The Disruptive Leader

The Disruptive Leader

By Ranya B ✨BusinessEntrepreneurship
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The Disruptive Leader episodes

  • From Art Director to RevOps Maven: Jen Bergren's Multifaceted Journey in Business Education

    In this episode of "The Disruptive Leader," we explore the fascinating career journey of Jen Bergren, a versatile educator and operations expert.

    From her roots in graphic design to becoming a RevOps specialist and now a business education innovator, Jen shares invaluable insights on scaling agencies, creating effective business processes, and the future of professional development.

    Join us as we explore the intersection of creativity and operations, the importance of human connection in remote work, and the evolving landscape of business education.

    Show Notes:

    1. ​Introduction to Jen Bergren and her unique career path [00:01:30]
    2. ​Jen's journey from graphic design to RevOps and business education [00:03:15]
    3. ​Transferable skills between creative work and operations [00:08:45]
    4. ​Lessons learned in scaling a RevOps agency [00:15:30]
    5. ​The importance of onboarding and training programs in agency growth [00:21:00]
    6. ​Transitioning from agency operations to creating educational content [00:27:45]
    7. ​Comparing traditional offline education to online learning [00:32:15]
    8. ​Creating award-winning business processes and referral partner programs [00:39:00]
    9. ​The role of human connection in remote work and onboarding [00:44:30]
    10. ​Insights into Jen's upcoming book on RevOps [00:49:15]
    11. ​The potential impact of AI on documentation and operations [00:53:00]
    12. ​Resources for finding personal strengths and applying them to leadership [00:56:30]
    13. ​Predictions for the future of professional development and business education [01:02:45]
    14. ​Jen's top three takeaways for aspiring RevOps professionals and educators [01:07:30]

      15. ​Key Takeaways:

      • ​Never stop learning and share your knowledge with others
      • ​Document processes and continuously improve them
      • ​Balance technology with human connection in business operations

        • Connect with Jen Bergren:

        ​LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenbergren

        ​Newsletter: https://jenbergren.substack.com/subscribe?simple=true


        We hope you enjoyed this episode of "The Disruptive Leader."

        Don't forget to subscribe, rate, and review our podcast, and join us next time for more inspiring conversations with innovative business leaders.


        46 min
      • From Code to Cloud: Benoit Chabord's Tech Nomad Adventure

        In this episode of The Disruptive Leader, Ranya interviews Benoit Chabord, a multicultural programming language lead developer and solution architect based in Spain.

        Benoit shares his journey from a French startup to becoming a global tech nomad, offering insights into the evolving world of software development, data engineering, and the future of AI in business.

        Episode Highlights:

        • Benoit's early career in France, including his transition from video game development to data-focused roles
        • The decision to move to New Zealand and the unexpected path to entrepreneurship
        • Experiences in scaling a development team and creating a unique company culture
        • The challenges and opportunities of transitioning from startup to corporate environments
        • Insights into managing large-scale data projects and the importance of staying current in tech
        • The move to Spain and adapting to a new culture while maintaining a global work perspective
        • Thoughts on the future of AI in business and its potential impact on various industries
        • Leadership advice for managing developer teams and creating safe spaces for growth

          • Key Takeaways:

          1. Embrace cultural experiences to become a better developer and person
          2. The importance of continuous learning and adapting to new technologies
          3. Balancing technical skills with leadership and entrepreneurship
          4. The potential of AI to revolutionize business processes across industries
          5. Creating a positive team culture that encourages open communication and growth

            6. Memorable Quotes:

            • "I feel like this new kind of AI era is a bit like the .com boom at the end of the nineties." - Benoit Chabord.
            • "If you don't embrace AI in the next five years, I think those companies will fall behind." - Benoit Chabord.
            • "As a leader, you should probably do two to four one-on-ones a week with random people from your organizations at any level." - Benoit Chabord.

              • About Benoit Chabord:

              Benoit Chabord is a seasoned tech professional with experience in video game development, data engineering, and AI. His journey has taken him from France to New Zealand and now Spain, where he continues to work on cutting-edge projects while embracing the digital nomad lifestyle.

              Connect with Benoit Chabord on LinkedIn and GitHub.

              53 min
            • Leading with Authenticity: Insights from David on Team Culture, AI, and Personal Growth

              From making Tuesdays terrific to navigating the challenges of AI integration, David shares his experiences and strategies for building high-performing, authentic teams.

              Key Topics Covered:

              • Creating a positive work culture through small, intentional actions
              • The importance of meditation and presence in leadership
              • Leading by example and the power of authenticity
              • Balancing vulnerability and strength as a leader
              • Coaching strategies for skill development and critical thinking
              • Embracing AI while maintaining human connection
              • The value of executive coaching for personal and professional growth

                • Notable Quotes:

                • "I'm at my best when I'm my most present, when I'm my most patient." - David.
                • "When you do the work, you buy yourself the grace." - David.
                • "Find reasons to root for people." - David.

                  • Takeaways:

                  1. Small actions, like offering water to team members, can create a culture of humility and togetherness.
                  2. Authentic leadership involves showing up at your best and demonstrating the behaviors you want to see in your team.
                  3. Coaching should focus on both skill development and fostering critical thinking.
                  4. Embracing AI can enhance efficiency without sacrificing human connection.
                  5. Getting executive coaching early in your leadership journey can provide valuable perspective and prevent common pitfalls.

                    6. Next Steps:

                    • Start to reflect on your leadership style.
                    • Consider how you can integrate small, positive actions into your daily routines.
                    • Explore the potential benefits of executive coaching in your career.
                      • 43 min
                    • From Stand-up to Stand Out: Lauren R's Journey Through Comedy, Coaching, and Continuous Growth

                      In this captivating episode of The Disruptive Leader, I delve into the extraordinary life of Lauren, a former All-American athlete who has transitioned into a successful comedian and life coach. Lauren's story is a testament to resilience as she shares her journey of triumphing over personal challenges, finding humor in adversity, and discovering her true purpose in helping others lead more fulfilling lives.

                      Key Topics:

                      1. Preparing for natural disasters and maintaining self-care during crises
                      2. The intersection of athletics and comedy in Lauren's life
                      3. Using humor as a coping mechanism for childhood trauma
                      4. Lauren's initiative against bullying: Lace Up Stand Up
                      5. The transition from competitive running to life coaching
                      6. Balancing academia, athletics, and personal growth
                      7. The importance of continuous learning and reinvention
                      8. Navigating career changes and finding purpose in work
                      9. Setting boundaries and prioritizing personal well-being in professional settings

                        10. Memorable Quotes:

                        • "Running is a sport that takes a long time to get good at... It's like fine-tuning your warmup and focusing on the workout you have in front of you."
                        • "I think most class clowns, if you look at their childhood experience, have some sort of trauma, which becomes like a coping mechanism."
                        • "I would not be the person I am if I hadn't experienced that."
                        • "My main vision is to help people live more fulfilling lives and lives they're more excited about."

                          • Takeaways:

                          1. Start small when making life changes - focus on achievable daily habits
                          2. Find time for self-reflection, even if it's just 10 minutes in the morning
                          3. Regularly check in with yourself to ensure your work environment aligns with your values
                          4. Don't be afraid to set boundaries and prioritize your well-being in professional settings


                            5. Join us for this enlightening conversation about resilience, personal growth, and finding purpose in life's unexpected turns. This episode is a source of inspiration and learning for anyone striving to live a more fulfilling life.

                            41 min
                          5. From Braids to Business Ops: Emmily Bowman's Startup Automation Adventure

                            In this episode of The Disruptive Leader, we sit down with Emmily Bowman, Fathom's current Business Operations Manager and former founder of Braid Babes.

                            Emmily shares her incredible journey from accidental entrepreneur to tech operations expert, offering valuable insights for aspiring business leaders.

                            Key Topics Discussed:

                            1. Emmily's transition from data analytics to founding Braid Babes

                            2. The power of saying "yes" and embracing new opportunities

                            3. Strategies for building self-sustainable businesses through automation and efficient processes

                            4. Leveraging technical skills (SQL, spreadsheets) for entrepreneurial success

                            5. Managing rapid growth and leading a team of 70 employees across multiple cities

                            6. Fundraising strategies: How Emmily raised $800,000 from angel investors

                            7. Recognizing and addressing founder burnout

                            8. The decision to sell Braid Babes and transition to a new role at Fathom

                            9. Adapting from a founder mindset to a team member mentality

                            10. Creating impact in a new role and bringing entrepreneurial spirit to an established company

                              11. Key Takeaways:

                              1. Build genuine relationships and expand your network organically

                              2. Continuously learn and adapt, utilizing resources like audiobooks and YouTube

                              3. Prioritize self-care to maintain productivity and creativity in your business

                                4. Notable Quotes:

                                • "I love building. And in this new role at Fathom, that's exactly what I get to do. I get to build without all the pressure on my shoulders."

                                • "No one wants to DM for an appointment. I don't want to message you back and forth five times. I want to click your link. I want to click book now and select a time. And that's it."

                                • "This is my enjoyment. This is my fun. So, like, when it's, oh, what are your hobbies? I have hobbies that I love. But work is one of the things that I love."

                                  • Connect with Emmily on LinkedIn


                                  45 min
                                • Scaling Success: HubSpot's Latin American Expansion with David Torres

                                  In this episode of The Disruptive Leader, we sit down with David Torres, Sales Director for Mid Market at HubSpot, to explore his incredible journey from Colombia to becoming a key driver of HubSpot's success in Latin America.

                                  David shares his inspiring story of resilience, the power of believing in change, and the importance of cultural diversity in the workplace.

                                  Key Topics:

                                  1. David's journey from Colombia to the United States
                                  2. The impact of family resilience on career choices
                                  3. HubSpot's growth in Latin America
                                  4. The importance of mentorship and personal growth
                                  5. Balancing work with personal passions like Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and guitar
                                  6. Embracing diversity and inclusion in the workplace

                                    7. Notable Quotes:

                                    • "I think cynicism has had its time. And I do believe this world is for the romantics, right? The people who believe that something can be done differently." - David Torres
                                    • "I think happiness is not something that just happens to you. It's something that you have to chase and it's something that you have to make a choice to be happy." - David Torres
                                    • "Learn to be curious, learn to appreciate the fact that someone has a life experience that's different than yours, and they too have it in them to be just as successful." - David Torres

                                      • Takeaways:

                                      1. Embracing change and believing in the possibility of improvement can lead to significant personal and professional growth.
                                      2. Mentorship and personal development are crucial for long-term career satisfaction and success.
                                      3. Pursuing hobbies and interests outside work can provide valuable life lessons and stress relief.
                                      4. Creating an inclusive workplace involves curiosity about others' experiences and actively rooting for their success.

                                        5. Resources Mentioned:

                                        • HubSpot
                                        • Intergenerational Literacy Program

                                          • Connect with David Torres on LinkedIn

                                          We hope you enjoyed this episode of The Disruptive Leader.

                                          Don't forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share with your network.

                                          Join us next time for more insights from innovative leaders shaping the future of business and technology.


                                          24 min
                                        • From Agency Unfiltered to Airtable: Kevin Dunn's Education Revolution

                                          In this episode of The Disruptive Leader, Ranya interviews Kevin Dunn, Senior Manager of Customer Education and Community at Airtable and former leader of HubSpot Academy.

                                          They dive deep into the world of customer education, community building, and AI's impact on these initiatives.

                                          Episode Highlights:

                                          • Kevin's transition from HubSpot to Airtable and the challenges of building a customer education program from scratch
                                          • The launch of Airtable Academy and its expansion to all users
                                          • The dual impact of customer education: empowering individuals and driving business growth
                                          • Challenges in creating and maintaining educational content for rapidly evolving tech products
                                          • Insights from Kevin's experience hosting the Agency Unfiltered podcast
                                          • The importance of integrating learning management systems with other business tools to measure ROI
                                          • How project management principles influence the development of educational initiatives
                                          • The role of AI in revolutionizing content creation for customer education programs
                                          • Kevin's approach to building high-performing teams and fostering a culture of transparency and trust
                                          • Essential advice for aspiring talent looking to launch academies or communities

                                            • Key Takeaways:

                                            1. Customer education programs can significantly impact both individual growth and company revenue.
                                            2. Integrating educational data with other business metrics is crucial for demonstrating ROI.
                                            3. AI is becoming an essential tool in streamlining content creation for education programs.
                                            4. A successful education program requires a deep understanding of customer needs and experiences.
                                            5. Transparency, trust, and empowering team autonomy are crucial for high-performing teams.

                                              6. Notable Quotes:

                                              • "Certified or educated customers yield better, more sophisticated product usage. And we anticipate it will yield a positive Delta on things like retention and renewal." - Kevin Dunn.
                                              • "The folks that can embed AI into the curriculum development process are going to replace the ones that don't." - Kevin Dunn on the impact of AI in customer education.
                                              • "You just have to treat your teams and collaborators, your direct reports. They're humans, and I care deeply about them and their work. And you'll be able to get better and more direct at feedback and create a high-performance culture." - Kevin Dunn on leadership.

                                                • Resources Mentioned:

                                                • Airtable Academy
                                                • HubSpot Academy
                                                • Agency Unfiltered podcast

                                                  • Connect with Kevin Dunn on LinkedIn for more customer education and community-building insights.


                                                  35 min
                                                • Embracing Vulnerability: Mental Health in the Modern Business World

                                                  In this episode of The Disruptive Leader, Ranya, and Mauricio discuss mental health within the business environment. They explore personal experiences, the influence of social media, the importance of vulnerability, and actionable strategies for fostering mentally healthy workplaces.

                                                  Mauricio shares poignant stories of loss and his mental health journey, highlighting the need for greater openness and support in professional settings.

                                                  Key Topics:

                                                  • The importance of mental health in the business world
                                                  • Personal stories of loss and mental health struggles
                                                  • Symbolism and significance of the purple t-shirt
                                                  • Impact of social media on mental well-being
                                                  • Redefining vulnerability in the workplace
                                                  • Effects of the pandemic on mental health conversations
                                                  • Connection between childhood trauma and adult mental health
                                                  • Leadership's role in promoting mental health

                                                    • Notable Quotes:

                                                    • Mauricio: "If you have a .3 batter average, you're like the best of the best. So that means that the misses are going to be more than the hits."
                                                    • Mauricio: "Tears are the unspoken words. Why is that a bad thing?"
                                                    • Rania: "There's enough for everybody in the world."

                                                      • Takeaways:

                                                      • Prioritize Mental Health: Despite growing awareness, mental health remains insufficiently addressed in many business settings.
                                                      • Embrace Vulnerability: Sharing and expressing vulnerability can strengthen support systems and create healthier work environments.
                                                      • Leverage Technology Positively: While social media can contribute to feelings of inadequacy, it offers support and authentic sharing platforms.
                                                      • Early Intervention Matters: Addressing mental health from a young age can prevent long-term struggles and promote overall well-being.
                                                      • Corporate Responsibility: Implementing dedicated mental health policies and roles is essential for fostering a supportive workforce.
                                                      • Lead by Example: Leaders demonstrating vulnerability can help dismantle stigmas and encourage a culture of openness and support.

                                                        • If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, rate, and review us on your favorite podcast platform. Share this episode with friends and colleagues who might benefit from the conversation.

                                                        Connect with Mauricio on LinkedIn

                                                        40 min
                                                      • From School Psych to Tech Success: Alana Lovett-Griffin's Relationship Revolution

                                                        In this episode of The Disruptive Leader, we explore Alana's unconventional career path as Manager of Partner Development at HubSpot.

                                                        From school psychology to tech, Alana shares her journey and insights on relationship building, business authenticity, and celebration's power in achieving goals.

                                                        Key Topics:

                                                        1. Transitioning from education to Tech
                                                        2. Applying psychology principles to business strategies
                                                        3. Challenges and opportunities in EdTech
                                                        4. Managing partner relationships at HubSpot
                                                        5. The importance of celebration in goal achievement
                                                        6. Lessons from Health and wellness coaching
                                                        7. Insights from working with the NFL Players Association
                                                        8. Building authentic relationships in the business world

                                                          9. Notable Quotes:

                                                          "We're not the executors here; we're the drivers and the coaches." - Alana on her role in partner development.

                                                          "Authenticity always, right? I know we say that, but it's going to become even more critical, especially in a world of AI, to be human." - Alana on the importance of authenticity in business

                                                          Takeaways:

                                                          1. Psychological skills are highly transferable to various industries, including tech
                                                          2. Understanding motivations is crucial for building strong business relationships
                                                          3. Celebrating achievements is essential for maintaining focus and motivation
                                                          4. Coaching techniques can be applied to both personal and professional growth
                                                          5. Clarity and authenticity are crucial to building lasting business relationships

                                                            6. Resources Mentioned:

                                                            • HubSpot
                                                            • NYU Online Graduate Programs
                                                            • NFL Players Association

                                                              • Connect with Alana on LinkeIn

                                                              We hope you enjoyed this episode of The Disruptive Leader. Please subscribe, leave a review, and share with your network.

                                                              Join us next time for part two of our conversation with Alana, where we'll explore navigating professional challenges and maintaining authenticity in high-pressure situations.

                                                              31 min
                                                            • From EdTech to LegalTech: Ed Kendall's AI-Driven Journey

                                                              In this episode of The Disruptive Leader, we dive into the world of AI-powered industries with Ed Kendall, Head of Sales at Genie AI.

                                                              Ed shares his journey from scaling an EdTech startup to revolutionizing the legal industry with AI. Discover how technology is transforming professional services and what it means for the future of work.

                                                              Key Topics:

                                                              1. Ed's experience scaling Boclips from 0 to $10 million ARR
                                                              2. The transition from EdTech to LegalTech
                                                              3. Genie AI's mission is to streamline legal processes
                                                              4. The role of AI in enhancing, not replacing, legal professionals
                                                              5. Building successful sales teams in tech startups
                                                              6. Balancing AI assistance with human expertise
                                                              7. The Impact of AI on work-life Balance for lawyers

                                                                8. Notable Quotes:

                                                                • "We never view us as replacing lawyers, rather equipping... Genie is providing kind of 80% done on the contracting workflow in five minutes." - Ed Kendall.
                                                                • "Contracts is quite an ugly word. We prefer the word agreements... What we're affecting at Genie is the speed and strength with which a company can create relationships." - Ed Kendall (paraphrasing Genie AI's CEO)

                                                                  • Takeaways:

                                                                  1. AI is transforming industries by automating routine tasks, allowing professionals to focus on high-value work.
                                                                  2. Successful sales teams in startups should establish processes before scaling, hire industry insiders, and encourage collaboration.
                                                                  3. The legal industry is embracing AI to improve efficiency and work-life balance for lawyers.
                                                                  4. Purpose-driven tech companies can significantly impact both business growth and human connections.

                                                                    5. Resources Mentioned:

                                                                    • Boclips (EdTech company)
                                                                    • Genie AI (LegalTech company)
                                                                    • GPT-4 and Claude 3 (AI models used by Genie AI)

                                                                      • Connect with Ed Kendall on LinkedIn

                                                                      We hope you enjoyed this episode of The Disruptive Leader.

                                                                      Don't forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share with your network. Join us next time for more insights from innovative leaders shaping the future of business and technology.

                                                                      23 min

                                                                    About The Disruptive Leader

                                                                    From the publisher's feed

                                                                    From braiding hair to breaking barriers, felonies to PhDs, and neurodivergent innovators crushing it - these aren't your typical success stories. Join Ranya for raw, unfiltered conversations with rebels redefining leadership on their terms.