The BIG Strategy Podcast

Founder of Karibu.AI, Nathalie Brochstein, brings a wealth of knowledge in AI-driven onboarding and organizational scalability. Teaming up with Hector Corral, Founder and CEO of Hedlyner, they dive into transforming industry practices. This episode covers the impactful use of AI in streamlining processes and scaling businesses while retaining a human touch and fostering growth.

In this episode, we explore:

• Challenges and pivots in music business journey
• Role of AI in revolutionizing onboarding processes
• Benefits of AI for small business scalability
• The future of conversational AI in companies
• Use of AI as a strategic thought partner
• Personalization and retention in AI-driven onboarding

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Dr. Davood Wadi, a researcher in AI and marketing, delves into the intersection of artificial intelligence and business strategy. With a history of teaching university courses in AI and marketing, Hisinsights span from the technical aspects of AI to its practical applications in marketing. This episode unpacks the evolution of AI, ethical considerations, and future implications.

In this episode, we explore:

• The historic evolution of AI: from Turing to today
• Distinctions between machine learning and AI
• How LLMs operate behind the scenes
• Trust issues and ethical considerations in AI
• Practical AI applications in marketing
• The open vs. closed-source AI debate
• Hands-on tips for marketers to leverage AI effectively

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Davood Wadi’s Research

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Strategy and Ops Manager at Athena Intelligence, Ethan Lavin brings vast expertise in tech, venture capital, fintech, politics, and international affairs. This episode dives into Ethan's dynamic career trajectory, his passion for AI, and his insights on decision-making amidst unpredictable global events.

In this episode, we explore:

• Navigating careers without a set playbook
• The impact of Brexit on Ethan's professional path
• The essential role of empathy in the tech industry
• Strategies for overcoming hesitation in AI adoption
• Career advice on "open door" vs. "closed door" decisions

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Athena Intelligence

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Founder of Fitness by Zoe, Zoe Schwartz, empowers women through fitness, nutrition, mindset, and recovery. Zoe's journey is remarkable, from navigating the corporate world of CPG marketing with companies like General Mills, Tough Mudder, Equinox, and SoulCycle to establishing her fitness business. In this episode, she shares her career transitions, overcoming isolation in entrepreneurship, and the creation of her ‘Strategic Strength’ platform.

In this episode, we explore:

• Zoe's transition from corporate roles to fitness entrepreneurship
• The unseen work behind building a strong professional reputation
• Overcoming the isolation of entrepreneurship through mentorship programs
• Navigating job layoffs with a proactive mindset
• Zoe's "Strategic Strength" platform for a holistic fitness approach
• The importance of offering comprehensive client onboarding experiences
• Integrating authenticity and fun into scaling a fitness business

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Fitness By Zoe on Instagram

Visit Fitness By Zoe

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In today's episode, we're wrapping up Season 3 with a dynamic conversation featuring influential guests Jennifer Gable, Clare Purvis, Jessica Wan and Shelli Brunswick. Join us as we delve into these compelling discussions that tie together leadership, mentorship, innovation, and the essential strategies every executive should consider for a resilient future.

In this episode, I have chosen my favorite moments with:

• Jennifer Gabel: owner of JK Crane, a crane rental company, and Construct Your Health, a wellness company targeted at the construction industry. 
• Clare Purvis: a Stanford University-trained psychologist and the founder of WELL, a leadership community for women in digital health. 
• Jessica Wan: 20+ years as a marketing leader, Certified Executive Coach and the host of the Ampersand Manifesto
• Shelli Brunswick: 35 years in the space industry, started in the US Air Force and now leads SB Global LLC

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Clare Purvis is a Stanford University-trained psychologist working at the intersection of mental health and technology. Clare's journey is inspiring, from holding leadership roles at Lantern, Headspace, and Mindcure to now being the founder of WELL, a leadership community for women in digital health. She shares insights on systemic leadership challenges, mentorship, balancing personal well-being, and driving sustainable healthcare innovations.

In this episode, we explore:

• How structural inequities impact gender equality in leadership
• What inspired Clare's mission at WELL
• Ways to broaden support beyond the startup ecosystem
• Shifting healthcare startups to problem-focused approaches
• The critical role of mentorship for women leaders
• Advice for male mentors to advance women's careers

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Clare’s Website

WELL’s Website

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Jennifer Gabel owns JK Crane, a crane rental company based in New Jersey. Beyond modernizing operations and driving profitability, she saw a glaring need for employee well-being. In 2021, she founded Construct Your Health, a wellness company targeted at the construction industry. Certified as an integrative nutrition health coach through the Institute for Integrative Nutrition, Jennifer also holds a 500-hour yoga teacher certification. In this episode, Jennifer shares her transition from corporate life to being an entrepreneur, following her father's footsteps, her approach to mental health and wellness, and the significance of nurturing personal passions outside of work for a balanced and fulfilling life.

In this episode, we explore:

• Jennifer's career progression from corporate employee to business owner
• Networking from an introverted perspective
• How to create a passion project like Construct Your Health
• Building a community for mental well-being
• Balancing professional life with roles as wife and mother

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Construct Your Health

JK Crane

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Consultant Jennifer Drago brings her strategic planning and governance expertise to the nonprofit sector, particularly senior living. Jennifer’s insights span from her consulting role to innovative solutions in senior care, discussing CEO accountability, people-centric strategies, and technological integration. She emphasizes the importance of transparent communication and workforce investment for organizational success.

In this episode, we explore:

• Annual CEO evaluations using a stoplight dashboard system
• Aligning individual performance with organizational goals
• People-centric approaches to senior care services
• Smart integration of technology to supplement human care
• How strategic planning is driven by a long-term vision narrative

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Peak To Profit

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With 35 years in the space industry, Shelli Brunswick started in the US Air Force and now leads SB Global LLC. She discusses business opportunities in space, the role of innovation, and economic development. Shelli shares insights on leveraging space technology for Earth-based industries and future ventures.

In this episode, we explore:

• Not in the space sector? Why you should consider space opportunities
• The potential of space for economic development and job creation
• Becoming interplanetary: integrating Earth, Moon, and Mars economies
• Leveraging government patents and incubators in the space industry
• Risks and rewards of space technology for everyday business operations

Connect with Shelli Brunswick on LinkedIn

Visit Shelli Brunswick’s Website

The Cosmos Economy by Jack Gregg

TEDx Talk: What's Space Got To Do With It?

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Whitney Jordan is a Fashion Strategist and Visiting Lecturer at Liverpool John Moores University. With experience at Macy's, J. Crew, and business school, Whitney speaks on overcoming career challenges, systemic issues, and her journey toward industry change, advocating for more inclusive merchandising and marketing practices. She also shares her family's legacy of resilience and her passion for diversity in fashion.

In this episode, we explore:

• Facing and overcoming systemic racism in fashion
• Strategic decision to pursue an MBA
• Black American fashion history
• Innovations in inclusive merchandising and marketing
• Whitney’s vision for a more inclusive fashion industry

Links mentioned:

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Visit Whitney's Portfolio

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