IN THIS EPISODE...

Karan interviews Andy Allaway, CEO of Empire Flippers, delving into his professional journey, leadership philosophy, and the challenges he faced steering the company through industry changes. Andy shares insights from his early career in IT sales, his transition into online business, and his eventual rise to CEO, highlighting the importance of adaptability, team culture, and situational leadership. The conversation also explores Andy’s approach to leading during turbulent times, his passion for nurturing future leaders, and his perspective on the evolving landscape of online business.

Empire Flippers is a top online business broker and marketplace that vets and lists businesses, rejecting over 90% due to its rigorous standards. They specialize in vetted e-commerce, SaaS, and agency businesses. They guide both buyers and sellers through the sales process, ensuring quality listings and smooth transactions, with fees paid only by sellers upon successful sales.

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Full show notes, guest bio, links to resources mentioned, and other compelling episodes can be found at http://LeadYourGamePodcast.com. (Click the magnifying icon at the top right and type “Andy”)

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·      Andy’s path from IT sales to CEO

·      Leading a company turnaround

·      What challenges do sellers face?

·      Team culture and leadership in tough times

·      How does Empire Flippers vet and support deals?

·      Trends in online business and brokering

·      Andy’s tips for new leaders

·      Where to find Empire Flippers and Andy

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·     [03:22] Andy shares his career path from IT sales to CEO of Empire Flippers.

·     [05:42] Discusses challenges and turnaround during industry decline.

·     [06:32] Explains Empire Flippers’ business model and vetting process.

·     [09:31] Outlines key steps for sellers preparing to sell their business.

·     [11:36] Describes support for buyers and the importance of good deals.

·     [13:36] Talks about scaling the team and addressing company culture.

·     [18:50] Shares his evolving leadership philosophy and situational leadership.

·     [22:58] Signature Segment: Andy’s entry into the LATTOYG Playbook: Learning leadership and seeking mentorship to develop your potential.

·     [24:46] Predicts future trends in online business and the impact of AI.

·     [27:55] Signature Segment: Andy’s LATTOYG Tactic of Choice: Drive for Results  

Overview:  Our Signature Leadership Development Experience: http://bit.ly/DevelopYourGame

IN THIS EPISODE...

Dr. Sherry Yellin, president of The Yellin Group, is the author of several books on leadership and is driven by a passion for understanding how the brain learns and how this knowledge can transform leadership and organizational culture. She shares her journey from academia to entrepreneurship, recounting pivotal moments that shaped her career, including her early work in workplace education and her realization of the profound impact that neuroscience can have on learning and leadership. Sherry emphasizes the importance of aligning leadership strategies with brain science, particularly in managing harmful threats in the workplace, fostering clarity, and empowering individuals through choice and voice.

The Yellin Group specializes in helping leaders and organizations leverage brain-based strategies to enhance performance and culture, providing practical, research-backed tools and teachings on leadership development. Their unique Cranium Campus platform offers micro-training on leadership topics, providing leaders with the opportunity to engage in short, impactful teachings and collaborative discussions designed to help them lead more effectively by understanding and applying the science of how the brain functions optimally.

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Full show notes, guest bio, links to resources mentioned, and other compelling episodes can be found at http://LeadYourGamePodcast.com. (Click the magnifying icon at the top right and type “Sherry”)

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• Sherry’s story about transitioning from college English teaching to workplace education and founding The Yellin Group. 
• What is the significance of understanding how the brain learns in the context of leadership and organizational culture? 
• “Negative threat” and how it impacts brain performance and workplace behavior. 
• How leaders can proactively minimize “negative threat” and foster clarity, choice, and positive outcomes for their teams.
• Practical strategies for leading through change and uncertainty, including the importance of giving people a voice. 
• What is the “Cranium Campus” and how does it support leadership development? 
• Monthly “Leading Lab” sessions and how leaders can participate. 

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[02:20] Sherry’s personal background and life outside of work.

[04:27] Sherry’s career shift from teaching to workplace education and the founding of The Yellin Group.

[10:01] Discussion on the impact of neuroscience and technology on leadership and learning.

[12:51] Overview of the “Cranium Campus” and the seven brain-based leadership strategies.

[14:00] Explanation of “negative threat” and its effects on brain performance and workplace culture.

[15:19] Signature Segment: Sherry's entry into the LATTOYG Playbook: How “negative threat” shuts down the brain’s executive functions essential for effective leadership and collaboration.

[23:26] Practical advice for leaders: fostering clarity, giving choice and voice, and explaining the “why” behind decisions.

[28:27] Signature Segment: Sherry's LATTOYG Tactic of Choice:  Leading with Courageous Agility

[31:23] Information about The Yellin Group’s monthly “Leading Lab” sessions and how to participate.

Overview:  Our Signature Leadership Development Experience: http://bit.ly/DevelopYourGame

IN THIS EPISODE...

Brandon Sawalich, President and CEO of Starkey, discusses his 31-year journey at the company. He shares insights into his personal and professional journey, describing how he began as an intern and went on to lead the only American-owned hearing technology manufacturer. Brandon explores his leadership philosophy of servant leadership, building a strong, trust-based culture, and learning from both successes and failures.

Starkey is a leading American-owned hearing technology manufacturer, employing over 5,000 people in 29 countries. Starkey's products focus on making hearing aids more discreet and multi-purpose, addressing noise-induced hearing loss, and integrating AI for better sound processing. The company collaborates with tech giants like Apple and Samsung.

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Full show notes, guest bio, links to resources mentioned, and other compelling episodes can be found at http://LeadYourGamePodcast.com. (Click the magnifying icon at the top right and type “Brandon”)

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1.    Brandon Sawalich’s journey from intern to President and CEO of Starkey.

2.    The evolution of Starkey and its mission to create advanced, multipurpose hearing aids that enhance health and wellness.

3.    How Starkey is leveraging AI and technology to drive innovation in hearing protection and enhancement.

4.    Efforts to reduce the stigma around hearing aids through design and education.

5.    Starkey’s partnerships with major tech companies and their approach to serving clients.

6.    Brandon’s leadership philosophy, including servant leadership and building a strong, trust-based company culture.

7.    Advice for finding personal purpose, embracing change, and taking initiative in one’s career.

8.    Brandon’s reflections on company pride, employee culture, and the impact of their work.

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[01:50] Brandon introduces himself, shares about his recent marriage, family, and personal life.

[03:46] Brandon describes his career journey at Starkey, starting as an intern and rising to CEO.

[04:51] Discussion of Starkey’s growth in employee numbers and company resilience.

[06:29] Overview of Starkey’s mission, evolution, and focus on innovative hearing technology.

[07:59] Explanation of Starkey’s target audiences and how their products reach consumers.

[10:41] Brandon discusses technological innovation, including AI, hearing protection, and health features.

[14:29] Partnerships with major tech companies and Starkey’s role in custom ear molds for various industries.

[16:33] Brandon’s leadership philosophy: leading from the front, servant leadership, and company culture.

[18:20] Signature Segment: Brandon’s entry into the LATTOYG Playbook: The importance of building an executive team, setting a clear vision, and developing a strong “feeder system” for leadership.

[19:36] Learning from mistakes, encouraging risk-taking, and fostering direct communication.

[23:01] Advice for listeners on finding purpose, being patient, and taking initiative.

[26:13] Signature Segment: Brandon’s LATTOYG Tactic of Choice:  Leading with Courageous Agility

[28:15] Brandon’s proudest leadership win: seeing employee pride and company culture thrive.

Overview:  Our Signature Leadership Development Experience: http://bit.ly/DevelopYourGame

IN THIS EPISODE...

Kevin Knieriem, President and Chief Revenue Officer at Clari discusses his career journey, emphasizing his role in driving revenue growth and leveraging AI to enhance sales processes. Knieriem highlights the importance of trust in revenue data, noting that 67% of enterprise leaders lack confidence in their data. He stresses the evolving role of AI in automating tasks, providing guardrails, and freeing up top reps for strategic tasks. He also shares his leadership philosophy, focusing on making his team's jobs easier and leveraging their diverse talents.

Clari’s platform integrates data from various sources to provide real-time revenue insights, enabling better decision-making and forecasting.

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Full show notes, guest bio, links to resources mentioned, and other compelling episodes can be found at http://LeadYourGamePodcast.com. (Click the magnifying icon at the top right and type “Kevin”)

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•      How Kevin transitioned from food marketing to becoming a Chief Revenue Officer

•      What makes Clari's AI-powered revenue platform unique in helping businesses track and predict sales performance?

•      How is AI transforming traditional sales roles and processes?

•      Surprising insights the Clari Labs research revealed about enterprise leaders' confidence in revenue data

•      How does Kevin approach leadership and talent development within his organization?

•      What strategies does Clary use to help companies navigate rapidly changing go-to-market environments?

•      How can AI agents improve sales team efficiency and decision-making?

•      Kevin’s advice for strategic decision-making in high-pressure executive roles

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[01:19] Kevin's personal life and background

[10:57] How Clari's platform collects and analyzes data to provide revenue context and insights

[12:20] Deploying AI agents to help sales reps with call summaries, follow-up, and efficiency

[16:35] Why leadership distrust in AI is the top blocker to AI adoption

[17:24] Signature Segment: Kevin’s entry into the LATTOYG Playbook: Data as the foundation for running your process

[19:06] Highlighting the need for strategic data and insights

[22:09] Working for the team, removing obstacles, and making selling easier for representatives

[26:30] Encouraging employees to explore roles beyond their initial position

[29:48] Signature Segment: Kevin’s LATTOYG Tactic of Choice: Leading with Strategic Decision-Making

Overview:  Our Signature Leadership Development Experience: http://bit.ly/DevelopYourGame

IN THIS EPISODE...

Stephane Akoki, CEO of Elevate Côte d'Ivoire, shares how he overcame significant challenges in Côte d'Ivoire, including civil wars and economic instability, by pursuing education abroad and eventually founding Elevate Côte d'Ivoire. His nonprofit now operates across six African countries, providing educational and job opportunities that help professionals dramatically increase their income through virtual assistant and remote work placements.

Elevate Côte d’Ivoire utilizes a unique, sustainable model where less than 1% of revenue comes from donations, instead generating funds through job placement services. By helping individuals achieve financial stability, Elevate enables professionals to move beyond survival and create opportunities for themselves and their families.

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Full show notes, guest bio, links to resources mentioned, and other compelling episodes can be found at http://LeadYourGamePodcast.com. (Click the magnifying icon at the top right and type “Stephane”)

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·      Stephane's incredible journey from Côte d'Ivoire through being scammed in China to success in the US

·      The cultural diversity of Côte d'Ivoire and the challenges of growing up during civil wars

·      How personal struggles inspired the creation of the nonprofit Elevate Côte d'Ivoire

·      The innovative, sustainable nonprofit model that generates revenue through job placements

·      Success stories of individuals like Ruth from Nigeria who transformed their economic situation

·      Stephane's approach to entrepreneurship and solving problems creatively

·      The organization's expansion across six African countries and plans to build a university

·      Insights into overcoming obstacles and creating opportunities in developing economies

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[00:04] What is the Lead at the Top of Your Game Podcast?

[2:11] Stephane’s personal life and travel

[5:00] Stephan's background in Côte d'Ivoire

[6:25] Challenges with education due to civil wars and financial struggles

[8:23] Stephen’s trip to China after being scammed by an agency

[18:40] Founding of Elevate Côte d'Ivoire

[19:18] Signature Segment: Stephane’s entry into the LATTOYG Playbook: Generosity…Saving a portion for the stranger who might need it.

[22:24] Success story of Ruth from Nigeria

[29:24] Signature Segment: Stephane’s LATTOYG Tactic of Choice: Leading with Intrapreneurship

[31:18] How Côte d’Ivoire developed a sustainable nonprofit model

[32:12] How to get in touch with Stephane

Overview:  Our Signature Leadership Development Experience: http://bit.ly/DevelopYourGame

IN THIS EPISODE...

Yuriy Boyechko, CEO of Hope for Ukraine, shares the inspiring journey behind founding the nonprofit and its rapid scale-up in response to the 2022 invasion of Ukraine. The organization partners with over 100 local groups to deliver food, solar energy, and vital aid.

Yuriy highlights the role of impact in driving volunteer motivation and donor engagement, emphasizing the power of communication, transparency, and responsiveness. He outlines strategies for long-term viability, the challenges of operating in a war zone, and his vision to eventually meet all needs on the ground, thereby making the organization's mission complete.

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Full show notes, guest bio, links to resources mentioned, and other compelling episodes can be found at http://LeadYourGamePodcast.com. (Click the magnifying icon at the top right and type “Yuriy”)

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1.    What is the mission of Hope for Ukraine?

2.    When did Hope for Ukraine scale up its operations?

3.    How does the organization deliver aid in Ukraine?

4.    What role does impact play in motivating teams and volunteers?

5.    How does Hope for Ukraine keep donors engaged?

6.    Why is effective communication essential for an organization's success?

7.    What makes Hope for Ukraine different from other nonprofits?

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[02:50] Yuriy's Personal Life

[04:59] Hope for Ukraine's Mission and Impact

[08:44] Logistics and Operations of Hope for Ukraine

[14:05] Donor Engagement and Long-Term Viability

[17:00] Building the First Donor Base

[19:12] Signature Segment: Yuriy's entry into the LATTOYG Playbook: Differentiation and Best Practices

[25:02] Signature Segment: Yuriy's LATTOYG Tactic of Choice: Leading with Drive for Results

[27:01] Contact Information 

Overview:  Our Signature Leadership Development Experience: http://bit.ly/DevelopYourGame

IN THIS EPISODE...

Joseph Landes, Co-founder and Chief Revenue Officer of Nerdio, shares insights into the company's mission, culture, and growth. He explains how Nerdio simplifies Microsoft Cloud technologies for businesses of all sizes, emphasizing their commitment to remote work through programs like the "Mayor Program" and the "Nerdio Break Room."

Joseph discusses transitioning from Microsoft to leading a high-growth startup, highlighting the importance of hiring resilient team members and focusing on recurring revenue. He also details Nerdio's customer education initiatives, leadership philosophy, and "outside-in" approach, prioritizing customer feedback.

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Full show notes, guest bio, links to resources mentioned, and other compelling episodes can be found at http://LeadYourGamePodcast.com. (Click the magnifying icon at the top right and type “Joseph”)

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Learn more about us! https://shockinglydifferent.com/

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1.    What is Nerdio's mission?

2.    How does Nerdio support remote work?

3.    What is the "Mayor Program" at Nerdio?

4.    How does Nerdio educate its customers and partners?

5.    What is the importance of recurring revenue?

6.    How does Nerdio stay updated with market trends?

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[02:29] Joseph's Personal Interests

[04:21] Joseph's Career Journey at Microsoft

[07:54] Nerdio's Services and Market Reach

[11:32] Remote Work Culture and Challenges

[18:02] Signature Segment: Joseph's entry into the LATTOYG Playbook: Nerdio's Growth and Recognition

[20:32] Nerdio's Future Plans and Customer Focus

[24:07] Signature Segment: Joseph's LATTOYG Tactic of Choice: Leading with Drive for Result

Overview:  Our Signature Leadership Development Experience: http://bit.ly/DevelopYourGame

IN THIS EPISODE...

Jennifer Langton is a dynamic speaker and accomplished executive recognized for her expertise in innovation, finance, and sports safety. With leadership roles at Atari and the NFL, she pioneered advanced financial systems and spearheaded groundbreaking health initiatives.

In this conversation, she opens up about her personal journey, highlighting the importance of rest, reflection, and following one's passions. She discusses her leadership style, rooted in authenticity, empowerment, and growth, and shares how she thrived in male-dominated environments. Now focused on speaking and consulting, she continues to inspire others to lead with purpose and drive meaningful change.

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Full show notes, guest bio, links to resources mentioned, and other compelling episodes can be found at http://LeadYourGamePodcast.com. (Click the magnifying icon at the top right and type “Jennifer”)

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1.    What makes a good leader?

2.    Why self-reflection and downtime are essential

3.    How can someone succeed in a male-dominated field?

4.    How can teamwork help at work?

5.    What is the significance of leading with intellectual horsepower?

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[02:25] Personal Life and Career Transition

[07:05] Career Highlights and Leadership Style

[14:58] Role in the NFL and Innovative Initiatives

[22:38] Signature Segment: Jennifer's entry into the LATTOYG Playbook: Approach to Leading in a Male-Dominated Industry

[30:26] Signature Segment: Jennifer's LATTOYG Tactic of Choice: Leading with Intellectual Horsepower

[32:24] Connect with Jennifer

Overview:  Our Signature Leadership Development Experience: http://bit.ly/DevelopYourGame

IN THIS EPISODE...

Tyrone Farmer, the Senior Director of Corporate Safety at Dycom Industries Inc., shares insights on building a strong safety culture in the telecom construction industry. He explains Dycom's mission to connect underserved communities, emphasizing that safety is a key driver of operational excellence. He also highlights the importance of aligning safety leadership with business strategy and decision-making.

Tyrone discusses building trust across departments, the growing role of AI in safety, and the five principles of human and organizational performance. He also offers guidance to early-career safety professionals, emphasizing the importance of leadership development and executive presence in safety roles.

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Full show notes, guest bio, links to resources mentioned, and other compelling episodes can be found at http://LeadYourGamePodcast.com. (Click the magnifying icon at the top right and type “Tyrone”)

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1.    What is the mission of Dycom Industries?

2.    Why is safety considered essential for business success?

3.    How can safety leaders build trust with other leaders in the organization?

4.    What are the five principles of human and organizational performance?

5.    How can artificial intelligence help improve safety processes?

6.    Why do safety leaders need both technology and people skills?

7.    How does understanding the business help safety professionals communicate effectively?

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[02:27] Tyrone's Personal Life

[05:36] Professional Career Journey

[09:38] Dycom Industries and Its Mission

[12:27] Safety as a Business Imperative

[17:05] Signature Segment: Tyrone's entry into the LATTOYG Playbook: Building Relationships and Trust

[19:03] Trends in Safety and AI

[24:11] Advice for Early Career Safety Professionals

[25:59] Signature Segment: Tyrone's LATTOYG Tactic of Choice: Leading with Executive Presence

[29:26] Contact Information

Overview:  Our Signature Leadership Development Experience: http://bit.ly/DevelopYourGame

IN THIS EPISODE...

Stephen Paskoff, founder, president, and CEO of Employment Learning Innovations, Inc. (ELI), discusses the importance of creating civil, respectful workplaces. He shares real-life examples from high-stakes environments where fear of speaking up led to serious consequences.

Stephen emphasizes the need for open communication, addressing implicit bias, and fostering a culture that encourages listening. He outlines key behaviors for workplace success and introduces the "Just Talk" model. He also explains how ELI helps organizations, including the federal government, implement sustainable behavior change through virtual programs, huddles, and quick talks to reinforce positive workplace practices.

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Full show notes, guest bio, links to resources mentioned, and other compelling episodes can be found at http://LeadYourGamePodcast.com. (Click the magnifying icon at the top right and type “Stephen”)

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1.    Why is speaking up in the workplace important?

2.    What workplace issues are caused by implicit bias and microaggressions?

3.    What are the key behaviors for workplace success?

4.    What is the "Just Talk" model about?

5.    How can organizations maintain civility during challenging times?

6.    What methods does ELI use to reinforce positive workplace behaviors?

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[02:48] Personal Background

[03:52] Stephen's Career Journey

[08:06] Challenges of Speaking Up in the Workplace

[12:55] Real-Life Examples of Workplace Challenges

[14:32] Signature Segment: Stephen's entry into the LATTOYG Playbook: Key Behaviors for Workplace Success

[19:59] Maintaining Civil Workplaces in Challenging Times

[24:10] ELI's Offerings and Approach

[28:34] Signature Segment: Stephen's LATTOYG Tactic of Choice: Leading with Courageous Agility

Overview:  Our Signature Leadership Development Experience: http://bit.ly/DevelopYourGame