The Corporate Couch: Work Stories I Only Tell My Friends

Tucker Graves, The Serial Entrepreneur and Learner - Long Game Thinking, His Great Advice For Start-Ups, and Why Caring Is The Key To A Great Culture

Join me for this mini-masterclass in start-ups, leadership, the importance of lifelong learning, and long-term strategy with the serial entrepreneur Tucker Graves (bio below). We talk about "long game" thinking, creating a business idea at 22 years old with friends (it involved a hot tub and some alcohol :-), interviewing for his first job with the CEO of a major restaurant chain, business lessons from his dad, creating a business at a bar with a cocktail napkin, and his start-up advice including why dollars are votes, the importance of having an attorney, and how to budget/forecast your revenue/expenses.
 
Today's episode is brought to you by ExecHQ (Website), a C-suite fractional firm providing elite executives for your business. If you’re having challenges taking your business to the next level, want to augment your leadership team, or prepare your company for increased growth, profitability, and an eventual successful exit, ExecHQ has seasoned executives from every C-suite position, ensuring a perfect fit for your needs and industry dynamics. To learn more about ExecHQ, email Jeff Pelaccio at jeff.pelaccio@exechq.com.     
 
​Tucker Graves' Bio: Tucker Graves ( linkedin.com/in/tucker-graves-322a792b ), born into a lineage of entrepreneurs in Missouri with a strong foothold in the food service industry, has established five companies, each a testament to his innate entrepreneurial spirit. His latest venture is fueled by a core mission: to democratize education, particularly for the "deskless workforce," also known as frontline staff. With a diverse background encompassing marketing, management, technology, strategy, legal supply chain, retail, manufacturing, and now education, Tucker's leadership is multifaceted. His drive stems from a profound desire to positively impact as many lives as possible, constantly seeking new avenues to serve others. As CEO and Co-Founder of Pineapple Academy, (Website), he strives to collaborate with organizations, advocating for a culture of person-centered learning. Embracing the philosophy of being a lifelong learner, Tucker remains committed to expanding his horizons and fostering innovation.

Kevin McGinnis, The Innovative Community Champion - Lessons From Silicon Valley Companies, Leveraging the Gen Z Workforce, and How To Be A Successful Intrapreneur

There are many great insights from my conversation with Kevin McGinnis (see his bio below). We discuss what he learned from working with Silicon Valley companies in the "boom" years (2007-2013), how to leverage AI, working with Gen Zers, how he became a successful intrapreneur, his lessons from Peter Diamandis' Singularity University, not being afraid to fail, what he learned from being an inside sales rep right after college, why culture matters (especially in a start-up), and the importance of having a lifelong learner mindset. Please enjoy my conversation with Kevin!
Today's episode is brought to you by ExecHQ (Website), a C-suite fractional firm providing elite executives for your business. If you’re having challenges taking your business to the next level, want to augment your leadership team, or prepare your company for increased growth, profitability, and an eventual successful exit, ExecHQ has seasoned executives from every C-suite position, ensuring a perfect fit for your needs and industry dynamics. To learn more about ExecHQ, email Jeff Pelaccio at jeff.pelaccio@exechq.com.    
 
Kevin McGinnis bio: Kevin McGinnis (linkedin.com/in/kevinmcginnis ) currently serves as the President & CEO of the Keystone Community Corporation (https://www.keystonedistrict.org/), a non-profit organization tasked with the planning, development, and operations of a thriving and diverse​ innovation community in downtown Kansas City, Missouri. When McGinnis noticed the region lacked adestination that enabled the region’s innovators, educators, entrepreneurs, industry leaders, and community members to collaborate and solve our most pressing problems at scale, his strong belief in Kansas City and its institutions drove him to act. Today, McGinnis leans into his track record as a lifelong learner to focus on new areas like urban development, placemaking, and inclusive community engagement and is convening civic, corporate, and community stakeholders on both sides of the state line to bring theKeystone Innovation District vision to life.As part of the Keystone initiative, Kevin is also the founder and president of Keystone Labs, a cross-industry innovation collaborative driving corporate engagement and collaboration across the regional​ ecosystem. Keystone Labs was launched in October 2020 with 15 founding corporate members representing a diverse set of industries and is powered by the human-centered design expertise of globaldesign leader, VMLY&R. After years of championing the role of industry in creating a more vibrant innovation ecosystem, McGinnis was instrumental in the design of the studio programming, recruiting the founding members and developing the relationships to launch the inaugural pilot programs with LaunchKC and VMLY&R.

Dr. Katie Ervin, The Culture Doctor - Why CEOs Stop Learning, How to Have A Side Hustle, and How Listening to The Universe Can Guide Your Career

You will enjoy my conversation with  Dr. Katie Ervin on so many levels. We talk about great topics like how you can change a toxic culture focusing on two things, how to distinguish great leaders from bad leaders, leading the GenZ workforce, why career journeys are not a straight path, how to have a successful side hustle, tips on pursuing a PhD, and how she started a company without have a business degree. She has written a fantastic business book with a great title  - "You Might Be An Asshole" and is on a mission to revolutionize workplace culture. 
 
Today's episode is brought to you by ExecHQ (Website), a C-suite fractional firm providing elite executives for your business. If you’re having challenges taking your business to the next level, want to augment your leadership team, or prepare your company for increased growth, profitability, and an eventual successful exit, ExecHQ has seasoned executives from every C-suite position, ensuring a perfect fit for your needs and industry dynamics. To learn more about ExecHQ, email Jeff Pelaccio at jeff.pelaccio@exechq.com.    
Bio: Dr. Katie Ervin (linkedin.com/in/katieervin ) is the founder and CEO of Catalyst Development (Website). Throughout her career, she has established a reputation as a transformational leader driven by challenge, undeterred by obstacles, and committed to furthering standards of excellence. In her work, she has saved organizations millions of dollars by focusing on building a strong culture and investing in your people. Dr. Ervin believes that her work is all about the people! Her work in developing strong leaders and teams focused on critical career skill building to develop strong cultures and groworganizations.
Dr. Ervin’s area of research is workplace motivation based on self-determination theoryand the impact of an employee’s perception of their organization’s support. Her first book “You Might Be an Asshole but It Might Not Be Your Fault” was released on April 21, 2023, and was the #1 New Release Best Seller in Human Resources as well as Educational Leadership on Amazon.

Scott Willingham, The Fierce Competitor With A Servant Leader's Heart - Living By The Platinum Rule, Level 5 Leadership, and Giving Everyone An Opportunity

Whenever a guest has a story that involves lifting a 400 lb. calf in designer jeans you know it will be a great conversation. Join the discussion with Scott Willingham (see bio below) as we talk about Level 5 leadership (and how Abraham Lincoln was one of the few presidents to reach this level), building cultures where people don't experience the weekly "Dark Sunday Nights", why he uses the Predictive Index assessment, the Platinum Rule (and why it's better than the Golden Rule), and why he believes in giving everyone an opportunity. Also, the story about lifting a 400 lb. calf and riding a horse with no experience was to impress his girlfriend's father (it worked since now he is his father-in-law).
 
Today's episode is brought to you by ExecHQ (Website), a C-suite fractional firm providing elite executives for your business. If you’re having challenges taking your business to the next level, want to augment your leadership team, or prepare your company for increased growth, profitability, and an eventual successful exit, ExecHQ has seasoned executives from every C-suite position, ensuring a perfect fit for your needs and industry dynamics. To learn more about ExecHQ, email Jeff Pelaccio at jeff.pelaccio@exechq.com.  
 
​Scott Willingham (linkedin.com/in/scott-willingham )  is currently the CEO and Founder of WakeEffect (Website). Before launching WakeEffect in late 2023, he
served as the CRO for bulb Digital Portfolios, an EdTech start-up company based in Lafayette, CO. bulb was recently acquired by a competitor based in the U.K. Before leading the sales function at bulb, Scott was EVP and Partner at MindWire in Scottsdale, AZ – the fastest growing Predictive Index Firm in the world from 2016 to 2020. His clients have included one of the largest Automotive OEMs in the world, the largest Diesel Commercial Truck dealer group in the U.S., and the largest veterans Home Mortgage company in America. 20+ years of Leadership in Sales, B2B Sales, Education Sales, and Organizational Development. Selling something you believe in is a noble calling. There is no greater accomplishment than hiring great talent, playingto their strengths, developing and building high-performing teams, and accomplishingextraordinary results. Winning with and through your people is what leadership is all about. Having earned an M.A. in Organization Leadership at Gonzaga University, Scott has been a disruptor in delivering results with B2B Sales into Fortune 500 companies, re-building sales training for a publicly traded company, and leading education sales efforts in school districts across 14 states.​ Before launching for-profit ventures, Scott served as the Chaplain for the University of Missouri Tiger Football team from 2001 to 2004.Scott and his wife Stephanie live in Las Cruces, NM, and have 2 kids. A son who is a junior at Colorado Christian University in Denver and a 16-year-old daughter.

Rick Kahle, The Trusted Advisor - Investing In Others To Stand Out, Learning Leadership By Observation, and The Importance of Self-Awareness

A fun conversation with Rick Kahle! Join Rick and me as we discuss his impressive career journey from the insurance industry to the Kansas City entrepreneurial ecosystem back to insurance. Some of the great topics include: how he became a better leader by observing great leaders in action and learning how to ask great questions; how being an entrepreneur is not for the fragile or faint at heart; the importance of not confusing activity with results; investing in others; and the gift of listening.
 
Today's episode is brought to you by ExecHQ (Website), a C-suite fractional firm providing elite executives for your business. If you’re having challenges taking your business to the next level, want to augment your leadership team, or prepare your company for increased growth, profitability, and an eventual successful exit, ExecHQ has seasoned executives from every C-suite position, ensuring a perfect fit for your needs and industry dynamics. To learn more about ExecHQ, email Jeff Pelaccio at jeff.pelaccio@exechq.com.
 
Rick's bio: Driven by impactful outcomes and passionate about serving people, Rick Kahle (LinkedIn) serves as a trusted advisor adept at helping clients solve their most complex business challenges. Following a 27-year career in employee benefits consulting and brokerage, Rick switched gears and followed his passion for investing in the entrepreneurial ecosystem of Kansas City. In 2019, he co-founded Crux-Xcelerate, which combines sales and marketing acumen to develop sales performers and leaders, drive value and accountability, and fuel sustainable revenue growth for organizations. As Senior Vice President of Alliant, Rick is leaning into his entrepreneurial experiences to help build and lead the firm’s Kansas City office.Rick is passionate about supporting the greater Kansas City community and has served in numerous leadership positions, both charitably and civically. Most notably, he continues to serve as chair of Phoenix Family, which provides support services to 6,000 residents of affordable housing communities.

Rita Smith, The Domestic Violence Pioneer - Her 16-Year Journey to Help The NFL, How to Share Your Message For People to Hear It, and The Importance of Having A Strong Personal Support System

In this compelling episode, I have the privilege of speaking with Rita Smith, a leading expert in the field of domestic violence. Rita shares her remarkable 16-year journey to work with the National Football League (NFL) knowing the involvement of men to make a difference was crucial to her strategy. From her early advocacy efforts to her current 10-year affiliation with the NFL, Rita recounts the challenges and triumphs she's experienced along the way. She reveals the strategies she's employed to amplify her message and effect meaningful change, including collaborations with Presidents and Congress to enact policy reforms. We delve into Rita's impactful media appearances, including The Oprah Show, Good Morning America, The Today Show, and many others, where she has tirelessly advocated for survivors and raised awareness about the complexities of domestic violence. 
Today's episode is brought to you by ExecHQ (Website), a C-suite fractional firm providing elite executives for your business. If you’re having challenges taking your business to the next level, want to augment your leadership team, or prepare your company for increased growth, profitability, and an eventual successful exit, ExecHQ has seasoned executives from every C-suite position, ensuring a perfect fit for your needs and industry dynamics. To learn more about ExecHQ, email Jeff Pelaccio at jeff.pelaccio@exechq.com.
 
Rita ​Smith (LinkedIn ) began working as a crisis line advocate in a shelter for battered women and their children in Colorado in 1981. She is a Senior Adviser for the National Football League on their efforts to end violence against women. Also, she serves as Vice President of External Relations for​ domesticshelters.org and Executive Director of Victim Services for eBodyGuard. Rita was the Executive Director of the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence for nearly 22 years. Hundreds of newspaper reporters have interviewed her and appeared on many local and national radio and television news shows, including the Washington Post, USA Today, People Magazine, NPR, The Today Show, Good Morning America, and the Oprah Winfrey Show.​ Rita has co-authored several articles and chapters for books including a manual for attorneys working with domestic violence victims in Colorado, and an article on child custody and domestic violence published in the fall of 1997 in The Judges Journal (an American Bar Association publication). She believes advocacy and social change are intricately connected and cannot be done separately.

Special Edition - Book Review: Exploring Adam Grant's 'Give And Take: Why Helping Others Drives Our Success"

Welcome to a Special Edition of The Corporate Couch! Today my co-host is Shawn Kinkade (linkedin.com/in/shawnkinkade) and we do a "deep dive" review of Adam Grant's great book "Give and Take: Why Helping Others Drives Our Success". Shawn and I have a fun conversation as we discuss how this book can help everyone from college students to CEOs.
Introduction to "Give and Take": We delve into Adam Grant's exploration of reciprocity styles and their impact on success, based on his extensive research and personal experiences.
The Three Reciprocity Styles: Grant categorizes individuals into givers, takers, and matchers, each with distinct approaches to social interactions and success.
Success Patterns: Surprisingly, both the least and most successful individuals in various fields tend to be givers. We explore the correlation between reciprocity styles and success metrics such as productivity, sales revenue, and leadership effectiveness.
Navigating the Challenges of Giving: While giving offers numerous benefits, including increased happiness and productivity, givers face risks such as burnout and exploitation by takers. We discuss strategies to mitigate these challenges.
Key Takeaways and Practical Applications: We summarize actionable insights from Grant's research, including leveraging powerless communication, integrating self-interest with "other-interest", and implementing the five-minute rule of giving.
To receive a free 7-page "Give and Take" book summary, you can email me at jeffpelaccio@gmail.com. Enjoy the episode!

Chuck Moxley, The 1:1 Data Pioneer - Using AI for Marketing, Data Privacy and TikTok, and Why Companies Are Creating A Huge Skill And Knowledge Gap

A fun and insightful conversation with one of the nation's leading experts on the convergence of technology and marketing, Chuck Moxley. Chuck and I chat about using AI in marketing, data privacy concerns (including his thoughts on TikTok), why companies are getting it wrong on handling the multi-generational workforce, getting mentored at Waffle House, and his first job after college (probably the best one out of any of my guests).
You will learn and laugh so please enjoy!
 
Today's episode is brought to you by ExecHQ (Website), a C-suite fractional firm providing elite executives for your business. If you’re having challenges taking your business to the next level, want to augment your leadership team, or prepare your company for increased growth, profitability, and an eventual successful exit, ExecHQ has seasoned executives from every C-suite position, ensuring a perfect fit for your needs and industry dynamics. To learn more about ExecHQ, email Jeff Pelaccio at jeff.pelaccio@exechq.com.
 
Chuck Moxley (LinkedIn) is a marketing practitioner with more than 25 years of experience on both the brand and agency sides of marketing. Chuck has developed innovative marketing programs for dozens of brands including Chick-fil-A, Lee Jeans, Subway, ATT, Pepsi, Citgo, NFL, and Sears. He is one of the nation's leadingexperts on the convergence of technology and marketing and speaks frequently at corporations, industry trade organizations, and universities on digital marketing, digital identity, and the ethical use of data and its impact on business and society.
He is the co-author of the book on how brands are using one-to-one marketing for greater effectiveness, An Audience of One (Amazon ), published by McGraw Hill and used in marketing and MBA programs at multiple universities. Also, Chuck is co-host of The Frictionless Experience podcast.
 
 

Tony Hofmann, Your Chief Motivation Officer - Embracing Grit, Lessons from Being An Army Ranger, and His Goal of Preventing Military Veteran Suicide

This episode is brought to you by Connect5000 (Website) your outsource lead generation, BDR, and inside sales partner. To download a free copy of the best tactical sales book you will ever read (written by its founder Ray Ruecker), go to https://connect5000.com/resources/book/.  
 
Many leadership and mindset lessons from the self-proclaimed "endurance junkie" (over 50 marathons including 5 Ultra Marathons) Tony Hofmann in this week's podcast. From breaking into his high school gym at night to play basketball to retiring after 26 years in the Army as a colonel you will enjoy Tony talk about why he embraces grit, how he was lucky to get into West Point, how he transitioned from the military to corporate America, and why he is so passionate about preventing veteran suicide in the United States. Please enjoy my conversation with Tony!
 
Tony Hofmann (Tony's Website/) is a proven leader, endurance athlete, West Point graduate, and social entrepreneur focused on stopping military veteran suicide. A rebel at heart fueled by a Midwest spirit, he likes to challenge the status quo--with a sly grin--while seeking physical endeavors that require toughness and grit. As a running “professional enthusiast” entering his fourth decade of competition, he has completed over 50 marathons/ultras, including 14 Boston Marathons and the legendary Leadville 100 Race Across the Sky. A 26-year military veteran, retired US Army colonel, and qualified Ranger, Tony has combined his love of running with a passion to save veteran lives through his high-altitude running team, Team Leadville. He continues to serve as aninnovator and leader within the engineering profession. Husband and father of three, hispurpose is simple: inspire others to self-improvement through action and word.
 
Tony's latest book is "Rim To Rim to Rim On A Whim: An Endurance Junkie's Guide to the Grand Canyon" - Amazon.

Brad Hill, The Heart-Centered Leader - Making People's Souls Smile, Being A Podcast Pioneer, and Why Stories Are Sacred

A fun conversation with Louisana-born Brad Hill. We chat about doing what it takes to make a living (including delivering pizza to people who were your former clients), being a podcast pioneer (he started in 2009 and has had Gary Vaynerchuk on his podcast), overcoming the fear of changing jobs when it is time to move on, the brilliance of the movie "Napolean Dynamite", and doing immersive coaching/counseling weekend seminars (think Brene Brown meets Tony Robbins).
Please enjoy my conversation with Brad!
 
"Live Honestly.  Do the Next Right Thing".That’s Brad Hill's life motto (LinkedIn Profile).  My journey has taken me from Louisiana to KC (through OKC).  Lawnmowing.  Pastoring.  Working at Blockbuster Video (for a day).  Writing.  Podcasting.  Coaching.  Leadership development.  Leading an organization called HeartConnexion Seminars (think Brene Brown with Tony Robbins) over the Midwest and doing incredible work.   Currently, I participate in the Freedom Project (website) and Coaching and Consulting.  Transcendence and transformation.  That’s what resonates with me. Give your time.Give you energy.Give your resources.To stuff you actually believe in.

Ebrima “Abraham” Sisay, The Chief Empathy Officer - Running a Company With "No" Culture, His Goal of Guiding a Billion People To Mental Health Breakthroughs, and Overcoming His PTSD

Ebrima's ("Abraham") life/career journey is unlike anyone on the podcast. We talk about his focus on mental health including his own (as well as the role of responsible AI), getting his "break" from Gary Vaynerchuck on Twitter (now "X"), not having the maturity to lead a company, creating the "Oscars" for mental health professionals, and the power of thinking big.
Please enjoy my conversation with Abraham!
 
Ebrima “Abraham” Sisay is the founder and Chief Empathy Officer at Freedom Project (https://partner.freedomprojectkc.com/)  - A multicultural Impact Creative Agency with the goal of making positive change by guiding a billion people to mental health breakthroughs – All with A unique twist! Previously, Abraham worked as a fractional marketing & distribution executive for software startups and distributed content for local and national brands like Yoobi, Marvel Studios, Humana, University Of Kansas Health System, Shake Shack, etc. Abraham loves to write about mental health breakthroughs, Responsible AI in Mental Health & Health Care, making content experiences, engagement campaigns, & Storytelling.

The Greatest CEO Who Ever Lived

Who is the CEO GOAT?
 
I was shocked this week's guest said "Yes" to be on The Corporate Couch. Richard Dickels as he was named the greatest CEO of the 20th century. He has been the CEO of some of the most iconic companies in our lifetime. Richard had the following criteria I had to honor before he would be interviewed (due to pending lawsuits he is involved in). They were:
We limit the conversation to 15 minutes 
He wanted to see the questions before the interview 
No bio or no headshot would be used.
The conversation was the most unique I have ever had on the podcast and had a major impact on how I view leadership. 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
"Here cometh April again, and as far as I can see the world hath more fools in it than ever." ~ Charles Lamb

Justin Ricklefs, The Transparent CEO - Why He Quit The KC Chiefs Front Office, What To Do When You Feel Like An Empty Suit, and Why Experiencing Pain Is When You Learn $h*t

You will enjoy Justin Ricklef's journey from one of the best jobs in Kansas City (working as an executive in the KC Chiefs front office) to starting his digital ad agency. We chat about the struggles of being a founder/CEO of a start-up, how doing "75 Hard" made him a better CEO by prioritizing unplugging every day, and how working for the Chiefs was a "beautiful and intoxicating" environment (while comparing the front office part of the business like a family-run HVAC company - in a good way).
Enjoy this open conversation with Justin!
 
Justin Ricklefs (LinkedIn Profile) is the Founder and CEO of Guild Collective (Website). He launched Guild in 2017 after spending 13 years in various sales and leadership roles at the Kansas City Chiefs, Learfield Sports, and ECCO Select. After stumbling into a passion for writing, Justin wrote personal pieces for large publications like Huffington Post, The TODAY Show, and Yahoo. While he enjoys writing on personal topics, Guild was formed with the awareness that many brands struggle to connect to the souls of their audience, and Justin believed he could help bridge that gap. Justin is responsible for the Visionary role in the agency, which most often looks like charting the company’s strategy, driving new revenue, developing leaders within the business, and hoping one of his many ideas end up being halfway decent.
Justin is married to his high school sweetheart, Brooke (she was slower to the realization). They live in Liberty, MO, and have been married 20 years and have five children: Kamden, 19; Addi, 17; Rowan, 15; Silas, 13; Henley, 11. He and Brooke love traveling when they can. Justin enjoys writing, running, watching his kids’ activities, and sitting in his cabin where it’s quiet.

Alejandra McAnderson, The Entrepreneur With A Beautiful Soul - Her Mission To Lead Healers and Heal Leaders, Being a Masterpiece and a Work In Progress, and Her 30-Year Journey to Become a US Citizen

Alejandra "Alex" Villalobos-McAnderson has an amazing journey both in her 30-year quest to obtain US citizenship (still in progress) and walking away from corporate America by following her intuition to start her own business in a new field. We chat about cashing in your 401K to fund her new venture, why being kind is better than being nice, what is "mindful leadership coaching", and the unbelievable process she has endured to be a US citizen.
Please enjoy my conversation with Alex!
 
This episode is brought to you by Connect5000 (Website) your outsource lead generation, BDR, and inside sales partner. To download a free copy of the best tactical sales book you will ever read (written by its founder Ray Ruecker), go to https://connect5000.com/resources/book/.
 
Alejandra (Alex) Villalobos-McAnderson, the heart and soul behind Villalobos Vitality (https://villalobosvitality.com/ ), believes in nurturing the powerful, beautiful, and purposeful life that resides within each of us. As a licensed Corporate Energy Coach, Reiki Master Teacher, and Stress Management Consultant, Alex's mission is to facilitate the connection of mind, body, and spirit through indigenous practices and ceremonies.
 
At Villalobos, we specialize in helping individuals reconnect with their soul's purpose, guiding them on a journey of self-discovery and empowerment. Alex has a unique approach, seamlessly weaving spiritual work into the corporate sector, assisting entrepreneurs, corporations, and executives in leading from a place of oneness and empathy.
 
Through meditation, breathwork, and stress management techniques, Alex empowers her clients to transcend limiting beliefs and cultivate healthy personal and professional growth. She provides a sacred space where clients can align with their higher purpose and tap into their inner wisdom.
 
Known for her powerful, healing influence and genuine warmth, Alex walks alongside her clients with compassion and acceptance, guiding them to discover the light within themselves and embrace their truth. With Alex, clients learn to stay rooted while flowing through life's cycles, trusting in their journey, and knowing they are always evolving and growing.
 
 
 
 
 

Chris Jones, The Start-Up Founder Inspired By The Loss of His 5-Year-Old Son

Chris Jones and I how he was inspired to create his company when he lost his 5-year-old son to inoperable brain cancer. He talks about all the leadership lessons he learned from his son's 11-month journey. Chris is one of the most authentic and caring persons I have ever interviewed. We also had some fun talking about the upcoming KC Chiefs/ San Francisco 49ers Super Bowl game (he almost picked the actual final score).
Chris is an inspiring person so please enjoy our conversation.
 
This episode is brought to you by Connect5000 (Website) your outsource lead generation, BDR, and inside sales partner. To download a free copy of the best tactical sales book you will ever read (written by its founder Ray Ruecker), go to https://connect5000.com/resources/book/.
 
Chris Jones is the founder of Matchrite Care (Website). He is a seasoned Information Technology professional with a career spanning over two decades, during which he has consistently demonstrated his expertise and dedication to the field. With a strong background in healthcare technology, Chris spent nine years as a HealthcareIT Director, leaving an indelible mark on the industry. Throughout his illustrious career, Chris has been a driving force behind the transformation of healthcare companies, leveraging technology innovation and automation to enhance theiroperational efficiency and overall performance. His unwavering commitment to improving the healthcare sector's technological landscape has made him a respected figure in the industry.
However, Chris' journey in healthcare IT is not solely defined by his professional achievements. It is deeply intertwined with a personal loss that ignited his passion for healthcare technology. This profound experience became the catalyst for his innovative vision. Fueled by his commitment to making a meaningful difference in healthcare, Chrisembarked on a transformative mission. In a testament to his dedication, he founded MatchRite Care, a groundbreaking software platform designed to facilitate and encourage accessibility and communication between doctors and patients. This platform represents a visionary step forward in the evolution of healthcare technology, offering unprecedented opportunities for healthcare providers and patients to connect, share information, and improve the quality of care. Chris Jones' remarkable journey through the realm of Information Technology and his commitment to revolutionizing healthcare technology have firmly established him as a visionary leader with a heart dedicated to improving the lives of both healthcare professionals and patients alike. His inspiring work and innovative solutions continue to pave the way for a brighter and more connected future in the world of healthcare.

Chelsea Laub, The Chief Enneagram Officer - Trusting Your Intuition, Why You Need To Learn As Much As Possible About Yourself, and How To Overcome Doubt To Help Your Networking Efforts

A fun and insightful conversation with Chelsea Laub. We talk about major career pivots, being a giver in your networking efforts, the Enneagram (Wikipedia) assessment (she shares the same personality type as Thomas Jefferson, Ben Franklin, Brad Pitt, and George Clooney), and how her "Leisure Studies" major led her to start her own consulting company.
Please enjoy my conversation with Chelsea!
 
This episode is brought to you by Connect5000 (Website) your outsource lead generation, BDR, and inside sales partner. To download a free copy of the best tactical sales book you will ever read (written by its founder Ray Ruecker), go to https://connect5000.com/resources/book/.
 
Chelsea Laub​ (chelsealaub.com) is dedicated to transforming lives through strategic networking and personal development. As an accredited Enneagram Practitioner, facilitator, and speaker Chelsea brings a unique blend of expertise to the table. With nearly a decade of experience in the financial services industry, including her Series 6, 63, 65, and Life & Health Licenses. She understands the challenges of building authentic professional connections and navigating the complex landscape of personal and professional growth. Chelsea's passion lies in empowering individuals and teams to discover their true potential, communicate their value, and create lasting impact. As the creator of mingle, a proven practical networking methodology Chelsea offers an integrative self-aware approach to networking mastery, providing practical strategies that go beyond traditional methods and foster meaningful connections. Whether in one-on-one coaching sessions, team facilitations, or captivating keynotes, Chelsea is committed to guiding others on a journey of self-discovery, connection, and success.
 

Angela Kreps, The Chief Helping Officer - How She Made The Leap from Sales Manager to CEO, Why Everyone Is Capable of More, and Building a Network One Person At A Time

An inspiring conversation with Angela Kreps who decided after surviving a rollover car accident with her three young daughters that she needed to focus on making a difference while being open to new things. She then leaves her successful role as a sales manager for a Fortune 50 company to become a CEO. We talk about what she learned growing up being a pig farmer and having her first job in 3rd grade, why everyone is capable of more, believing in yourself, and why titles don't matter.
 
Please enjoy my conversation with Angela!
 
Angela Kreps (linkedin.com/in/akreps ), co-founder of SolutionBrokers.US and former CEO of BioKansas. Her career titles include CEO, Vice President, and Executive Coach with a consistent record of improving team performance while growing revenue and market share across multiple industries. Angela's career began selling B2B services to C-Suite clients, turning in record-breaking, award-winning results. She has experience in large multinational firms, small privately held companies, and non-profits.
 
 

Cory Scheer, The Trust Doctor - Why Most Companies Have A Trust Gap, The Process of Getting Clear on the Work You Do, and Why Lacking a Career Strategy is Okay

You will enjoy Cory Scheer's career journey and why not having a career strategy is okay. We talk about the leadership lessons he learned from being a whitewater rafting guide, driving a forklift as his first job out of college, running 29 marathons including a 56-mile ultramarathon, what a "Christmas Money Consultant" is, why most companies have a trust gap, and asking yourself what you want to do career-wise while trusting the answers are in the journey.
 
Cory Scheer (linkedin.com/in/coryscheer ) is the Founder and CEO of TrustCentric™ Consulting (TrustCentricConsulting.com), an organizational and leadership development firm. In addition to over twenty-five years in leadership roles in multiple sectors, Cory has obtained an Executive MBA (Rockhurst University) and a Doctorate in Educational Leadership and Policy Analysis (University of Missouri). Cory has worked with small businesses, school districts, corporations, nonprofit organizations, higher education institutions, ministries, the military, and municipalities to provide vital support and clear direction on how to ensure people, practices, and policies become more trustworthy so that key performance indicators improve. He is the author of the seminal work "Closing the Trust Gap: Taking Action on What Matters Most for Leaders, Teams, and Organizations," (Amazon) each a testament to his commitment to fostering trust within organizations. Cory and his wife live in Kansas City, Missouri with their 4 children.

Sly James, The Servant Leader Driven By His Passion For Purpose - How He Succeeded As Kansas City's Mayor, The Jackie Robinson of KC Law Firms, and Reinventing Himself Every 10 Years

It is so fitting that one day after the Kansas City Chiefs won their fourth Super Bowl, our new episode features one of the best mayors in KC history - Sylvester "Sly" James. I was honored and humbled during our conversation as we discussed how he became mayor of the 37th-largest city having never held any political office, being the Black first associate/partner in one of KC's largest law firms, being the lead singer of a rock band that opened for Jefferson Airplane, why both passion and purpose drive him, and why he does not fall victim to imposter syndrome.
Please enjoy the great Sly James' great career journey!
 
Sly James (linkedin.com/in/sly-james ) was sworn in as the 56th Mayor of Kansas City, Missouri on March 22, 2011. After taking office, he focused on making Kansas City best in four key areas: Education, Employment, Efficiency, and Enforcement. This ‘4 E agenda’ drove all of Mayor James’ major policy decisions. Mayor Sly James was born and raised in Kansas City on the city’s eastside. He graduated from Bishop Hogan High School in Kansas City in 1969. After serving his country as a military police officer in the Marines from 1971-1975 in California, the Philippines, and Japan during theVietnam War, Mayor James graduated cum laude from Rockhurst College with a B.A. inEnglish. He then went on to earn his law degree, also cum laude, from the University ofMinnesota in 1983.
Prior to his election, Mayor James enjoyed a successful legal career which spanned almost three decades. Over the years, Mayor James has served on numerous boards andcommissions in leadership positions including The Missouri Board of Law Examiners, President of the Kansas City Metropolitan Bar Association, Economic Development Corporation, Land Clearance for Redevelopment Authority, Jackson County Ethics Commission, Legal Aid of Kansas City, Jackson County Bar Association, Bishop Hogan High School Board, Genesis School Board, and The United Way. Mayor James also served in leadership positions in several national organizations including US Conference of Mayors, African American Mayors Association, National Democratic Mayors, and Urban Land Institute.
He currently is the co-founder and partner at Wickham James Strategy and Solutions (wickhamjames.com ). Sly also has written two books - "A Passion for Purpose: Building Cities for Our Children" and "The Opportunity Agenda: A Bold Democratic Plan To Grow The Middle Class".

David Komar, The CEO Culture Coach - Surviving 9/11 at The Pentagon, Why Most CEOs Don't Have a Clear Vision of The Culture They Want, and Why Great Leadership Equals a Great Culture

David Komar is our third podcast guest who survived 9/11. Born to immigrant parents who lived the American Dream, David wanted to give back to his country by serving in the military for 31 years. We talk about being at the Pentagon on 9/11, his first leadership/culture lesson at 16 years old working for a regional department store, how 90% of CEOs do not have a clear vision of what culture they want their company to have, and how the best companies help their employees be better human beings after their workday is done.
Please enjoy my conversation with David!
 
David Komar (linkedin.com/in/davekomar ) grew up in central New York State and graduated with a BA in Business and Economics from Lafayette College, Easton, Pennsylvania. He was commissioned through the Reserve Officer Training Corps as a Second Lieutenant in the Army. He served over 31 years on active duty in a variety of positions and retired at the end of 2018 as a Brigadier General. Komar’s career enabled him to travel and live all over the US as well as across the world. He is a veteran of both Iraq and Afghanistan. He led the Army’s capability development enterprise that planned and prioritized the Army’s annual $25 billion modernization program. As the Director of Army Business Operations, he led the Army’s business initiatives program, process improvement program, and organizational performance management programs. These programs provided billions of dollars in savings annually across the Army.
Komar was a Massachusetts Institute of Technology Seminar XXI Fellow and agraduate of the Executive Development Program at the Kenan-Flagler Business Schoolat the University of North Carolina. He also earned Master’s Degrees in NationalSecurity and Strategic Studies from the Naval War College, Military Operational Artsand Science from the Air University and in Management from Webster University.. General Komar is currently the president of EDA Inc. (Company Website ) which is a top-of-the-house executive development service and technology company. He has recently written "Conquer Your Culture" (available late February 2024). It is a “how to” book for CEOs and other senior leaders on how to build an exceptional and enduring company culture.