Think Like an Owner

Richard Emery, a veteran of business aviation sales, has held prestigious roles at Canadair, Bombardier, Gulfstream, and Hawker Beechcraft. He shares insights on structuring high-performing sales teams and the nuances of selling private jets to unique clients. Richard dives into the importance of understanding customer motivations and emphasizes servant leadership as a way to empower teams. His engaging anecdotes and practical advice offer valuable lessons for CEOs and anyone interested in optimizing sales strategies in competitive industries.

Craig Fuller, founder of FreightWaves and recent acquirer of Flying Magazine, shares his remarkable journey from a family trucking business to the forefront of media and data in freight. He delves into the birth of FreightWaves, discussing the vital role of unique content and networking in building a successful media brand. Fuller reveals his plans to revitalize Flying Magazine, emphasizing the significance of engaging storytelling in today’s digital landscape and the important balance between journalism and marketing.

In this discussion, Craig Picken, an executive recruiter specializing in C-suite executives in the aviation sector, shares his deep insights into aviation recruiting trends. He highlights how smaller firms can outmaneuver industry giants like Boeing in attracting talent through agility and a dynamic culture. Craig emphasizes the importance of an external-facing CEO, effective company branding, and strong leadership in recruitment. He also reflects on the unique journey of transitioning from military operations to aviation recruitment, weaving in the lessons learned from his podcasting experience.

Kush Das, CEO of Ennoble Care, leads a mission to marry profitable growth with exceptional patient care. He shares insights on the delicate balance between maintaining profitability and making growth hires, emphasizing the importance of measuring internal ROI through KPIs. Kush advocates for decentralized decision-making, fostering a culture of trust and accountability within teams. He also discusses how innovative EMR systems can enhance home healthcare operations, ultimately driving sustainability and efficient financial practices.

Jim Derry, former CEO of Field Fastener, shares his expertise from leading a $180 million business known for its unique vendor-managed inventory system. He dives into the significance of a measurable, data-driven culture and how it can set a company apart. Jim emphasizes the importance of values in shaping corporate culture and addresses the unique challenges of managing a multi-generational family business. Notably, he quips, 'Culture is the lowest level of behavior you'll tolerate,' underlining the essential balance between performance and values.

Join Johnny Lieberman and Zack Miller, co-founders of Worklyn Partners, where they delve into the integration of cybersecurity and IT services for mid-market companies. They discuss the challenges of merging service providers, aligning sales strategies, and the vital role of core values in acquisitions. Cybersecurity expert John Flory highlights rising threats and the necessity of AI in defense strategies. With discussions on employee training and third-party risks, this conversation is packed with insights for navigating today’s tech landscape.

Jim Lindstrom, a seasoned CEO with experience at companies like IES and Providence Services, shares his valuable insights on business leadership. He discusses strategies for accelerating growth and executing effective turnarounds, emphasizing the importance of empathy in leadership. Jim highlights the need for minimizing unproductive meetings and fostering team alignment. He also explores the challenges of managing balance sheets, navigating debt levels, and leveraging technology for enhanced operational efficiency.

Collin Hathaway, a seasoned expert in the home services sector, returns to discuss his recent sale of Flint Group to General Atlantic. He shares personal insights on the emotional complexities of business exits and emphasizes that 'good is usually enough' in decision-making. The conversation touches on the significance of hiring practices, aligning incentives, and the balance between ambition and sustainability. Collin reflects on long-term strategies, cultural integration during changes, and the importance of maintaining simplicity in business operations.

Rob Southern, an experienced CEO renowned for his company acquisitions, joins James Bergeron, a leadership coach specializing in executive growth. They share transformative insights on upleveling as a CEO, emphasizing the pivotal role of executive coaching and continuous self-improvement. The duo discusses the nuances of measuring progress, discerning crucial signals in leadership, and finding personal management styles. They also reflect on the importance of inner values and learning from diverse leadership influences to navigate challenges in dynamic business environments.

Steve Swinney, founder and CEO of Kodiak Building Partners, has transformed the company from its initial acquisition to a thriving $3 billion powerhouse. He discusses strategic focus on lumber as a commodity, the challenges of maintaining communication and culture during rapid growth, and the company's unique acquisition strategies. Swinney shares insights on fostering continuous learning and alignment across diverse brands while tackling future challenges in the building materials industry with optimism.