The Disruptive Leader

By Ranya B ✨

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 rebe... more

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FAQs about The Disruptive Leader:

How many episodes does The Disruptive Leader have?

The podcast currently has 36 episodes available.

The Disruptive Leader episodes:

October 21, 2024From 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:
Introduction to Jen Bergren and her unique career path [00:01:30]

Jen's journey from graphic design to RevOps and business education [00:03:15]

Transferable skills between creative work and operations [00:08:45]

Lessons learned in scaling a RevOps agency [00:15:30]

The importance of onboarding and training programs in agency growth [00:21:00]

Transitioning from agency operations to creating educational content [00:27:45]

Comparing traditional offline education to online learning [00:32:15]

Creating award-winning business processes and referral partner programs [00:39:00]

The role of human connection in remote work and onboarding [00:44:30]

Insights into Jen's upcoming book on RevOps [00:49:15]

The potential impact of AI on documentation and operations [00:53:00]

Resources for finding personal strengths and applying them to leadership [00:56:30]

Predictions for the future of professional development and business education [01:02:45]

Jen's top three takeaways for aspiring RevOps professionals and educators [01:07:30]
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.
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46min
October 16, 2024From 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:
Embrace cultural experiences to become a better developer and person

The importance of continuous learning and adapting to new technologies

Balancing technical skills with leadership and entrepreneurship

The potential of AI to revolutionize business processes across industries

Creating a positive team culture that encourages open communication and growth
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.
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53min
October 15, 2024Leading 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:
Small actions, like offering water to team members, can create a culture of humility and togetherness.

Authentic leadership involves showing up at your best and demonstrating the behaviors you want to see in your team.

Coaching should focus on both skill development and fostering critical thinking.

Embracing AI can enhance efficiency without sacrificing human connection.

Getting executive coaching early in your leadership journey can provide valuable perspective and prevent common pitfalls.
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.
...more
43min
October 11, 2024From 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:
Preparing for natural disasters and maintaining self-care during crises

The intersection of athletics and comedy in Lauren's life

Using humor as a coping mechanism for childhood trauma

Lauren's initiative against bullying: Lace Up Stand Up

The transition from competitive running to life coaching

Balancing academia, athletics, and personal growth

The importance of continuous learning and reinvention

Navigating career changes and finding purpose in work

Setting boundaries and prioritizing personal well-being in professional settings
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:
Start small when making life changes - focus on achievable daily habits

Find time for self-reflection, even if it's just 10 minutes in the morning

Regularly check in with yourself to ensure your work environment aligns with your values

Don't be afraid to set boundaries and prioritize your well-being in professional settings

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.
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41min
October 07, 2024From 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:
Emmily's transition from data analytics to founding Braid Babes

The power of saying "yes" and embracing new opportunities

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

Leveraging technical skills (SQL, spreadsheets) for entrepreneurial success

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

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

Recognizing and addressing founder burnout

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

Adapting from a founder mindset to a team member mentality

Creating impact in a new role and bringing entrepreneurial spirit to an established company
Key Takeaways:
Build genuine relationships and expand your network organically

Continuously learn and adapt, utilizing resources like audiobooks and YouTube

Prioritize self-care to maintain productivity and creativity in your business
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
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45min
October 03, 2024Scaling 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:
David's journey from Colombia to the United States

The impact of family resilience on career choices

HubSpot's growth in Latin America

The importance of mentorship and personal growth

Balancing work with personal passions like Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and guitar

Embracing diversity and inclusion in the workplace
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:
Embracing change and believing in the possibility of improvement can lead to significant personal and professional growth.

Mentorship and personal development are crucial for long-term career satisfaction and success.

Pursuing hobbies and interests outside work can provide valuable life lessons and stress relief.

Creating an inclusive workplace involves curiosity about others' experiences and actively rooting for their success.
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.
...more
24min
October 01, 2024From 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:
Customer education programs can significantly impact both individual growth and company revenue.

Integrating educational data with other business metrics is crucial for demonstrating ROI.

AI is becoming an essential tool in streamlining content creation for education programs.

A successful education program requires a deep understanding of customer needs and experiences.

Transparency, trust, and empowering team autonomy are crucial for high-performing teams.
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.
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35min
September 30, 2024Embracing 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
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40min
September 26, 2024From 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:
Transitioning from education to Tech

Applying psychology principles to business strategies

Challenges and opportunities in EdTech

Managing partner relationships at HubSpot

The importance of celebration in goal achievement

Lessons from Health and wellness coaching

Insights from working with the NFL Players Association

Building authentic relationships in the business world
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:
Psychological skills are highly transferable to various industries, including tech

Understanding motivations is crucial for building strong business relationships

Celebrating achievements is essential for maintaining focus and motivation

Coaching techniques can be applied to both personal and professional growth

Clarity and authenticity are crucial to building lasting business relationships
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.
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31min
September 19, 2024From 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:
Ed's experience scaling Boclips from 0 to $10 million ARR

The transition from EdTech to LegalTech

Genie AI's mission is to streamline legal processes

The role of AI in enhancing, not replacing, legal professionals

Building successful sales teams in tech startups

Balancing AI assistance with human expertise

The Impact of AI on work-life Balance for lawyers
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:
AI is transforming industries by automating routine tasks, allowing professionals to focus on high-value work.

Successful sales teams in startups should establish processes before scaling, hire industry insiders, and encourage collaboration.

The legal industry is embracing AI to improve efficiency and work-life balance for lawyers.

Purpose-driven tech companies can significantly impact both business growth and human connections.
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.
...more
23min

FAQs about The Disruptive Leader:

How many episodes does The Disruptive Leader have?

The podcast currently has 36 episodes available.