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How can understanding the user journey lead to more authentic relationships and business growth?
Josh Elledge, the founder of Up My Influence, is a pioneering advocate for building relationships through influence and integrity. With a background as a Navy journalist and as the creator of a successful seven-figure business, Josh underscores the importance of being a valuable resource and leading with generosity. He believes that by serving others and providing value without expecting immediate returns, businesses can build trust and naturally attract clients without aggressive marketing tactics. Through his Thoughtful Entrepreneur podcast and numerous interviews with business leaders, Josh promotes a mindset of generosity and noble intent, encouraging professionals to focus on relationship-building and authenticity to foster long-term success.
Key Takeaways: Building genuine relationships is key to attracting people to businesses and driving profitable relationships. Honesty, integrity, and deep relationships are essential in today's skeptical environment to differentiate oneself from lazy marketers. Adopting a Go-Giver mindset of generosity and serving others leads to valuable connections and collaboration. Shifting focus from sales to relationship-building and adding value helps establish credibility and expertise in the field. Selective engagement and pre-screening are crucial in attracting the right audience and fostering long-term partnerships. Being empathetic and understanding individuals' user journey is vital in building trust and meaningful connections. Mutual respect, gratitude, and admiration are evident in the positive and collaborative atmosphere of the interaction between Jim and Josh.
More from Josh Elledge Josh Elledge is a serial entrepreneur, media personality, and founder of UpMyInfluence (UMI), a purpose-driven agency dedicated to helping high-ticket B2B service providers grow through authority-building, generosity, and strategic media presence. Since launching UMI in 2014, Josh has made it his mission to empower coaches, consultants, and agency owners to scale their businesses without the burdens of traditional marketing costs and contracts. With a deep belief in the moral imperative to help entrepreneurs own their expertise and serve the world, Josh’s work has impacted thousands of leaders looking to amplify their visibility and influence. He is also the founder of SavingsAngel.com, where he earned a national reputation as a top consumer expert.
Josh brings unmatched media savvy to the mic, with over 2,500 media appearances and more than 1,800 podcast episodes to his name. As the host of The Thoughtful Entrepreneur and The SavingsAngel Show, he knows what it takes to deliver value-packed content. His dynamic presence—shaped by his background as an improv comedian and syndicated TV and newspaper host—makes him a highly engaging guest who brings both charisma and tactical wisdom. Whether he's sharing high-ticket sales strategies or helping audiences understand how to build authentic authority, Josh shows up prepared, polished, and ready to make every interview your most downloaded episode yet.
Website: https://upmyinfluence.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joshelledge/ If you are an experienced CEO looking to grow your company, visit https://www.TheCEOProject.com You can also reach Jim by email: [email protected] LinkedIn: @theceoproject Instagram: @the_ceoproject Twitter/X: @the_CEO_Project Facebook: @IncCEOproject -
What is the significance of understanding the distinction between operating and strategic finance in hiring a CFO?
Oana Labes, a seasoned CPA and MBA originally from Romania, has made significant strides in bridging the gap between controllers and CFOs through her innovative company focused on CFO brain technology. With her entrepreneurial spirit and extensive experience as a senior commercial lender in Ontario, Labes observed the frequent disconnect between company goals and financial reporting, prompting her to develop solutions that enable smooth transitions and informed decision-making. Labes emphasizes the distinction between a controller and a CFO, noting that while controllers focus on compliance and reporting, CFOs are tasked with interpretation, forecasting, and engaging with external stakeholders such as lenders and investors. She advises CEOs to carefully differentiate between operating finance, managed by controllers, and strategic finance, handled by CFOs, to ensure they hire the right individual who can truly drive the company's growth and success.
Key Takeaways: Financial intelligence is essential for CEOs and executives to make informed decisions and drive growth in businesses. Aligning business strategy with financial strategy, especially in terms of capital planning and sourcing, is crucial to achieve long-term goals and maximize shareholder value creation. The importance of communication and alignment between CEOs and CFOs in driving business decisions and financial strategies forward is crucial. Misaligned objectives between CEOs and CFOs can lead to potential issues in decision-making. Jim Schleckser emphasizes the importance of Economic Value Added (EVA) analysis in assessing wealth creation and aligning incentives with long-term value creation. Understanding the different levels of financial expertise required when hiring a CFO is crucial.
More from Oana Labes Oana Labes is a CPA, financial strategist, and founder of Financiario, a groundbreaking platform that delivers CFO-level intelligence to mid-sized businesses through real-time forecasts, automated dashboards, and strategic planning tools. With over 15 years of experience managing hundreds of millions in commercial finance, Oana has helped scale companies from under $1 million to over $20 million in revenue. Her mission is to transform finance from a reactive function into a strategic growth engine—equipping both finance and non-finance professionals with the tools and insights to make confident, value-driven decisions. Through her consulting and work with Financiario, she enables businesses to overcome traditional financial limitations and unlock sustainable, data-powered growth.
A global thought leader in strategic finance, Oana is also the creator of the CEO Financial Intelligence Program and The Finance Gem, a bi-weekly newsletter read by over 50,000 subscribers. Her content has reached over 130 million professionals worldwide, with more than 400,000 followers on LinkedIn. She has taught thousands through her best-selling masterclasses on cash flow and financial analysis, empowering leaders to improve performance, optimize capital, and dramatically increase enterprise value. As one of the most prominent finance educators and content creators today, Oana is redefining what it means to be financially intelligent in the modern business world.
Website: https://oanalabes.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/oanalabes/ If you are an experienced CEO looking to grow your company, visit https://www.TheCEOProject.com You can also reach Jim by email: [email protected] LinkedIn: @theceoproject Instagram: @the_ceoproject Twitter/X: @the_CEO_Project Facebook: @IncCEOproject -
Saknas det avsnitt?
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How can tariffs affect employees and what support measures can be taken?
On this special episode of The CEO Project podcast, host Jim Schleckser is joined by co-host Sharon McGuire for an in-depth conversation about the ripple effects of tariffs on business strategy and operations. With nearly half of CEOs expecting to raise prices in response to rising input costs, the discussion dives into how leaders are adapting to an unpredictable global trade environment. Topics include the importance of diversifying supply chains, rethinking pricing strategies, and the limits of absorbing costs as a short-term solution. The episode also explores how CEOs, boards, and investors can work together to stay resilient and responsive amid shifting international trade policies.
Key Takeaways: Tariffs can have a regressive impact on consumers by causing higher prices in importing countries, affecting individuals based on their financial situation. CEOs are planning to increase pricing to cover higher input costs due to tariffs, impacting current business operations and requiring quick adaptation. Rethinking supply chains by exploring alternative suppliers from countries with lower tariffs can reduce risks and maintain cost efficiency. Price increases due to tariffs may lead to financial stress for employees, prompting potential compensation adjustments and alternative benefit strategies. The removal of subsidies can profoundly impact industries like rice production in India or dairy in the United States, altering the landscape of various industries and global trade dynamics.
Continue the Conversation
Join Jim Schleckser for the CEO Roundtable on Thursday, April 17th at 2:00 PM EST. To request an invitation or express your interest in attending, please contact Sharon McGuire at [email protected]. If you are an experienced CEO looking to grow your company, visit https://www.TheCEOProject.com You can also reach Jim by email: [email protected] LinkedIn: @theceoproject Instagram: @the_ceoproject Twitter/X: @the_CEO_Project Facebook: @IncCEOproject -
What is the difference between product solution fit and product market fit?
David Hirschfeld is a seasoned software development expert with over three decades of experience, having held leadership roles at renowned companies like Computer Associates and Intel. He is known for his critical stance on traditional software development methodologies, which he argues often lead to prolonged development cycles and excessive costs. Advocating for his innovative "launch first method," Hirschfeld focuses on minimizing risk and accelerating success by integrating AI-driven workflow optimization, thereby reducing dependence on investor funding. His approach emphasizes creating realistic prototypes and fostering early customer interactions to validate business models, ensuring that startups can efficiently and accurately meet market demands.
Key Takeaways: Focus on product solution fit over product market fit is crucial for success in software development. Early sales are important to validate the business model and confirm product-market fit. Prototyping with high-fidelity prototypes helps in assessing customer interest and identifying issues early on. Crafting product demos focused on solving immediate problems helps in achieving product-market fit. Detailed metrics, Kanban methodology, and constant releases are essential for accuracy and efficiency in software development projects. Tracking estimates and actuals, spending time in prototyping, and detailed scope management are key for project success. Maintaining accuracy in estimates and reporting variances is crucial for successful project execution.
More from David Hirschfeld David Hirschfeld is the Founder and CEO of Tekyz Corp, a software development company dedicated to accelerating startups through expert product development, AI integration, and workflow automation. With nearly two decades of experience leading Tekyz, David created the Launch 1st methodology—an innovative approach that helps software founders achieve product-market fit fast while avoiding the most common and costly startup pitfalls. Under his leadership, Tekyz has become a go-to partner for software recovery projects, rescuing troubled initiatives and transforming them into scalable, successful ventures. David also shares his insights as the host of the Scaling Smarter podcast and serves as a trusted board member and advisor across various industries.
Throughout his career, David has co-founded several ventures, including the groundbreaking social media startup Kloojj and Anzu LLC, a thriving offshore development hub he continues to lead in Pune, India. His broad expertise spans sectors such as real estate, healthcare, logistics, law enforcement, entertainment, and IoT—bringing a unique, cross-disciplinary perspective to every project. With a passion for solving complex problems and creating beautiful, user-centered systems, David remains deeply committed to helping visionary founders bring bold ideas to life—quickly, intelligently, and with lasting impact.
Website: https://tekyz.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dhirschfeld/ If you are an experienced CEO looking to grow your company, visit https://www.TheCEOProject.com You can also reach Jim by email: [email protected] LinkedIn: @theceoproject Instagram: @the_ceoproject Twitter/X: @the_CEO_Project Facebook: @IncCEOproject -
What is hand raiser marketing and how does it impact the path to purchase?
Erik Huberman, the visionary founder of Hawk Media, is renowned for his innovative, data-driven marketing strategies that are customized to meet the unique needs of each business. With a track record of success working alongside industry leaders like Red Bull and Verizon, Erik emphasizes the importance of curiosity and deep analytical insights in developing effective marketing campaigns. His approach underscores the necessity of understanding not just the quantitative data, but also the reasons behind customer behavior, aligning well with the shift towards "hand raiser" marketing that focuses on building awareness and trust. Through his accessible presence on social media and Hawk Media’s offerings of free marketing audits, Huberman fosters long-term relationships with clients, prioritizing quality content and strategic decision-making to drive business growth.
Key Takeaways: Understanding customer behavior through psychology and curiosity is crucial for effective marketing strategies.
The shift in marketing strategies towards hand raiser marketing focuses on awareness, nurturing, and trust.
Transitioning from push marketing to hand raiser marketing shortens the path to purchase by nurturing relationships with prospects.
Content creation for B2B Marketing involves educating and guiding potential clients to establish trust.
Facebook and Instagram advertising are more effective for B2B businesses compared to LinkedIn.
Identifying events that drive demand for marketing strategies is crucial for the success of B2B and B2C businesses.
Quality content and targeted email marketing are crucial in today's digital landscape.
More from Erik Huberman Erik Huberman is a distinguished entrepreneur and the Founder and CEO of Hawke Media, widely recognized as the fastest-growing marketing consultancy in the United States. Launched with the conviction that businesses of all sizes deserve access to top-tier marketing expertise without the traditional overhead, Erik's vision has led to an innovative, flexible service model that adapts to the specific needs of each client, fostering growth and scalability. Before Hawke Media, Erik's entrepreneurial journey was marked by the successful creation, expansion, and sale of two e-commerce brands by the age of 26. His hands-on experience with the trials of business growth informs his approach, emphasizing efficiency and transparency in marketing.
In addition to leading Hawke Media, Erik's influence extends through Hawke Ventures and Hawke.AI. Hawke Ventures, which he co-founded, invests in promising startups, enhancing the marketing landscape with advanced tools and analytics. Hawke.AI, his pioneering platform, leverages data from thousands of brands to optimize marketing strategies in real time, significantly improving decision-making and performance. Erik is also a bestselling author and a respected voice in the marketing sphere, with his insights featured in major publications and his speaking engagements drawing audiences worldwide. His accolades include Forbes 30 Under 30 and Entrepreneur of the Year by the International Business Awards, underscoring his impact and leadership in the field. Whether mentoring startups or steering his ventures, Erik remains committed to redefining marketing practices for the digital age.
Website: https://hawkemedia.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/erikhuberman/ If you are an experienced CEO looking to grow your company, visit https://www.TheCEOProject.com You can also reach Jim by email: [email protected] LinkedIn: @theceoproject Instagram: @the_ceoproject Twitter/X: @the_CEO_Project Facebook: @IncCEOproject -
How do core values influence decision-making processes for success?
Dr. John DeMartini's journey is an inspiring narrative of resilience and personal transformation, marked by his triumph over early learning disabilities and a tumultuous youth as a street kid and surfer. Following a pivotal near-death experience at 17, he was motivated to conquer his academic struggles and pursue a path of lifelong learning and teaching. Driven by an unwavering commitment and the support of his family, Dr. DeMartini synthesized knowledge from over 30,000 books into the acclaimed Demartini Method, which he has shared with audiences in more than 100 countries. His unique perspective emphasizes the importance of understanding and aligning with one's intrinsic values, empowering individuals to achieve personal and professional success through thoughtful decision-making and a focus on core missions.
Key Takeaways: Overcoming challenges and turning dreams into reality through determination and hard work
Developing the Demartini Method and impacting lives globally
Evaluating productivity through tracking daily actions and hourly productivity
Achieving significant growth and success in business through effective delegation and strategic focus
Linking job duties to personal mission for motivation and productivity
Filtering reality based on core values and its influence on decision-making processes
More from Dr. John Demartini Dr. John Demartini is a world-renowned human behavior specialist, author, researcher, and global educator who has dedicated over four decades to developing and sharing comprehensive solutions for personal and professional empowerment. His extensive work spans a diverse range of fields, including corporate empowerment, financial strategies, personal growth, relationship enhancement, and social transformation. Through his carefully crafted educational programs, Dr. Demartini addresses the core human factors, employing a variety of powerful tools that have stood the test of time. His profound insights are based on his comprehensive study of over 30,000 books across all academic disciplines, distilling the collective wisdom into transformative presentations that he delivers in over 100 countries worldwide.
Dr. Demartini’s impact extends beyond the personal, reaching into the corporate world where he has worked with entrepreneurs, CEOs, managers, and teams from various industries. His tailored presentations and workshops focus on critical areas such as leadership development, team building, productivity, conflict resolution, and more, aiming to foster an environment of excellence and growth. Dr. Demartini's commitment to advancing human potential is evident in his engaging keynotes and seminars, which have inspired audiences worldwide, including public and professional groups as large as 11,000 people. Sharing stages with notable figures like Sir Richard Branson and Deepak Chopra, his work resonates across cultural and linguistic barriers, making a lasting impact on individuals and organizations across the globe. Website: https://drdemartini.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drjohndemartini/ If you are an experienced CEO looking to grow your company, visit https://www.TheCEOProject.com You can also reach Jim by email: [email protected] LinkedIn: @theceoproject Instagram: @the_ceoproject Twitter/X: @the_CEO_Project Facebook: @IncCEOproject -
How can unique language and consistent messaging help brands stand out in a competitive market?
Barry LaBov, founder of Labov Marketing Communications and Training, is a visionary leader in the realm of business differentiation. His accolades, including being a two-time Ernst and Young Entrepreneur of the Year and an Entrepreneur Hall of Fame inductee, reflect his mastery in crafting distinctive strategies that help businesses stand out in competitive markets. LaBov's perspective on differentiation is rooted in the belief that a unique value proposition, aligned with market and brand, is crucial for resonating with clients and achieving success. Through his comprehensive five-step process, as detailed in his book "The Power of Differentiation," he guides companies in discovering and celebrating their unique traits, emphasizing the importance of strategic storytelling and maintaining quality to avoid commoditization and secure long-term profitability.
Key Takeaways: Creating a unique value proposition is crucial for business differentiation.
Employees believing in their work can enhance performance and customer satisfaction.
Using unique language and consistent messaging helps brands stand out in a competitive market.
Brand experience should align with the brand's image and values to maintain loyalty.
Strategic differentiation is essential for success in competitive markets.
Focusing on sustainability can drive profitability and distinguish a brand.
Training employees to convey a distinct brand message can prevent commoditization and preserve brand integrity.
More from Barry LaBov Barry LaBov is the founder and CEO of LABOV Marketing Communications and Training, a renowned agency dedicated to brand differentiation and transformation. A two-time Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year recipient and inductee into the Entrepreneur of the Year Hall of Fame, Barry has also been honored with the Better Business Bureau Torch Award for Ethics. Under his leadership, LABOV has earned numerous accolades, including six Indiana Growth 100 Awards, Small Business of the Year, and recognition as one of Indiana's Best Places to Work. The agency’s client work has garnered nearly 100 national and regional awards, reflecting Barry’s commitment to excellence and innovation. Beyond LABOV, Barry has diversified his entrepreneurial ventures with L2 Global Investments, co-managed with his daughter Laura Leamon, and Plow Digital, a full-service digital development and gaming firm.
An accomplished author, Barry has written or co-authored over a dozen business books, including his forthcoming The Power of Differentiation, published by Indigo River and distributed through Simon & Schuster. In it, Barry offers actionable strategies to help leaders unlock their brands’ unique potential and overcome the pitfalls of a commodity mindset. Drawing from decades of experience, Barry’s expertise spans brand re-engineering, customer loyalty, employee engagement, and dealer/distributor network performance, with his insights featured on CNBC, Fox Business, and various podcasts. Outside the business world, Barry is a former musician whose Billboard-charting song was featured on American Bandstand. Today, he channels the lessons from his musical past—like collaboration and improvisation—into LABOV’s core values. Alongside his wife Carol, Barry also leads a charitable foundation that supports causes like Make-A-Wish, Big Brothers Big Sisters, and Habitat for Humanity, embodying a legacy of innovation, creativity, and philanthropy.
Every day at LABOV is an opportunity for us to do the best work of our lives. Surrounded by inspiring clients and creative, fun-loving co-workers, the greatest reward is working together to help our clients, and our employees succeed. Website: https://www.labov.com/our-team/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/barry-labov-6965241/
Amazon: https://a.co/d/fNXO2n7 If you are an experienced CEO looking to grow your company, visit https://www.TheCEOProject.com You can also reach Jim by email: [email protected] LinkedIn: @theceoproject Instagram: @the_ceoproject Twitter/X: @the_CEO_Project Facebook: @IncCEOproject -
How does integrating strategy development and implementation as a double loop learning process benefit organizations?
Laura Barnard is a distinguished leader in project management, celebrated as a world PMO Influencer of the Year by the PMO Global Alliance. As the founder of PMO Strategies Project Management Office and the developer of the Impact Engine system, Laura has dedicated nearly three decades to advancing the field by empowering organizations to maximize their strategic goals' return on investment with speed and measurable impact. She emphasizes the importance of project management in driving transformational outcomes aligned with organizational goals, highlighting that every strategic initiative, product launch, and marketing campaign is essentially a project. Through her innovative strategies and concepts such as integrating strategy development and execution via a double loop learning process, Laura aims to help organizations achieve higher returns on investment and create a real execution engine within their operations.
Key Takeaways: Value-driven Project Management focuses on driving better business outcomes by aligning efforts with organizational goals and prioritizing strategic results over perfect outputs. Placing project management capability close to the C-suite can effectively drive strategic outcomes and ensure alignment with business goals. Integrating project management near the C-suite level helps in achieving strategic results and delivering strategy effectively within organizations. Positioning an organization's transformation team near the C-suite is crucial for successful outcomes, effective communication, and driving future strategies. Integration of strategy development and implementation as a double loop learning process fosters continuous learning and adaptation within organizations. Utilizing Critical Chain methodology can streamline processes, prevent delays, and increase the likelihood of project success by addressing critical factors upfront.
More from Laura Barnard Laura Barnard has dedicated nearly thirty years to forging a path where executive leaders can more rapidly and effectively deliver their organization’s strategic initiatives. As the Founder and Chief IMPACT Driver of PMO Strategies, Laura has been instrumental in helping businesses transform into high-performance engines. Her approach involves empowering organizations through training, coaching, and direct consulting to develop internal capabilities that ensure sustainable success and measurable outcomes. Her methodologies have been honed and shared widely, including in her best-selling book, "The IMPACT Engine," where she introduces the groundbreaking IMPACT Engine System that aligns organizational actions with their visions swiftly and with substantial business IMPACT.
Beyond her role in PMO Strategies, Laura's influence extends to her position as Co-Founder and President of Project Management for Change, a nonprofit organization that elevates the project management profession while making a tangible difference globally. Her efforts were recognized when she was named the World PMO Influencer of the Year in 2021 by the PMO Global Alliance. Laura’s commitment to excellence is also evident through her popular PMO Strategies Podcast, where she shares insights and strategies to turn any PMO into a vital strategic asset. With a deep-rooted belief in the power of project management, Laura continues to drive change and foster environments where strategic goals are not just met but exceeded, making her a pivotal figure in the realm of organizational development and strategy execution.
Website: https://pmostrategies.com/speaking/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/laurabarnard/
Amazon: https://a.co/d/65MTVG4 If you are an experienced CEO looking to grow your company, visit https://www.TheCEOProject.com You can also reach Jim by email: [email protected] LinkedIn: @theceoproject Instagram: @the_ceoproject Twitter/X: @the_CEO_Project Facebook: @IncCEOproject -
How should thought leadership content be tailored to stand out and solve real problems?
Peter Winick, the founder and CEO of Thought Leadership Leverage, is a seasoned expert in guiding individuals and organizations to expand their influence through well-crafted thought leadership platforms. With over two decades of experience, Winick emphasizes the necessity of tailoring these platforms to various settings, whether it be personalized one-on-one interactions or broader broadcast environments, to effectively build brand distinction and avoid commoditization. He advocates for a strategic approach that focuses on leveraging thought leadership in sales and networking to achieve specific business outcomes, rather than relying on superficial metrics. By collaborating with notable figures like Keith Ferrazzi and guiding top CEOs and academics, Winick has consistently demonstrated that substantive and strategic thought leadership can significantly elevate visibility and impact in competitive markets.
Key Takeaways:
-Develop a strategic business model to leverage and scale ideas.
-Differentiate between creating products based on expertise and using thought leadership to build a brand.
-Address the audience's pain points and deliver value to stand out.
-Connect thought leadership content to client pain points with high specificity.
-Incorporate thought leadership in strategic one-on-one conversations for business results.
-Thought leadership goes beyond appearances and requires valuable content and insights.
-Personal branding is about institutionalizing content in the business world and achieving specific outcomes.
More from Peter Winick Peter Winick is the founder and CEO of Thought Leadership Leverage, a company dedicated to helping thought leaders, authors, consultants, and speakers monetize and scale their content and products. With over 20 years of experience in the field, Peter has collaborated with a diverse clientele including New York Times bestselling business authors, Speakers' Hall of Fame members, and executives from both public and private companies. His expertise in strategy, marketing, and customer experience enables him to design growth-oriented thought leadership platforms that create lasting impact and value.
A passionate entrepreneur and relationship builder, Peter leads business development initiatives that transform innovative ideas into practical solutions for business leaders and executives. Since founding Thought Leadership Leverage in 2008, he has established himself as an industry authority, hosting the Leveraging Thought Leadership podcast where he interviews leading experts and shares best practices with his audience. Prior to his current role, Peter served as Managing Director at Ferrazzi Greenlight and held leadership positions at Rogen International and Axxess Business Centers. He holds a BA in Economics from Hofstra University.
Website: https://thoughtleadershipleverage.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/peterwinick/ If you are an experienced CEO looking to grow your company, visit https://www.TheCEOProject.com You can also reach Jim by email: [email protected] LinkedIn: @theceoproject Instagram: @the_ceoproject Twitter/X: @the_CEO_Project Facebook: @IncCEOproject -
What is the significance of identifying synergies in Mergers & Acquisitions?
In this episode, Jim is joined by Sharon McGuire for an insightful discussion on corporate acquisitions. Drawing from their combined experience, they explore how successful mergers require a strategic and structured approach, treating them as integral processes rather than isolated events. The conversation delves into the meticulous aspects of strategy development, target identification, and diligent execution needed to foster growth and yield substantial returns. Their discussion, enriched by McGuire's background in major industry mergers at a leading oil company, emphasizes how CEOs must proactively seek acquisition opportunities that align with corporate goals while avoiding hasty decisions that could jeopardize leadership and company future.
Key Takeaways:
→Acquisition is a strategic approach to augment growth rate and yield high returns.
→ CEOs need to have a clear vision and strategic direction for their acquisitions.
→ About 80% of acquisitions fail to deliver the intended results due to unrealistic financial projections.
→ Identifying synergies that justify the merger is crucial for long-term value creation.
→ Bidding strategy in mergers involves initially bidding high to clear the room and negotiating a lower price later.
More from Sharon McGuire
Prior to joining The CEO Project as a Member Specialist, Sharon worked for a decade for Chevron Corporation. She held positions in lubricant sales, research, alternate energy, and shareholder services. Sharon interfaces with our members at The CEO Project to support their member experience.
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sharon-mcguire-125bb595/
If you are an experienced CEO looking to grow your company, visit https://www.TheCEOProject.com
You can also reach Jim by email: [email protected]
LinkedIn: @theceoproject
Instagram: @the_ceoproject
Twitter/X: @the_CEO_Project
Facebook: @IncCEOproject
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Why should companies focus on their uniqueness and meeting customer needs instead of competing directly with industry giants?
Philippe Bouissou, a renowned business strategist and founder of Blue Dots Partners, has dedicated his career to understanding the factors that drive business growth. With extensive experience in entrepreneurship, CEO roles, and venture capitalism, Bouissou has significantly shaped the business landscape through his consulting projects and investments. He believes that alignment is crucial for creating and sustaining business value, emphasizing that businesses must focus on growth to remain competitive, particularly by attracting top talent and meeting customer needs. Bouissou's approach, rooted in a strong analytical foundation, advocates for understanding customer pain points and uniquely positioning businesses in the market to create value and foster enduring success.
Key Takeaways:
→ Aligning a business with its target market is crucial for growth and value creation.
→ Understanding customer pain points and aligning them with business claims is essential for success.
→ Frictionless transactions enhance customer experience and drive brand preference.
→ Businesses should focus on being unique and meeting customer needs instead of competing directly with giants.
→ Setting proper expectations for customers is crucial for satisfaction and retention
More from Philippe Bouissou
Dr. Philippe Bouissou is a distinguished Silicon Valley veteran with over three decades of experience as a best-selling author, TEDx speaker, growth expert, venture capitalist, CEO, and entrepreneur. As the CEO of Blue Dots Partners, LLC, a Palo Alto-based management consulting firm, he employs a universal, data-driven, and prescriptive methodology to accelerate business growth. Dr. Bouissou's career began with the founding of G2i, Inc., a Unix software company that was successfully acquired. He then served as Senior Vice President at Matra Hachette Multimedia, Inc., overseeing business development for electronic publishing within the $12 billion high-tech and diversified media conglomerate.
At Apple, Dr. Bouissou founded and led the company's eCommerce business, scaling its revenue from zero to $350 million under Steve Jobs' leadership—a figure that surpassed $75 billion in 2023. Drawing inspiration from his tenure at Apple, he transitioned into venture capital, investing $43 million with double-digit cash-on-cash returns. Dr. Bouissou has served on 25 Boards of Directors, including three current positions, and has led over 210 management consulting projects. He is an alumnus of the prestigious École Normale Supérieure in Paris, holding a BS in Mathematics, an MS in Physics, and a Ph.D. in nonlinear physics with a focus on chaos theory.
Website: https://bluedotspartners.com/author/admin/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/phbouissou/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/phbouissou/
If you are an experienced CEO looking to grow your company, visit https://www.TheCEOProject.com
You can also reach Jim by email: [email protected]
LinkedIn: @theceoproject
Instagram: @the_ceoproject
Twitter/X: @the_CEO_Project
Facebook: @IncCEOproject
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How do peer groups contribute to continuous improvement and shared experiences over time?
Leo Bottary is a distinguished authority on peer advisory groups, especially in the context of enhancing the experiences and performance of CEOs. He stresses the importance of selecting peer group members based on psychographic traits such as curiosity, arrogance, and a sense of humor, along with a diversity of industries and experiences, to promote comprehensive learning and growth. Bottary also underscores the need to cluster CEOs according to the size and complexity of their companies, as these factors often dictate the challenges they encounter. His approach highlights the creation of a robust cycle of learning and achievement within these groups, focusing on trust-building and addressing root causes to drive higher performance.
Key Takeaways:
→ Peer groups can reach new levels of success and personal growth by creating a supportive environment where members push each other to excel and hold themselves accountable.
→ Selection criteria for CEO peer groups include avoiding arrogance, emphasizing curiosity and integrity, and ensuring a good cultural fit.
→ Utilizing peer groups within organizations can enhance problem-solving, teamwork, trust, and learning opportunities for individuals and teams.
→ Peer groups serve as a powerful tool for personal and professional growth among CEOs by fostering a learning and achieving cycle based on diversity and experiences.
→ Creating effective peer groups within corporations, such as those for plant managers, is crucial to combat isolation, facilitate learning, and promote mutual support.
More from Leo Bottary
Leo Bottary is the founder and managing partner of Peernovation, LLC, where he leverages over a decade of research and experience to transform how organizations approach teamwork and leadership. As an award-winning author of three books, including "Peernovation: What Peer Advisory Groups Can Teach Us About Building High-Performing Teams," Bottary has delivered more than 600 programs across four continents, helping companies build stronger, more collaborative teams. His work is grounded in the belief that effective communication and peer learning are fundamental to organizational success, particularly in an era where ineffective communication costs US companies $1.2 trillion annually.
A respected thought leader in the field of group dynamics and strategic communication, Bottary brings a unique perspective shaped by his roles as an adjunct professor at Rutgers University, Opinion Columnist for CEOWORLD Magazine, and former C-Suite Radio host. His innovative approach combines the proven success of CEO peer advisory groups with practical workplace applications, helping organizations create intentional conversations that drive clarity and performance. Throughout his career, Bottary has worked with organizations of all sizes, from startups to Fortune 500 companies, earning recognition including the Vistage Speaker Top Performer Award for three consecutive years (2020-2022). His mission is encapsulated in the philosophy that "The Power of We Begins With You," emphasizing that building high-performing teams starts with individual commitment to collaborative excellence.
Website: https://leobottary.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leobottary/
Instagram: @leobottary
If you are an experienced CEO looking to grow your company, visit https://www.TheCEOProject.com
You can also reach Jim by email: [email protected]
LinkedIn: @theceoproject
Instagram: @the_ceoproject
Twitter/X: @the_CEO_Project
Facebook: @IncCEOproject
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Why should CEOs approach litigation as a strategic tool rather than a reactive burden?
In this episode of The CEO Project podcast, host Jim Schleckser sits down with Mo Lovett, founder of Mo Lovett Law and a Chambers-ranked Band 1 trial lawyer. Mo brings her extensive experience handling high-stakes litigation for global corporations. The conversation dives into practical insights for CEOs on navigating legal challenges, managing risk, and leveraging litigation as a business strategy. Mo also discusses her journey from large firms with thousands of lawyers to founding her own practice, emphasizing the importance of proactive legal planning, vigilance, and team alignment to mitigate threats and capitalize on opportunities. From counterclaims that turn the tables to lessons learned from mediation and arbitration, this episode offers indispensable advice for leaders looking to strengthen their legal toolkit.
Key Takeaways:
→ Proactive legal planning minimizes surprises and helps CEOs stay ahead of potential threats.
→ Litigation can serve as a strategic business tool when approached with the right mindset.
→ Communication training for teams at all levels reduces risks from emails and casual messaging.
→ Mediation offers an opportunity to resolve disputes while appearing ready for trial, enhancing negotiation leverage.
→ Knowing when to bring in external legal expertise, whether for strategy or trial preparation—is critical for managing costs and outcomes effectively.
More from Mo Levett
Mo Lovett is a distinguished first-chair trial lawyer with over 30 years of experience, having tried more than 50 jury cases with over $100 billion collectively at stake. She specializes in complex legal matters, including patent and trademark infringement, trade secret theft, entertainment litigation, and high-stakes commercial disputes. Her client roster includes some of the world's largest corporations, and her notable cases range from defending a Fortune 10 software company in a $43 billion trademark dispute to representing Lady A in their naming rights battle. She has also served as lead counsel in over 75 patent cases and represented major players in industries like banking, oil, and manufacturing.
Before founding Mo Lovett Law, she held senior roles at prestigious global firms, including King & Spalding and Greenberg Traurig, where she was the highest-ranking woman among 2,650 lawyers worldwide. Recognized by Chambers USA, The Best Lawyers in America, and Texas Super Lawyers, Mo has earned accolades such as being named a "Top 100 Lawyer in Texas" and a "Top Mentor" by Texas Lawyer magazine. Known for her strategic brilliance and dedication to diversity, she consistently fields inclusive teams to deliver exceptional results for her clients.
Website: https://molovettlaw.com/
LinkedIn: @maryolgalovett
Instagram: @maryolgalovett
Twitter/X: @molovett
Contact: [email protected]
If you are an experienced CEO looking to grow your company, visit https://www.TheCEOProject.com
You can also reach Jim by email: [email protected]
LinkedIn: @theceoproject
Instagram: @the_ceoproject
Twitter/X: @the_CEO_Project
Facebook: @IncCEOproject
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How do family businesses balance tradition, professionalism, and growth to thrive across generations?
In this episode of The CEO Project, host Jim Schleckser is joined by Sharon McGuire, Executive Membership and Marketing Manager at The CEO Project, for a candid discussion on the complexities of running a family business. Together, they examine critical challenges such as balancing family loyalty with professionalism, navigating succession planning, and retaining top talent. Using real-world examples, Jim and Sharon explore how family businesses can align their legacy with sustainable growth and success.
Key Takeaways:
→ Family businesses face a "professionalism curve," balancing emotional ties with objective decision-making.
→ Compensation should reflect roles and responsibilities, not familial ties, to maintain fairness and professionalism.
→ External experience can be invaluable for family members before joining the business.
→ Retaining top talent requires addressing ceilings in non-family employee growth opportunities.
→ The "Thanksgiving problem" highlights how family dynamics can interfere with sound business decisions, requiring careful navigation to balance legacy and growth.If you are an experienced CEO looking to grow your company, visit https://www.TheCEOProject.com
You can also reach Jim by email: [email protected]
LinkedIn: @theceoproject
Instagram: @the_ceoproject
Twitter/X: @the_CEO_Project
Facebook: @IncCEOproject
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How can effective talent management secure your organization's future success? In this episode of The CEO Project, host Jim Schleckser is joined by co-host Sharon McGuire, Executive Membership and Marketing Manager at The CEO Project, for an insightful discussion on effective talent management strategies. Together, they explore essential frameworks like the 9-box analysis to evaluate and develop team members, ensuring organizations have the right talent to thrive today and in the future. From identifying high performers to fostering career growth opportunities, Jim and Sharon share practical advice for CEOs and executive teams. They also dive into common leadership challenges, such as succession planning, retaining top talent, and addressing underperformance.
Key Takeaways:
→ The 9-box grid helps assess team members based on performance and potential, guiding strategic talent decisions.
→ High performers thrive when given opportunities to grow, learn, and face new challenges.
→ Succession planning ensures leadership continuity by preparing team members for future roles.
→ Effective talent management includes addressing underperformance with fairness and respect.
→ Organizations must foster transparency and collaboration to align talent development with business goals.If you are an experienced CEO looking to grow your company, visit https://www.TheCEOProject.com
You can also reach Jim by email: [email protected]
LinkedIn: @theceoproject
Instagram: @the_ceoproject
Twitter/X: @the_CEO_Project
Facebook: @IncCEOproject
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Why is visual communication essential for leadership and driving business success?
In this episode of The CEO Project, Jim Schleckser speaks with Olina Glindevi, the Visual Agile Coach and author of The Visual Agile Coach Playbook. Olina shares her unique approach to integrating visual communication techniques into Agile practices to foster better engagement, communication, and value delivery within teams. Drawing on her extensive experience in IT and Agile roles such as Scrum Master and Agile Coach, Olina showcases how visual tools can help leaders and teams streamline their processes, adapt Agile frameworks to their contexts, and align organizational goals effectively. She also provides insights into the cultural and practical applications of visual techniques, ensuring they remain accessible and impactful regardless of individual artistic skill.
Key Takeaways:
→ Visual communication clarifies and enhances Agile practices, making them more engaging and effective.
→ Using visuals helps leaders and teams identify the core of complex processes and align their strategies.
→ Practical tools like Miro and Procreate support hybrid and digital collaboration in Agile environments.
→ Simplifying communication through visuals fosters stronger alignment across diverse organizational cultures.
→ Conducting retrospectives is essential for continuous improvement and adapting Agile practices to specific needs.More from Olina Glindevi
Olina Glindevi is a visual communicator, trainer, and project manager with extensive experience in leadership roles, including Agile Coach, Scrum Master, and Release Train Engineer (RTE). Driven by a passion for Agile methodologies and coaching leadership, Glindevi brings creativity, structure, and a focus on business value to every project.
With a proven ability to inspire and motivate, Glindevi excels at bringing people together to achieve common goals. Her coaching-led approach emphasizes communication, visualization, and transparency, creating an environment where teams thrive and deliver high-quality outcomes. She has successfully supported teams and organizations at all levels, fostering alignment, collaboration, and engagement.
Find her book Online: The Visual Agile Coach Playbook
Website: https://thevisualagilecoach.com/
LinkedIn: @thevisualagilecoach
Instagram: @the_visual_agile_coach
Contact: [email protected]
If you are an experienced CEO looking to grow your company, visit https://www.TheCEOProject.com
You can also reach Jim by email: [email protected]
LinkedIn: @theceoproject
Instagram: @the_ceoproject
Twitter/X: @the_CEO_Project
Facebook: @IncCEOproject
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Why is strategic HR leadership essential for driving the success and growth of your business?
In this episode of The CEO Project, Jim Schleckser speaks with Dethra U. Giles, founder and CEO of ExecuPrep, a premier talent and performance management consulting firm. Dethra shares insights from her extensive experience in conflict resolution and organizational development, advocating for intentional career mapping and coaching as essential tools for advancing from managerial to executive roles. Together, they discuss the evolving role of HR professionals, emphasizing the importance of adopting a business-oriented mindset to drive strategic decision-making and effective communication with top executives. Dethra offers practical advice on cultivating a culture of recognition, enabling leaders to delegate effectively, and aligning organizational goals to achieve sustainable growth.
Key Takeaways:
→ How intentional career mapping and coaching help individuals transition from managerial to executive roles
→ Why HR professionals adopting a business-oriented mindset enhances strategic decision-making
→ How delegating responsibilities and creating systems drive organizational growth and scalability
→ Why praising specific behaviors motivates teams and improves performance, productivity, and profits
→ Why aligning HR strategies with organizational goals is critical for driving business success
More from Dethra U. Giles
ExecuPrep's Chief CEO and founder, Dethra’s mission is to architect frameworks that elevate businesses through strategic HR leadership. Her expertise in conflict resolution and organizational development is bolstered by a Senior Professional in Human Resources (SPHR) certification, enabling her to forge robust, high-performing teams.
In her dual role as a transformative keynote speaker, she leverages years of experience to inspire change and drive company-wide growth. Harnessing adept problem-solving skills and a passion for training and development, she is committed to nurturing talent and optimizing employee engagement and retention.
Contact: [email protected]
Website: https://www.execuprep.com/
Listen To The: Happily Ever Employed Podcast
LinkedIn: @dethragiles
Instagram: @dethra_giles
Facebook: @DethraGilesCEO
If you are an experienced CEO looking to grow your company, visit https://www.TheCEOProject.com
You can also reach Jim by email: [email protected]
LinkedIn: @theceoproject
Instagram: @the_ceoproject
Twitter/X: @the_CEO_Project
Facebook: @IncCEOproject
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Are you stressed, anxious and burning out at work and ready to put a stop to it?
In this episode of The CEO Project, Jim Schleckser speaks with Michael D. Levitt, founder and Chief Burnout Officer of the Breakfast Leadership Network and host of the Breakfast Leadership Show podcast. Michael shares his personal experience with burnout and how he now helps, guides, and coaches others to overcome it in their own lives. Together, they explore strategies for overcoming burnout and recognizing its root causes. Michael offers practical advice for reducing worry and explains how organizations can create supportive workplace environments by communicating their core values effectively, helping to address and prevent burnout among employees.
Key Takeaways:
→ How recognizing what you can and can’t control helps reduce stress
→ Why unnecessary worrying leads to future burnout
→ How clear workplace expectations can minimize anxiety
→ Why understanding burnout prevention is crucial
→ How workplace well-being plays a key role in preventing burnout
More from Michael D. Levitt
Michael leads a multi-faceted media firm dedicated to tackling burnout and improving workplace culture. His expertise in these areas stems from his extensive background in HR leadership and executive coaching, which now informs the content produced by his company.
As a Certified NLP and CBT Therapist, Michael brings a unique perspective to the media content produced by his firm. His approach combines psychological insights with practical business strategies, offering valuable resources for individuals and organizations looking to prevent burnout and enhance workplace culture.
Contact: [email protected]
Website: https://www.breakfastleadership.com/
Listen To The: Breakfast Leadership Show
@Bfastledership on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter/X
If you are an experienced CEO looking to grow your company, visit https://www.TheCEOProject.com
You can also reach Jim by email: [email protected]
LinkedIn: @theceoproject
Instagram: @the_ceoproject
Twitter/X: @the_CEO_Project
Facebook: @IncCEOproject
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Are you sacrificing your success and happiness by ignoring your core values in the decisions that matter most?
In this episode of The CEO Project, Jim Schleckser speaks with Dino Cattaneo, a veteran executive coach and branding expert with over 30 years of experience. Dino, the host of the Authentic Leadership for Everyday People Podcast, shares his journey from journalist to C-suite executive, offering deep insights into aligning personal values with professional decisions. Together, they explore the importance of cultivating open communication, debating ideas, and why emotional branding creates lasting relationships. Dino also highlights lessons he's learned from industry leaders on his own podcast, including memorable examples from companies like Nike and Snowbird, to illustrate how values drive branding and long-term success.
Key Takeaways:
→ How your core values guide your professional decisions.
→ Why branding is more than just a logo.
→ How saying no to the wrong opportunities benefits your business.
→ Why debating ideas is crucial for better outcomes.
→ How operationalizing company values impacts your organizational culture.
More from Dino Cattaneo
Dino Cattaneo has spent over 30 years partnering with business leaders across different industries in companies ranging in size from start-ups to Fortune 50 companies. After being a banker, strategic consultant, digital marketer and C-suite executive at a private equity backed company, Dino has started his own executive coaching and advisory practice.
Before embarking on his business journey, Dino was a journalist covering American business news for Italy’s largest news agency and wrote feature stories on successful small businesses for Italy’s largest entrepreneurship magazine.
Website: https://authenticleadershipforeverydaypeople.com/
Listen To The: Authentic Leadership for Everyday People Podcast
LinkedIn: @dinocattaneo
Instagram: @al4edp
Twitter/X: @dgcattaneo
If you are an experienced CEO looking to grow your company, visit https://www.TheCEOProject.com
Connect with Jim Schleckser
You can also reach Jim by email: [email protected]
LinkedIn: @theceoproject
Instagram: @the_ceoproject
Twitter/X: @the_CEO_Project
Facebook: @IncCEOproject
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In this episode of The CEO Project Podcast, host Jim Schleckser and Sharon Maguire discuss the critical link between strategy development and execution, emphasizing the importance of treating them as an iterative, interconnected process. Using frameworks like Henry Mintzberg’s "Two Loops of Learning," they highlight how organizations must adapt strategies dynamically—refining tactical approaches while continuously reevaluating overarching goals to stay aligned with market changes and organizational needs. The hosts advocate for small, focused strategy teams composed of systems thinkers rather than relying on large, title-driven groups. This approach enables more effective problem-solving and holistic thinking, which are essential for creating and deploying successful strategies.
The discussion also underscores the importance of prioritizing a single competitive focus—whether cost leadership, customer intimacy, or innovation—while avoiding the trap of trying to excel in conflicting areas. Effective strategies balance leveraging internal strengths with understanding external market dynamics, ensuring that objectives are both actionable and measurable. Leaders are encouraged to focus on three core areas: financial growth, operational improvement, and strategic extension, such as entering new markets or launching new products. By fostering alignment through techniques like the Japanese "catch ball" method and engaging the organization in execution, businesses can ensure their strategies drive meaningful, sustainable outcomes.
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