Overview

In this episode of Culturally Sound, Chandler Cutler sits down with Corey White, CEO and Founder of Cyvatar.ai, to unpack what it really takes to lead in the age of AI, automation, and accelerated cyber threats.

Corey brings over 30 years of experience in tech, cybersecurity, and executive leadership—along with a mindset rooted in resilience, reinvention, and radical clarity. From building startup teams to shielding hundreds of employees from internal politics, Corey’s journey is a masterclass in intentional leadership and future-first thinking.

This conversation goes beyond security protocols and cyber jargon. It’s about autonomy, ownership, and the courage to take your shot—even when the stakes are high. Whether you lead a company, manage risk, or just want to stay ahead of where tech is going, this episode is a crash course in building something that lasts.

Guest Bio

Corey White is the CEO and Founder of Cyvatar.ai, an Inc. 5000 company delivering cybersecurity-as-a-service with measurable and guaranteed outcomes. A futurist, AI enthusiast, and keynote speaker, Corey is on a mission to secure SMBs, startups, and supply chains through scalable, productized solutions. With decades of experience in enterprise tech and a passion for helping others rise, he combines innovation with empathy to redefine what leadership looks like in the digital age.

Episode Breakdown

– Resilience & Reinvention (00:00 – 07:25)

How Corey’s toughest moments shaped his leadership philosophy

Why kindness, humility, and grit matter more than ever

Turning setbacks into growth with a “phoenix rising” mindset

– Mentorship & Meaning (07:25 – 13:13)

Creating a culture where people are lifted—not left behind

The power of giving back, even when you’re still growing

Why you don’t need to be a billionaire to be a mentor

– Betting on Yourself (13:13 – 24:55)

Why Corey gave up stability for a shot at something bigger

The mindset shift that helped him build Cyvatar

Lessons in ownership, risk, and defining your own path

– The Future Is Now (24:55 – 34:14)

How AI, robotics, and blockchain are reshaping everything

Why most people—and companies—aren’t ready

What needs to change to avoid being left behind

– Cybersecurity Without the Buzzwords (34:14 – 42:18)

Why passwords are dead (yes, really)

The real reason small businesses get hacked

How to lock your digital doors—without the fear tactics

Summary

Corey White isn’t just a cybersecurity leader—he’s a visionary who’s already living in the future. This wide-ranging episode is a roadmap for building resilience, owning your narrative, and preparing for a world where trust, tech, and leadership collide. Whether you’re a founder, an operator, or just someone trying to stay secure, Corey’s story is a powerful reminder: the best way to predict the future is to create it.

Relevant Links

🔗 Connect with Corey White on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/coreydwhite

🔗 Learn more about Cyvatar: cyvatar.ai

🔗 Listen to more episodes of Culturally Sound: corethos.com/culturally-sound

Overview

In this episode of Culturally Sound, Chandler Cutler sits down with Ant Davis, Co-Founder of Risky Creative, to talk about one of the most overlooked elements of cybersecurity: people.

With a background that spans everything from DJing and online sales to leading security awareness for the UK’s largest employer, Ant brings a refreshingly real perspective to a field often clouded by fear and jargon.

This isn’t just a conversation about phishing emails or password managers—it’s about trust, communication, and the human behaviors that sit at the heart of cybersecurity. From building a community for awareness professionals to using storytelling and humor to drive engagement, Ant shows how we can shift the narrative from compliance to connection.

Whether you work in cyber, comms, or just want to protect your business without the buzzwords, this episode offers sharp insights on AI, behavior change, and what it really takes to make security stick.

Guest Bio

Ant Davis is the Co-Founder of Risky Creative and a leading voice in cybersecurity awareness. After pivoting from a colorful sales career into IT and then cybersecurity, Ant spent over a decade helping a major UK tech retailer transform its security culture. Today, he creates relatable content, hosts a podcast for awareness professionals, and builds tools to make cyber more human, engaging, and effective.

Episode Breakdown

- From Sales to Security (00:00 – 15:30)

• How Ant’s early career taught him the psychology of persuasion
• Moving from IT support into a brand-new cybersecurity team
• Realizing the power of storytelling for behavior change

- Making Security Human (15:30 – 34:00)

• Why fear-based messaging doesn’t work
• Creating relatable content and communities for awareness pros
• Shifting from policies to conversations

- AI, Trust & the Future of Cyber (34:00 – 56:00)

• How AI is changing the threat landscape (and how it’s not)
• Why trust is central to remote work and cyber resilience
• Ownership, IP, and the evolving role of tools like ChatGPT

- Stories that Stick (56:00 – 01:14:00)

• Why relatable analogies beat technical jargon
• Mistakes that cost businesses everything—and how to avoid them
• Educating people with empathy, not arrogance

- Culture, Creativity & Connection (01:14:00 – 01:30:00)

• Why conversations matter more than compliance
• The value of slowing down, listening, and showing up
• Standing out, speaking human, and being intentional in a distracted world

Summary

Ant Davis doesn’t just teach cybersecurity—he translates it. In this candid and wide-ranging episode, he shares what it means to build trust, empower users, and communicate risk in a way that actually resonates. Whether you’re managing a team or just trying to stay safe online, this is your reminder that the most powerful security tool is still human connection.

Relevant Links

🔗 Connect with Ant Davis on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/infosecant

🔗 Explore Risky Creative: linktr.ee/riskycreative

🔗 Listen to more episodes of Culturally Sound: corethos.com/culturally-sound

Overview

In this episode of Culturally Sound, Chandler Cutler sits down with Beth Boyd, Global Director at TalentLab.Live, for a deep dive into what it really takes to build meaningful workplace culture, from onboarding to leadership legacy.

Beth brings decades of experience in leadership development, employee engagement, and learning strategy—along with a refreshingly human perspective on what organizations are getting wrong (and right) when it comes to creating environments people actually want to stay in.

From her early days in retail to becoming a sought-after fractional leader, Beth shares how she’s seen both the pitfalls of transactional workplaces and the power of community-centered cultures. The conversation touches on everything from the value of feedback and trust, to microcultures, onboarding design, and the cost of complacency—both for people and the businesses they serve.

Whether you’re a people leader, HR pro, or emerging manager trying to make a difference, this episode is a candid and energizing reminder that culture isn’t a ping pong table—it’s a practice rooted in action.

Guest Bio

Beth Boyd is the Global Director at TalentLab.Live and a respected fractional leader in leadership development, learning design, onboarding, and employee engagement. With a background that spans retail management and executive learning strategy, she’s helped companies—from scaling startups to global teams—rethink how they grow and support their people. Her approach is grounded in creativity, curiosity, and a strong belief that human connection is the greatest driver of workplace performance.

Episode Breakdown

Leaving Retail to Build Culture (00:00 – 11:45)

Beth’s early career in retail and how it shaped her passion for people-first leadership

From blogging to becoming a full-time expert in engagement and development

What Onboarding Should Really Do (11:45 – 27:00)

Why most onboarding programs miss the mark

The importance of trust-building, feedback, and “positive gossip”

How to turn new hires into connected team members

Culture Isn’t a Poster—It’s a Practice (27:00 – 43:00)

How community outperforms perks

Creating clarity around roles, revenue, and purpose

Why belonging is the foundation of retention

Building Talent Pipelines That Scale (43:00 – 01:02:00)

Helping emerging leaders thrive even in broken systems

Why microcultures matter—and how they quietly shape entire companies

Lessons from leadership programs that actually work

Hope Is Not a Strategy (01:02:00 – 01:20:00)

What legacy really means in leadership

The impact of kindness, play, and awe on high-performing teams

Saving companies money by being more human, not more automated

Summary

Beth Boyd doesn’t just talk about leadership—she lives it. In this honest, energizing conversation, she reminds us that culture isn’t a strategy deck—it’s what happens in the moments that matter. Whether it’s onboarding, feedback, or scaling a team, Beth shares practical insights for building workplaces where people thrive, and where the business results follow.

Relevant Links

🔗 Connect with Beth Boyd on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bethboyd/

🔗 Learn more about TalentLab.Live: https://www.linkedin.com/company/talentlablive/

🔗 Listen to more episodes of Culturally Sound: corethos.com/culturally-sound

Overview

In this episode of Culturally Sound, host Chandler Cutler sits down with Jim Young, CEO and co-founder of Texas Blends, to explore the entrepreneurial grit, creative vision, and family-driven resilience behind one of the most innovative beverage companies in the U.S.

From growing up in a fifth-generation farming family to navigating the world of business banking and franchise ownership, Jim shares a story marked by reinvention. What started as a Smoothie King franchise eventually transformed into Texas Blends—a character-driven beverage brand powered by high-quality mixes, creative storytelling, and an expanding digital content strategy.

Jim opens up about the grind of building a business from the ground up, the risks of leaving corporate stability, and the importance of creating something bigger than yourself. He also dives into how AI, character branding, and user-generated content are shaping the future of food and beverage marketing.

Whether you're an entrepreneur, brand builder, or just love hearing how big visions come to life, this episode is full of raw insights and future-forward thinking.

Guest Bio

Jim Young is the CEO and co-founder of Texas Blends, a family-run beverage company known for its high-quality drink mixes, bold branding, and creative use of characters and storytelling. With a background in generational farming, banking, and entrepreneurship, Jim has built a business that blends tradition, innovation, and community.

From running a Smoothie King franchise to launching his own concept, Daiquiri King, and eventually developing Texas Blends, Jim has turned real-world challenges into creative opportunities. Today, Texas Blends is more than a drink company—it’s a brand experience driven by user-generated content, AI-enhanced marketing, and a cast of animated “Blender Bots” that bring their products to life.

Episode Breakdown

From Farming Roots to Business Banking (00:11 – 11:45)

• Growing up in a small farming town
• Making the leap to Houston and discovering new opportunities
• Lessons learned from early jobs and jumping into the finance world

Building a Business from Scratch (11:45 – 27:02)

• Franchising with Smoothie King and pivoting into Daiquiri King
• Navigating growth, regulations, and creative exits
• The “bottleneck moments” that led to Texas Blends

Innovation Through Storytelling (27:02 – 48:50)

• Creating the Blender Bots: How character-driven branding came to life
• Inspiration from Disney, Barstool, and CPG nostalgia
• How storytelling builds connection in a commoditized market

Using AI to Scale Smarter (48:50 – 01:00:15)

• The role of AI in automating tasks and enabling creativity
• Overcoming fear of tech in small teams
• How AI helps compete against larger players

Leadership, Loyalty & Long-Term Vision (01:00:15 – 01:19:45)

• Building trust through action—especially during hard times
• Why treating employees like family isn’t just a metaphor
• The challenge of turning vision into legacy

Summary

Jim Young’s journey from farm fields to founding Texas Blends is one of resilience, creativity, and relentless problem-solving. In this episode, Jim shares how he built a business rooted in quality and culture—and how he's using character branding, AI, and storytelling to shape the next chapter.

Whether you're navigating entrepreneurship, managing a growing team, or building a brand from the ground up, this conversation is packed with lessons on vision, trust, and never giving up.

Relevant Links

🔗 Follow Texas Blends on Instagram: @texasblends

🔗 Listen to more episodes of Culturally Sound: corethos.com/culturally-sound

Overview

In this episode of Culturally Sound, host Chandler Cutler sits down with Ana Araque, founder of Imagine Experiences Ltd, to explore how experiential travel is reshaping the tourism industry. Ana shares how she transformed the way people engage with destinations, moving beyond sightseeing to immersive, story-driven adventures.

With a background in corporate travel, Ana saw a gap in the market—travelers weren’t just looking for places to visit; they wanted to experience them. From stepping into the world of James Bond to engaging in cultural narratives that bring destinations to life, Imagine Experiences Ltd is redefining travel through storytelling, innovation, and emotional connection.

Throughout the conversation, Ana discusses the growing demand for quiet luxury, the shift from passive tourism to active participation, and how technology is enhancing—but not replacing—the human element in travel. If you're interested in travel innovation, storytelling, and designing experiences that create lasting memories, this episode is packed with insights.

Guest Bio

Ana Araque is the founder of Imagine Experiences Ltd, a company dedicated to revolutionizing travel through immersive, interactive experiences. With a background in the travel industry and a passion for storytelling, Ana has built a company that transforms classic tourism into unforgettable adventures.

Imagine Experiences Ltd specializes in creating experiential travel, blending history, culture, entertainment, and technology to craft unique journeys—whether it’s stepping into the world of James Bond, unraveling espionage stories in London, or immersing travelers in literary narratives. Ana’s expertise lies in understanding what makes a destination truly come alive for visitors and shaping travel experiences that foster personal and cultural connections.

Episode Breakdown

The Rise of Experiential Travel (00:11 - 06:28)

• Why traditional tourism is evolving into immersive, memory-driven experiences
• How post-pandemic travelers are seeking deeper connections

Blending Storytelling and Travel (06:28 - 18:38)

• The power of narrative in creating unique travel moments
• How James Bond, Sherlock Holmes, and historical figures shape experiences

The Emotional Economy of Travel (18:38 - 31:45)

• How emotions drive traveler decision-making
• The rise of quiet luxury, focusing on meaning over excess

From Passive Sightseeing to Active Participation (31:45 - 51:23)

• Why travelers don’t just want to visit places—they want to become part of the story
• How technology can enhance, but not replace, the human connection in travel

Navigating the Challenges of Growth (51:23 - 01:10:32)

• The realities of scaling an experiential travel business
• Overcoming fear, innovation roadblocks, and industry shifts

Summary

Ana Araque’s journey with Imagine Experiences Ltd is a testament to how storytelling and innovation are transforming the travel industry. By shifting the focus from passive sightseeing to immersive participation, she has redefined what it means to truly experience a destination.

In this episode, Ana discusses the rise of experiential travel, the emotional connections that shape unforgettable journeys, and why quiet luxury—focusing on meaningful, personal experiences—is the future of tourism. Whether you’re a traveler, a business in the tourism industry, or simply curious about how travel is evolving, this conversation offers valuable insights into how to create deeper, more engaging travel experiences.

Relevant Links

🔗 Connect with Ana Araque on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/ana-karina-araque-147970b

🔗 Listen to more episodes of Culturally Sound: corethos.com/culturally-sound

Overview

In this episode of Culturally Sound, host Chandler Cutler sits down with Zulfiya Forsythe, founder of Omadli Group, to explore the power of data, AI, and automation in transforming business operations.

Zulfiya’s journey began in the world of accounting, where she quickly realized the inefficiencies that slowed down decision-making. Her curiosity led her to automation, data analytics, and ultimately, AI—turning complex processes into streamlined solutions. Now, through Omadli Group, she helps businesses move beyond spreadsheets and outdated systems to leverage AI-powered insights for smarter decision-making.

Throughout the conversation, Zulfiya shares how she transitioned from the corporate world to entrepreneurship, the importance of embracing change, and why AI is not about replacing humans—but enhancing their potential. If you’ve ever wondered how AI and automation can revolutionize business, this episode is packed with practical insights.

Guest Bio

Zulfiya Forsythe is the founder of Omadli Group, a data analytics and AI consulting firm specializing in helping businesses optimize operations, automate workflows, and unlock the full potential of their data. With a background in accounting and corporate finance, Zulfiya saw firsthand how businesses struggle with inefficient systems. She built Omadli Group to bridge the gap between raw data and actionable insights, enabling companies to make smarter, faster decisions.

Her expertise lies in transforming complex data into user-friendly dashboards, integrating AI-driven analytics, and designing automation strategies that drive efficiency and growth.

Episode Breakdown

From Accounting to AI & Automation (00:02 - 03:12)

• How Zulfiya’s frustration with repetitive tasks led her to automation
• The first breakthrough that sparked her transition to tech
• Why AI is the future of business efficiency

Taking the Leap into Entrepreneurship (03:12 - 18:41)

• Leaving a stable corporate career to start Omadli Group
• Overcoming the fear of freelancing and taking on first clients
• How early consulting projects shaped her AI-driven approach

AI’s Role in Business & Decision-Making (18:41 - 39:40)

• How AI is changing the way businesses manage data
• Why AI should assist, not replace, human expertise
• Real-world applications of AI in finance, healthcare, and operations

The Future of AI & Automation in Business (39:40 - 53:29)

• Predictions for AI-driven business models
• The biggest misconceptions about AI in corporate environments
• How companies can start integrating AI today

Lessons on Growth & Adaptability (53:29 - End)

• The mindset shifts needed for innovation
• Why problem-solving is at the core of AI adoption
• How to future-proof your business in an AI-driven world

Summary

Zulfiya Forsythe’s journey from corporate accountant to AI entrepreneur is a testament to the power of curiosity, adaptability, and problem-solving. With Omadli Group, she’s helping businesses break free from outdated processes and harness AI-powered insights to scale smarter and faster.

In this episode, Zulfiya shares how businesses can automate workflows, extract meaningful data, and implement AI solutions without losing the human touch. Whether you’re a leader looking to optimize operations, an entrepreneur navigating digital transformation, or someone curious about AI’s impact on business, this conversation is packed with actionable insights.

Relevant Links

Connect with Zulfiya Forsythe on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/zulfiya-forsythe-akbarova-cpa-0214b98

Follow Zulfiya Forsythe on Instagram: instagram.com/zulfiyaforsythe

Follow Zulfiya Forsythe on X: x.com/AkbarovaZulfiya

Listen to more episodes of Culturally Sound: corethos.com/culturally-sound

Overview

In this episode of Culturally Sound, host Chandler Cutler sits down with Thibaut Martin, co-founder and COO of Smart Role, to explore the intersection of AI and human expertise in customer support.

Thibaut’s journey began on the frontlines of customer service, where he saw firsthand the gaps in training that left agents struggling to meet customer expectations. That frustration turned into a mission: to build Smart Role, an AI-powered training platform that helps customer support teams sharpen their skills and navigate complex interactions with confidence.

Throughout the conversation, Thibaut shares how transitioning from a traditional job to entrepreneurship challenged him to rethink leadership, adaptability, and resilience. He reflects on the emotional rollercoaster of being laid off, why trusting your instincts is key in business, and how AI can empower—not replace—human customer service agents.

If you’ve ever wondered how AI is reshaping customer experience or how to turn setbacks into opportunities, this episode is packed with valuable lessons on innovation, career growth, and the future of customer support.

Guest Bio

Thibaut Martin is the co-founder and COO of Smart Role, a platform using AI to revolutionize customer support training. With over a decade of experience—including time at Google—he witnessed the challenges of onboarding and training customer service agents firsthand. Determined to create a better system, he launched Smart Role to bridge the gap between theoretical training and real-world customer interactions.

Thibaut is passionate about leveraging AI to enhance—not replace—the human touch in customer service. His approach focuses on empowering agents with the tools and skills they need to thrive, ensuring that businesses deliver exceptional support without compromising empathy and connection.

Episode Breakdown

🎙️ From Customer Support Agent to Entrepreneur (00:02 - 03:12)

• Thibaut’s personal experience with customer service frustrations
• The realization that training programs were failing agents
• How this inspired the creation of Smart Role

🚀 The Transition to Entrepreneurship (03:12 - 18:41)

• Being laid off and how it led to his biggest opportunity
• The importance of adaptability in career changes
• The emotional and strategic challenges of building a startup

🤖 AI’s Role in Customer Support (18:41 - 39:40)

• Why AI should assist, not replace, human customer service
• How AI-powered simulations help agents prepare for real interactions
• Navigating the ethical considerations of AI in the workplace

💡 The Future of Customer Support & AI Innovation (39:40 - 53:29)

• How Smart Role is shaping the next generation of support teams
• The evolving role of soft skills in AI-driven industries
• Predictions for the future of AI and customer experience

🌱 Life Lessons & Career Growth (53:29 - End)

• Why resilience and risk-taking are essential for success
• The power of trusting your gut in business decisions
• How to create a supportive and innovative workplace culture

Summary

Thibaut Martin’s journey from customer support agent to tech entrepreneur is a masterclass in resilience, innovation, and the power of personal experience in shaping business success. He transformed his frustrations into Smart Role—a platform revolutionizing the way service agents train for real-world challenges.

In this episode, Thibaut shares how AI can enhance customer support without losing the human element, the mindset shifts needed to embrace change, and why adaptability is key to professional growth. Whether you’re in customer service, tech, or looking to make a bold career move, this episode is packed with insights on leadership, AI, and the future of work.

Relevant Links

🔗 Connect with Thibaut Martin on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/thibautnmartin

🔗 Listen to more episodes of Culturally Sound: corethos.com/culturally-sound

Overview

In this episode of Culturally Sound, host Chandler Cutler sits down with Ben Gioia, an expert in helping leaders and entrepreneurs turn their experiences into books that build influence and impact.

Ben shares how a bold promise to provide books at a Stanford University event led to a 6.5-week writing sprint—and unexpectedly landed him a consulting gig with a Fortune 100 company. He breaks down the book-writing process, why talking to your ideal clients before writing is crucial, and how AI can be a powerful tool but never a replacement for authentic storytelling.

Beyond writing, Ben reflects on the importance of saying yes to opportunities, overcoming fear, and embracing risk as a path to growth. If you’ve ever thought about writing a book but didn’t know where to start, this conversation is packed with insights that will change the way you think about storytelling, leadership, and business.

Guest Bio

Ben Gioia is a bestselling author, book coach, and founder of Influence With A Heart®. He helps business leaders and entrepreneurs turn their expertise into high-impact books—fast. With a background in writing, leadership development, and strategic storytelling, Ben has worked with top organizations, including a Fortune 100 company, to create content that resonates and drives real change.

His approach is designed to make book writing an accessible and powerful tool for business growth, leadership, and influence—without the overwhelm.

Episode Breakdown

Introduction and Background (00:01 - 03:16)

• Ben Gioia introduced as guest, an inspiration in bringing people's stories to written text
• Ben shares how he started writing his first book in 6.5 weeks for a Stanford University event
• Book writing led to a 10-month consulting gig with a Fortune 100 company

Book Writing Process and Challenges (03:16 - 10:54)

• Ben discusses helping people write high-quality books quickly
• Emphasis on talking to ideal clients before writing to focus the book
• Importance of saying 'yes' to opportunities and taking risks
• Discussion on the difference between pain and suffering in experiences

AI and Book Writing (10:54 - 21:42)

• AI seen as a tool, not a threat, in book writing process
• Caution against using AI as the starting point for writing a book
• Importance of maintaining humanity and authenticity in writing
• Discussion on the need for intentionality and thoughtfulness in using AI

Personal Growth and Experiences (21:42 - 33:34)

• Ben shares his morning routine: meditation, physical fitness, reading
• Discusses his move to Spain and future plans
• Importance of taking risks and saying 'yes' to opportunities
• Discussion on the impact of experiences on personal growth

Insights on Writing and Life (33:34 - 42:22)

• Ben's favorite quote: 'Some will, some won't, so what?'
• Importance of being present and engaged, especially with children
• Discussion on the ability to change opinions and learn from mistakes
• Encouragement to write books as transformational tools for leadership

Closing Thoughts and Encouragement (42:22 - 49:43)

• Ben's fear of negatively impacting children through careless actions
• Discussion on superhero portrayals and the importance of showing humanity
• Final encouragement for people to write their books and share their stories

Summary

This episode of Culturally Sound dives into the power of storytelling with Ben Gioia, a bestselling author and book coach who helps leaders and entrepreneurs turn their expertise into impactful books.

Ben shares how a last-minute promise to provide books at a Stanford University event turned into a career-defining moment, leading to a consulting role with a Fortune 100 company. He reveals his streamlined approach to book writing, emphasizing the importance of engaging with ideal clients before putting words on the page.

The conversation also explores AI’s role in writing, the mindset shifts needed to take risks, and why saying yes to opportunities can be life-changing. Whether you’re an entrepreneur looking to build credibility, a leader wanting to scale your influence, or someone with a story to tell, this episode is packed with practical advice on writing, leadership, and personal growth.

Relevant Links

🔗 Follow Ben Gioia on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bengioia/

🌍 Learn more about Influence With A Heart®: https://www.influencewithaheart.com

📢 Listen to the Culturally Sound Podcast: https://corethos.com/culturally-sound/

Overview

In this episode of Culturally Sound, host Chandler Cutler sits down with Mark LaCour, the founder of the first oil and gas podcast network. Mark shares how he went from skeptic to pioneer, growing a multi-show platform that changed the way the industry communicates.

From breaking myths about oil and gas to discussing the business of podcasting, Mark reveals why traditional ad models don’t work, how AI is shaping media, and why brand storytelling beats direct sales. He also shares personal insights on leadership, resilience, and why Batman is the ultimate representation of grit and realism.

Guest Bio

Mark LaCour is a veteran in the oil and gas industry with over 25 years of experience in technology and market research. As the creator of the world’s first oil and gas podcast, he has built a multi-show media network, shaping how energy professionals consume content.

With a straightforward, no-nonsense approach, Mark is a trusted voice in business strategy, branding, and the intersection of media and energy. His work goes beyond podcasting—he’s passionate about shifting industry narratives, educating audiences, and cutting through misinformation.

Episode Breakdown

🎙️ From Skeptic to Podcast Pioneer (00:00 - 09:43)

Started the first-ever oil & gas podcast—despite initially dismissing the idea

Red Wing Boots became the first sponsor, proving its viability

Grew from one show to a full media network

🌍 Challenging Oil & Gas Misconceptions (09:43 - 20:01)

The industry’s real impact on communities and the environment

Addressing media bias, including the TV show Landman

Why public perception of oil and gas needs a reset

📢 Podcasting as a Business & Monetization (20:01 - 31:35)

Why the traditional CPM ad model fails for podcasts

How storytelling builds long-term value for sponsors

The challenge of valuing podcast networks as acquisition targets

🤖 AI, Automation & The Future of Podcasting (31:35 - 42:55)

Testing a pure AI-generated podcast

Why AI “hallucinations” can distort information if left unchecked

The impact of AI on content creation and media industries

🔥 Social Media, Polarization & The Battle for Truth (42:55 - 52:25)

The danger of confirmation bias and media manipulation

Why people are moving back toward the political center

How brand storytelling beats corporate advertising

🚀 Personal Lessons, Leadership & The Future (52:26 - 01:01:26)

Self-description: Driven, caring, and ‘pissed off’

Firsthand experiences at 9/11 and Hurricane Katrina

The biggest fear? Roller coasters—not challenges

Why Batman is the most realistic leader in fiction

Conclusion

Mark LaCour’s journey from oil and gas executive to podcasting leader proves that great storytelling can change industries. His insights challenge traditional media models, advocate for AI’s responsible use, and remind us why brand trust is the future of business.

Whether you're an entrepreneur, marketer, or industry leader, this episode offers real-world lessons on innovation, resilience, and the power of owning your message.

Relevant Links

🔗 Follow Mark LaCour on LinkedIn: Mark LaCour

🔗 Follow Mark LaCour on X (Twitter): @Mark_LaCour

🔗 Connect with Mark LaCour on Facebook: Mark LaCour

📢 Want more conversations like this?

🔗 Subscribe to Culturally Sound Podcast: corethos.com/culturally-sound

Overview

In this episode of Culturally Sound, host Chandler Cutler sits down with Amy Spurling, founder and CEO of Compt, a groundbreaking HR tech platform that redefines employee benefits through personalized, inclusive, and tax-compliant lifestyle spending accounts.

With years of experience as a CFO and COO, Amy witnessed firsthand how traditional compensation and benefits often fail to meet the diverse needs of employees. This frustration led her to create Compt, a solution designed to empower companies to support their teams in a way that truly matters—without wasted spending or one-size-fits-all perks.

Amy shares her journey from finance leader to tech entrepreneur, the challenges of scaling an HR SaaS company, and the importance of building a company culture that prioritizes fairness, flexibility, and real impact.

Guest Bio

Amy Spurling is the founder and CEO of Compt, an HR software platform designed to revolutionize how companies offer benefits by enabling personalized spending accounts that align with employees’ unique needs.

Before launching Compt, Amy spent years as a CFO and COO, leading high-growth startups through scaling, funding rounds, and strategic exits. With deep expertise in finance, operations, and HR, she understands the intersection of business strategy and employee well-being, making her a leading voice in the future of workplace benefits.

Her mission? Help companies build benefit programs that actually work—for both employees and employers.

Episode Breakdown

💡 From CFO to Founder (00:00 - 06:00)

Amy shares what led her to leave corporate finance and start Compt, driven by her frustration with ineffective employee benefits.

🛠️ Why Traditional Benefits Don’t Work (06:00 - 12:30)

Exploring the inefficiencies of standard perks, how employees’ needs are changing, and why customization is the future of HR compensation.

📊 Making Every Dollar Count (12:30 - 18:00)

Why small benefit stipends often go unnoticed in paychecks—and how companies can maximize impact without increasing costs.

🌍 Building an Inclusive Benefits Program (18:00 - 22:30)

How personalized benefits foster equity and belonging in remote, global, and diverse teams.

🚀 Scaling a Business with People First (22:30 - 27:00)

Amy’s leadership philosophy, lessons learned from scaling multiple startups, and how she balances innovation with operational excellence.

Conclusion

Amy Spurling’s insights challenge the traditional approach to employee compensation, showing why the future of HR is about choice, personalization, and real impact.

Whether you’re a business leader, HR professional, or founder, this conversation will change the way you think about how to invest in your team.

Relevant Links

🔗 Follow Amy Spurling on LinkedIn: Amy Spurling

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