In this episode, Gordon Sheppard interviews Scott Cassels, the President of General Body, a custom truck body manufacturer. Scott shares his journey of leading the company through significant changes, including a major consolidation of operations that involved moving from four separate locations into a single, larger facility.

This strategic move aimed to enhance efficiency and streamline operations, ultimately leading to a 22% increase in revenue per man hour.

Scott emphasizes the importance of teamwork, patience, and a clear vision in navigating the complexities of business growth and cultural transformation within the organization.

Throughout the conversation, Scott reflects on the challenges he faced, including aligning the interests of shareholders and managing a transition from a family-run business to a more structured corporate entity.

He discusses the importance of building a strong team, fostering a positive culture, and maintaining a long-term perspective, especially during uncertain times like the COVID-19 pandemic.

The episode serves as an insightful exploration of leadership, strategy, and how to get a big win in business.

Key Takeaways

Scott says:

• “If I'm the smartest person in the room, I'm in the wrong room."]
• "You need team members that can see the vision and help you drive that."

Executive Wins - https://executivewins.com

Newsletter - https://executivewins.com/newsletter

Executive Wins Workshop - https://executivewins.com/workshops

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/gordonsheppard/

In this conversation, Patrick Emokpae, founder of Fluid Insight, shares his journey of creating innovative solutions for the mining industry.

He discusses the importance of learning, adaptability, and the impact of real-time data on operational efficiency.

Patrick highlights a significant win where his company saved a client $19 million annually through improved fluid management.

He emphasizes the value of humility, teamwork, and strategic thinking in achieving success, while also addressing the challenges and opportunities in the field of technology and entrepreneurship.

Key Takeaways

• Patrick Emokpae is the founder of Fluid Insight
• Fluid Insight focuses on real-time data solutions for mining
• The company has saved clients millions through innovative technology
• Learning and adaptability are key to entrepreneurial success
• Humility is essential for continuous learning and growth
• Team dynamics and collaboration drive successful outcomes
• Operational excellence is crucial for implementation
• Quantitative results demonstrate significant cost savings
• Qualitative results include increased client satisfaction and trust
• Leadership involves fostering creativity and challenging groupthink

Executive Wins - https://executivewins.com

Newsletter - https://executivewins.com/newsletter

Executive Wins Workshop - https://executivewins.com/workshops

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/gordonsheppard/

In this conversation, Jesse Hill shares his extensive experience in the IT services industry, discussing the evolution of technology, the impact of AI, and the importance of proactive leadership.

He recounts a significant crisis his company faced due to a zero-day vulnerability, detailing the preparation and response that led to a successful outcome.

The discussion emphasizes the value of team dynamics, operational challenges, and the lessons learned from navigating a crisis, ultimately highlighting the importance of preparedness and strong client relationships.

Key Takeaways

• Jesse Hill has been in the IT industry since 1990
• AI is a tool, not a solution to all problems
• Expert guidance is essential for aligning technology with business goals
• Crisis management requires preparation and practice
• Team dynamics play a crucial role in crisis response
• Qualitative outcomes include strengthened client relationships
• Proactive leadership is key in IT services
• Regular practice and simulations can prepare teams for crises

Executive Wins - https://executivewins.com

Newsletter - https://executivewins.com/newsletter

Executive Wins Workshop - https://executivewins.com/workshops

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/gordonsheppard/

In this conversation, Moose Abdel shares his journey as an entrepreneur and leader in both the nonprofit and tech sectors.

He discusses the founding of his nonprofit, Struggle Is Their Success, which aims to empower marginalized youth through entrepreneurship.

Moose reflects on his personal experiences, the importance of mentorship, and the impact of understanding one's 'why' in leadership.

He also highlights the innovative approach of his AI firm, QA Enterprises, and the significance of turning screen time into productive learning.

Throughout the discussion, Moose emphasizes the value of resilience, collaboration, and the journey of personal growth in achieving meaningful impact.

Key Takeaways

• Musaps nickname ‘Moose’ reflects his competitive spirit and resilience
• Struggle Is Their Success focuses on empowering marginalized youth
• Personal experiences shapes Moose’s leadership and community impact
• Impact is defined by the ability to change someone's life
• Innovative approaches in tech can bridge gaps in education
• Turning screen time into skill time is a key initiative
• Understanding your 'why' is crucial for effective leadership
• Navigating challenges requires self-awareness and resilience
• Values play a significant role in team dynamics and success
• Celebrating wins and acknowledging failures fosters growth

Executive Wins - https://executivewins.com

Newsletter - https://executivewins.com/newsletter

Executive Wins Workshop - https://executivewins.com/workshops

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/gordonsheppard/

In this conversation, Jerry Hanna shares his extensive journey in the water technology industry, highlighting his innovative solutions for water treatment and the importance of environmental sustainability.

He discusses the challenges he faced in building his business, the significance of Indigenous innovation, and the role of mentorship in shaping future leaders.

Jerry emphasizes the scientific foundation of his work and the impact it has on communities and the environment, while also offering valuable advice for aspiring entrepreneurs.

Key Takeaways

• Jerry Hanna has been in the water technology field for 47 years
• He developed a product that significantly improves water treatment processes
• He shares the importance of Indigenous innovation in technology and business
• Building a company around environmental values is crucial
• Patience is key in the entrepreneurial journey, especially in the water industry
• Scientific validation is essential for credibility in the industry
• Collaboration with universities and government institutions enhances research and development
• Entrepreneurs should stay true to their passion and values

Executive Wins - https://executivewins.com

Newsletter - https://executivewins.com/newsletter

Executive Wins Workshop - https://executivewins.com/workshops

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/gordonsheppard/

In this conversation, Michael Mahon shares his journey as a leader in education, focusing on his transformative role at the University of Lethbridge and his current position at Alberta Innovates.

He discusses the importance of community engagement, strategic planning, and the concept of a 'Destination University' that attracted students from across Canada.

Mahon emphasizes the significance of collaboration, the long-term vision required for success, and the impact of leadership on institutional growth and innovation.

Key Takeaways

• Michael Mahon emphasizes the importance of community engagement in institutional leadership
• The concept of a 'Destination University' was pivotal in attracting students and gaining support from all stakeholders
• Strategic planning requires socializing ideas through conversations over a period of years
• Building strong relationships with stakeholders is crucial for success.
• Leadership is hard work and requires dedication and persistence
• Authenticity in leadership fosters trust and collaboration
• Balancing work and personal life is essential for effective leadership
• Celebrating wins with the community enhances institutional pride

Executive Wins - https://executivewins.com

Newsletter - https://executivewins.com/newsletter

Executive Wins Workshop - https://executivewins.com/workshops

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/gordonsheppard/

In this conversation, Bill Harper, founder and chief creative officer at BrandBoss HQ, discusses the importance of storytelling in branding and how businesses can differentiate themselves in a crowded market.

He shares his unexpected success on TikTok, emphasizing the platform's potential for mini mentorship and audience engagement.

Bill outlines his strategic approach to content creation, the significance of identifying a 'one thing' for branding, and the operational insights necessary for success.

He also reflects on the global impact of TikTok on his business and offers valuable leadership lessons for those looking to navigate the evolving landscape of marketing.

Key Takeaways

• Differentiation is crucial for branding success.
• TikTok serves as a platform for mini mentorship and is an effective way to build authority and trust
• Engagement is key to building an audience
• Strategy is essential for effective branding
• Identifying your 'one thing' simplifies marketing efforts
• Content creation requires intentional planning
• Helping others achieve their dreams can lead to success
• Patience and consistency are vital in marketing

Executive Wins - https://executivewins.com

Newsletter - https://executivewins.com/newsletter

Executive Wins Workshop - https://executivewins.com/workshops

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/gordonsheppard/

In this conversation, Daniel Haight shares his experiences as an entrepreneur, discussing the daily challenges he faces, the importance of self-discovery, and the necessity of building a strong team to overcome obstacles and achieve success.

He also talks about key leadership learnings, including learning how to let go at the right time when something isn’t working.

He also talks about the importance of building a strong culture that makes going to work on Monday mornings more exciting than leaving on Friday afternoons.

Key Takeaways

• Being an entrepreneur means facing daily challenges
• Unexpected events can significantly impact your business
• Self-discovery is a crucial part of the entrepreneurial journey
• Identifying personal strengths and weaknesses is essential
• Building a team is vital for filling gaps in skills
• Founders must learn to delegate and trust others
• Adapting to change is a key trait of successful entrepreneurs
• The journey of entrepreneurship is a continuous learning process

Executive Wins - https://executivewins.com

Newsletter - https://executivewins.com/newsletter

Executive Wins Workshop - https://executivewins.com/workshops

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/gordonsheppard/

In this conversation, Landon Barrowman shares his journey from a journeyman pipe fitter in the oil industry to a mental health advocate and aspiring psychologist.

He discusses the unique challenges faced by workers in the trades, particularly regarding mental health, and how he discovered cognitive behavioral therapy as a tool for personal growth.

Landon emphasizes the importance of making mental health resources accessible to men in the trades and shares his experiences in creating a book and courses to help others.

He reflects on the impact of his work, the support he received from friends and family, and his aspirations for the future.

Key Takeaways

• Landon Barrowman transitioned from being a pipe fitter to a mental health advocate
• He faced multiple personal challenges in 2023, including a separation and a cancer scare
• Cognitive behavioral therapy provided him with tools to cope with his struggles
• Landon aims to make mental health resources accessible for men in the trades
• He wrote a book titled 'The Working Man's Guide to Mental Health.'
• Landon teaches cognitive behavioral therapy skills to others
• He emphasizes the importance of intentionality in planning good days
• Support from friends and family played a crucial role in his journey
• Landon's mission is to reach workers through safety meetings and toolbox talks and more
• He believes that understanding mental health tools can improve workplace safety

Executive Wins - https://executivewins.com

Newsletter - https://executivewins.com/newsletter

Executive Wins Workshop - https://executivewins.com/workshops

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/gordonsheppard/

In this conversation, Karley shares her journey as an entrepreneur and author, discussing her intense passion for branding and strategy.

She reflects on her experience of writing her first business book, the challenges she faced, and how she overcame writer's block.

Karley emphasizes the role of AI in her writing process, the importance of support systems, and the joy she found in writing.

She concludes with valuable advice for aspiring authors, encouraging them to find their own methods and embrace the journey.

Takeaways

• Karley describes herself as intense and passionate
• Writing a book can be a daunting task, but it's achievable
• Overcoming writer's block requires finding inspiration and support
• AI can be a valuable tool in the writing process
• Support systems are crucial for success in any endeavor
• Writing should be a fun and enjoyable process
• Consistency and discipline are key to completing a project
• Certainty in one's knowledge can lead to greater confidence
• Finding one's unique method of writing is essential

Executive Wins - https://executivewins.com

Newsletter - https://executivewins.com/newsletter

Executive Wins Workshop - https://executivewins.com/workshops

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/gordonsheppard/