Strap on your Boots

In this episode of Zero to CEO, I speak with experience designer Geoff Thatcher about how AI is transforming storytelling and the future of immersive experiences. Geoff shares how tools like ChatGPT, Midjourney, and Grok are already changing how experience designers create, but the real revolution is just beginning. We dive into the new GAME ON! AI Experience at the College Football Hall of Fame, which puts guests directly into the story as players, coaches, and fans across 775 college football teams. Geoff explains how AI allows experiences to become more personal, interactive, and human, unlocking levels of immersion never before possible and shaping the next era of storytelling in theme parks, museums, and beyond.

In this episode of Zero to CEO, I speak with Paula Paul, Founder and Distinguished Engineer at Greyshore, about how companies can drive real value from open source software. With over four decades of experience in tech, Paula shares insights on open source supply chain security, the power of community, and how organizations can adopt cloud-native technologies more efficiently. We also explore the shift from “every company is a tech company” to “every company is a SaaS company,” and Paula reflects on her remarkable journey as a woman in tech since the 1980s. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in software innovation, digital transformation, and the future of technology.

In this episode of Zero to CEO I sit down with Paul Scribner, the visionary CEO of Raven Resources Corp whose innovative investment acumen is transforming how business deals are made. Scribner reveals the transformational business approaches that have helped partners multiply their facilities sixfold and increase revenue seven-X. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, investor, or business leader, you’ll gain invaluable insights into creative problem-solving and strategic deal-making from “the most integrity-filled man in business” who sees potential where others see problems.

In this episode of Zero to CEO, I speak with serial entrepreneur and marketer Chris LaMorte about how his company, Strictly AI, is helping small businesses and startups thrive in today’s fast-moving digital and AI-driven world. Chris shares insights on how AI is transforming marketing, why the future of the web is conversational, and how SMBs can stay ahead of the curve by embracing innovative tools and strategies. Whether you’re a startup founder, small business owner, or digital marketer, this episode offers practical advice on how to compete — and win — with AI in the modern marketplace.

In this episode of Zero to CEO, I speak with relentless legal trailblazer Lem Garcia, who turned just a few thousand dollars and a Craigslist desk into one of Southern California’s top personal injury law firms. Lem shares his journey of betting on himself, overcoming setbacks, and proving that success isn’t about where you start but how hard you’re willing to push forward. We dive into the challenges of building a business from scratch, the lessons he learned in leadership and growth, and his best advice for aspiring entrepreneurs looking to take control of their future. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, risk-taker, or simply looking for motivation, this episode is packed with powerful insights on grit, resilience, and turning ambition into success.

In this episode of Zero to CEO, I speak with independent compensation consultant Scott Trumpolt about growth-driven compensation strategies for startups and business leaders. We explore how a company’s compensation philosophy impacts its success and evolves over time, highlighting the importance of building flexibility into pay structures. Scott shares insights on market-based pay, the balance between fixed and variable compensation, and how to link salaries to career architecture and job classification systems. We also discuss pay transparency methods and the key principles behind an effective compensation strategy. Tune in to learn how to design a pay system that supports business growth while attracting and retaining top talent.  Talk to Scott here.

In this episode of Strap on Your Boots, I dive into the harsh realities of startup failure and the critical mistakes that lead to it. With 90% of startups failing, I break down the biggest reasons why, from ignoring market demand and running out of money to co-founder conflicts and poor customer engagement. Using real-world examples, I highlight what went wrong and how you can avoid the same fate. I also share lessons from my own AI B2B SaaS startup, Vengo AI, on how to stay lean, validate ideas, and build a product people actually want. If you’re an entrepreneur looking to beat the odds, this episode is packed with no-nonsense advice to help you succeed.

 Is AI going to replace entrepreneurs, or is it the ultimate tool for success? In this episode of Future Tech, I break down the impact of AI on business, exploring whether it’s a threat or an opportunity. From automating tasks to optimizing marketing and even generating business ideas, AI is transforming how we work. But can it replace human creativity, risk-taking, and leadership? I dive into real-world examples, the power of intuition, and how AI can be the ultimate co-founder for entrepreneurs. Tune in to learn how to leverage AI to build, scale, and future-proof your business! 

In this episode of Zero to CEO, I speak with hospitality entrepreneur and belonging expert Dan Berger about the true meaning of belonging and its impact inside and outside the workplace. Dan shares insights from his book The Quest, where he explores the psychology of belonging and provides a framework for building it intentionally. We discuss the difference between DEI and belonging, how they intersect, and the role workplaces play in fostering real connections versus surface-level inclusivity. Dan also shares his experience designing spaces and experiences that help small teams cultivate deeper connections and a sense of shared purpose. Tune in for a thought-provoking conversation on how belonging shapes our lives and careers.

 In this episode of Zero to CEO, I speak with visionary entrepreneur, innovator, and author Mitch Francis about bold solutions to some of the world’s biggest challenges. Drawing from his new book, Bad-Ass Solutions for Today’s Big-Ass Problems, Mitch shares practical and non-partisan ideas for tackling issues like climate change, national debt, education reform, gun control, and more. With years of experience leading successful businesses across multiple industries, he offers a fresh, real-world perspective on solving problems that matter. Tune in for an eye-opening discussion on creative, actionable solutions that could reshape the future.