Deborah Fell connects with Ryan Frederick of Transform Labs about strategic technology implementation. Ryan positions his firm as independent advisors rather than product reps, ensuring “our advice to clients is in the best interest of the client.” Ryan captures the uncertainty many CEOs face with a compelling metaphor: “It’s almost like being on a foggy trail in the woods… you’re not sure if you should turn right or left, or if you should wait for the fog to dissipate.” What makes this conversation valuable is Ryan’s candid reflection on failures and how ego-based assumptions derailed even previously successful ventures. His advocacy for “continuous not knowing” offers a counterintuitive but powerful framework for leaders. The episode explores why challenging clients with education, prioritizing questions over answers, and genuinely serving client interests separate successful professional services firms from the rest. Ryan concludes by discussing his book Sell Naked, which advocates stripping away “fancy pitch decks” to focus on authentic understanding of client needs.
In this episode of Leader Generation, host Tessa Burg speaks with Aaron Grando, VP of Creative Innovation at Mod Op, about how the agency is using AI to enhance creative work and improve client experiences. Aaron shares the story behind Brand Agent, Mod Op’s AI-powered assistant designed to align capabilities similar to ChatGPT with each client’s unique voice, values and goals. Aaron and Tessa discuss how Brand Agent not only enhances internal efficiencies—such as content writing, data summarization and brainstorming ideas—but also transforms how brands connect with their audiences. From personalized emails to AI-enhanced search and content recommendations, Aaron shows how AI goes beyond just being a productivity tool; it becomes a creative partner.
Grants Pass native Terry Hopkins has returned to his roots after a diverse hospitality career across five states. With over 25 years of business ownership and management experience in Southern Oregon, Terry recently spent 5 years as a business advocate with the Oregon Restaurant & Lodging Association. Married for 20+ years with two sons, Terry is passionate about community service, having served on numerous Chamber and city committees. He’s excited to join the Grants Pass & Josephine County Chamber of Commerce team to advocate for local businesses and enhance community development.
Last week, we began our conversation with Cynthia Luvlee, CEO and Founding Board Member of Shyne. If you missed that episode, I encourage you to go back and listen as we discussed the economic challenges facing vulnerable communities and how innovative organizations are responding. Today, we continue that important conversation by exploring Shyne’s revolutionary approach to supporting survivors of trafficking and exploitation. Cynthia and her unstoppable team of dedicated volunteers and employees work tirelessly to provide survivor entrepreneurs with access to small business support, mentorship, coaching, education, and capital. They envision a new economy where survivor business owners network to maximize impact and accelerate innovative solutions. By generating equity and shifting power, they believe financial independence and freedom for all survivors is possible. In this second part of our conversation, Cynthia shares how Shyne has reimagined support services by focusing on purpose, dignity, and entrepreneurship rather than traditional “rescue” models. We’ll explore how building ongoing relationships and responsive programming has created a sustainable community where survivors design their own paths to success.
We hope you enjoy these and the rest of this week’s playlist.
