Leadership in Action

"Leadership in Action" is a podcast presented by eoleadershipinaction.

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Latest Episodes

Unveiling the Art of Business - Kate Anderson - Leadership in Action- Episode # 79

Unveiling the Art of Business - Kate Anderson - Leadership in Action- Episode # 79

This week on Leadership in Action, we're joined by Kate Anderson, co-founder of Alchemy Station and a newcomer to the Boston Chapter of the Entrepreneurs Organization. With a rich background in art consulting, Kate shares how a momentous pause during the pandemic led her to redefine her career and life objectives, ultimately guiding her towards entrepreneurship with a renewed focus on integrating art in business settings.


Kate and host Mark Stiles delve into the transformative power of art in corporate spaces, the impactful lessons learned through personal development practices like hypnotherapy and the Enneagram, and how these insights shape the strategic direction at Alchemy Station. They also explore the evolving role of art in expressing organizational values and the unique challenges and triumphs of launching and nurturing a start-up in the art sector.

 

Takeaways:

  • Power of Personal Agency: Kate highlights the significance of recognizing one’s personal agency in entrepreneurship. Emphasizing the importance of taking action towards your dreams and the transformative journey of starting and nurturing a business.
  • Impact of Mindfulness and Inner Work: The journey of personal development through hypnotherapy and the Enneagram helped Kate align her career with her core values. This process significantly influenced her business approach, emphasizing the importance of mindfulness in professional success.
  • Art as a Medium for Corporate Expression: Alchemy Station's unique approach uses art to reflect and enhance corporate values. Kate discusses how art not only beautifies a space but also serves as a powerful tool for expressing a company's mission and connecting with its community.
  • Learning Through Entrepreneurial Challenges: Transitioning from vision to execution involves facing numerous challenges. Kate shares insights on managing the complexities of a growing business and the critical nature of adaptability and resilience in entrepreneurship.
  • Value of Community and Network in Business Growth: Kate's involvement with the Entrepreneurs Organization (EO) underscores the benefits of being part of a community that supports personal and professional growth, offering educational resources and peer learning.
  • Innovative Use of Technology in Art: The discussion extends into the innovative realms of AI and technology in art, demonstrating Kate's forward-thinking approach. She explores how technology can be harnessed to enhance creative expression and operational efficiency in art-related businesses.

 

Links: 

  • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kate-o-connor-anderson-5644685/
  • Website: https://www.alchemystation.art/


Ways to Tune In:

Mastering Talent Tuning - Clark Waterfall - Leadership in Action - Episode 78

Mastering Talent Tuning - Clark Waterfall - Leadership in Action - Episode 78

This week's episode of Leadership in Action features Clark Waterfall, co-founder and Managing Director at Boston Search Group, a seasoned expert in talent acquisition for C-suite leadership. With over 25 years of experience, Clark delves into the crucial aspects of leadership development and the strategies involved in honing top-tier executive teams. Sponsored by the Boston Chapter of Entrepreneurs Organization, this episode is packed with insights on navigating the complexities of executive placements and team dynamics.

 

Takeaways: 

  • The Essential Role of People in Business Success: Clark emphasizes that despite the rise of AI, the core of business success still revolves around people. Understanding and placing the right people in the right seats is both a joyous and challenging journey.
  • The Art of Tuning Leadership: Discussing the nuances of 'tuning' leadership akin to tuning a musical instrument, Clark shares insights into the delicate process of adjusting and optimizing team dynamics to enhance organizational performance.
  • Navigating Private Equity and Venture Capital Landscapes: With a focus on middle-market private equity-backed businesses, Clark talks about the specific needs and challenges of these organizations, particularly when it involves refreshing or enhancing leadership teams to match growth phases.
  • Long-term Membership and Learning in EO: Reflecting on his 23 years as a member of Entrepreneurs Organization, Clark highlights the unique learning experiences and the value of shared knowledge within this community, emphasizing the irreplaceable benefits of forum participation.
  • Future of Work and Leadership Development: Clark shares his thoughts on the evolving landscape of work and how emerging virtual environments might impact the development of future leaders, stressing the need for new tools to facilitate effective leadership training in increasingly digital contexts.

Links:

Quote of the Show:

  • "Companies are run on people as much as AI may transform that in the future, and getting them right is just a joy."


Ways to Tune In:

Engaging Talent and Elevating Teams - Kate Morgan - Leadership in Action - Episode 77

Engaging Talent and Elevating Teams - Kate Morgan - Leadership in Action - Episode 77

In this illuminating episode of "Leadership in Action," host Mark Stiles welcomes the dynamic Kate Morgan, Founder and CEO of Boston Human Capital Partners. With over 25 years of expertise in talent acquisition and a profound commitment to nurturing the next generation of tech innovators, Kate delves into the essential elements of building successful teams and fostering entrepreneurial talent. Sponsored by the Boston Chapter of Entrepreneurs Organization (EO), this episode is a deep dive into the interplay of emotional intelligence, strategic hiring, and the impactful mentorship that shapes the future of businesses and entrepreneurs alike.

 

Takeaways: 

  • The cornerstone of any successful business is its people. The right team can elevate a company to new heights.
  • Emotional Intelligence (EQ) plays a pivotal role in leadership and team dynamics, significantly more so than IQ in many instances.
  • Utilizing assessments like DISC can provide valuable insights into communication styles and team compatibility.
  • The evolving landscape of work is moving towards more socially conscious business models, where success is measured not just in revenue, but in positive societal impact.
  • The significance of mentorship and community support is more pronounced than ever, especially among emerging student entrepreneurs and startups.
  • Adapting to new technologies and methodologies, such as AI, with a discerning approach can enhance, not replace, the human elements critical to business success.
  • Featured Insights:
  • Discover the importance of nurturing a team's emotional intelligence and how it complements technical skills to drive success.
  • Learn about the transformative power of mentorship, both for the mentor and mentees, in EO's Accelerator program.
  • Uncover the balance between embracing new technologies like AI and retaining the invaluable human touch in talent acquisition and management.
  • Explore the evolving concept of work and how future-forward thinking can lead to more fulfilling and impactful business practices.

 

Links: 

  • Email: kate@bostonhumancapital.com
  • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kate-morgan/
  • Website: http://www.bostonhumancapital.com/


Quote of the Show

  • "Emotional intelligence is not fixed; it's the area of our intelligence that we can grow and improve upon, which in turn, can lead to significant improvements in our professional and personal lives." - Kate Morgan

Ways to Tune In:

Unveiling the Art of Meaningful Gatherings  - Chris Gasbarro - Leadership in Action- Episode 76

Unveiling the Art of Meaningful Gatherings - Chris Gasbarro - Leadership in Action- Episode 76

In this riveting episode of Leadership in Action, Mark Stiles sits down with Chris Gasbarro, an innovator in creating impactful meeting and event experience. Sponsored by the Boston Chapter of the Entrepreneurs Organization, this episode dives into the heart of transformative gatherings, the power of communication, and the intersection of creativity and business acumen. As a new member of EO Boston, Chris shares his journey from forestry major to a pivotal figure in the events industry, highlighting his philosophy of building powerful connections and the unique approach of Ember to curating unforgettable events. Join us as we explore the nuances of effective leadership, the essence of vulnerability, and the innovative use of AI in the event space.

 

Takeaways:

  • The importance of how messages are delivered, opening paths to constructive communication, especially in feedback and challenging discussions.
  • The role of self-awareness and adaptability in leadership, recognizing the individuality of team members and clients to foster growth and positive outcomes.
  • Insights into the blend of creativity and logistical precision in designing events that resonate on a deeper level with participants, transcending traditional formats.
  • The transformative power of gatherings, from intimate executive meetings to grand scale events, driven by purpose and strategic execution.
  • The application of AI and technology in enhancing event planning and creative processes, offering efficiency and novel solutions in a dynamic industry.

Links


Quote of the Show

  • "If you're not in discomfort, you're not growing." - Chris Gasbarro 


Ways to Tune In:

Strength in Authenticity - Avery Williams - Leadership in Action - Episode # 075

Strength in Authenticity - Avery Williams - Leadership in Action - Episode # 075

The week’s guest is a client focused marketing strategist with a deep rooted passion for businesses to succeed. Introducing Avery Williams, Founder & Marketing Strategist at New England Paradigm! Avery sits down with host Mark Stiles to share her experiences with the Entrepreneurs Organization (EO), her passion for continuous learning, travel, and wine, and the impact of spirituality on her personal and professional life. Mark and Avery also touch on the significance of purpose and impact, as well as their shared excitement about the future of EO Boston. It’s an exciting episode you don’t want to miss!


Takeaways:

  • Lean into the lifestyle of "everything happens for you, not to you.” This positive mindset helps in dealing with challenges and having grace with the process of business growth. It's important to have faith and patience, allowing things to develop before expecting immediate results.
  • Surrendering to the uncertainties of entrepreneurship and embracing vulnerability can lead to positive relationships and personal growth. Being authentic and accepting imperfections can strengthen relationships with clients and team members.
  • Building strong relationships with clients, team members, and mentors is crucial for success. Surrounding yourself with the right people who lift you up and being conscious of the impact you have on others can create a supportive and empowering environment.
  • Differentiating from traditional agencies, the focus is on being adaptable and providing personalized marketing and design services at a more affordable cost. Marketing plans should be living documents that evolve as the business and market landscape change.
  • EO provides a supportive network of like-minded entrepreneurs who can provide guidance, share experiences, and offer a non-judgmental space to discuss business challenges. EO accelerates personal and business growth through learning events and access to resources.
  • A key hobby for Avery is continuous learning through reading books, listening to podcasts, and expanding knowledge. There is always something new to learn and it helps in personal and professional growth.
  • The idea of unity and making a positive impact in both personal and business aspects is essential for personal fulfillment and success. It involves finding purpose, being present, and understanding the importance of relationships.

Links: 

Quote of the Show

  • “Everything happens for you, not to you.” - Avery Williams

Ways to Tune In:

Navigating Towards the North Star - Eric Crews - Leadership in Action- Episode # 074

Navigating Towards the North Star - Eric Crews - Leadership in Action- Episode # 074

Today’s guest helps entrepreneurs implement business operating systems to increase their revenue, profitability, and the salable value of their business. Welcome Eric Crews, Founder & President of Crews & co. Eric sits down with host Mark Stiles to share the importance of making key decisions, trust in an organization, the use of AI in business, and future predictions. He also delves into goal setting and using a holistic approach to consulting. It’s an enlightening episode you don’t want to miss!

 

Takeaways:

  • Delaying challenging people-related decisions can result in substantial time loss for a business. Leaders must decisively address such situations to mitigate their impact. Taking prompt action ensures smoother operations and fosters a more productive work environment.
  • Trust within an organization, defined as the ability to express any point of view without fear of negative consequences, is the primary factor in the success or failure of small and medium-sized businesses.
  • Running a successful business demands more than efficient operations; it necessitates a profound grasp of market preferences. Leaders must forge strong connections, ensuring offerings resonate and adapt to evolving needs for sustainable growth in competitive markets.
  • AI technology can handle nearly 70% of work in many businesses and should be used as a valuable tool. However, it's essential to use AI guardedly and as a data point, not the sole decision driver.
  • Eric's firm, Cruz & Co, emphasizes a 360-degree focus on finances, operations, strategy, and people. This comprehensive approach assists businesses in becoming operationally strong and strategically aligned with market demands.
  • Setting a clear North Star or guiding light for a business is vital. It not only clarifies the direction of the business, but also helps in aligning the operational efforts behind achieving this goal.
  • Eric emphasizes continuously gaining insights from others, especially clients, as a key to staying ahead in the industry. This strategy allows him and his team to understand more perspectives and apply learned knowledge to their business operations.

 

Links: 


Quote of the Show

  • “The degree to which one struggles in making difficult decisions corresponds to the degree of time lost in the business.” - Eric Crews


Ways to Tune In:

Dissecting Business, Education, & Technology - Richard Cohen - Leadership in Action - Episode # 073

Dissecting Business, Education, & Technology - Richard Cohen - Leadership in Action - Episode # 073

Welcome to another compelling episode of Leadership in Action! This week, host, Mark Stiles, engages in a riveting conversation with Richard Cohen, a distinguished guest and the CEO of Grey Matter Thinking and Co-founder of DocFox. Richard offers profound insights into the realms of business and education, underlining the significance of grasping the fundamentals of accounting. As he delves into various business challenges, Richard shares his unique perspective, providing a wealth of knowledge. Join us as we unravel the wisdom shared by Richard, a leader whose expertise extends across diverse domains. 

 

Takeaways:

  • Richard shares his passion for Accounting and emphasized how it can be a productive subject if taught properly. He goes on to say how understanding basic accounting principles is very beneficial to any entrepreneur as they serve as a guide for decision-making.
  • Understanding and applying knowledge, rather than merely absorbing it, holds significant importance. Richard highlighted the value of breaking down complex information into digestible, simple parts and applying them practically.
  • The discussion emphasized the ease with which AI technology can compile information, yet underscored the irreplaceable role of human understanding in the application of knowledge.
  • Richard, through DocFox, provides insights into how the SaaS company streamlines 'Know Your Customer' (KYC) compliance in banking. DocFox simplifies customer identity comprehension, onboarding procedures, and overall compliance efforts for banks, enhancing efficiency and user-friendliness.

Quote of the Show

  • “Almost everyone we meet is a knowledge worker, and our ability to not just absorb knowledge, but apply it in practical ways, is critical to success.” - Richard Cohen

Connect: 

Ways to Tune In:

The Promise of AI with Luis Cortes - Leadership in Action- Episode # 072

The Promise of AI with Luis Cortes - Leadership in Action- Episode # 072

This week’s episode of Leadership in Action brings us a special guest who’s been apart of EO Boston for over 15 years. Welcome Luis Cortes, Head of Marketing & Sales Programs, Product Portfolio Marketing at Red Hat and Co-founder of Bcombinator. Luis partners with host, Mark Stiles, to share his journey in the entrepreneurial world, alongside the impact of AI in growing his business and solving actual problems that companies face. He also discusses his involvement in EO, his love for continuous learning, and appreciating the international experiences that EO offers. It’s a great episode you’re going to want to tune into! 

 

Takeaways:

  • AI is making a positive effect on businesses and their productivity. Luis mentions both big and small businesses can benefit from AI technologies like GPT-4, and how it can give superpowers to individuals, enhance decision-making, and drive business growth.
  • Luis affirms that AI is a new wave of technology and it will take us into a new age of productivity. However, he advises users to be careful not to fully trust AI-generated results, as AI still doesn't have the ability to fully differentiate between true and false information.
  • As a co-founder of Bcombinator, Luis shares his experience of working with startups and how he employs AI to resolve actual problems that businesses face. 
  • Both Luis and Mark emphasize the benefits they've reaped from their involvement in EO, from the community it brings to the international experiences and the values it instills.
  • Luis discusses the significance of personal activities outside work. From spending time with family, listening to podcasts, to outdoor activities like trailblazing, this all serves as an integral part of his personal development.

Quote of the Show

  • “AI is not going to take your job, but someone who's effectively using AI, will.” - Luis Cortes

Links: 

Ways to Tune In:

Bridging the Digital Divide with Dylan Zajac - Leadership in Action - Episode # 071

Bridging the Digital Divide with Dylan Zajac - Leadership in Action - Episode # 071

Join us in today’s episode where we talk with the young changemaker behind Computers 4 People, Dylan Zajac! Dylan sits down with host Mark Stiles to share how his organization collects computers, refurbishes them, and distributes them to those in need. He also touches on the different programs they run, including digital literacy classes, and their efforts to provide internet access. Join us as he shares his organization's future goals and his own experiences balancing nonprofit work with his education! 

 

Takeaways:

  • Computers 4 People started as a non-profit to prevent e-waste and to provide computers to those with lower access. Dylan was inspired by witnessing the overabundance of electronic waste and combined that with his entrepreneurial spirit to solve this societal problem.
  • The organization collects, refurbishes and donates used computers to those in need through partnerships with other nonprofits. It specializes in providing access to devices, internet and digital skills, thus aiding in bridging the digital divide.
  • Dylan's goal to donate 250,000 computers next year signifies a substantial commitment by C4P to digital inclusion, surpassing this year's 1,200 donations. This ambitious target highlights the growing momentum of C4P's initiatives and emphasizes the organization's dedication to addressing the digital divide on a broader scale.
  • C4P seeks to automate and incorporate AI strategies to scale and improve efficiency, such as using AI to automate grant proposal writing. Dylan envisions expanding the mission of C4P in the future to adapt to the evolving nature of the digital divide.
  • Dylan fervently called on both individuals and companies to support C4P's mission by donating old computers and end-of-life equipment. His plea for a collective effort underscores the significance of community engagement and corporate social responsibility in advancing C4P's initiatives toward a more inclusive digital landscape.

Links: 

Quote of the Show

  • “Everyday we’re impacting a dozen people. Let’s get to the point where we’re helping thousands get connected to computers, internet and digital skills.” - Dylan Zajac


Ways to Tune In:

Bio of Leadership in Action

"Leadership in Action" is a podcast presented by eoleadershipinaction, featuring host Mark Stiles engaging in conversations with entrepreneurs from the EO Boston community. The podcast explores the journeys of both aspiring entrepreneurs and seasoned leaders who have continued to excel in their businesses.

Through firsthand accounts, listeners gain insights into the challenges and victories experienced by these leaders as they navigate their entrepreneurial endeavors. The discussions shed light on the practical experiences and lessons learned from their leadership journeys.

From entrepreneurs who are just starting out to those who have built successful enterprises, the podcast captures a range of perspectives and experiences. The guests share their personal stories, providing inspiration and valuable advice for listeners. They reflect on the struggles they faced, the triumphs they achieved, and the wisdom they would impart to their younger selves.

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