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

In today's episode of the Second in Command podcast, Cameron is joined by Joe Minarik, Chief Operating Officer for DataBank, a provider of enterprise-class data center, cloud, and interconnection services.During the conversation, Cameron and Joe dive into the challenges and rewards of transitioning into a new leadership role within a different organizational culture. He highlights how listening and relationship-building are key to earning the trust and respect of team members, especially when managing expectations and setting priorities in an evolving business environment.You'll discover the importance of coaching and developing people within an organization. With an emphasis on talent growth and empowerment, Joe explains how the success of a business relies heavily on cultivating the strengths of its team, rather than simply focusing on technical tasks or immediate business needs.This episode offers valuable advice from Joe's years of experience, emphasizing the power of patience, learning from those on the front lines, and focusing on problem-solving as a way to fuel personal and professional growth.If you've enjoyed this episode of the Second in Command podcast, be sure to leave a review and subscribe today!Enjoy!In This Episode You'll Learn:Why many employees leave high-paying jobs at hyperscalers to return to smaller companies with a better culture and more fulfilling work. (9:16)The technical aspects of data centers, including latency, connectivity, and the importance of being close to population zones. (13:05)Joe's background in system administration and network engineering, and how he transitioned from technical roles to management and business leadership. (19:33)The difficulties of meeting people virtually and the importance of face-to-face interactions in building trust and understanding. (23:53)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 - Unleash The Power Of Your COOCameron’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 Johnathan Grzybowski, Co-Founder, Head of Operations, Marketing, Sales and Strategy for Penji, a creative technology company that leverages some of the world's most talented graphic designers to serve business owners in need of design work.During the conversation, Cameron and Johnathan discuss the rapid advancements in technology and communication, touching on futuristic ideas that seem almost surreal. You'll learn how emerging tools might reshape the way we exchange ideas, with the possibility of achieving instant, precise communication on the horizon.The discussion shifts to the essentials of running a modern business with distributed teams. Johnathan shares insights on how to maintain clear communication across global teams, emphasizing the importance of setting expectations, following up, and ensuring respect for all team members, regardless of location.This episode offers insights on lessons learned from both successes and missed opportunities, underscoring the importance of persistence, data-driven decisions, and the pursuit of long-term goals in both business and life.If you've enjoyed this episode of the Second in Command podcast, be sure to leave a review and subscribe today!Enjoy!In This Episode You'll Learn:Penji's strategy of leveraging SEO and data to target their audience effectively, ensuring their ads are seen by the right people. (2:25)Penji's choice to use AI tools and the importance of human involvement in the creative process. (8:51)Johnathan's experience with building a global team and the importance of clear communication and respect. (21:06)The challenges of managing a remote team and the importance of clear communication and follow-up. (44:29)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 - Unleash The Power Of Your COOCameron’s Online Leadership Course - https://investinyourleaders.com/ch  Cameron’s Website - https://cameronherold.com/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/cameron_herold_cooalliance/ 

Tod Melnyk, COO of Martell Media, shares his unique journey from the beer industry to media production. He discusses the importance of mentorship and being surrounded by strong leaders. Tod highlights effective hiring practices that focus on self-driven individuals and emphasizes core values like personal growth and teamwork. He explores innovative meeting strategies, including scooter-based discussions, and offers advice for young professionals on leveraging mentorship for career development. Tune in for valuable insights into modern leadership and growth.

In today's episode of the Second in Command podcast, Cameron explores the pivotal moment when entrepreneurs consider hiring a COO. You'll discover three key motivations behind this decision: the pursuit of financial stability, reclaiming personal time, and focusing on areas of personal strength within the business.Throughout the episode, Cameron illustrates his points with anecdotes from his extensive experience, highlighting both successful integrations of COOs and cautionary tales where mismatches led to operational challenges. The advice you'll find here underscores the critical role of self-awareness in defining the position's parameters and finding a complementary match that enhances rather than disrupts the business's momentum and leadership dynamics.If you've enjoyed this episode of the Second in Command podcast, be sure to leave a review and subscribe today!In This Episode You'll Learn:Why you should consider hiring a COO - financial stability, reclaiming personal time, and focusing on strengths within the business. (1:22)Why the inability to develop employees due to time constraints and overwhelming opportunities needing execution may indicate that it's time to hire a second-in-command. (3:12)Mistakes to avoid when hiring a COO or similar role, such as misjudging the appropriate title and responsibilities based on needs and budget. (4:29)The importance of defining the role and scope clearly before hiring, including matching skills, personality, and leadership style to the business needs. (7:38)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 - Unleash The Power Of Your COOCameron’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 explores the critical importance of delegation for high-level executives and business leaders. You'll learn why successful leaders should focus on tasks that align with their unique abilities and high hourly rates, delegating all other responsibilities to more cost-effective resources. Hear the story of Bobby Harris, who shifted his routine by delegating all tasks below a certain value, which serves as a compelling example of how effective delegation can lead to significant business growth and personal efficiency.This episode highlights the transformative power of strategic delegation, illustrating how it can free up time for executives to focus on high-impact activities that drive their business forward.If you've enjoyed this episode of the Second in Command podcast, be sure to leave a review and subscribe today!In This Episode You'll Learn:Why delegating tasks that can be done by others is crucial for high-level executives. (2:00)Insights into how your effective hourly rate impacts decision-making and task management. (3:00)How to systematically offload tasks that do not align with your unique abilities or effective hourly rate. (4:00)The relationship between delegating administrative tasks and increasing overall business productivity. (5:00)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 - Unleash The Power Of Your COOCameron’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 Trap Kloman, the President and Chief Operating Officer of Commonwealth Financial Network.During the conversation, Cameron and Trap discuss the art of leadership and the nuanced strategies that set successful companies apart. You'll learn how creating open channels for feedback, even in unexpected ways, can foster a culture of transparency and innovation.Discover the challenges and rewards of transitioning leadership within a well-established company. Through personal anecdotes, Trap shares how integrating external executives and even family members into a legacy business can be approached with care and intentionality.This episode serves as a compelling exploration of what it takes to lead effectively in a dynamic business environment, offering practical insights and inspiration for their own leadership journeys.If you've enjoyed this episode of the Second in Command podcast, be sure to leave a review and subscribe today!Enjoy! In This Episode You'll Learn:Why paying close attention to both employee and client needs can lead to sustainable growth and enhance overall organizational performance. (05:28)The complexities of integrating external executives and family members into a legacy business, and how thoughtful planning can ensure success. (20:45)The significance of mentorship in leadership development, and how collaboration with experienced colleagues can accelerate personal and professional growth. (28:17)The strategic decision to spin off a successful IT platform into an independent company, and how this move set the stage for future growth. (41:17)Practical advice on building confidence, understanding your strengths and weaknesses, and surrounding yourself with a complementary team for long-term success. (45:53)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/ 

Tim Jacobsen, COO of Ra Optics and entrepreneur in innovative health solutions, shares insights on the transformative power of light in wellness. He discusses how celebrity endorsements have skyrocketed Ra Optics' visibility. Tim details his strategies for managing a global team, overcoming time zone challenges, and ensuring effective communication. The conversation also touches on the balance between style and science in eyewear, and how authentic connections drive business growth and operational success.

Explore the shifting landscape of employee rewards that prioritize personalized benefits over traditional bonuses. Discover how aligning compensation with Maslow's hierarchy can enhance motivation and commitment. Learn about the positive impact of generous vacation policies and the importance of employee happiness for performance. Delve into the potential pitfalls of profit sharing and the benefits of supporting employees' entrepreneurial dreams. Embrace a new perspective on leave that fosters trust and empowers team growth.

Jared Orton, the President of the Savannah Bananas, revolutionizes baseball through his innovative concept of Banana Ball. He shares insights on creating unforgettable fan experiences that blend entertainment with authentic sports culture. Jared discusses the team's journey from low attendance to sold-out games, emphasizing the importance of fun and spontaneity. The conversation also touches on balancing rapid growth with company culture, and the potential for their unique model to reach international markets. It's a lively exploration of what modern sports can be!

Discover how understanding the lifetime value of a customer can transform marketing strategies and spending. A compelling casino analogy sheds light on maximizing return on investment in customer acquisition. Learn about cost-effective hiring practices for sales roles, tapping into global talent from regions like Latin America and South Africa. Gain insights on customer acquisition strategies that prioritize value over costs, and explore networking tips to enhance visibility and engagement for sustainable growth.