10x Your Team with Cam & Otis

What happens when an Army veteran discovers her superpower is storytelling? In this episode, Cam and Otis sit down with Cher Terais, a two-time #1 bestselling Wanderlust Romance author who's redefining the romance genre by centering bold, accomplished Black women in stunning destinations around the world.

Cher explains shares her journey from military service to becoming a full-time author and founder of The Booked Club travel community. From discussing the therapy found in writing to revealing how her storytelling skills translate into helping other entrepreneurs connect the dots in their marketing, this conversation offers a unique perspective on creativity, reinvention, and building a life that feels as good as it looks.

What makes this episode particularly valuable is Cher's emphasis on authenticity and representation. Whether you're an aspiring author, an entrepreneur looking to sharpen your storytelling, or simply someone interested in how diverse experiences shape creative vision, Cher's insights provide a roadmap for choosing courage over comfort and building something uniquely yours.


Chapter Times and Titles:

Introduction: Meet Cher Terais [00:00 - 02:51]
Welcome, and the "less than the F word" joke about romance
Cher's background as an Army veteran turned author
Setting the stage for wanderlust romance

The Storytelling Superpower [02:51 - 21:03]
How storytelling became Cher's entrepreneurial edge
Connecting dots for other business owners
The week at College Station and working with entrepreneurs

Writing as Personal Communication [21:03 - 31:00]
"Music for me was a way to talk to people in secret."
Writing from personal experience and emotion
The therapy in storytelling vs. being a storyteller

Representation and Authenticity in Romance [31:00 - 42:24]
Centering bold, accomplished Black women in romance
Why representation in travel and romance matters
Staying authentic in your creative work

Building The Booked Club Community [42:24 - 48:16]
From books to retreats and travel experiences
Creating spaces where adventure and softness coexist
The reality of becoming a travel curator

Lessons on Reinvention and Creativity [48:16 - 51:15]
Camden's takeaway: Not wanting to be arrogant, but owning your gifts
Otis's reflection on storytelling and connection
The power of choosing a life that feels as good as it looks

Connect with Cher [51:15 - End]
Website: cherterais.com 
Social media: "One of one" on all platforms - TikTok, Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest
Books available on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and local bookstores
Signed copies exclusively at cherterais.com
Final thoughts on supporting small businesses and authentic storytelling

Connect with Cher Terais here:
https://cherterais.com/
https://www.facebook.com/cherterais/

What happens when a gifted songwriter and Navy veteran decides to tackle the fintech world? In this episode, Cam and Otis sit down with Samoria Preston, founder of ThrillPay, to explore her fascinating journey from creating music to revolutionizing how people access financing for experiences and non-physical products.

"Music theory is basically math," Samoria explains, revealing the unexpected connection between her artistic background and her current work in financial technology. From discussing the challenges of maintaining authenticity in the music industry to sharing insights about building a fintech startup during the Ticketmaster controversy era, this conversation offers a unique perspective on entrepreneurship.

What makes this episode particularly compelling is Samoria's ability to bridge both sides of her brain—the creative artist and the analytical businessperson. Whether you're an entrepreneur navigating industry disruption, someone interested in fintech innovation, or simply curious about how diverse experiences shape business vision, Samoria's story provides valuable lessons on staying authentic while building something new.

More About Sam:
Samoria Preston is a songwriter, Navy veteran, and the visionary founder behind ThrillPay, an innovative fintech company redefining how people access and experience financial technology. After serving as an Aviation Maintenance Technician and Plane Captain in the U.S. Navy, Samoria earned her Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from Liberty University, laying the groundwork for her entrepreneurial journey.

Her career began in the music industry, where she established herself as a professional songwriter, collaborating with a wide range of artists and producers to create digital music using technology that connects deeply with audiences around the world. This creative path sparked her fascination with the power of technology to transform industries and improve lives.

Motivated by a passion for innovation and community empowerment, Samoria launched ThrillPay. This cutting-edge app provides users with easy access to financing for a variety of purchases, including non-physical products and unique experiences. Through ThrillPay, she is dedicated to helping everyday people leverage their finances to create more meaningful and memorable moments.

Throughout her journey, Samoria has been driven by a desire to connect with others and make a positive impact. Whether writing songs, developing new business concepts, or fostering community, she is committed to authenticity, meaningful innovation, and inspiring others to pursue their own passions.


Chapter Times and Titles:

Introduction: The Artist Turned FinTech Founder [00:00 - 03:35]
Meet Samoria Preston and ThrillPay
From Navy veteran to songwriter to entrepreneur
The unexpected connection between music and numbers

"Music Theory Is Math" [03:35 - 15:10]
How music and technology intersect
Digital audio workstations and the tech side of creativity
Writing songs as personal communication

Authenticity in the Music Industry [15:10 - 19:06]
The challenge of staying authentic in a manufactured industry
Writing from personal experience and emotion
When superficial content overshadows meaningful art

The Pivot to FinTech [19:06 - 35:00]
The Ticketmaster era and industry disruption (2022)
Why the original concept didn't feel authentic
Finding the real problem to solve with ThrillPay

Building ThrillPay: Innovation Meets Community [35:00 - 45:00]
Redefining access to financing for experiences
Empowering everyday people through financial technology
The vision behind non-physical product financing

Lessons from Multiple Worlds [45:00 - 53:35]
Balancing creativity with business strategy
The importance of authenticity in entrepreneurship
Advice for aspiring founders with diverse backgrounds

How do you scale fast without letting the business consume your life? In this episode, Cam and Otis sit down with Josh Davis—a 5x founder, turnaround expert, and one of Canada’s Top 40 Under 40—who built one of the country’s fastest-growing logistics companies and sold it to a major North American transportation firm just three years after launch.

Josh gets real about the tradeoffs of rapid growth. Early on, “revenue will solve most problems” was the mantra—but he also shares what he’d do differently to avoid becoming the bottleneck, protect family time, and build teams that decide and act without him. He explains why exit planning isn’t just “sell the company,” how to think about life after a deal (“the PE email shuts off—and then what?”), And why true success is a business that serves your life.

You’ll learn:
-How to scale underperforming companies with clarity and operational excellence
-Practical ways to get out of the weeds and stop being the bottleneck
-Preparing for exit while keeping options open (you don’t have to sell to “exit”)
-People-first leadership that drives performance and culture

If you’re growing, turning around, or prepping a company for exit, this is a playbook you can actually use.

More About Josh:
Josh Davis is a 5x founder, business acquirer, and turnaround expert with multiple exits—including to a U.S. private equity–backed firm. Known for scaling underperforming companies fast, Josh blends grit, faith, and operational excellence to help founders grow with clarity and purpose. As Co-Founder and CEO, he built one of Canada’s fastest-growing logistics startups—scaling it from the ground up before it was acquired by one of North America’s largest transportation companies just three years after launch. Today, he runs JL Davis Enterprises alongside his wife Loretta, acquiring businesses and consulting founders on how to scale, build high-performance teams, and prepare for exit. Grounded in faith and family values, Josh brings a no-fluff, people-first approach to business. He’s been named one of Canada’s Top 40 Under 40—and believes true success means building a business that serves your life, not the other way around.

#10xyourteam #BusinessScaling #FounderLife #LeadershipDevelopment #ExitPlanning #PeopleFirstLeadership #OperationalExcellence #BuildToSell #EntrepreneurMindset #WorkLifeIntegration #HighPerformanceTeams


Chapter Times and Titles:

[00:00] From Grit to Growth: Josh’s 3‑Year Scale-to-Acquisition Story
Canada logistics startup journey: faith, family, and early tradeoffs

[05:30] Revenue Solves Problems… Until It Doesn’t
The early “just sell more” mindset and where it breaks

[12:10] Stop Being the Bottleneck
Getting out of the weeds; empowering decisions; building operators

[19:45] Balancing Life and Scale
What Josh would do differently to protect the family without slowing growth

[28:20] Turnarounds with a People-First Lens
Scaling underperformers fast; culture and high-performance teams

[36:05] Rethinking “Exit.”
Why exit ≠ sell; buying back time, optionality, and freedom

[41:30] After the Deal: Now What?
The day the PE email turns off, planning your next chapter on purpose

[49:15] Preparing to Be Bought, Not Sold
Clarity, metrics, and systems buyers actually value

[56:30] Final Lessons and How to Connect
Purpose-driven leadership: building a business that serves your life

Connect with Josh Davis here:
https://www.instagram.com/scalingwithjoshdavis/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/scaling-with-josh-davis/
https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/7336101101240229891/
https://talentharbourgroup.com/     
https://jldavisenterprises.com/

Join us for an insightful conversation with Amy Moore, the clinic director at the Steven A. Cohen Military Family Clinic at Red Rock. In this episode, Cam and Otis explore Amy's dedication to supporting military families through trauma-informed care and her leadership in clinical programming.

"Find out who you are and do it on purpose," Amy shares, reflecting on her journey from a military family background to leading a clinic dedicated to veterans and their families. With expertise in cognitive processing therapy and EMDR, Amy discusses the unique challenges faced by service members and the importance of empathy and resilience in behavioral health.

Whether you're interested in mental health, leadership, or veteran support, Amy's insights offer valuable lessons on compassion and purposeful living.

Amy Moore is the clinic director at the Steven A. Cohen Military Family Clinic at Red Rock in Colorado Springs. She is responsible for overseeing all clinical programming and operations. Amy is a Licensed Professional Counselor. She graduated from The University of Colorado, Colorado Springs with an M.A. in Counseling and Human Services. Amy completed her B.A. in Pastoral Care at Oral Roberts University in Tulsa, OK.

Amy has experience providing therapy to people across the life span, from ages 5-75. She specializes in trauma-informed care and is trained in cognitive processing therapy and EMDR. Prior to coming on board with CVN, Amy was the manager of behavioral health case management for Colorado’s Medicaid contract. Amy was also previously a Clinical Supervisor for Diversus Behavioral Health at their Child and Family Outpatient Clinic.

Amy’s father is a retired Air Force member, and she has been fortunate enough to live across the world before her family settled in Colorado Springs, CO. She has lived in the Colorado Springs community for over 20 years and has seen the hardships that veterans, service members, and their families have had to face. She is so grateful and excited to be a part of this incredible mission to serve them. In her free time, Amy enjoys skiing, hiking, cooking, lifting weights at the gy,m and earning massive eye rolls at her terrible “dad jokes”. (Just ask her team!)

Her favorite quote is “Find out who you are and do it on purpose” – Dolly Parton

#10xyourteam #VeteranSupport #MilitaryFamilies #TraumaInformedCare #BehavioralHealth #MentalHealthLeadership #PurposeDrivenLeadership #ServingThoseWhoServe #ResilientLeaders #ClinicalLeadership #CompassionInAction


Chapter Times and Titles:

Introduction to Amy Moore and Her Mission [00:00 - 08:30]
Overview of Amy's background and role at the clinic
The mission of the Steven A. Cohen Military Family Clinic

Understanding Trauma-Informed Care [08:31 - 22:15]
Defining trauma-informed care in clinical settings
The role of EMDR and cognitive processing therapy

Leading a Clinical Team with Empathy [22:16 - 35:40]
Overseeing clinical programming and operations
The importance of team cohesion and support

Finding Identity and Purpose [35:41 - 48:20]
Applying Dolly Parton's wisdom to leadership
Balancing professional responsibilities with personal passions

Closing Thoughts and Key Takeaways [48:21 - End]
Supporting the mission of the Cohen Clinic
Final leadership insights and how to connect with Amy

Connect with Sean Garner
https://www.cohenveteransnetwork.org/

In this episode of 10x Your Team, Camden and Otis McGregor sit down with Sean Garner, an entrepreneur and marketing strategist who specializes in helping local, service-based businesses achieve consistent growth. Sean shares his journey from being a gym owner and firefighter to founding Sean Garner Consulting, where he empowers businesses with clear, actionable marketing strategies.

"Marketing doesn't have to be confusing," Sean explains, as he delves into the power of StoryBrand messaging, effective website design, and sales funnel strategies. Whether you're a business owner seeking to enhance your marketing efforts or a leader looking to empower your team, Sean's insights provide a roadmap for achieving clarity and confidence in your marketing approach.

More About Sean:
Sean Garner is an entrepreneur, marketing strategist, and the founder of Sean Garner Consulting—a full-service agency and fractional CMO partner for local, service-based businesses. With over a decade of hands-on experience, Sean has helped health and wellness companies, medical clinics, law firms, coaches, consultants, and home service providers grow with clarity, confidence, and consistent lead generation. Drawing from his background as a gym owner, firefighter, and faith-driven family man, Sean understands the realities of running a business while juggling life’s priorities. His superpower is simplifying marketing—turning confusing tactics into clear, actionable steps that drive real growth. Whether it’s through StoryBrand messaging, website design, or sales funnel strategy, Sean empowers business owners to take control of their marketing and become the trusted, go-to choice in their market.

#10xyourteam #TrustInLeadership #OrganizationalResilience #HumanCenteredLeadership #LeadingThroughChange #ExecutiveLeadership #TrustMatters #LeadershipDevelopment #ChangeLeadership #FutureOfWork #HighPerformanceTeams


Chapter Times and Titles:

Introduction to Sean Garner [00:00 - 05:00]

Welcome and overview of Sean’s background
Transition from firefighting and gym ownership to marketing

The Philosophy of Simplified Marketing [05:01 - 15:00]
Why marketing feels confusing for most business owners
Turning complex tactics into actionable growth steps

StoryBrand and Messaging Clarity [15:01 - 25:00]
The importance of clear messaging in a crowded market
How to become the "trusted choice" for your customers

Building Effective Sales Funnels [25:01 - 35:00]
Moving beyond basic websites to lead-generation tools
Strategies for local and service-based businesses

The Role of a Fractional CMO [35:01 - 45:00]
How a marketing partner provides clarity and confidence
Scaling businesses with consistent lead generation

Balancing Business, Faith, and Family [45:01 - 52:00]
Juggling life’s priorities while running a consulting agency
Sean’s advice for the modern entrepreneur

Closing Thoughts and How to Connect [52:01 - End]
Final leadership takeaways
Where to find Sean Garner Consulting and more resources

Connect with Sean Garner
https://www.seangarner.co/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/seanagarner/
https://www.facebook.com/SeanGarnerConsulting/
https://www.instagram.com/seangarner/
https://www.youtube.com/seangarner
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/marketing-domination/id1330661519

Join us for an enlightening conversation with Kim Bohr, President & COO of SparkEffect, as we explore how to navigate disruption without fracturing trust. In this episode, Cam and Otis delve into Kim's innovative approach to leadership and organizational resilience through the SparkEffect Trust Elasticity™ framework.

"Trust is the foundation of performance," Kim explains, sharing her insights on aligning strategy with human-centered practices. From discussing the challenges of AI integration and leadership turnover to offering practical advice on building resilient teams, this episode provides a roadmap for leaders facing today's volatile business landscape.

Whether you're an executive navigating change, a team leader seeking to enhance trust, or simply interested in the dynamics of organizational performance, Kim's expertise offers valuable guidance for fostering resilience and driving success.

More About Kim:
Kim Bohr is the President & Chief Operating Officer at SparkEffect, where she leads the firm in helping executive teams navigate disruption without fracturing trust. With over 25 years of cross-functional leadership experience, Kim advises leaders on aligning strategy with human-centered practices that drive performance. Her approach centers around SparkEffect Trust ElasticityTM, a well-researched framework designed to evaluate and fortify trust during periods of change, whether it be AI integration, leadership turnover, or restructuring.
Kim’s perspective is shaped by a rich blend of roles: business executive, board advisor, adjunct lecturer, public speaker, and host of the Courage to Advance podcast. She is the author of Successes, Failures & Lessons Learned, currently being updated to reflect SparkEffect’s expanded impact. Whether speaking on stage or behind the mic, Kim delivers
insight with clarity, credibility, and a deep understanding of what it takes to build resilient organizations in today’s volatile business landscape.

#10xyourteam #TrustInLeadership #OrganizationalResilience #HumanCenteredLeadership #LeadingThroughChange #ExecutiveLeadership #TrustMatters #LeadershipDevelopment #ChangeLeadership #FutureOfWork #HighPerformanceTeams


Chapter Times and Titles:

Introduction to Kim Bohr and SparkEffect [00:00 - 10:00]
Overview of Kim's career and leadership philosophy
The origins and mission of SparkEffect
Introducing the Trust Elasticity™ framework

Navigating Disruption Without Fracturing Trust [10:01 - 20:00]
Key principles of Trust Elasticity™
Addressing challenges like AI integration and restructuring
The role of trust in organizational performance

Aligning Strategy with Human-Centered Practices [20:01 - 30:00]
How to align business strategy with team dynamics
The importance of communication and transparency
Practical examples from Kim's experience

Building Resilient Organizations [30:01 - 40:00]
Strategies for fostering resilience in teams
Lessons from Kim's book, "Successes, Failures & Lessons Learned"
Insights from the Courage to Advance podcast

Leadership in Volatile Times [40:01 - 50:00]
Adapting leadership styles to changing environments
Encouraging innovation while maintaining trust
Final thoughts on leadership and transformation

Closing Remarks and Resources [50:01 - End]
How to connect with Kim and SparkEffect
Encouragement for leaders to embrace change
Final reflections on trust and organizational success

Connect with Kim Bohr:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimbohr/
https://www.facebook.com/people/SparkEffect/61555355996682/
https://www.threads.com/@sparkeffect_
https://www.instagram.com/sparkeffect_
https://www.youtube.com/@sparkeffect-us
https://sparkeffect.com/sparkeffect-podcast-courage-to-advance/
https://sparkeffect.com/blog/
Website: https://sparkeffect.com/

Join us for an inspiring conversation with Brigadier General (Ret.) Michael Fleming, a respected military leader and veteran advocate. Cam and Otis explore his journey from a 30+ year military career to impactful roles in business, education, and veteran support, highlighting his leadership philosophy of service and his work bridging military and civilian communities.
General Fleming shares insights from founding the Jacksonville Military Veterans Coalition, his leadership with the Cohen Veterans Network, and his commitment to addressing critical challenges facing veterans, including suicide prevention.

This episode is a must-listen for veterans transitioning to civilian life, business leaders seeking veteran perspectives, and anyone passionate about leadership and community service.

More About General Fleming:
Brig. Gen. (Ret.) Michael “Mike” Fleming is a Northeast Florida military and veteran leader with senior experience across the military, business, and higher education sectors. He currently serves as Senior Manager of Community Relations for Cohen Veterans Network and previously held leadership roles at Jacksonville University, the Stephen A. Cohen Military Family Clinic at Centerstone, and Deutsche Bank.

As an overview of our services, Cohen Veterans Network offers targeted behavioral health care for post 9/11 Veterans, National Guardsmen, Reservists, active-duty members with a Tricare referral, and all military families at the Steven A. Cohen Military Family Clinics across the country.  https://www.cohenveteransnetwork.org/  Services offered include individual therapy, couples therapy, family therapy, child and adolescent therapeutic services, groups, and workshops.  All post 9/11 veterans and military family members are eligible for care, regardless of discharge status or combat experience. If an individual has spent one day at basic training, he/she is eligible for our services. Clients also have access to case management services to help with other stresses like unemployment, finances, housing, and legal issues. We offer both in-person and telehealth options at all clinics, as our staff is fully trained in providing telehealth as effectively as in-person services. A unique characteristic of our services is that our clients define their families. Staff members fully understand the military experience, as many of them are veterans or military family members themselves. We try to remove every barrier to service, including financial. No referrals are necessary, so please get in touch with one of our clinics for an appointment. Partners or individuals can connect with services through our telehealth webpage – www.cohenveteransnetwork.org/telehealth or by contacting one of our clinics. We are committed to providing superior mental health services to the clients who have served our country.

#10xyourteam #VeteranLeadership #ServantLeadership #MilitaryToCivilian #VeteranAdvocacy #LeadershipWithPurpose #MissionDriven #CommunityLeadership #VeteranSupport #PurposeDrivenLeadership #ImpactThroughService

Chapter Times and Titles:

Introduction to General Mike Fleming [00:00 - 10:00]
Overview of General Fleming's career and achievements
Transition from military to civilian leadership roles
Founding the Jacksonville Military Veterans Coalition

Leadership Lessons from the Military [10:01 - 20:00]
Key leadership principles from military service
The importance of adaptability and resilience
Insights from international competitions and fellowships

Veteran Advocacy and Community Relations [20:01 - 30:00]
General Fleming's role in the Cohen Veterans Network
Initiatives to support veteran employment and mental health
The impact of public/private partnerships

Bridging Military and Civilian Worlds [30:01 - 40:00]
Challenges and opportunities in veteran transitions
Building relationships with government and business leaders

Ever wondered how to bridge the gap between vision and execution in your business? In this conversation with Rafael Pinho and Brandon Moon, co-founders of TD Pine Advisors, Cam and Otis explore the art of scaling founder-led businesses with clarity and sustainable momentum.

"Scaling is not just about growth; it's about clarity and structure," Brandon explains, drawing from his extensive experience in operational upgrades and team alignment. Rafael adds, "Understanding your numbers is key to unlocking enterprise value," highlighting the importance of financial clarity in strategic decision-making.

What makes this episode particularly valuable is their combined approach to business growth. From discussing the nuances of cash flow modeling and valuation to sharing insights from "Coffee with My TD Pine Advisor," Rafael and Brandon offer practical strategies for business owners ready to scale, sell, or stabilize.

Whether you're a founder seeking to enhance operational efficiency or a business leader looking for financial insights, this episode provides a roadmap for building businesses that rise with confidence and clarity.

More About Rafael:
Rafael Pinho is a seasoned finance executive and CFA charterholder who brings a sharp analytical lens and deep strategic insight to every business challenge. As co-founder and CFO of TD Pine Advisors, Rafael helps founder-led companies understand their numbers, unlock enterprise value, and prepare for scalable growth or a successful exit. With a background in corporate finance, investment analysis, and business valuation, Rafael excels at translating complex financials into clear, actionable strategies. He’s built a reputation for asking the right questions, grounding decisions in data, and helping business owners see both the forest and the trees. At TD Pine, Rafael leads the financial clarity work, whether it's cash flow modeling, valuation, capital strategy, or long-term planning, so that founders can stop guessing and start building with confidence.

More About Brandon:
Brandon Moon is a strategic operator with a proven track record of helping founder-led businesses scale with clarity, structure, and sustainable momentum. As the co-founder and COO of TD Pine Advisors, he specializes in bridging vision and execution, guiding clients through operational upgrades, team alignment, and enterprise value growth. With a background spanning family-business scalability, leadership development, and organizational change, Brandon brings a grounded, results-first perspective to business growth. His approach is relationship-focused focused ensuring that every business is built to rise and every founder has the clarity they need to lead. Known for his coffee-fueled insights, Brandon is also the voice behind Coffee with My TD Pine Advisor, where he answers real questions from real business owners who are ready to scale, sell, or simply stabilize.

#10xyourteam #FounderLedBusiness #BusinessScaling #VisionToExecution #OperationalExcellence #FinancialClarity #EnterpriseValue #LeadershipDevelopment #StrategicGrowth #CashFlowManagement #BusinessAdvisory


Chapter Times and Titles:

Introduction to TD Pine Advisors [00:00 - 10:00]
Meet Rafael Pinho and Brandon Moon
The journey to founding TD Pine Advisors
Bridging vision and execution in business

Scaling with Clarity and Structure [10:01 - 20:00]
Operational upgrades and team alignment
The importance of sustainable momentum
Insights from family-business scalability

Financial Clarity and Enterprise Value [20:01 - 30:00]
Understanding numbers for strategic growth
Cash flow modeling and valuation explained
Preparing for scalable growth or a successful exit

Coffee-Fueled Business Insights [30:01 - 40:00]
Highlights from "Coffee with My TD Pine Advisor"
Real questions from real business owners
Practical strategies for scaling and stabilizing

How does a serial entrepreneur navigate the ever-evolving tech landscape? In this conversation with Mike Armistead, co-founder and CEO of Pulse Security AI, Cam and Otis explore the art of building companies that endure beyond short-term trends.

"Leadership is about matching strategies to people and situations," Mike explains, drawing from his extensive experience in founding and growing technology companies. From his early days at Pure Software and Lycos to co-founding Fortify Software and Respond Software, Mike shares insights into the critical role of timing, persistence, and adaptability in entrepreneurial success.

What makes this episode particularly valuable is Mike's focus on the intersection of technology and business strategy. "The next major shift is artificial intelligence," he notes, discussing how Pulse Security AI is bridging the gap between technical security tools and broader business objectives. Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur, a tech enthusiast, or a leader looking to align strategies with people, Mike's journey offers a roadmap for navigating complex challenges with clarity and purpose.

More About Mike:
Mike Armistead is a serial entrepreneur and corporate leader who has built and grown technology companies for more than thirty years. His career began at Pure Software, Reed Hastings’ first startup before Netflix, and later at Lycos during the early internet boom. He went on to co-found Fortify Software, which grew into a category leader before being acquired by HP. Mike then co-founded Respond Software, which was acquired by FireEye for $186 million in 2020. When FireEye split into Mandiant and later became part of Google, he continued to focus on the next major shift in technology: artificial intelligence. Today, Mike is the co-founder and CEO of Pulse Security AI, where he helps organizations close the gap between technical security tools and the broader business strategies they are meant to support. A Stanford-educated engineer, he has also coached more than 500 youth sports
games, an experience that shaped his belief that leadership is about matching strategies to people and situations. His career reflects persistence, timing, and a commitment to building companies that last beyond short-term trends.

#10xyourteam #EntrepreneurialLeadership #TechLeadership #SerialEntrepreneur #BusinessStrategy #ArtificialIntelligence #AILeadership #ScalingCompanies #StartupJourney #TechInnovation #LeadershipMindset


Chapter Times and Titles:

From Pure Software to Lycos [00:00 - 10:00]
Introduction to Mike Armistead
Early career at Pure Software and Lycos
Lessons from the early internet boom

Co-Founding Fortify Software [10:01 - 20:00]
Building a category leader in software security
The journey to acquisition by HP
Key takeaways from scaling a tech company

Respond Software and the FireEye Acquisition [20:01 - 30:00]
Co-founding Respond Software
The $186 million acquisition by FireEye
Navigating the acquisition process

The Next Major Shift: Artificial Intelligence [30:01 - 40:00]
Founding Pulse Security AI
Bridging the gap between tech tools and business strategy
The role of AI in future technology trends

Leadership Lessons from Youth Sports [40:01 - 50:00]
Coaching over 500 youth sports games
How sports shaped Mike's leadership philosophy
Matching strategies to people and situations

Building Companies That Last [50:01 - End]
Persistence and timing in entrepreneurship
Final thoughts on enduring business success
How to connect with Mike and Pulse Security AI

Mike Armistead,
https://www.linkedin.com/in/mike-armistead-1164715/
https://www.linkedin.com/company/pulse-security-ai-inc/
https://pulsesecurity.ai/

Ever wondered how an engineer's mindset can transform complex challenges into innovative solutions? In this conversation with Josh Tarbutton, PhD, PE, founder of Bravo Team, Cam and Otis explore the intersection of engineering excellence and entrepreneurial spirit.

"Engineering is about solving problems," Josh explains, drawing from his extensive experience as a military veteran, professor, and now leader of a premier engineering firm. From discussing the importance of custom machine design and automation to sharing insights about the Hero's Journey in professional development, this episode offers a deep dive into the world of advanced R&D.

What makes this conversation particularly valuable is Josh's unique perspective on leadership and innovation. "The best solutions often come from understanding the narrative," he shares, emphasizing the role of storytelling in engineering and business. Whether you're an aspiring engineer, a business leader facing technical challenges, or simply curious about the future of automation, Josh's insights provide a roadmap for navigating complex problems with creativity and precision.

More About Josh:
Joshua Tarbutton, PhD, PE is an engineer, entrepreneur, and U.S. Army veteran, leading Bravo Team, a premier engineering firm specializing in custom machine design, automation, and advanced R&D. With a BSME from Georgia Tech and an MS andPhD in Mechanical Engineering from Clemson University, he spent nearly a decade as a professor, earning tenure at UNC Charlotte, publishing 53 research papers and securing millions in research funding. His eight years of military service instilled a disciplined, problem-solving mindset that drives his leadership. He is an Entrepreneur Organization member, where he has served as an Accelerator Coach and board member. Founded in 2018, Bravo Team partners with Fortune 500 companies, OEMs, and industrial manufacturers to solve complex engineering challenges. The firm excels in machine design, automation, PCB development, and software engineering, providing custom-built solutions where off-the-shelf options fall short. Joshua is dedicated to advancing engineering excellence, transformative automation, scalable innovation for industry leaders, and helping people find their narrative in the Hero’s Journey.

#10xyourteam #LeadershipDevelopment #EngineeringMindset #ProblemSolving #InnovationCulture #EntrepreneurialLeadership #VeteranLeaders #AutomationSolutions #AdvancedEngineering #RAndDInnovation #BusinessGrowthStrategies


Chapter Times and Titles:

From Military Service to Engineering Leadership [00:00 - 10:00]
Introduction to Josh Tarbutton and Bravo Team
The journey from Army veteran to engineering entrepreneur
How military discipline shapes problem-solving

Custom Solutions for Complex Challenges [10:01 - 20:00]
The importance of custom machine design and automation
Why off-the-shelf solutions often fall short
Partnering with Fortune 500 companies for innovation

The Hero's Journey in Engineering [20:01 - 30:00]
Understanding the narrative in problem-solving
How storytelling enhances engineering solutions
The role of the Hero's Journey in professional growth

Advancing Engineering Excellence [30:01 - 40:00]
Josh's experience as a professor and researcher
The impact of publishing and securing research funding
Building a culture of innovation at Bravo Team

Leadership and Innovation in Practice [40:01 - 50:00]
Balancing technical expertise with entrepreneurial vision
Lessons from serving as an Accelerator Coach
Encouraging scalable innovation in industry leaders

Connecting with Bravo Team [50:01 - End]
How to learn more about Bravo Team's services
Final thoughts on engineering and entrepreneurship
Contact information and resources for further exploration

Josh Tarbutton
https://www.linkedin.com/in/joshua-tarbutton/
http