Executive Perspective

What does it take to lead one of the world's most iconic brands while honoring its legacy and preparing it for the future? In this episode of Executive Perspective, host Danny Vander Maten sits down with Dan Gertsacov, CEO of Big Green Egg, to explore a leadership journey unlike any other.

From early leadership roles at Google and McDonald's to driving digital transformation at global restaurant brands and now leading Big Green Egg, Dan shares the experiences that shaped his approach to growth, innovation, and building enduring brands. The conversation dives into the balance between preserving a 50-year legacy and evolving for the next generation, the lessons learned from studying live-fire cooking traditions around the world, and how hospitality, culture, and community influence the way he leads.

Dan also reflects on overcoming career challenges, building resilient teams, creating an inclusive brand community, and the qualities he looks for in future leaders. Whether you're an executive, entrepreneur, or simply passionate about leadership, this episode offers thoughtful insights on navigating change while staying true to your organization's purpose.

Whether you're a business leader, entrepreneur, or simply someone who loves hearing the stories behind successful brands, you'll walk away with practical leadership insights and a fresh perspective on growth, resilience, and community.

Tune in for an inspiring conversation with one of today's most dynamic business leaders.

Topics in this Interview

02:14 - Dan’s journey to becoming CEO @ Big Green Egg

17:19 - Being “good”

22:51 - What it means for Big Green Egg to be more inclusive

29:04 - The “Loneliness Epidemic” 

34:08 - The “aha moment"

43:10 - The Egghead Community

47:05 - Reflecting on Adversity

51:42 - Advice to Dan’s Younger Self

54:24 - Closing Questions

In this episode of Executive Perspective, host Danny Vander Maten sits down with Jeff Stillwell, CEO of Beach & Barn and former leader at Salt Life, to explore the evolving world of retail clothing. Jeff shares insights from decades in the industry, including how to scale lifestyle brands, the power of story over product, and what it takes to stand out in a crowded marketplace. From rural surf vibes to smart brand strategy, Jeff unpacks the culture, challenges, and leadership lessons behind one of the South’s rising lifestyle brands.

Tune in for a sharp, honest look at brand building, entrepreneurship, and the future of retail—from a guy who plays guitar and knows how to ride the wave.

On this episode of Executive Perspective, host Danny Vander Maten sits down with Jason Etheridge, President and Founder of Logic Speak, for a conversation about entrepreneurship, leadership, technology, and building a business with purpose.

Jason shares the story behind founding Logic Speak in 2004 and the lessons he’s learned through more than 20 years of leading and growing a technology services company. The conversation explores how technology is evolving the way businesses operate, why strong relationships remain at the center of successful organizations, and how leaders can navigate growth while staying true to their values.

Danny and Jason also discuss the challenges of entrepreneurship, the importance of adapting to change, and Jason’s perspective on using technology not simply as a business tool, but as a way to create meaningful impact for clients, employees, and the broader community.

 Logic Speak

Founded by Jason Etheridge in 2004, Logic Speak is a managed IT services provider serving small and midsize businesses throughout the Atlanta area. The company provides technology strategy, IT support, cybersecurity, co-managed IT, AI solutions, and other technology services designed to help businesses operate more efficiently and securely.

At its core, Logic Speak is focused on being more than an IT provider. The company describes itself as being in the relationship business that happens to do IT, with a mission to use its abilities and technology to positively impact its clients, employees, and community.

In this episode of Executive Perspective, host Danny Vander Maten sits down with Eric Howell, CEO of Port City Logistics, to explore the dynamic world of supply chain and logistics. Eric shares how Port City Logistics has navigated rapid growth, adapted to global disruptions, and continues to deliver innovative solutions for clients across the country.

From leadership insights to the future of freight and logistics, Eric offers a candid look at the strategies shaping one of America’s fastest-growing logistics providers.

Tune in for an inside perspective on the logistics industry, Eric’s approach to leadership, and what’s next for Port City Logistics in a rapidly changing global economy.

Produced and underwritten by Cresa. Available now on all major streaming platforms.

In this episode of Executive Perspective, host Danny Vander Maten sits down with Palmer Proctor, CEO of Ameris Bank, to discuss what it means to lead with purpose in a rapidly evolving financial landscape. From navigating economic uncertainty to fostering a values-driven culture, Palmer shares key leadership lessons and the strategies that have shaped Ameris Bank’s growth and resilience.

Tune in for an inside look at the banking industry, Palmer’s personal leadership philosophy, and how Ameris is adapting to meet the needs of clients and communities in 2025 and beyond.

Produced and underwritten by Cresa. Available now on all major streaming platforms.

In this episode of Executive Perspective, host Danny Vander Maten interviews Christa Pitts, co-founder and CEO of The Lumistella Company, the brand behind the beloved The Elf on the Shelf, Elf Pets, and Elf Mates. Christa recounts her journey from childhood experiences with the elf tradition to her early career in sales and as a QVC program host.

The conversation delves into the company’s family roots, the rigorous challenges faced, and the unwavering belief in their product that transformed a family tradition into a global phenomenon. Key insights cover the importance of hiring for growth, fostering a strong company culture, the role of family support, and thoughtful leadership. The episode also highlights the cultural impact of The Elf on the Shelf, crucial moments that propelled its popularity, and its global expansion. Further discussion includes Christa’s Madam Founder podcast, which features inspiring stories of female business leaders.

Mike Ayers, CEO and co-founder of Watershed Geo, discusses the company’s history and cutting-edge environmental solutions in this episode of Executive Perspective with host Danny Vander Maten. Watershed Geo specializes in intellectual property for waste management, geotechnical engineering, and renewable energy.

Mike details their unique approach to closing landfills, the importance of a strong technical team, and their commitment to offering solutions rather than just products. He also discusses significant milestones, like gaining regulatory approval in California and converting landfills into renewable energy assets. Throughout the conversation, Mike emphasizes the importance of credibility, hard work, and resilience in driving the company’s success.

Chris Martin, Senior Vice President of Global Operations at Veritiv Corporation, discusses his transition from the U.S. Navy to corporate leadership in this episode of Executive Perspective, with host Danny Vander Maten. Chris discusses his diverse roles at Veritiv, the company’s mission and services, and the critical importance of people and culture in business.

The conversation covers leadership lessons, the impact of mentoring, and the challenges and successes of Chris’s career. Chris offers insights into effective supply chain planning, inventory management, and the dynamic nature of the commercial real estate and packaging industry.

On this episode of Executive Perspective, host Danny Vander Maten welcomes Jesslyn Rollins, CEO of BIOLYTE. Jesslyn describes her journey from a theater student to a stand-up comedian, recruiter, and ultimately the CEO of BIOLYTE, a company founded as a result of her mother’s battle with cancer. Jesslyn discusses the challenges and triumphs involved in the creation and growth of BIOLYTE, a powerful hydration drink born out of her physician father’s desire to support her mother through chemotherapy. With touching anecdotes and candid insights, Jesslyn highlights the entrepreneurial spirit, the importance of family, and the relentless pursuit of bringing a product from concept to market. Listen in to learn about BIOLYTE’s unique “IV in a bottle” solution and the company’s dedication to serving those suffering from headaches, fatigue, and nausea due to dehydration.

Executive Perspective is sponsored and presented by Cresa Atlanta. The show is produced by John Ray and the North Fulton affiliate of Business RadioX®.

BIOLYTE

BIOLYTE is the first liquid supplement that offers the same benefits as IV rehydration therapy but in a drinkable form. The founder, a board-certified anesthesiologist, Dr. Luther C. Rollins, wanted to create a product that would bring the IV bag home to his wife when she was going through breast cancer. As she battled her cancer, she couldn’t keep up with her chemo treatments without getting IV bags because she was so dehydrated. Dr. Rollins used his experience in the hospital tailoring IV bags to his patient’s needs to create BIOLYTE, the first IV in a bottle.

Today, BIOLYTE helps everyday people relieve headaches, fatigue, and nausea due to dehydration. You can find BIOLYTE in over 20,000 retail locations across the USA.

Topics Discussed in this Episode

00:00 Introduction to Executive Perspective
00:51 Meet Jesslyn Rollins: CEO of BIOLYTE
01:17 Jesslyn’s Journey Before BIOLYTE
04:47 The Birth of BIOLYTE
10:37 BIOLYTE’s Impact and Growth
23:30 Challenges and Triumphs in BIOLYTE’s Journey
25:53 The Humble Beginnings in a Barn
26:37 Early Challenges and Finding the Right Team
27:51 Reflecting on Milestones and Growth
28:24 Overcoming Operational Challenges
31:36 The Importance of Balance in Business
33:24 Valuable Business Lessons Learned
37:44 The Inner Tube Analogy
42:37 Best and Worst Days at BIOLYTE
47:05 Future Aspirations and Final Thoughts
49:36 Closing Remarks and Contact Information

Rich Simons, co-founder and partner of EDGE Business Systems, discusses his transition from civil engineering to co-founding a document technology solutions company on this episode of Executive Perspective, with host Danny Vander Maten from Cresa. Rich discusses the challenges and motivations behind starting EDGE, the evolution of the office equipment industry towards technology and software, and the importance of ethical sales practices and customer relationship management. He emphasizes the value of continuous self-improvement, staying motivated by overcoming financial challenges, and the role of honesty and relationships in sales success. The conversation also explores the importance of adapting to change and never settling, both personally and professionally.

Executive Perspective is sponsored and presented by Cresa Atlanta. The show is produced by John Ray and the North Fulton studio of Business RadioX® inside Renasant Bank in Alpharetta.

EDGE Business Systems

EDGE Business Systems, headquartered in Roswell, GA, is the foremost provider of office equipment solutions in Georgia and across the Southeast. Known for outstanding manufacturer and software partnerships, EDGE offers tailored solutions that perfectly meet the specific needs of any organization.Committed to innovation, EDGE is redefining how companies manage, streamline, and protect their business processes and document technologies. Their extensive expertise and strong industry relationships enable them to surpass client expectations, delivering cutting-edge technology that enhances efficiency and cost-effectiveness.

Whether enhancing document management, optimizing printing services, or securing digital processes, EDGE Business Systems is a reliable partner that organizations trust. They ensure each solution is not only customized but also seamlessly integrates with existing workflows to boost productivity and reduce expenses.

Discover why EDGE Business Systems is the regional leader in office technology solutions and experience their transformative approach.

Topics Discussed in this Episode

00:00 Welcome to Executive Perspective
00:48 Meet Rich Simons: Co-Founder of EDGE Business Systems
02:21 Rich’s Unexpected Journey into the Copier Business
05:18 The Challenges and Triumphs of Growing EDGE
06:29 Evolving with the Industry: From Copiers to Document Technology Solutions
07:51 Ethics and Sales: Navigating the Industry with Integrity
09:28 Cultivating a Successful Sales Team at EDGE
16:57 Leveraging Technology in Sales and CRM Adoption
18:00 Embracing Change and the Role of Technology
18:23 The Importance of CRM in Sales
19:02 Expanding Business Through Partnerships
19:52 Customer Relationship Management Strategies
21:14 Handling Objections and Building Trust
23:04 The Ethical Sales Approach
24:53 Building a Reputation in Sales
28:26 Advice for Aspiring Sales Professionals
30:06 Never Settle: The Key to Professional Growth
31:15 Defining a Great Day in Sales
32:12 Closing Remarks and Contact Information