Paris Glamour to Senegalese Impact: Fatou Sagna Sow’s Journey Through Meaningful Career Change

What would you do if you were a top legal counsel managing billion-dollar financial transactions and leading a global team of 50 at the world’s largest banking groups? Most would stick to the safety of such a prestigious career. But not Fatou Sagna Sow. Born and raised in Paris, Fatou left her high-flying legal career at Societe Generale and BNP Paribas to return to her roots in Senegal. With her husband and two children, she traded a life of glamour in Paris for the challenges of driving economic and technological growth in Africa. Now the founder and CEO of New Deal Consulting, and a former advisor to the Senegalese President, Fatou is transforming local opportunities by empowering young talent from Senegal, France, and beyond. Her story is one of bold faith, careful planning, and fearless execution. Key Highlights of Our Interview: Trading Parisian Comfort for Dakar’s Call “I had a great career in France, but it wasn’t enough. Senegal was calling me—a chance to challenge myself and see if I could truly make a difference in my home country.” A Legacy for the Next Generation “As a mother, I wanted my kids to know their roots. To experience Senegal fully, so they can grow up understanding the world without barriers, enriched by both cultures.” Facing Fears and Finding Support “I worried about giving up financial security and providing for my kids, but I wasn’t alone. My strong network, including ministers and my husband’s connections, made the transition less daunting.” Bananas to the Rescue “Turning banana fiber into sanitary pads? Yep, that’s happening in Senegal. The Luna Na project is about innovation and solving local challenges with global ideas. It’s a first in Senegal and Africa, and it’s changing lives.” A Vision for Change “Luna Na isn’t just a project; it’s a movement. It’s about empowering Africa’s youth with opportunities, innovation, and hope for a brighter future. Watching this transformation unfold is my proudest accomplishment.” _________________________ Connect with Us: Host: Vince Chan | Guest: Fatou Sagna Sow ______________________ --Chief Change Officer-- Change Ambitiously. Outgrow Yourself. Open a World of Deep Human Intelligence for Growth Progressives, Visionary Underdogs, Transformation Gurus & Bold Hearts. 6 Million+ All-Time Downloads. Reaching 80+ Countries Daily. Global Top 3% Podcast. Top 10 US Business. Top 1 US Careers. >>>100,000+ subscribers are outgrowing. Act Today.<<< --Chief Change Officer--Change Ambitiously. Outgrow Yourself.Open a World of Expansive Human Intelligencefor Transformation Gurus, Black Sheep,Unsung Visionaries & Bold Hearts.EdTech Leadership Awards 2025 Finalist.20 Million+ All-Time Downloads.80+ Countries Reached Daily.Global Top 1% Podcast.Top 5 US Business.Top 1 US Careers.>>>180,000+ are outgrowing. Act Today.<<<See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
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Dec 24, 2024 • 43min

#119 Steve Monaghan: From Pilot to AI Investor and Banking Trailblazer – Thriving Through Career Change

From the Cockpit to the Boardroom: Steve Monaghan’s 30-Year Journey Tokyo-based Steve Monaghan began his professional life as a commercial pilot before soaring into global finance. Over the past three decades, he’s driven innovation in banking and tech, reshaping industries across Australia, Tokyo, and the Middle East. His past roles include Chairman & CEO at Gen.Life, Chief Innovation Officer at DBS Bank, and Chief Digital Officer at Riyad Bank. Today, he holds key positions with RAKBANK, FinMir.ai, and several cutting-edge startups, making him a transformative force in the financial world. Key Highlights of Our Interview: The Foreigner’s Lens “Being an outsider brings a unique perspective—an untainted view of industries and cultures. It’s about seeing things differently, learning from fresh angles, and questioning the norms others might take for granted.” “Being an outsider has its perks and pitfalls. It offers clarity but also means navigating unfamiliar landscapes. The key is turning the so-called disadvantage of not ‘belonging’ into a powerful tool for change.” Immigrant Wisdom - The Dual Edge “Living as an immigrant since my twenties taught me resilience and adaptability. You’re always learning, always adjusting, and that shapes how you approach leadership and problem-solving.” From Fear to Understanding “People don’t resist change because they don’t want it. They resist because they don’t understand it. The journey is about removing fear by turning a ‘no’ into a ‘know’—helping them see the benefits and feel confident about the new direction.” The Advantage of Experience - Ask the Right Questions “In the generative AI era, older employees often have an edge—they know how to ask better questions. This ability to craft meaningful queries is a huge advantage, especially when navigating tools that rely on prompt engineering.” “While younger employees might excel in technical adaptability, seasoned professionals bring a different kind of skill: the wisdom to ask the right questions. This balance of experience and curiosity is key to driving innovation forward.” Engaging Overlooked Talent “The bank in the Philippines found a surprising strength in its mature staff. When engaged and empowered, they contributed significantly to innovation, proving that tech adoption isn’t about age but about the opportunity to learn and apply.” _________________________ Connect with Us: Host: Vince Chan | Guest: Steve Monaghan ______________________ --Chief Change Officer-- Change Ambitiously. Outgrow Yourself. Open a World of Deep Human Intelligence for Growth Progressives, Visionary Underdogs, Transformation Gurus & Bold Hearts. 6 Million+ All-Time Downloads. Reaching 80+ Countries Daily. Global Top 3% Podcast. Top 10 US Business. Top 1 US Careers. >>>100,000+ subscribers are outgrowing. Act Today.<<< --Chief Change Officer--Change Ambitiously. Outgrow Yourself.Open a World of Expansive Human Intelligencefor Transformation Gurus, Black Sheep,Unsung Visionaries & Bold Hearts.EdTech Leadership Awards 2025 Finalist.20 Million+ All-Time Downloads.80+ Countries Reached Daily.Global Top 1% Podcast.Top 5 US Business.Top 1 US Careers.>>>180,000+ are outgrowing. Act Today.<<<See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
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Dec 24, 2024 • 29min

#118 Yale Ventures Managing Director Josh Geballe: Bridging the Academic-Entrepreneurial Divide

What compels someone to leave the stability and prestige of a CFO role at IBM Europe for the unknowns of a 16-person startup? For Josh Geballe, it was the thrill of challenge and the promise of making a real impact. His 30-year career reflects this relentless pursuit of meaningful work. From managing finance at IBM to leading Core Informatics as CEO, from VP at Thermo Fisher Scientific to COO of Connecticut’s COVID-19 response, Josh has consistently embraced complex problems with courage and determination. Currently, as Managing Director at Yale Ventures, he is creating pathways for entrepreneurs and innovators, all while continuing to push boundaries. Josh’s journey shows that taking risks and following your instincts can redefine not just a career but an entire industry. Key Highlights of Our Interview: Big Corporate to Small Chaos “Jumping from one of the world’s biggest companies to a 16-person startup was like going from a luxury cruise to a whitewater raft. Every day brought new challenges—chasing customers, closing funding rounds, and ensuring payroll didn’t bounce. It wasn’t for the faint-hearted, but I embraced the chaos because it was exactly the dynamic challenge I craved.” The Two Engines of Growth: Impact and Challenge “My career choices boil down to two drivers: solving meaningful problems that make a positive impact on society and embracing challenges that push me to grow personally and professionally. It’s how I’ve turned a seemingly unusual career journey into a purposeful adventure.” Gut Instinct: The Silent Strategist “For all the logic and strategy in career decisions, sometimes it comes down to a gut feeling. Big moves in my career have often hinged on an instinctual ‘yes’ or ‘no,’ and I’ve been fortunate that those instincts have steered me right—no regrets, just leaps of faith.” Bridging the Academic-Entrepreneurial Divide “Helping brilliant minds shift from academic jargon to investor-friendly pitches is a key part of the role. It’s all about connecting ideas to resources—whether that’s investors, teammates, or future opportunities. And for students? It’s about teaching them to innovate and navigate their career paths, with or without a startup dream right now.” _________________________ Connect with Us: Host: Vince Chan | Guest: Josh Geballe ______________________ --Chief Change Officer-- Change Ambitiously. Outgrow Yourself. Open a World of Deep Human Intelligence for Growth Progressives, Visionary Underdogs, Transformation Gurus & Bold Hearts. 6 Million+ All-Time Downloads. Reaching 80+ Countries Daily. Global Top 3% Podcast. Top 10 US Business. Top 1 US Careers. >>>100,000+ subscribers are outgrowing. Act Today.<<< --Chief Change Officer--Change Ambitiously. Outgrow Yourself.Open a World of Expansive Human Intelligencefor Transformation Gurus, Black Sheep,Unsung Visionaries & Bold Hearts.EdTech Leadership Awards 2025 Finalist.20 Million+ All-Time Downloads.80+ Countries Reached Daily.Global Top 1% Podcast.Top 5 US Business.Top 1 US Careers.>>>180,000+ are outgrowing. Act Today.<<<See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

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