Think Like an Owner

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.

Ed Manfre, a seasoned business leader and executive coach, discusses how leadership begins as an internal journey. He emphasizes the power of self-reflection, personal growth, and resilience in effective leadership. The conversation highlights strategies for seamless mergers and acquisitions, the importance of aligning personal and organizational values, and nurturing a culture of authenticity. Moreover, Ed dives into the impact of personal energy on leadership styles and the necessity of self-care in maintaining vitality and effectiveness during challenging times.

Sarah Rowell, a savvy entrepreneur who co-founded Kantola Training Solutions, discusses leveraging board relationships for company growth. She shares insights on building effective boards, emphasizing the importance of chemistry and transparency with investors. Navigating the dynamics of board meetings is crucial for CEOs, and Sarah highlights strategies for maximizing their effectiveness. Additionally, she reflects on her journey of acquiring and selling a business, illustrating how a strong board can drive transformative success.