What can hundreds of transactions and decades of leadership teach us about CEOs? In this episode of CXO Conversations, Chris Younger, CEO of Class VI Partners, reflects on buying, selling, and leading companies across industries. He shares candid insights on managing the stress of leadership, why presence and transparency matter, and how servant leadership builds lasting teams. From his experience acquiring 27 companies to guiding CEOs through exits and growth strategies, Chris highlights both the rewards and the realities of C-suite life—and why prioritizing self-care is as important as strategy.

For the full interview: https://ocns.co/ceo-insights-self-care-with-chris-younger/

#leadership #executiveinsights #selfcare #privateequity #CXO

In "CEO Insights & Self Care with Chris Younger," Chris shares lessons from a career spanning telecom, private equity, and advisory leadership. As President of Expanets, he acquired 27 companies in just 3 years before selling to Avaya, and today, as CEO of Class VI Partners, he advises middle-market businesses and family offices on transactions and growth. Chris opens up about the physical toll of overwork, the importance of managing stress, and why diet, sleep, and exercise are critical for executives. He also explains his "Dinner Test" for CEOs and why executive presence sets the tone for organizational success.

For the full interview: https://ocns.co/ceo-insights-self-care-with-chris-younger/

#leadership #executiveinsights #selfcare #privateequity #CXO

What does it mean to be truly intellectually curious as a leader? In this episode of CXO Conversations, Christine Gagnon, CFO of African Asset Finance Company at time of interview, discusses the value of continuous learning and the global perspective she's gained from international assignments and advanced education at top institutions. From her early career at PwC and EY to her current role financing critical sectors across Africa, Christine shares how ongoing education enriches her work, enhances strategic planning, and opens new angles of business she would have never seen otherwise. Her story is a reminder that curiosity fuels both personal growth and executive success.

For the full interview:

https://ocns.co/christine-gagnon-cfo-the-importance-of-being-intellectually-curious/

#leadership #CFO #executiveinsights #continuouslearning #CXO

In "Christine Gagnon CFO, the Importance of Being Intellectually Curious," Christine shares how a lifelong passion for learning has shaped her global career. During recording, she was the CFO of African Asset Finance Company, she reflects on her journey through leadership roles at EY, PwC, and OneWest Bank, as well as earning multiple advanced degrees and executive certifications from Harvard, Stanford, and Washington University. Christine explains how international experiences, from Johannesburg to London, shaped her global market perspective, and why intellectual curiosity allows her to better serve CEOs, boards, and organizations with strategic insights.

For the full interview:

https://ocns.co/christine-gagnon-cfo-the-importance-of-being-intellectually-curious/

#leadership #CFO #executiveinsights #continuouslearning #CXO

In "General Kevin 'Chili' Chilton, Board Member, Astronaut and Flying the Space Shuttle," General Kevin "Chili" Chilton shares lessons from his extraordinary 34½ years in the U.S. Air Force and his successful transition into corporate leadership. On this episode of CXO Conversations, Chili reflects on problem-solving and leadership training, the astronaut band Max Q, and the experience of flying three space shuttle missions. From serving as Deputy Program Manager of Operations for the International Space Station to becoming the only astronaut to achieve the rank of 4-star General, Chili's story is a powerful blend of humility, discipline, and leadership.

For the full interview:

https://ocns.co/general-kevin-chili-chilton-board-member-astronaut-and-flying-the-space-shuttle/

#leadership #executiveinsights #aerospace #riskmanagement #CXO

What does it take to transform one of the world's most respected publications without losing its identity? In this episode of CXO Conversations, David Cox discusses his 14 years at The Economist, including his role as CFO and COO, where he spearheaded the company's global shift from print to digital and live events. He explains how he balanced editorial independence with client demands, why pricing digital at the same level as print was a pivotal decision, and what he learned about storytelling, teamwork, and leading large-scale transformation. David's lessons remain invaluable for leaders navigating today's rapidly evolving business environment.

For the full interview:

https://ocns.co/leading-an-iconic-brand-through-a-global-transformation/

#leadership #digitaltransformation #globalbusiness #executiveinsights #CXO

In "Leading an Iconic Brand Through a Global Transformation," David Cox, former CFO of The Economist, shares how he helped guide the publication through its bold shift from weekly print to a digital-first and live events model. On this episode of CXO Conversations, David reflects on early digital adoption, the value of listening to clients, and how consultative selling reshaped the way advertisers and subscribers engaged with the brand. From launching Economist Espresso to hosting government roundtables across the globe, David's story is a playbook for executives leading organizations through disruption and change.

For the full interview:

https://ocns.co/leading-an-iconic-brand-through-a-global-transformation/

#leadership #digitaltransformation #globalbusiness #executiveinsights #CXO

What does it take to go from West Point to the corner office? In this episode of CXO Conversations, Jack Blaha, CEO of Cendyn, opens up about his path from Army officer to five-time SaaS CEO and the lessons he's learned along the way. He emphasizes the importance of adaptability, continuous leadership development, and building a strong professional network, while sharing strategies for excelling in current roles and preparing for future opportunities. For aspiring and current leaders alike, Jack offers practical insights on team building, mentorship, and how presence and emotional intelligence can shape company performance.

For the full interview:

https://ocns.co/from-west-point-to-the-boardroom-jack-blahas-leadership-odyssey/

#leadership #veteransinbusiness #SaaS #privateequity #CXO

In "West Point to CEO," Jack Blaha, CEO of Cendyn, shares his remarkable journey from Army veteran to seasoned executive leading multiple SaaS companies. On this episode of CXO Conversations, Jack reflects on how military-honed adaptability and leadership shaped his transition into the corporate world, from hospitality to social media marketing software. He discusses the impact of emotional intelligence on company culture, the value of mentorship, and the importance of building strong teams—including bringing trusted colleagues to ensure operational success. Jack's story is a masterclass in translating military skills into business leadership.

For the full interview:

https://ocns.co/from-west-point-to-the-boardroom-jack-blahas-leadership-odyssey/

#leadership #veteransinbusiness #SaaS #privateequity #CXOC

What does it take to go from making cold calls to leading a hyperscale data center company powering the cloud? In this episode of CXO Conversations, Laura Ortman, CEO of COLOGIX, shares her journey through pivotal roles across tech, the lessons she carried into the C-suite, and why broad business experience is critical for informed leadership. She reflects on perseverance, mentorship, and transforming challenges into opportunities for growth, while emphasizing the importance of corporate culture, strong networks, and risk-taking. Laura's story is a masterclass in resilience, relationship building, and leading with impact.

For the full interview:

https://ocns.co/leading-with-impact-laura-ortmans-journey-to-ceo-at-cologix/

#leadership #womenintech #careergrowth #executiveinsights #CXO