Second in Command: The Chief Behind the Chief with Cameron Herold

Today's episode of the Second in Command podcast is a talk by Cameron, as he explores the crucial aspects of entrepreneurship and leadership. He begins by emphasizing the significance of understanding one's value, discussing his own experience with setting high hourly rates for his coaching and speaking engagements. Cameron asserts the importance of delegating lower-value tasks to focus on areas of genius, thereby maximizing productivity and profitability.He explores the unique traits of successful entrepreneurs, notably discussing the relationship between entrepreneurial characteristics and mental health. Cameron candidly shares his perspectives on bipolar disorder and ADD, highlighting how these traits often align with entrepreneurial strengths such as high energy, creativity, and restlessness. He illustrates this through engaging stories, including a personal encounter with Marcelo Claure, CEO of Sprint, revealing how perceived weaknesses can be powerful entrepreneurial assets.Cameron offers practical advice on business management and growth. He stresses the necessity of clear communication, efficient meetings, and effective delegation. Reflecting on his experiences with 1-800-GOT-JUNK?, he underscores the impact of leadership on a company's culture and success. Cameron's guidance is not just about scaling a business but also about personal growth, work-life balance, and finding joy in the entrepreneurial journey.Enjoy!In This Episode You'll Learn:How Cameron values his time and expertise, and how this perspective can transform your approach to business and personal growth.The unique characteristics common among entrepreneurs, including how traits often associated with bipolar disorder and ADD can be advantageous in business.The power of delegating lower-value tasks to concentrate on areas where you excel, enhancing productivity and focus.Cameron's viewpoint on the intersection of mental health issues like bipolar disorder and ADD with entrepreneurial success.The profound impact of leadership on shaping a company’s culture and the overall success of the business.Tips on conducting efficient meetings, clear communication, and the importance of concise email practices.How to find a balance between scaling your business and maintaining personal well-being and happiness.Strategies for dealing with challenging business situations and making effective decisions.And much more... Resources:Subscribe, Rate & ReviewI'd love you to subscribe to the podcast and leave an honest rating & review. This will encourage others to listen and grow as a community.YouTube - Second In Command Podcast - https://www.youtube.com/@secondincommandpodcast YouTube - Cameron Herold Leadership - https://www.youtube.com/@CameronHerold COO Alliance - https://cooalliance.com/ Cameron’s newest book - The Second In Command - https://a.co/d/287lESq Cameron’s Online Leadership Course - https://investinyourleaders.com/ch  Cameron’s Website - https://cameronherold.com/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/cameron_herold_cooalliance/ 

In today's episode of the Second in Command podcast, Cameron is joined by Joe Aurilia, Jr., the SVP of Operations for Cyware, to explore the intricacies of operational leadership and the dynamics of rapid company growth. Joe played a pivotal role in scaling Cyware from its early seed stage to a Series C funded cybersecurity powerhouse, and shares his experiences and strategies for fostering collaboration, consensus, and a vibrant culture across a multinational team. He explores the challenges of hiring and integrating key talent, the nuances of international operations, and the importance of communication and leadership in breaking down silos within a growing organization.Joe emphasizes the significance of continuous learning and curiosity as a cornerstone for personal and professional development. He advocates for a proactive approach to self-education, leveraging a wealth of online resources to stay ahead in a fast-evolving industry. By engaging with diverse communities, absorbing varied content, and embracing the unknown, Joe illustrates how leaders can drive innovation and adaptability within their teams and organizations.The conversation also touches upon the strategic aspects of navigating funding rounds and operational scaling, offering listeners valuable insights into the due diligence process, managing stakeholder expectations, and the crucial balance between strategic vision and day-to-day execution. Joe's journey with Cyware, from its nascent stages to becoming a leader in cybersecurity, serves as a compelling case study for aspiring leaders and entrepreneurs seeking to understand the complexities of managing growth, culture, and innovation in the digital age.Enjoy! In This Episode You'll Learn:How a commitment to ongoing education and curiosity can significantly enhance your leadership skills and operational effectiveness.How Joe scaled Cyware from a seed stage to a Series C funded company, including navigating funding rounds and the operational challenges of rapid expansion.Insights into fostering collaboration, consensus, and a strong culture within teams spread across multiple countries.Strategies for recruiting, selecting, and onboarding the right people to support your company's growth and vision.The operational intricacies of running a cybersecurity company, from breaking down silos to enhancing team collaboration.The importance of purposeful meetings, ensuring that every gathering drives action and contributes to the company's objectives.How staying curious and actively seeking new knowledge can position you and your organization for future success.Advice on preparing for and handling the due diligence process during funding rounds, and how to manage stakeholder expectations effectively.Why expanding your professional network and engaging in meaningful conversations can be pivotal for personal and professional development.And much more...Resources:Subscribe, Rate & ReviewI'd love you to subscribe to the podcast and leave an honest rating & review. This will encourage others to listen and grow as a community.Connect with Joe: Website | LinkedInYouTube - Second In Command Podcast - https://www.youtube.com/@secondincommandpodcast YouTube - Cameron Herold Leadership - https://www.youtube.com/@CameronHerold COO Alliance - https://cooalliance.com/ Cameron’s newest book - The Second In Command - https://a.co/d/287lESq Cameron’s Online Leadership Course - https://investinyourleaders.com/ch  Cameron’s Website - https://cameronherold.com/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/cameron_herold_cooalliance/ 

Amrit Sandhu, host of the Inspired Evolution podcast, joins the conversation to explore the value of crafting vivid visions for personal and professional growth. The discussion delves into the power of visualization, overcoming resistance in sharing visions, and inviting collaboration for goal achievement. Cameron's journey and practical tips emphasize the impact of clear visions in driving innovation and success.

In today's episode of the Second in Command podcast, Cameron discusses the intricate role of a Chief of Staff with Laurie Arron, executive coach and the author of 'Who Has Your Back?: A Leader's Guide to Getting the Support You Need from the Chief of Staff You Deserve.' The conversation begins with an exploration of the Chief of Staff's role, highlighting its multifaceted nature and its evolution from military origins to a vital position in the corporate sector. Laurie emphasizes that the role is often misunderstood and varies significantly between organizations, serving primarily to align with the CEO's priorities and the company's mission.Laurie explains the distinctiveness of the Chief of Staff role from other executive positions, illustrating its depth in serving the CEO's vision and contrasting it with the broader operational scope of roles like COOs. She articulates the key functions of a Chief of Staff, including strategic support to the CEO, project coordination, and ensuring effective internal and external communication.The conversation shifts to the challenges CEOs face, such as time management and the importance of delegation. Laurie underscores the necessity of a 'handshake meeting' at the inception of a CEO-Chief of Staff relationship to establish mutual expectations and working dynamics. This meeting, akin to taking vows, sets a foundation for a successful partnership.Further, Laurie provides insights into the career trajectory of a Chief of Staff, noting that most hold the position for about 18 months to two years, with their roles evolving as the organization's needs change. The conversation also covers the recruitment of Chiefs of Staff, advocating for internal hiring due to their inherent understanding of the company's culture and operations.Cameron and Laurie discuss the importance of not just finding the right Chief of Staff but also knowing how to effectively leverage their capabilities. Laurie emphasizes the significance of trust, integrity, and clear communication in fostering a robust relationship between the CEO and the Chief of Staff.Laurie also reflects on her career journey, offering advice to her younger self and others aspiring to impactful leadership roles. She advocates for speaking one's truth, contributing thoughtfully, and always aiming to do the right thing, especially in influential roles like that of a Chief of Staff.Enjoy!In This Episode You'll Learn:The multifaceted nature of the Chief of Staff role, its evolution from military origins, and its critical importance in aligning with the CEO's vision and the company's mission.The uniqueness of the Chief of Staff's responsibilities compared to other executive roles, focusing on strategic support, project coordination, and effective communication within the organization.Common challenges CEOs face, such as time management and the necessity of delegating effectively.The significance of the 'handshake meeting' between a CEO and Chief of Staff, setting clear expectations and establishing a solid foundation for their working relationship.The career trajectory of a Chief of Staff, with insights on the typical tenure in the role and the evolutionary nature of the responsibilities as the organization's needs change.Strategies for recruiting the right Chief of Staff, with a preference for internal hiring due to the inherent understanding of the company's culture and operations.The key elements of fostering a strong and productive relationship between the CEO and Chief of Staff, including trust, integrity, and clear communication.The critical role of the Chief of Staff in steering the CEO away from micromanagement and ensuring focus on strategic initiatives and vision.The importance of self-awareness and confidence in one's contributions, particularly in influential roles like that of a Chief of Staff.And much more...Resources:Subscribe, Rate & ReviewI'd love you to subscribe to the podcast and leave an honest rating & review. This will encourage others to listen and grow as a community.Connect with Laurie: Website | LinkedIn Laurie's Book: 'Who Has Your Back?: A Leader's Guide to Getting the Support You Need from the Chief of Staff You Deserve'YouTube - Second In Command Podcast - https://www.youtube.com/@secondincommandpodcast YouTube - Cameron Herold Leadership - https://www.youtube.com/@CameronHerold COO Alliance - https://cooalliance.com/ Cameron’s newest book - The Second In Command - https://a.co/d/287lESq Cameron’s Online Leadership Course - https://investinyourleaders.com/ch  Cameron’s Website - https://cameronherold.com/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/cameron_herold_cooalliance/ 

Today's episode of the Second in Command podcast is a recast of a conversation between Cameron and Yoni Kozminski, the host of Successful Scales. Cameron shares his unique perspective on business, emphasizing the intrinsic value of community in entrepreneurial growth. His journey from grooming under an entrepreneurial family to coaching top business figures like Kimbal Musk and building the largest auto body chain in North America, Gerber Auto Collision, unfolds. Cameron's experience in varied industries, including his role as COO at 1-800-GOT-JUNK?, underlines his diverse expertise. The conversation highlights his commitment to helping entrepreneurs and COOs excel, with an emphasis on the importance of professional networks like the COO Alliance.Yoni and Cameron explore the intricacies of effective leadership and management, differentiating between the two with compelling anecdotes and practical advice. Cameron advocates for simplicity in systems and processes, drawing on his extensive experience in hiring and coaching thousands of individuals. He stresses the importance of having a clear vision, the 'Vivid Vision' concept, which he illustrates with stories from his professional journey. This vision helps entrepreneurs prioritize and align their teams towards common goals, ensuring efficient and purpose-driven business growth.The conversation takes a personal turn as Cameron shares his experiences from the Burning Man festival, reflecting on the profound life and business lessons he's gleaned from the event. His stories about introducing Tim Ferriss to Burning Man and missing an opportunity to invest in Uber offer a candid glimpse into his life, filled with both successes and learning moments. The conversation is not just about business strategies but also about the human aspects of entrepreneurship, like the importance of community, genuine connections, and understanding the deeper values that drive successful business leaders.Enjoy!In This Episode You'll Learn:How being part of professional communities like the COO Alliance can bring intrinsic value to business leaders and their organizations.The distinct roles of leadership and management in business, with practical advice on how to differentiate and excel in both areas.The importance of simplifying processes and systems within a business for efficient and effective operation, as demonstrated by Cameron Herold's extensive experience in recruiting and coaching.The concept of a 'Vivid Vision' and how a clear, detailed vision of the future can align teams and prioritize business goals for successful growth.How a family's entrepreneurial background can shape one's business approach and mindset, based on Cameron Herold's personal experiences.The parallels between sports strategies and business efficiency, understanding how skills from one area can translate to success in another.How experiences from events like Burning Man can influence business thinking, foster creativity, and encourage community and human connection.The importance of training and developing leadership skills for effective team management and business success.And much more...Resources:Subscribe, Rate & ReviewI'd love you to subscribe to the podcast and leave an honest rating & review. This will encourage others to listen and grow as a community.YouTube - Second In Command Podcast - https://www.youtube.com/@secondincommandpodcast YouTube - Cameron Herold Leadership - https://www.youtube.com/@CameronHerold COO Alliance - https://cooalliance.com/ Cameron’s newest book - The Second In Command - https://a.co/d/287lESq Cameron’s Online Leadership Course - https://investinyourleaders.com/ch  Cameron’s Website - https://cameronherold.com/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/cameron_herold_cooalliance/ 

In today's episode of the Second in Command podcast, Cameron is joined by Ron Martinez, COO and co-founder of Chatavise, and of course, a COO Alliance member. Ron discusses the pivotal role of operational strategies in scaling businesses from millions to billions. He emphasizes that while marketing is a key component, operational intricacies are essential for managing rapid growth. Ron's journey with Chatavise, a comprehensive text messaging and SMS platform, showcases his strategic approach to client relationships and reputation management through innovative communication solutions.Cameron and Ron discuss leveraging texting for business growth. Ron illustrates how Chatavise excels in managing the entire customer journey, offering services beyond a conventional texting platform. He shares insights on common pitfalls in SMS marketing and emphasizes the importance of aligning text communication with a company's overall tone and marketing strategies.The discussion sheds light on the unique challenges and learning experiences in developing Chatavise. Ron discusses the importance of understanding customer needs and adapting services accordingly, particularly in different industry segments. He also shares his personal growth journey and the significance of being a member of the COO Alliance, highlighting the value of learning from peers and experiences to drive business success.Enjoy!In This Episode You'll Learn:How operational strategies are pivotal when scaling a business from millions to billions, beyond just focusing on marketing.How Chatavise revolutionizes customer interactions and reputation management through its advanced SMS and text messaging platform.Effective SMS marketing strategies and how to avoid common pitfalls, ensuring your messages align with your brand's tone and overall marketing plan.The importance and benefits of integrating texting into your business model, and how it can be more effective than traditional email marketing.How Chatavise adapts its services to suit different industry needs, emphasizing the importance of understanding and meeting customer requirements.Ron's journey of personal growth and how his experiences have shaped his professional success as COO of Chatavise.The significance of learning from peers, and how it can contribute to one’s business strategies and leadership skills.Innovative ways to enhance customer engagement and build stronger relationships using technology.Strategies for navigating the challenges that come with transitioning from a startup to a scale-up.And much more...Resources:Subscribe, Rate & ReviewI'd love you to subscribe to the podcast and leave an honest rating & review. This will encourage others to listen and grow as a community.Connect with Ron: Website | LinkedInYouTube - Second In Command Podcast - https://www.youtube.com/@secondincommandpodcast YouTube - Cameron Herold Leadership - https://www.youtube.com/@CameronHerold COO Alliance - https://cooalliance.com/ Cameron’s newest book - The Second In Command - https://a.co/d/287lESq Cameron’s Online Leadership Course - https://investinyourleaders.com/ch  Cameron’s Website - https://cameronherold.com/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/cameron_herold_cooalliance/ 

Today's episode of the Second in Command podcast is a recast of a conversation between Cameron and Joe Polish, the host of the Genius Network podcast, Cameron discusses the intricacies of the COO role and the dynamics of a CEO-COO relationship. Drawing from his rich experience as a COO, he offers insights into effective leadership, company culture, and the importance of understanding the unique requirements of this executive position.Joe and Cameron discuss his book "Second in Command," which emphasizes the significance of the COO role in a business. Cameron shares his journey as an entrepreneur and a COO, highlighting the key aspects of his role in various companies. The discussion then shifts to the CEO-COO dynamic, where Cameron stresses the importance of alignment and communication between the two, comparing it to a marital relationship. He underscores the need for trust, mutual understanding, and regular interaction to maintain a healthy and productive partnership.Cameron offers practical advice on hiring and working with a COO. He emphasizes the importance of cultural fit and alignment with company values, alongside skills and experience. He also touches upon the challenges that come with growth and scaling, discussing how roles evolve and sometimes necessitate difficult decisions, such as parting ways with long-term team members. Cameron also shares his personal experiences and learnings, offering valuable lessons for entrepreneurs looking to strengthen their leadership teams.Enjoy!In This Episode You'll Learn:How the role of a COO evolves as a company grows, and the significance of this position in various stages of business development.The nuances of the relationship between a CEO and a COO, and why it's often compared to a marital partnership. The impact of strong leadership and a well-defined company culture on the success of a business.The critical aspects of hiring a COO, including the importance of cultural fit and aligning with company values.How to navigate the challenges that come with scaling a business, as well as making tough decisions about team dynamics.Strategies for managing the highs and lows that come with entrepreneurship, including advice on maintaining personal well-being while running a business.And much more...Resources:Subscribe, Rate & ReviewI'd love you to subscribe to the podcast and leave an honest rating & review. This will encourage others to listen and grow as a community.YouTube - Second In Command Podcast - https://www.youtube.com/@secondincommandpodcast YouTube - Cameron Herold Leadership - https://www.youtube.com/@CameronHerold COO Alliance - https://cooalliance.com/ Cameron’s newest book - The Second In Command - https://a.co/d/287lESq Cameron’s Online Leadership Course - https://investinyourleaders.com/ch  Cameron’s Website - https://cameronherold.com/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/cameron_herold_cooalliance/ 

In today's episode of the Second in Command podcast, Cameron is joined by Artug Acar, COO Alliance member as well as COO of Mercury Business Services, a Boston-based tech-enabled healthcare and logistics company. Artug shares Mercury's focus on healthcare logistics, emphasizing their specialized services in shipping medical devices, diagnostic kits, and life science research products. He highlights the company's strategic shift from law firms to healthcare, leveraging their expertise in a niche market to provide valuable services. Artug's journey from VP of Product to COO reflects his deep involvement in various company aspects, from product development to operations, underscoring his comprehensive approach to leadership.Cameron and Artug discuss the challenges and strategies of managing a global team, with a significant presence in Turkey. He stresses the importance of cultural understanding, autonomy, and team integration for effective cross-border collaboration. Artug's unique position, bridging Turkish and American cultures, enables him to create a cohesive and efficient work environment, despite geographical and time differences. This global team plays a crucial role in Mercury's operations, and Artug's approach showcases his ability to navigate complex international dynamics successfully.Artug also shares insights on change management and leadership styles. He emphasizes the need to adapt leadership approaches based on situational demands, ranging from coercive to coaching styles. Artug's analogy of sailing in Boston Harbor parallels his leadership philosophy, illustrating the importance of adapting to changing environments while maintaining a clear course. His reflective approach, seeking feedback and learning from mistakes, marks his growth-oriented mindset.Enjoy!In This Episode You'll Learn:How Mercury transitioned from servicing law firms to focusing on healthcare logistics, and why targeting niche markets can be a strategic advantage.Insights into managing a multicultural team across different geographies, with a specific focus on integrating teams in the U.S. and Turkey.Artug's approach to change management and how adapting leadership styles to various situations can drive organizational success.The challenges and triumphs of developing a technology platform that supports global healthcare logistics.Artug's career progression at Mercury, the diversification of responsibilities, and the holistic understanding required in a COO role.Strategies for fostering effective collaboration between teams from different cultural backgrounds and time zones.How to adapt your leadership style during a crisis and the importance of being flexible yet directive when needed.How engaging employees in decision-making and recognizing their contributions can fuel growth and morale in an organization.Strategic planning and how anticipating future risks and opportunities can prepare a business for sustainable growth.And much more...Resources:Connect with Artug: Website | LinkedInSubscribe, Rate & ReviewI'd love you to subscribe to the podcast and leave an honest rating & review. This will encourage others to listen and grow as a community.YouTube - Second In Command Podcast - https://www.youtube.com/@secondincommandpodcast YouTube - Cameron Herold Leadership - https://www.youtube.com/@CameronHerold COO Alliance - https://cooalliance.com/ Cameron’s newest book - The Second In Command - https://a.co/d/287lESq Cameron’s Online Leadership Course - https://investinyourleaders.com/ch  Cameron’s Website - https://cameronherold.com/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/cameron_herold_cooalliance/ 

Today's episode of the Second in Command podcast is a recast of a conversation between Cameron and Christopher Lochhead, the host of the Legends and Losers podcast. They discuss the distinct roles and personalities within corporate leadership, particularly focusing on the dynamic between CEOs and COOs. Cameron highlights the results of a personality profiling exercise conducted within the COO Alliance, revealing stark differences between the entrepreneurial, visionary nature of CEOs and the more operational, linear approach of COOs. He emphasizes the unique abilities of COOs to reverse-engineer the dreams of CEOs, underscoring their role in bringing structure and execution to the visionary ideas of their counterparts.The discussion further explores the identity of COOs, emphasizing their role as facilitators rather than aspirants to the CEO position. Cameron and Christopher agree that a successful COO is one who genuinely aims to amplify the CEO's vision, rather than using the position as a stepping stone to the top role. This concept is expanded upon through real-world examples, including a nod to Sheryl Sandberg's role at Facebook, suggesting that the best COOs are those who understand and stay true to their specialized role, much like a player in a well-coordinated team.They also reflect on the various types of executive roles and the challenges in filling these positions, particularly in the tech industry. Cameron introduces his COO Alliance as a solution to the lack of networking and learning opportunities for second-in-command executives. They share their personal experiences and observations, as well as the importance of complementary skill sets within leadership teams.Enjoy!In This Episode You'll Learn:How CEOs tend to be entrepreneurial and visionary, while COOs are more operational and linear.The concept that COOs are professionals in their own right, with a unique skill set, rather than merely waiting to become CEOs.How successful leadership teams balance contrasting skills and personalities.The importance of understanding one's role and staying true to it for effective teamwork.The difficulties companies face in filling key executive roles, especially in the tech industry.The often misunderstood and undertrained nature of the COO role.And much more...Resources:Subscribe, Rate & ReviewI'd love you to subscribe to the podcast and leave an honest rating & review. This will encourage others to listen and grow as a community.YouTube - Second In Command Podcast - https://www.youtube.com/@secondincommandpodcast YouTube - Cameron Herold Leadership - https://www.youtube.com/@CameronHerold COO Alliance - https://cooalliance.com/ Cameron’s newest book - The Second In Command - https://a.co/d/287lESq Cameron’s Online Leadership Course - https://investinyourleaders.com/ch  Cameron’s Website - https://cameronherold.com/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/cameron_herold_cooalliance/ 

In today's episode of the Second in Command podcast, Cameron Herold is joined by Stacey Ryan, the COO of the School of Rock, to discuss the revolutionary impact of the business and her experiences as a woman in a C-suite role. Stacey shares the transformational journey of School of Rock, from having 16 corporate locations to expanding to 353 schools across 15 countries. They discuss the unique teaching approach of the business, which focuses on teaching music by integrating students into bands and putting them on stage, offering not just musical education but also social development and community building.Stacey shares the intricacies of managing a franchise model and the nuances of international business operations, highlighting the importance of adapting to local cultures and regulations. She talks about the success of their master franchise strategy and shares valuable lessons learned in maintaining a balance between authority and partnership in franchising. Her insights reveal the complex dynamics of franchising and the need for constant reevaluation and adaptation to ensure growth and success in diverse markets.Cameron and Stacey discuss the challenges and advancements of women in executive roles. Stacey talks candidly about the slow but positive changes in the representation of women in C-suite positions and the biases they often face. She shares her personal experiences and initiatives like "Front Women" that aim to support and empower women in leadership roles. Their conversation not only sheds light on innovative educational models and franchise management but also crucial issues of gender equality and leadership diversity in the corporate world.Enjoy!In This Episode You'll Learn:How School of Rock has expanded from 16 to 353 locations globally, transforming music education by teaching through performance.The challenges and strategies of managing a franchise model, including balancing authority and partnership.The slow but positive shift in the inclusion of women in C-suite roles, including the hurdles they face and the progress made.How School of Rock positively impacts students' mental health by providing a safe, inclusive environment where they can express themselves through music.The value of staying true to oneself in a leadership role and the importance of making decisions aligned with personal values and integrity.How personal authenticity in leadership can lead to more meaningful and successful career paths.The challenges women face in corporate environments, from being underestimated to dealing with microaggressions.And much more...Resources:Connect with Stacey: Website | LinkedIn Subscribe, Rate & ReviewI'd love you to subscribe to the podcast and leave an honest rating & review. This will encourage others to listen and grow as a community.YouTube - Second In Command Podcast - https://www.youtube.com/@secondincommandpodcast YouTube - Cameron Herold Leadership - https://www.youtube.com/@CameronHerold COO Alliance - https://cooalliance.com/ Cameron’s newest book - The Second In Command - https://a.co/d/287lESq Cameron’s Online Leadership Course - https://investinyourleaders.com/ch  Cameron’s Website - https://cameronherold.com/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/cameron_herold_cooalliance/