Welcome to another episode of Pivoting to Success! Host David Armento is joined by Diana Gurwicz, founder of Acrux Consulting LLC, a business leadership consulting firm, to discuss the power of facilitation in leadership, scaling a consulting business, and asking the right questions to drive team success. In this episode, Diana shares her unique career path, from studying engineering at Cornell University to working in management consulting at McKinsey & Company, and eventually founding her own consulting firm.

Diana explains how she shifted her focus from technical solutions to people-centered facilitation, helping organizations navigate strategic planning, decision-making, and team-building processes. She also reflects on the challenges of growing a business while staying true to her values and ensuring that her work aligns with her passion for facilitating change.

The conversation delves into the art of facilitation and the importance of leveraging others' knowledge to solve complex problems. Diana shares insights on scaling her business in a way that allows her to choose the clients she works with and maintain a fulfilling work-life balance. She offers advice on how to approach entrepreneurship in a way that aligns with both personal goals and professional growth.

If you're an entrepreneur or business leader looking to improve team collaboration, refine your decision-making processes, or learn how to scale your business without losing sight of your values, this episode is for you.

Key Takeaways:

• The power of asking the right questions as a facilitator and leader
• How to transition from technical consulting to people-centered facilitation
• Overcoming the challenges of scaling a consulting business while maintaining work-life balance
• The importance of adaptability and flexibility when working with diverse clients
• Advice for entrepreneurs on creating a business that aligns with personal values and passions
• The value of facilitating collaboration and leveraging team knowledge to solve complex problems

Links and Resources:

• To learn more about KME Technology Solutions, visit: www.kmeitc.com
• KME Technology Solutions LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/kmeitc
• David Armento's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-armento-kmeitc/
• Diana Gurwicz's LinkedIn:  linkedin.com/in/dgurwicz and Website:  www.acruxconsult.com

Thanks for tuning in to Pivoting to Success! Want to keep up with new episodes? Subscribe on iTunes or Spotify, and if you have any feedback, we'd love to hear it. Leave us a review and let us know what topics you’d like us to cover next!  

Welcome to another episode of Pivoting to Success! Host David Armento is joined by Lynda Hinkle, a seasoned professional and leader in the legal field, to discuss the dynamic intersection of technology, work-life balance, and the evolving demands of the modern workplace. In this episode, Lynda offers insights into how industries are adapting to rapid digital transformation, balancing personal and professional responsibilities, and cultivating respect and well-being in high-stress environments.

Lynda shares her journey of navigating both the legal field and entrepreneurial pursuits while maintaining a focus on healthy boundaries and personal fulfillment. She discusses the growing influence of technology, particularly AI, in professional services, and the challenges and opportunities this presents. Additionally, she reflects on the importance of mutual respect in the workplace, especially in high-conflict industries like law, and how to cultivate it despite the pressures of modern business demands.

The conversation also dives into the concept of “digital citizenship” and the growing role of technology in streamlining government and public services. Lynda touches on her personal approach to creating a life that harmonizes work, family, and passions, providing valuable lessons on how to avoid burnout and maintain balance in today’s fast-paced world.

If you’re a professional grappling with how to stay relevant in a rapidly evolving field, manage technology without losing your sense of self, or create a fulfilling career path while honoring your personal life, this episode is for you.

Key Takeaways:

• The importance of mutual respect in high-stress industries and how to maintain it
• The growing role of AI in legal and business sectors and the benefits and challenges it presents
• How to navigate the digital transformation of government and public services
• The necessity of setting boundaries in a 24/7 connected world to avoid burnout
• Practical advice on creating a career that aligns with personal values and passions
• Insights into leadership, collaboration, and transparency in both legal and business settings

Links and Resources:

• To learn more about KME Technology Solutions, visit: www.kmeitc.com
• KME Technology Solutions LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/kmeitc
• David Armento's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-armento-kmeitc/
• Lynda Hinkle's LinkedIn:  Law Offices of Lynda L. Hinkle, LLC and website: https://lyndahinkle.com/

Thanks for tuning in to Pivoting to Success! Want to keep up with new episodes? Subscribe on iTunes or Spotify, and if you have any feedback, we'd love to hear it. Leave us a review and let us know what topics you’d like us to cover next!  

In this engaging episode of Pivoting to Success, host David Armento speaks with Marc Snyderman, founder and CEO of Next Point Ventures. Marc’s venture studio in Cherry Hill, New Jersey, acts as a unique blend of accelerator, incubator, and growth consultancy, offering capital and expertise to promising companies in exchange for equity. Together, David and Marc explore the intricacies of bootstrapping a business, team-building strategies, and the selective use of technology.

Marc shares his philosophy on investing his own capital into his ventures before seeking external funding, underscoring his commitment to the businesses he supports. His hands-on approach requires balancing resources and handling multiple roles, which he believes fosters deeper involvement and control in the growth process.

The episode highlights Marc’s team-building approach, rooted in values of trustworthiness, empathy, and shared goals. Drawing from Simon Sinek's principles, Marc discusses the importance of surrounding himself with people he would trust with his family and finances, building a team culture based on respect and long-term vision.

Listeners also get insights into Marc’s pragmatic view of technology in business. While he values tools like AI in cybersecurity, he’s cautious about over-reliance, treating AI as a complementary asset rather than a replacement for human insight. His approach provides a nuanced view on balancing innovation with human judgment.

Key Takeaways:

• Bootstrapping with Intentionality: The value of committing personal resources and managing roles internally to control growth.
• Building Teams with Trust and Empathy: Why shared values and trustworthiness are foundational to Marc’s hiring philosophy.
• Balancing Technology in Business: Leveraging AI in cybersecurity and other tools without compromising human oversight.
• Shifting Leadership Perceptions: Addressing remote work productivity and adapting management styles to new work environments.
• Creator Economy and Marketing Trends: The rise of user-generated content and platforms like YouCreate, connecting brands with creators for modern marketing.

Links and Resources:

• To learn more about KME Technology Solutions, visit: www.kmeitc.com
• KME Technology Solutions LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/kmeitc
• David Armento's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-armento-kmeitc/
• Marc Snyderman's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcsnyderman/

Thanks for tuning in to Pivoting to Success! Want to keep up with new episodes? Subscribe on iTunes or Spotify, and if you have any feedback, we'd love to hear it. Leave us a review and let us know what topics you’d like us to cover next!  

Welcome to another episode of Pivoting to Success! Host David Armento is joined by Deanna Robinson, CEO of Social Impressions, to discuss her unexpected journey from marketing consultant to leading a thriving digital marketing agency. Deanna shares her experience of starting her business, overcoming challenges, and her passion for helping small to medium-sized businesses (SMBs) grow and succeed through innovative marketing strategies.

In this episode, Deanna dives into how she accidentally launched Social Impressions and the lessons she learned while navigating the complexities of entrepreneurship. She highlights the importance of staying adaptable and evolving her business to meet client needs, as well as the critical role of building a team of passionate, like-minded individuals who share the same vision.

Deanna also discusses the intersection of marketing and technology, particularly the rise of AI and its transformative effect on the industry. She shares how technology can enhance marketing efforts without losing the personal touch that businesses need to truly connect with their audiences. Additionally, Deanna talks about the importance of perseverance and passion in entrepreneurship, and how both are essential to overcoming the inevitable hurdles that come with building a business.

Whether you’re a small business owner, aspiring entrepreneur, or someone interested in the evolving world of digital marketing, Deanna’s insights on pivoting, problem-solving, and leading with purpose will inspire and motivate you to take bold steps in your own journey.

• The power of pivoting and evolving your business to meet changing market demands
• Why building a passionate, high-performing team is essential to success
• How AI is reshaping marketing, and why it’s important to use technology wisely
• The emotional side of entrepreneurship: staying resilient through the highs and lows
• Practical advice on finding your niche, betting on yourself, and staying committed to your vision

Links and Resources:

• To learn more about KME Technology Solutions, visit: www.kmeitc.com
• KME Technology Solutions LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/kmeitc
• David Armento's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-armento-kmeitc/
• Deanna Robinson on LinkedIn and website: Social Impressions

Thanks for tuning in to Pivoting to Success! Want to keep up with new episodes? Subscribe on iTunes or Spotify, and if you have any feedback, we'd love to hear it. Leave us a review and let us know what topics you’d like us to cover next!  

Welcome to another episode of Pivoting to Success! Host David Armento is joined by Edward DuCoin, co-founder of Orpical Technology Solutions, to discuss his entrepreneurial journey and the transformation of his business over the past 12 years. From starting as a small marketing consultancy to becoming a cutting-edge technology solutions provider, Edward shares how Orpical has pivoted to meet the ever-evolving needs of its clients.

In this episode, Edward delves into how the company evolved from a traditional marketing agency into a full-service provider that blends marketing strategies with custom software development, process automation, and business operations improvements. He explains how embracing change, including a shift to an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) and the incorporation of artificial intelligence (AI), has propelled Orpical into a new phase of growth and innovation.

Edward discusses the challenges of scaling a business, especially in the B2B space, and shares key leadership lessons he’s learned along the way. He emphasizes the importance of developing a strong company culture, hiring the right people, and adapting to changing market dynamics. Throughout the conversation, Edward underscores the value of continuous learning, persistence, and resilience on the road to success.

From growing a team that takes collective ownership to exploring new revenue models like equity-based client partnerships, Edward offers invaluable insights for entrepreneurs looking to scale their businesses, build deeper client relationships, and leverage technology for long-term success.

Key Takeaways:

• How Orpical’s transition from a marketing agency to a technology solutions provider has fueled growth
• The importance of developing a culture of ownership with an ESOP and empowering your team
• Why embracing artificial intelligence (AI) is a game-changer for business growth and innovation
• Key lessons in leadership: hiring the right people, fostering company culture, and scaling effectively
• How building long-term, value-driven client relationships can transform your business model
• The power of resilience and adapting to new challenges as an entrepreneur

Links and Resources:

• To learn more about KME Technology Solutions, visit: www.kmeitc.com
• KME Technology Solutions LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/kmeitc
• David Armento's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-armento-kmeitc/
• Edward DuCoin on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/edwardducoin and website: orpical.com

Thanks for tuning in to Pivoting to Success! Want to keep up with new episodes? Subscribe on iTunes or Spotify, and if you have any feedback, we'd love to hear it. Leave us a review and let us know what topics you’d like us to cover next!  

Welcome to another episode of Pivoting to Success! Host David Armento is joined by Ray Estevez, CEO of Ray Estevez Advisors, to talk about his journey from leading tech teams in large enterprises to launching his own IT consulting business. With over 30 years of experience in both big corporations and startups, Ray has a wealth of knowledge on navigating the fast-paced and ever-changing world of IT, especially for small to medium-sized businesses (SMBs).

In this episode, Ray shares his personal story of making the leap into entrepreneurship and the challenges he's faced scaling his business. From wearing multiple hats to mastering marketing, Ray emphasizes the importance of building strong relationships and continuously adapting to the needs of his clients. He also reveals key leadership lessons he's learned throughout his career, from developing high-performing teams to focusing on the soft skills that make a leader truly effective.

As an expert in CIO and CTO services, Ray offers valuable insights into helping SMBs leverage technology for growth, manage data effectively, and take calculated risks. He also discusses the importance of betting on yourself—taking those big leaps of faith that can lead to both personal and professional growth, even when the road isn’t always smooth.

Ray dives into the world of team building, highlighting the traits he looks for in new hires—confidence, resourcefulness, and a strong work ethic. Plus, he shares practical advice on utilizing platforms like LinkedIn to grow your business and expand your professional network.

If you’re a business owner or tech professional looking to grow your company or career, this episode is filled with invaluable advice on resilience, leadership, and taking risks to drive success.

Key Takeaways:

• The power of soft skills like empathy, listening, and communication in leadership and team dynamics
• Why confidence and resourcefulness are key when hiring technical talent
• How building and nurturing relationships can fuel business growth
• The importance of betting on yourself and embracing failure as a path to success
• Tips for leveraging LinkedIn to build your brand and attract new opportunities

Links and Resources:

• To learn more about KME Technology Solutions, visit: www.kmeitc.com
• KME Technology Solutions LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/kmeitc
• David Armento's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-armento-kmeitc/
• Ray Estevez on LinkedIn: Ray Estevez LinkedIn and website: https://rayestevez.com/

Thanks for tuning in to Pivoting to Success! Want to keep up with new episodes? Subscribe on iTunes or Spotify, and if you have any feedback, we'd love to hear it. Leave us a review and let us know what topics you’d like us to cover next!  

Welcome to the very first episode of Pivoting to Success! Host David Armento kicks things off with a compelling conversation with Jeremy Deck, VP at HUB International and former Army service member. Jeremy shares his unique transition from military life to a successful career in financial services, beginning with a pivotal connection made at West Point that led to his first role at Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield, and eventually to HUB International.

In this debut episode, Jeremy emphasizes the importance of networking and mentorship in shaping his career path. He provides candid insights into adapting to a civilian work culture and finding work environments that align with personal values. As a leader in the insurance brokerage space, Jeremy also discusses the crucial role of cybersecurity, especially in today’s remote work landscape, and explains how HUB International supports small to medium-sized businesses with full-service solutions, including cyber insurance.

With a focus on leadership and resilience, Jeremy’s journey illustrates the value of innovation and adaptability. He also highlights creative solutions like the Individual Coverage Health Reimbursement Arrangement (ICHRA), which offers companies flexible healthcare options.

This episode is packed with actionable insights, especially for those considering a pivot into financial services or exploring leadership in insurance.

Key Takeaways:

• The role of mentorship and networking in successful career transitions
• Balancing personal and work values in civilian employment
• Cybersecurity and remote work challenges for small to medium-sized businesses
• Innovative solutions like ICHRA for adaptable healthcare coverage
• Leadership through adaptability, creativity, and meaningful connections

Links and Resources:

• To learn more about KME Technology Solutions, visit: www.kmeitc.com
• KME Technology Solutions LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/kmeitc
• David Armento on LinkedIn at: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-armento-kmeitc/
• Jeremy Deck on LinkedIn at: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeremy-m-deck and at HUB International: https://www.hubinternational.com

Thanks for tuning in to Pivoting to Success! Want to keep up with new episodes? Subscribe on iTunes or Spotify, and if you have any feedback, we'd love to hear it. Leave us a review and let us know what topics you’d like us to cover next!