#10: EP74: Exterminating Distrust: M&A Successfully Merging Business Cultures

Clay Spitz’s journey from his family’s pest control business to merging multi-million dollar companies offers a unique perspective on leadership. In this episode, Clay shares how he turned a struggling branch into a success, only to find himself navigating the complexities of corporate acquisitions. His experience integrating 100 companies in just two years provides invaluable insights into the challenges of merging diverse business cultures. Clay’s straightforward account of the mistakes made and lessons learned during major transitions will resonate with leaders at any stage of their careers. Join us as we explore the human side of M&As and discover why exterminating distrust is as crucial in the boardroom as it is in pest control.

#9: EP73: Revolutionizing Entry-Level Recruiting Beyond Job

In today’s commentary episode, we’re revisiting my conversation with Ryan Clark, co-founder and CEO of PeopleShare, a staffing and recruiting firm focused on light industrial and administrative positions. Ryan’s journey offers valuable insights into creating positive work environments, the importance of cultural fit, and the power of perseverance in business. We’ll explore how Ryan’s experiences shaped his approach to leadership, his commitment to helping others find their ideal work environment, and the unique ways PeopleShare serves both its clients and candidates. From the challenges of maintaining energy and passion over two decades in business to the importance of adaptability and coachability, Ryan’s story is full of lessons for leaders at all levels.

#8: EP67: Insights on Team Building, Innovation, and Customer Focus

What a magnificent top 10 list! From Joe Leo on birthing a company to Joe Grace, who births audiences for companies, we’ve got Torey Carter-Conneen on inspiring unity and focus by simplifying complexity. And then, of course, there’s James Hyman, who’s made a successful career as a serial turnaround CEO. He balances accountability and empowerment within his teams to make progress. Topping it off is Kyle Buckett, a retired U.S. Navy SEAL who has lived up to the importance of culture improvement and fit in creating elite teams. This is the stuff not from people who write books, although several have written books, but from people who have created or transformed and ultimately lifted teams and companies to new levels. I’ll warn you, they don’t make it sound easy, but they do share what drove them. Pick an episode on a relevant topic and listen in as they dive in.

#7: EP68: Rooted in Risk: A Landscape Architect’s Path to Multi-Company Success

Colleen Vacelet, the founder of Intreegue Design and CEO of Order Green Supply, shares her journey from landscape architect to multi-company entrepreneur. Colleen offers practical insights for CEOs looking to expand their companies, new leaders finding their footing, and entrepreneurs who’ve recently acquired existing businesses. Her approach to thoughtful risk-taking and creating a nurturing work environment provides valuable lessons for leaders at all stages.

#6: EP69: Cultivating Comfort, Courting Discomfort As a Path to Business Success

Creating a workplace that feels like home while embracing discomfort for growth – these seemingly contradictory ideas form the core of today’s commentary. In this episode, we’re revisiting my conversation with Colleen Vacelet, founder of Intreegue Designs and CEO of Order Green Supply. Colleen shared her unique approach to building company culture, emphasizing the importance of creating an environment where employees genuinely want to spend their 40 hours each week. But Colleen didn’t stop there. She also highlighted the value of “living in uncomfortably” as a driving force for personal and professional growth. From taking leaps in her career to navigating the challenges of acquiring new businesses, Colleen’s experiences underscore how stepping out of our comfort zones can lead to remarkable progress.

#5: EP63: A CEO’s Competitive Edge: Mastering the Art of Corporate Turnarounds

In this episode of Success Beneath the Surface, James Hyman, a seasoned CEO and board member, shares his methodology for helping companies navigate complex restructuring processes. With a background spanning diverse industries and a track record of successful transformations, James offers invaluable insights for CEOs and business transformation leaders facing the daunting task of overhauling large to enterprise-sized organizations. James emphasizes the importance of broadening one’s skill set, knowing what “good” looks like in various business functions, and leveraging the expertise of others to drive change. He also touches on the evolving role of AI in business and how leaders can prepare to harness its potential.

#4: EP72 Building a Culture of Urgency 20 Seconds at a Time

Today’s conversation takes us into staffing and leadership with Ryan Clark, co-founder and CEO of PeopleShare. Since 2005, Ryan has been on a mission to revolutionize the staffing industry, growing PeopleShare into a powerhouse with 40 locations across eight states. Ryan’s approach to business is as refreshing as it is effective. He says, “We’re helping the people that need the most help.” His commitment to creating opportunities for entry-level workers and fostering a culture of urgency and teamwork has set PeopleShare apart in a competitive industry.
In our conversation, Ryan shares invaluable insights on building a purpose-driven company, the importance of company culture, and how a healthy dose of “paranoia” keeps him motivated. Whether you’re a seasoned CEO or an aspiring entrepreneur, you won’t want to miss Ryan’s unique perspective on leadership and success.

#3: EP64: Leading Leader – Balancing Accountability and Empowerment

Deborah Fell reflects on her recent conversation with James Hyman, a seasoned turnaround CEO and board member. Deborah discusses the key insights from their full episode, focusing on themes of leadership, accountability, and empowering teams. She shares her experience leading a diverse and accomplished team of sales and marketing executives from various industries, highlighting the challenges and rewards of being a “leader of leaders.” Deborah emphasizes the importance of inspiring confidence, showing compassion, and knowing when to compromise.

#2: EP65: Balancing the Blood Ledger: HemoSonics CEO of Innovation and Patient Care

In this episode, Deborah welcomes Bob Roda, President and CEO of HemoSonics, about purpose-driven leadership in healthcare. Bob shares his journey from an economics major to a passionate advocate for improving patient care. He offers candid insights from his career at Johnson & Johnson to his current role in medical technology innovation.
Bob’s story emphasizes continuous learning and embracing both successes and failures. He provides a fresh take on leadership, stressing the importance of the journey as much as the destination. Bob’s commitment to making a meaningful impact in healthcare is evident throughout the conversation.
Join us for this engaging discussion on mentorship, the value of experience, and the challenges of driving change in clinical practice. Bob’s insights offer valuable perspective for those at any stage of their career in, “Balancing the Blood Ledger: HemoSonics CEO on Innovation and Patient Care.”

#1: EP70: The Intentional Leader: Creating Generational Wealth and Opportunity

Deborah sits down with William Bowie, President and CEO of Empower Construction, a utility construction contractor making waves in the greater Philadelphia area.
William’s story is one of grit, determination, and purposeful living. William’s path to success has been inspiring and instructive from his early days when he was inspired by a strong mother and navigated a 20-year journey in the utility construction industry.
Get ready for a masterclass in leadership. William’s up at 4 AM, not just working on his business, but on himself. He’s intentional about everything – from the boards he sits on to the culture he’s creating at Empower Construction.
William will show us how to build a company that’s not just profitable but purposeful. He’ll share insights on mentoring, diversity and inclusion, and creating generational wealth for his employees and community. He lives by the mantra, “Find your purpose and live on purpose.”