Welcome to Confessions of an Implementer, a podcast by Talent Harbor.

We share unique stories of implementers and the companies they’ve transformed to give you a rare glimpse into the system's successes and challenges. I'm your host, Ryan Hogan.

Let’s dive in!

In this episode, I sit down with Curt Swindoll, an EOS Implementer, who shares why great leadership starts with purpose, not profit. From defining an organization’s “why” to leading with care instead of fear, he explains how strong values, clear focus, and consistent action inspire real commitment. Hear how building a purpose driven culture not only attracts passionate talent but also creates lasting impact that goes far beyond the bottom line.

03:02 Why Nonprofits vs. For-Profits

06:40 Finding Transcendent Purpose in Business

12:19 Drivers of Business: Beyond Money

15:53 Experiences, Memories & Business Purpose

19:10 Balancing Purpose and Profit

23:53 Talent Harbor Ad Break

25:15 Culture: More Than Wall Art

32:25 Purpose in Difficult Decisions

35:57 Values: More Than Words

41:34 Repeating Core Messages

43:04 Communication and Action Alignment

47:08 Inclusion and Company as Family

49:49 Love and Fear in Leadership

55:52 EOS Implementer’s Diverse Focus

59:33 Becoming a Transformative Leader

Episode Resources

Welcome to Confessions of an Implementer, a podcast by Talent Harbor. We share unique stories of implementers and the companies they’ve transformed to give you a rare glimpse into the system's successes and challenges. I'm your host, Ryan Hogan.

Let’s dive in!

In this episode, I sit down with Matt Hansen, an EOS Implementer, who shares how he shaped a career built on solving complex problems and leading with purpose. From breaking down challenges into actionable steps to building a culture of honest feedback, they highlight why kindness means tackling tough issues for the good of the team. Now focused on making an impact, instead of chasing titles, Matt reveals how data driven insights, open communication, and a commitment to core values create healthier teams and stronger businesses.

00:47 Journey into Engineering

02:12 Creating a Personal Development Program

04:20 Lessons from Engineering Education

06:22 Navigating Career Transitions

10:44 The Power of Perseverance

12:53 Building Trust and Leadership

19:13 Learning from Mistakes

22:50 Discovering EOS and Personal Values

24:27 Defining Core Values

22:04 The Right Number of Core Values

31:25 The Challenge of Providing Feedback

32:58 Breaking Through Communication Barriers

34:36 Identifying People Issues

36:23 Navigating Team Dynamics and Growth

40:42 The Role of Data in Decision Making

41:32 Ideal Client Profiles and Personal Connections

44:34 Making an Impact Beyond Titles

Episode Resources

Welcome to Confessions of an Implementer, a podcast by Talent Harbor. We share unique stories of implementers and the companies they’ve transformed to give you a rare glimpse into the system's successes and challenges. I'm your host, Ryan Hogan.

Let’s dive in!

In this episode, I sit down with Michael Richman, an EOS Implementer and Business Coach, who shares how an implementer creates the safe space needed for real conversations, why strong client relationships come from old fashioned consistency, and how partnerships thrive on open communication. Michael also discusses the value of curiosity in facilitation and why patience, not quick changes, is the smartest move when acquiring a business.

03:00 The Impact of EOS on Business Growth

07:00 Family Business and Entrepreneurial Roots

10:00 Growing a Niche Business

14:00 Scaling and Preparing for Acquisition

17:00 The Dynamics of a 50/50 Partnership

21:00 EOS Implementation and Organizational Change

25:00 Transition to Implementer and Facilitator

29:00 The Art of Professional Facilitation

32:00 Defining Success and Post-Acquisition Challenges

36:00 Lessons from Post-Acquisition Pitfalls

40:00 Identifying Business Opportunities and AI’s Role

43:00 Navigating AI and Client Criteria

Episode Resources

Welcome to Confessions of an Implementer, a podcast by Talent Harbor. We share unique stories of implementers and the companies they’ve transformed to give you a rare glimpse into the system's successes and challenges. I'm your host, Ryan Hogan.

Let’s dive in!

In this episode, I sit down with Dave Borland, an EOS Implementer, who shares how shifting from product driven selling to needs based leadership transformed both his business and his mindset. From learning the hard lessons of poor hiring to embracing structure through EOS, he explains how accountability, data, and humility fueled a complete turnaround. Hear how focusing on curiosity, culture, and consistent execution helped him build a stronger team and a business that could thrive without him.

00:00 From Selling to Solving Needs

04:00 Career Path: Lessons Learned

08:56 Entrepreneurial Roots & Sales Philosophy

14:25 Evolution of Sales Mindset

18:55 Scaling Business and Leadership

23:46 The Challenges of Hiring

28:48 Team Intervention and EOS Discovery

32:51 Hiring Strategies and Visionary Bias

39:58 Merging Companies & Early EOS Struggles

43:56 EOS Turnaround & Successful Exit

48:50 The Impact of EOS: A Deep Dive

55:10 Qualities of an Ideal Client

59:51 Connecting with Dave

Episode Resources

Welcome to Confessions of an Implementer, a podcast by Talent Harbor. We share unique stories of implementers and the companies they’ve transformed to give you a rare glimpse into the system's successes and challenges. I'm your host, Ryan Hogan.

Let’s dive in!

In this episode, I sit down with CJ Dube, an EOS Implementer, who shares why building an intentionally healthy culture is the foundation for long term business success. From slowing down hiring to strengthen teams, to developing strong middle management and giving timely feedback, she explains how structure, clarity, and care work together to drive growth. CJ also highlights how shifting leadership styles and using tools like the VTO help companies align values, motivate teams, and navigate generational change.

00:00 CJ Dube’s EOS Journey & Style

02:59 Scaling Mountains and Altitudes

07:39 Recruiting Background and Lessons

14:39 The Art of Hiring and Training

22:23 Avoiding Hiring Mistakes: Due Diligence

27:00 The Power of Middle Management

31:34 Evolving Business Cultures

38:07 The Journey to EOS Implementation

41:25 Accountability & Tough Conversations

47:07 The Implementer’s Role and Ideal Clients

Episode Resources

Welcome to Confessions of an Implementer, a podcast by Talent Harbor. We share unique stories of implementers and the companies they’ve transformed to give you a rare glimpse into the system's successes and challenges. I'm your host, Ryan Hogan.

Let’s dive in!

In this episode, I sit down with Dan Wallace, an EOS Implementer, who shares how leading with questions instead of commands shaped his approach to business and leadership. From reframing challenges to uncover real solutions, to building teams that thrive without relying on him, Dan emphasizes the power of trust, accountability, and curiosity. Hear how having open conversations, enabling problem solving, and focusing on intent, reliability, and competence create stronger teams and lasting impact.

03:31 BCG and the Consulting Journey

06:28 M&A Failures & Business Insights

10:06 The Integrator Role and EOS

14:51 Identifying Business Anomalies

19:19 The Investment Reframe

25:25 Communication and Emotional Intelligence

35:07 Talent Harbor Ad Break

36:30 Consulting and Client Trust

40:59 Transitioning from Consulting to Leadership

44:01 Openness About Employee Departures

48:24 The Power of Delegating and Ignorance

52:33 Working Yourself Out of a Job

55:20 Developing Everyone, Not Just Leaders

59:00 Three Definitions of Accountability

01:03:36 Right Person, Right Seat, and Building Trust

01:08:35 The Three Prerequisites for Trust

01:13:44 Conclusion and Contact Information

Episode Resources

Welcome to Confessions of an Implementer, a podcast by Talent Harbor. We share unique stories of implementers and the companies they’ve transformed to give you a rare glimpse into the system's successes and challenges. I'm your host, Ryan Hogan.

Let’s dive in!

In this episode, I sit down with Jackie Kibler, an EOS Implementer, shares how active listening, genuine care, and clear EOS practices shape stronger teams and healthier businesses. From spotting potential in people to balancing metrics with human connection, she explains why consistent communication, honest feedback, and empowering problem solving are the keys to building lasting culture and performance.

05:16 Transition to Sales and Mentorship

13:38 Hiring for Potential with EOS

22:52 Challenging Preconceived Notions

29:49 Managing Direct Reports and One-on-Ones

38:51 Don’t Take the Monkey

40:47 Connecting in a Remote World

43:40 The Super Connector’s Innate Drive

46:08 Connecting in a New City

49:53 Scaling Ecosystem Connections

52:00 Client Selection and Growth Mindset

Episode Resources

Welcome to Confessions of an Implementer, a podcast by Talent Harbor. We share unique stories of implementers and the companies they’ve transformed to give you a rare glimpse into the system's successes and challenges. I'm your host, Ryan Hogan.

Let’s dive in!

In this episode, I sit down with Adam Hill, a legacy CEO and EOS Implementer, who shares how implementing EOS helped transform a fourth-generation family business by shifting focus from tradition to traction. From breaking through a “time card culture” to embracing healthy conflict and personal growth, he unpacks what it takes to lead with clarity, courage, and resilience, while honoring their past and driving real results.

03:10 Growing Into the Family Business

05:10 Navigating Family Dynamics in Business

08:10 The Transition to CEO

11:10 Learning from Generational Leadership

14:10 The Challenges of Leadership

17:10 Discovering EOS

20:10 Key Components of EOS Success

22:10 Implementing Vision in a Family Business

25:10 Navigating Relationships as a New Leader

28:22 Resilience Through Adversity

31:22 The Power of Personal Development

32:22 Breaking Through Organizational Ceilings

33:22 The Journey Through Bankruptcy

35:22 Convincing the Leadership Team

37:22 Navigating Leadership Changes

39:22 The Visionary vs. Integrator Dilemma

41:22 Hiring a Visionary: Challenges and Opportunities

43:22 Finding the Right Clients as an EOS Implementer

45:22 The Path to Building Value in Family Businesses

47:22 Identifying Obstacles in Organizations

49:22 Connecting with Adam: Next Steps

Episode Resources

Welcome to Confessions of an Implementer, a podcast by Talent Harbor. We share unique stories of implementers and the companies they’ve transformed to give you a rare glimpse into the system's successes and challenges. I'm your host, Ryan Hogan.

Let’s dive in!

In this episode, I sit down with Jim Bramlett, a Vistage Chair, who shares how early lessons in customer service shaped his leadership approach and why intentional culture, continuous innovation, and a buyer first mindset are key to standing out in a crowded market. Learn that real value isn’t about flashy features, it’s about saving time, cutting costs, and building trust.

00:48 A Journey Begins

01:51 Lessons from Early Experiences

03:48 The Importance of Culture

05:28 Creating an Intentional Culture

07:59 Navigating Change with Tiger Teams

09:10 Career Beginnings and Entrepreneurial Ventures

11:12 Lessons from Failed Ventures

13:30 The Birth of a Successful Business

16:15 Defining Value Propositions

20:25 Customer-Centric Leadership

24:38 The Four Criteria of Buying Decisions

30:00 The Challenge of Balancing Innovation

31:26 Lessons from Netflix: Innovation in Action

34:04 The Role of Research and Development

37:02 Understanding Customer Needs

41:02 Balancing Customer Focus and Competitive Analysis

44:12 The Importance of Trust and User Experience

47:24 Product as the Foundation of Success

Episode Resources