In this episode of the Drop In CEO podcast Deb Coviello welcomes Curtis McCullom, CEO of The Curtis McCullom Group and founder of Bespoke Human Potential Coaching. Curtis shares his journey from top sales agent to transformative coach, revealing how he helps CEOs, entrepreneurs, and high achievers eliminate hidden mindset blocks and unlock their fullest potential. The conversation explores the LGET mindset, the power of hypnotherapy, and practical strategies for personal and professional growth.

Episode Highlights:
13:00 The influence of mentors and the importance of continuous learning
18:00 Developing the LGET mindset and integrating coaching frameworks
22:00 The role of hypnotherapy in personal transformation
27:00 How neuro-linguistic programming (NLP) interrupts limiting patterns

Curtis McCullom, CEO of the Curtis McCullom Group LLC and founder of Bespoke Human Potential Coaching, empowers CEOs, entrepreneurs, and high achievers to eliminate hidden mindset blocks and unlock their fullest potential. Through transformative coaching rooted in the L.G.E.T. Mindset™—Learning, Growing, Expanding, and Transforming—Curtis helps individuals become the best version of themselves, both personally and professionally.

Connect with Curtis McCullom:

Company Website: www.curtismccullom.com
Social Links:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/curtis-mccullom/

https://www.linkedin.com/company/bespoke-human-potential-coaching/

https://www.instagram.com/curtis.mccullom/

https://twitter.com/curtisBmccullom

https://tiktok.com/@curtismccullom

https://youtube.com/@curtismccullom

https://www.facebook.com/BespokeHumanPotential

https://www.facebook.com/curtis.mccullom.BHPC/

For more information about my services or if you just want to connect and have a chat, reach out at: https://dropinceo.com/contact/

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of the Drop In CEO podcast, Deb Coviello welcomes Shane Barker, CEO and founder of TraceFuse, the first Amazon TOS-compliant negative review removal system. The conversation covers entrepreneurship, the importance of focus, lessons learned from business growth, and the value of work-life balance. Shane also discusses the origins of Trace Fuse, the challenges of working with Amazon, and his commitment to helping business owners protect their reputations and feed their families.

Episode Highlights:

02:00 Shane’s Backstory: From restaurants to digital marketing and influencer education

07:00 Lessons from early businesses and the drive to help others

13:00 The origin and mission of Trace Fuse

18:00 How Trace Fuse helps Amazon sellers proactively and reactively

22:00 Relationship with Amazon and the challenges of review removal

27:00 Growth, focus, and the future of Trace Fuse

32:00 Work-life balance, personal growth, and building a high-performing small team

38:00 Shane’s life outside of work and the importance of family

44:00 Final advice, how to connect with Shane, and closing thoughts

Shane Barker is the CEO and founder of TraceFuse, the first Amazon TOS-compliant negative review removal system. With over 25 years of marketing experience supporting Fortune 500 brands, Shane has been recognized as a leading influencer. His recent focus is helping Amazon sellers combat negative reviews through TraceFuse’s innovative, white-hat solution.

Connect with Shane Barker:

Twitter: https://twitter.com/shane_barker
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ShaneBarkerConsultant/
Instagram: http://instagram.com/shanebarker
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shanebarker
Company LinkedIn Page: https://www.linkedin.com/company/tracefuse/

For more information about my services or if you just want to connect and have a chat, reach out at: https://dropinceo.com/contact/

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of the Drop In CEO podcast, Deb Coviello welcomes Lance Cayko, a serial entrepreneur, architect, builder, and co-founder of F9 Productions. Lance shares his journey from rural North Dakota to building a vertically integrated business in architecture, construction, and real estate development. The conversation explores the value of mentorship, the design-build model, affordable sustainability, and the importance of finding the right business partner. Lance also offers advice for aspiring entrepreneurs and insights into building a client-focused, resilient business.

Episode Highlights:

06:10 Early Lessons in Entrepreneurship and Money

15:30 Discovering Architecture and the Power of Mentorship

23:45 Building F9 Productions During the Great Recession

32:20 The Design-Build Model Explained

39:00 Niche Client Selection and Business Philosophy

45:15 Affordable Sustainability in Architecture

Lance Cayko is an award-winning architect, builder, educator, and serial entrepreneur. As co-founder of F9 Productions, a top-rated design-build firm in Longmont, Colorado, Lance brings deep expertise in architecture, construction, and real estate development. He holds degrees in Building Construction Technology, Environmental Design, and a Master of Architecture, graduating top of his class with the McKenzie Thesis Award. Lance teaches at CU Boulder and NDSU, co-hosts the Inside the Firm podcast, and leads Longmont Community Gardens as founder and president. A proud dad and professional fisherman, Lance is passionate about building stronger communities—one project, class, and garden at a time. 

Connect with Lance Cayko:

Instagram: @fishingwithlance

Company Website: f9productions.com

For more information about my services or if you just want to connect and have a chat, reach out at: https://dropinceo.com/contact/

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of the Drop In CEO podcast Dr. Denise Brown, a transformative leader in healthcare with over three decades of experience, shares her journey from medical school to becoming a Chief Strategy Officer and eventually a CEO. She discusses how she chose personal satisfaction over traditional success metrics, emphasizing the importance of making conscious, heartfelt decisions in both personal and professional life. The conversation also explores Dr. Brown's book, 'The Fairy God Doctor's Guide to a Good Life,' focusing on the seven prescriptions she outlines for living a fulfilled life. Both hosts discuss the challenges and rewards of embracing one's true self in leadership roles.

Episode Highlights:

05:19 Choosing Satisfaction Over Success

11:06 Insights from 'The Fairy God Doctor's Guide to a Good Life'

14:37 Balancing Life and Leadership

20:47 Mentorship and Legacy

With over three decades of experience in healthcare as a physician, CEO and Chief Strategy Officer, Denise S. Brown, MD is a transformative leader who helps women in business learn how to prioritize and avoid maternal overwhelm. A thought leader in self-care activities for women, she brings her expertise to books for successful women. A graduate of The University of Chicago's Pritzker School of Medicine, with training at Stanford and Vanderbilt, she lives with Alex, her childhood sweetheart of 28 years, and their sons Will and Hank.

Connect with Dr. Denise Brown:

Instagram: @thefairygoddoctor

Company Website: https://www.sagepartners.net/

For more information about my services or if you just want to connect and have a chat, reach out at: https://dropinceo.com/contact/

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of the Drop In CEO podcast Errol Allen shares insights on helping C-Suite leaders and organizations enhance their process efficiency, reduce costs, and achieve better business outcomes. Errol delves into the importance of process documentation, the role of CEOs in leading these initiatives, and the benefits of thorough documentation for training and internal operations. Highlighted is a case study where Errol helped a company streamline operations, resulting in improved morale, better performance, and increased company value. Tune in to learn how to overcome resistance in process documentation and when to consider automation for optimal efficiency.

Episode Highlights:

02:15 Errol's Personal and Professional Journey

10:27 The Importance of Process Documentation

21:22 Navigating Resistance and Achieving Buy-In

Errol Allen is a process improvement and systems expert who helps organizations align people, processes, and technology for better efficiency and ROI. With a hands-on approach shaped by roles at companies like ADT, GEICO, and The Houston Post, Errol launched his consulting business in 2011 to pursue his passion for smart systems and stellar service. He facilitates cross-functional process improvements across industries like property management, logistics, and manufacturing. A Houston native and natural storyteller, Errol’s insights have been featured in the Houston Business Journal, Customer Experience Magazine (UK), and more. His favorite saying? “I’m just having fun!”

Connect with Errol Allen:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/errolallen/

Company Website: http://www.errolallenconsulting.com

For more information about my services or if you just want to connect and have a chat, reach out at: https://dropinceo.com/contact/

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of the Drop In CEO podcast Ashish Gupta, founder and CEO of ScaleUpExec, shares his journey from co-founding a wireless technology company acquired by Qualcomm, to working at Apple, and eventually starting his own firm focused on fractional leadership for small and medium-sized businesses. They discuss the importance of understanding the needs of both the business and its team, the challenges and strategies involved in transforming distressed businesses, and the benefits of having a versatile COO. Ashish emphasizes the value of introspection for entrepreneurs to clearly define their business goals and align their teams accordingly.

Episode Highlights:

02:28 Ashish Gupta's Journey: From Wireless Tech to Apple

03:44 Entrepreneurial Challenges and Successes

05:52 Transforming a Distressed Business

08:55 Insights on Leadership and Team Building

17:29 The Role and Impact of Fractional COOs

Ashish has had a long journey in business and tech - selling 2 businesses where he was founder-level, managing a $2B/year budget at Apple, and now running a fractional COO firm that has turned around over 20 businesses. He is an expert at helping leaders and businesses reach their potential. 

Connect with Ashish Gupta:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashish-gup/

Company Website: https://scaleupexec.com/

For more information about my services or if you just want to connect and have a chat, reach out at: https://dropinceo.com/contact/

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of the Drop In CEO podcast Noel Massie shares his journey from starting as a part-time supervisor to becoming Vice President of UPS’s US Delivery Operations. He emphasizes the importance of intentional leadership, focusing on the development of team members, and shares his insights on effectively communicating and influencing without coercion. Noel discusses his book, 'Congrats You've Been Promoted,' which offers practical advice for new and seasoned leaders alike. Additionally, he talks about his extensive involvement in community service and the impact of projects like second grade literacy initiatives.

Episode Highlights:

09:13 The Importance of Investing in People

20:55 The Importance of Communication Skills

21:31 Directional Communication: A Key Leadership Skill

22:37 The Tactical Side of Leadership

Noel Massie began working for UPS part time during college and rose through the ranks to
become vice president for UPS’s US Delivery Operations. Before his retirement in 2019, he
oversaw 200,000 employees who were led by 12,000 supervisors. In this role, Noel supported
and guided the package delivery and logistic services in the United States. He continues to
mentor young leaders and supervisors.

Connect with Noel Massie:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/noel-massie-8b7511a/

Company Website: https://noelmassie.com/

Masterclass: https://noelmassie.com/choose-your-bonus-package/#masterclass

For more information about my services or if you just want to connect and have a chat, reach out at: https://dropinceo.com/contact/

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of the Drop In CEO podcast Michelle Drolet, Founder and CEO of Towerwall, to discuss the complexities of cybersecurity and her journey as a leader in the tech industry. Michelle shares her personal and professional background, detailing her rise to CEO, overcoming significant challenges, and her strategies for building robust cyber defense programs for clients. The conversation highlights her resilience through personal adversities, the significance of trustworthy relationships, and the importance of giving back to the community through initiatives like the Towerwall Cyber Summit. Michelle emphasizes the need for organizations to be proactive and vigilant in their cybersecurity efforts, offering insights into how Towerwall partners with clients to secure their digital infrastructure. The episode concludes with inspiring words on leadership, resilience, and the importance of community impact.

Episode Highlights:

02:15 Michelle's Journey in Cybersecurity

07:05 Challenges and Resilience in Leadership

14:40 The Importance of Cybersecurity

27:08 Family and Business: A Personal Insight

Michelle Drolet is the Founder and CEO of Towerwall, a leading cybersecurity firm serving clients like BOSE, Smith & Wesson, Brown University, and UMass Memorial Health. Recognized as one of CTO Magazine’s "Top Women in Cybersecurity" and named to Forbes’ "50 Over 50," Michelle brings decades of experience helping organizations protect what matters most. With a client roster that spans industries and borders—including the Insurance Board of the Bahamas—Michelle is a sought-after thought leader and speaker. She’d be honored to join The Drop in CEO podcast to share actionable insights from the front lines of cybersecurity leadership and strategy. 

Connect with Michelle Drolet:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-drolet-a926b79/

Company Website: Towerwall.com

For more information about my services or if you just want to connect and have a chat, reach out at: https://dropinceo.com/contact/

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of the Drop In CEO podcast Steve Harper discusses his journey in creating and fostering powerful, long-lasting relationships. Harper shares his insights into the importance of genuine connections in both personal and professional settings, the concept of the ripple effect in relationship-building, and his experiences that led to writing his book, 'The Ripple Effect: Maximizing the Power of Relationships for Your Life and Business.' Together, Deb and Steve discuss practical strategies for effectively engaging and maintaining relationships, emphasizing the value of continuous effort and authentic interactions.

Episode Highlights:

06:02 The Importance of Building Authentic Relationships

08:08 Evaluating and Strengthening Your Network

20:11 Discovering Connection Points

20:50 The Power of Ripple Connection Questions

24:23 The Impact of Small Opportunities

28:02 Networking and Relationship Strategies

Steve Harper is a serial entrepreneur, author, speaker, and business strategist known for unlocking the power of authentic connection. Over his 30-year career, he’s built a proven method for cultivating meaningful relationships that drive business success. As CEO of Owner Insite and Facility Insite, he’s woven his signature Ripple Effect philosophy into every aspect of leadership and client service. His book, events, courses, and podcast have sparked a global movement, inspiring individuals and organizations to build deeper, lasting connections. Through 8 Minute Ripple events and Ripple communities, Steve continues to challenge the way we connect—and why it matters.

Connect with Steve Harper:

Social Handle: @rippleton

Company Website: ripplecentral.com

For more information about my services or if you just want to connect and have a chat, reach out at: https://dropinceo.com/contact/

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of the Drop In CEO podcast Noam Sapiens discusses his journey from a young innovator to his current role, and how EyeQue Corporation is revolutionizing the vision care industry with their innovative technology that allows for home vision tests. The conversation covers Noam's career progression, experiences, and the impact of EyeQue's vision care solutions on society. They also touch on the importance of following one's passion and the challenges of implementing disruptive technologies in healthcare.

Episode Highlights:

03:19 Challenges and Triumphs in the Tech Industry

08:59 Joining IQ Corporation: A Perfect Fit

17:15 Innovative Solutions for Vision Care

31:42 The Future of Eye Care

Dr. Sapiens started his academic journey at the age of 14. He completed his PhD in Applied Physics from the Hebrew University in Jerusalem. He received multiple awards including the prestigious Eshkol Fellowship, The Romolo Deotto Prize, and the Intel Award for Innovation.

Starting in the defense industry while serving the Israeli Defense Forces as an honorary lieutenant, he continued to open his first company, becoming a subject matter expert, serving on multiple ANSI committees. One of the projects he worked on was a system that won the Israeli Defense Award.

As a research scientist at KLA-Tencor he introduced new technologies over five generations of metrology tools for the semiconductor industry. Served an integral part of the strategic planning team, steering budgets and resources to research projects
which significantly contributed to the development of metrology tools.

Previously serving as the CTO of another medical device company and being an engineering project manager at Apple also contributed to Dr. Sapiens’ technology innovation leadership.
Noam is a father of 3 and enjoys skiing, reading, and innovating (he has an optic lab in his basement).

Connect with Noam Sapiens:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/noam-sapiens/

Company Website: www.eyeque.com

For more information about my services or if you just want to connect and have a chat, reach out at: https://dropinceo.com/contact/

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.