Industry Leader Insights with Chad Coe

The Truth About Merchant Fees and AI Leadership with Joseph Zahaitis


Join host Chad Co as he sits down with industry veteran Joseph Zahaitis, a payments expert with over 30 years of experience managing billions in sales. In this episode, Joe pulls back the curtain on the often confusing world of merchant services, sharing why "free" processing is a myth and how business owners can stop leaking revenue. Beyond finance, we dive deep into the world of AI agents, servant leadership, and the "fail forward" mindset that has propelled Joe’s career across diverse industries. Whether you are a business owner looking to optimize your payment structure, an aspiring entrepreneur curious about AI governance, or someone seeking inspiration on how to build a truly abundant life, this conversation is packed with actionable insights you won't want to miss. Discover why transparency is the key to business longevity and how you can start your own journey today.

What You'll Learn in This Video:
- The secret to calculating your true effective payment processing rate.
- Why "free" payment hardware is costing your business more than you think.
- How to implement AI agents with proper governance and authority.
- The core principles of servant leadership and building a high-performing team.
- How to overcome the fear of starting and why you should "fail forward."

Video Chapters:
0:00 Intro: Meet Joseph Zahaitis
4:12 30 Years in the Payments Industry
12:45 Leadership Traits That Drive Success
22:10 The Reality of Merchant Processing Fees
35:20 Understanding AI Agents and Governance
48:15 Lessons for the Younger Self
55:30 What Defines an Abundant Life

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Joseph's info
linkedin.com/in/joezahaitis
Website
zahaitis.com (Personal)
Phone
630-344-9626 (Mobile)
Address
Chicago IL - close enough
Email
[email protected]


#PaymentsIndustry #Leadership #AI #BusinessGrowth #Entrepreneurship

Stop Using Filler Words: Amy Reczek on Leadership, Sales, and Mastering Your Presence


Are you struggling to make an impact in your professional life? In this episode of the Leadership Insight podcast, host Chad Co sits down with Amy Reczek, CEO of Sales and Presence, to uncover the secrets behind building true executive presence. Amy shares how "micro-communications" small, intentional shifts in your body language, verbiage, and daily habits can dramatically transform your career and leadership capabilities. From the power of curiosity and active listening to the importance of practicing out loud, Amy provides actionable advice for anyone looking to shed transactional habits and lead with authentic confidence. Whether you’re a corporate leader, an entrepreneur, or looking to level up your personal growth, this conversation is packed with wisdom on how to design an abundant life. Learn how to stop winging your communication and start leading with impact today!

What You'll Learn in This Video:
- Why "micro-communications" are the secret to executive presence.
- How to replace filler words and nervous habits with confident speaking.
- The importance of curiosity and asking three questions before offering solutions.
- How to break out of rigid corporate structures to achieve professional freedom.
- Why practicing out loud is the fastest way to improve your communication skills.

Video Chapters:
0:00 Intro to Amy Reczek
2:15 Why corporate leaders struggle with communication
5:30 Defining Micro-Communications and their impact
12:45 The power of curiosity and asking the right questions
18:20 Leaving the corporate comfort zone: How to take the leap
25:10 The role of non-verbal cues and smiling in sales
32:40 How to design an "Abundant Life" 
40:15 Practical tips for daily leadership growth

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Guest info: 
Linkedin: linkedin.com/in/amyreczek

Website: salesandpresence.com (Company)

Email: [email protected]

#LeadershipDevelopment #ExecutivePresence #CommunicationSkills #SalesTips #CareerGrowth

3 Key Investment Themes for 2026 | Economic Forecast with Gene Goldman


Are you feeling nervous about the current state of the stock market? In this episode of the Leadership Insight podcast, host Chad Co sits down with Gene Goldman, CFA, Chief Investment Officer and Director of Research at Satara Investment Management. They dive deep into the complexities of the current financial landscape, discussing why market volatility has returned and what investors should expect for the remainder of 2026.

Gene provides a masterclass on the "K shaped" recovery, the impact of the Federal Reserve’s new management, and why a strong economy doesn't always feel good for everyone. From AI’s role in future job markets to the importance of diversification in a high interest rate environment, this conversation is packed with actionable wisdom. Whether you’re worried about inflation, geopolitics, or the next market dip, Gene offers a clear, calm perspective on how to stay invested and reach your long term goals.

What You'll Learn in This Video:
- The 3 key investment themes driving the economy for the balance of 2026.
- Why the "K-shaped" recovery explains your current financial anxiety.
- How the Fed’s dual mandate impacts interest rates and your portfolio.
- Expert perspective on whether AI is a job killer or a productivity boost.
- Why market pullbacks and corrections are a normal part of building long term wealth.

Video Chapters:
0:00 Intro: Meet Gene Goldman, CFA
2:30 3 Investment Themes for 2026
5:15 Understanding the "K Shaped" Economy
12:40 Government, Fiscal Stimulus, and Debt
16:20 Fed Policy and Interest Rate Uncertainty
23:10 Diversification: Small Caps vs. Blue Chips
30:45 The AI Impact: Jobs and Investing
38:20 Market Outlook and Final Advice

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#GeneGoldman #Investing #StockMarket

A $1,000 price tag shouldn’t be the gatekeeper to deeper meditation. We sit down with Kirk Lee Rhodes, administrator of the Kent Rhodes Foundation, to talk about a problem most people don’t see until they try to commit to real retreat practice: intensive meditation retreats and practice periods can be out of reach for anyone living paycheck to paycheck, even when the benefits for mental health and emotional well-being are exactly what they need. 

Kirk shares how the foundation works as a lean 501(c)(3) nonprofit that funds retreat scholarships through established partners like the San Francisco Zen Center, instead of trying to run retreats themselves. We dig into why longer, structured retreats can accelerate learning, how mindfulness helps slow the repetitive thinking mind, and why meditation belongs alongside exercise, therapy, and other healthy supports. We also talk about teacher training as a force multiplier, especially for younger people with a strong calling to guide others. 

Then we get practical about funding: corporate matching gifts through Benevity, outreach on LinkedIn, and newer donor pathways like donor-advised funds. We also end on a human note, exploring “abundance” as a sensory, lived experience through a simple walking meditation cue that wakes you up to color, sound, and breath. If you’ve been curious about meditation retreats, nonprofit impact, or how to make giving go further, this conversation will give you a clear next step. 

Subscribe, share this with someone who needs a calmer mind, and leave a review so more listeners can find the show. What part of meditation practice feels hardest to access right now?

From West Point to CEO | RJ Kolton’s Masterclass in Leadership


Unlock the secrets to elite leadership with RJ Kolton, a retired US Army Lieutenant Colonel, West Point graduate, and seasoned Vistage CEO Chair. In this deep-dive conversation, RJ shares his incredible journey from commanding troops in Desert Storm to navigating the complex world of corporate executive coaching. Whether you’re a business owner, a young entrepreneur, or a leader looking to sharpen your decision-making, this episode is packed with actionable wisdom. RJ discusses the importance of servant leadership, the power of strategic networking, and how to find your true purpose in both your career and personal life. Discover why "paying yourself first" and philanthropic involvement are essential for long-term success. If you’re ready to level up your business and life, this is the masterclass you’ve been waiting for.

**What You'll Learn in This Video:**
- The core leadership traits needed to survive and thrive in high-stakes environments.
- How to transition from a military career to the corporate boardroom effectively.
- Why peer advisory groups are the secret weapon for modern CEOs.
- The importance of strategic planning and delegation for scaling businesses.
- How to find your "North Star" and legacy through purpose-driven work.

**Video Chapters:**
0:00 Intro: Meeting RJ Kolton
3:15 Early Days: West Point and Military Foundations
12:45 Lessons from Desert Storm and Refugee Ops
22:10 Leadership Under Pressure & Dealing with Fear
35:20 Transitioning from the Military to Corporate Growth
45:10 Why Vistage Works: The Power of Peer Advisory
55:30 Finding Your Legacy and Purpose in Business
1:10:00 Final Advice on Networking and Mentorship
1:20:00 Closing Thoughts and How to Connect



Guest info: 
Linkedin: linkedin.com/in/rjkolton

Website: vistage.com (Company)

Email: [email protected]


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#LeadershipInsights #ExecutiveCoaching  #BusinessStrategy

How to Heal from Betrayal & Rebuild Your Life: Dr. Debi Silber


Have you been betrayed by someone you trusted? Whether it’s a partner, family member, or business colleague, betrayal is a unique form of trauma that often leaves us stuck in silence, shame, and confusion. In this powerful episode, I’m joined by Dr. Debi Silber, the founder of the Post-Betrayal Transformation (PBT) Institute and a leading authority on betrayal recovery.

Dr. Silber breaks down her groundbreaking research into the "Five Stages of Betrayal," explaining why so many people get stuck in the "survival mode" of stage three for decades. We discuss the physiological impact of betrayal, why "trauma is not just trauma," and how you can stop the cycle of self-sabotage to finally reclaim your health, confidence, and future. If you’re ready to stop just surviving and start thriving again, this conversation is for you.

**What You'll Learn in This Video:**
- The 5 stages of betrayal recovery and why most people get stuck in Stage 3.
- Why betrayal is a different kind of trauma that requires a specific healing framework.
- How your subconscious beliefs about "not being enough" are shaped by early experiences.
- The "love turns to hate" principle and why betrayal from those we trust hits the hardest.
- Actionable steps to move from a place of pain to total life transformation.

**Video Chapters:**
0:00 Intro: Who is Dr. Debi Silber?
2:15 How a personal betrayal led to a PhD in research
7:40 Defining betrayal: The breaking of spoken and unspoken rules
12:30 Why betrayal is a unique, life-shattering trauma
18:20 The 5 Stages of Betrayal Recovery
22:45 Why people get stuck in Stage 3 (Survival Mode)
32:10 Real-life stories: Healing from 70 years of trauma
38:50 Moving to Stage 5: Rebirth and a new worldview
45:30 Rebuilding trust and the power of forgiveness
52:15 Closing thoughts: How to reach out and start your journey


Guest info: 
Linkedin: linkedin.com/in/debisilber

Website: PBTInstitute.com (Personal) pbtinstitute.com (Personal)

Email: [email protected]


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#BetrayalRecovery #HealingFromTrauma #DrDebiSilber

How Drones Are Saving Lives in Schools | An Interview with Justin Marston


In this episode of the Leadership Insight podcast, host Chad Co sits down with Justin Marston, the visionary founder and CEO of Campus Guardian Angel. As a serial entrepreneur with a deep background in national security and defense, Justin is revolutionizing school safety using advanced drone technology and rapid-response tactical teams. 

In this compelling interview, Justin breaks down how his company uses high-speed drones, artificial intelligence, and elite former Special Forces operators to provide a "God’s eye view" of potential threats in schools. Discover how this $40-per-student solution is being implemented in schools across America to act like a modern-day sprinkler system for security. From the tactical challenges of hostage rescue to the intensity of building a mission-driven startup, Justin shares the grit, failures, and triumphs behind his journey. Whether you're an entrepreneur, a parent, or interested in the future of security tech, this episode is a must-watch.

**What You'll Learn in This Video:**
- How drone technology can be used to neutralize threats in schools.
- Why Justin Marston pivoted from national security to school safety.
- The role of elite SWAT and Special Forces in modern security operations.
- The reality of building a high-stakes, mission-driven startup from scratch.
- How AI and drone racing experts are changing the landscape of public safety.

**Video Chapters:**
0:00 Intro: Meet Serial Entrepreneur Justin Marston
3:15 From National Security to School Safety
8:45 The "Guardian Angel" Concept: Drones in Schools
15:20 Recruiting Elite Special Forces & Racing Pilots
22:10 How the Technology Works: From Alert to Neutralization
30:45 The Economics of Safety: Why it’s Affordable
38:12 Leadership Lessons from a Startup Founder
45:50 The Future of Campus Guardian Angel





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#SchoolSafety #DroneTechnology #JustinMarston

From NHL Stanley Cup Champion to Dyslexia Advocate: The Brent Sopel Story


In this powerful episode of the Leadership Insights podcast, host Chad Co sits down with NHL legend and Stanley Cup champion Brent Sopel. Beyond his 18-season professional hockey career, Brent reveals his lifelong struggle with undiagnosed dyslexia, ADHD, and the personal battles that defined his journey. 

Brent opens up about how he masked his learning differences to survive in the high-pressure world of professional sports and why he eventually founded the Sopel Foundation for Dyslexia. We dive deep into the staggering statistics of dyslexia—from its prevalence in the prison system to the high percentage of dyslexic self-made millionaires. Whether you are a parent, an educator, or someone struggling to find your path, this conversation offers a raw, honest look at overcoming the "misunderstood" label. Discover how to turn learning differences into your greatest strength.

**What You'll Learn in This Video:**
- The reality of living with undiagnosed dyslexia and ADHD in professional sports.
- Why 80-90% of dyslexic individuals go undiagnosed and the mental health risks involved.
- How to support children who feel "misunderstood" in the classroom.
- The connection between grit, hard work, and finding your true purpose after retirement.
- How to get involved with the Sopel Foundation and access a community of support.

**Video Chapters:**
0:00 Intro: Meeting Brent Sopel
2:30 Growing up in Canada and falling in love with Hockey
8:15 The mental toll of playing in the NHL
15:45 Winning the Stanley Cup: The most empty feeling
22:10 Diagnosed at 32: Connecting the dots with Dyslexia
30:45 What is Dyslexia really? (Debunking myths)
42:00 Why Brent started his own Foundation
50:15 Advice for kids and adults struggling with learning differences
58:00 Conclusion and where to find support

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Guest info: 
Linkedin: linkedin.com/in/brent-sopel-537119a8
Email: [email protected]

#BrentSopel #DyslexiaAwareness #NHL

From Bankruptcy to $22M Contracts | Dr. Joseph Drolshagen’s Secrets to Success


Are you working harder but seeing fewer results? You aren't alone. In this deep-dive episode of the Leadership Insights podcast, host Chad Co sits down with Dr. Joseph Drolshagen, a renowned rapid-growth specialist and founder of the SMT (Subconscious Mindset Training) method. With over 28 years of corporate experience and a doctorate in psychology, Dr. Drolshagen reveals why 85% of your life’s results are determined by your subconscious programming—and why traditional "hustle culture" is often the reason you’re stuck.

Discover how to bridge the gap between your conscious goals and subconscious beliefs to eliminate self-sabotaging habits, master your calendar for true freedom, and achieve sustainable growth in every area of your life. Whether you’re a struggling business owner or a professional looking for a breakthrough, this conversation is the roadmap to aligning your mindset with your vision.

What You'll Learn in This Video:
- The science behind the SMT method and how it rewires your brain for success.
- How to identify and eliminate the subconscious "motherboard" patterns causing self-sabotage.
- Why "hustle" isn't the answer and how to find alignment for rapid growth.
- The power of "windshield time" for creative problem solving and mental clarity.
- How to define and achieve an "Abundant Life" that transcends just financial wealth.

Video Chapters:
0:00 Intro & Dr. Joseph Drolshagen’s Journey
3:15 From Blue Collar Detroit to Corporate Success
7:45 The "Motherboard" of Your Subconscious Mind
12:20 What is the SMT Method?
18:40 Bringing Conscious and Subconscious Minds into Alignment
25:10 How to Define Abundance Beyond Money
32:50 The Role of Calendars and Habits in Personal Freedom
38:15 Rapidly Changing Your Life: Is it Real?
45:10 Why High Performers Get Stuck (And How to Unstick)
52:40 Final Thoughts & How to Connect


Guest info:
Linkedin: linkedin.com/in/ifgtcoach
Website
coachwithjoey.com (Other)
JosephA Drolshagen.com
(Company)

#DrJosephDrolshagen #SMTMethod #SubconsciousMind

Scaling Small Businesses: Expert Advice from WDG Agency Founder Kathy Cain Blank



Are you still tracking your leads on Excel or relying on manual, outdated methods to manage your sales pipeline? In this episode, I’m joined by Kathy Cain Blank, founder and president of The WDG Agency. With over two decades of experience, Kathy breaks down why small and midsize businesses often hit a growth ceiling and how implementing the right CRM—specifically HubSpot—can be a total game-changer. 

We dive deep into the importance of aligning your sales and marketing teams, the power of real-time lead tracking, and why you should stop "hunting for meatballs in a soup" of contacts. Kathy shares actionable advice on how to automate your outreach, nurture leads effectively, and build the infrastructure necessary for long-term scalability. If you’re ready to stop wasting time and start seeing real results, this conversation is for you.

**What You'll Learn in This Video:**
- Why Excel is holding your business growth back.
- How to track who is opening your sales emails in real-time.
- The difference between a generic CRM setup and a strategic implementation.
- How to align sales and marketing to convert more leads.
- Why you should delegate technical "heavy lifting" to experts.

**Video Chapters:**
0:00 Intro: Meet Kathy Cain Blank
1:40 The Evolution of WDG Agency
4:15 Why Businesses Outgrow Excel
7:30 HubSpot vs. Other CRM Tools
12:00 Managing the Learning Curve
16:45 Sales & Marketing Alignment
22:10 The Power of Email Tracking
28:30 Overcoming the "Nice Person" Trap
34:00 How to Get Started with HubSpot
40:00 Final Advice for Business Owners


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Guest info: 
LInkedin: linkedin.com/in/cathy-cain-blank

Website: blog.thewdgagency.com (Blog)
thewdgagency.com (Company)

Email: [email protected]


#HubSpot #SmallBusinessGrowth #SalesStrategy #InboundMarketing