Together at the Top

Nick is back with another truly inspiring and informative episode as he sits down today for a chat with the remarkable Rafael (Rafa) Nieves, a Major League Baseball agent and CEO of Republik Sports. From starting out as a young baseball player in Venezuela to managing some of the very biggest names in the sport today, Rafa shares his journey, life lessons, and the unique blend of experiences that shaped his career. Throughout this riveting conversation, Rafa reflects on how values, family, and resilience have shaped his business decisions and the relationships he's built along the way.

Together, he and Nick delve into themes of personal growth, the importance of competitive spirit, and the impact of trauma on leadership. Rafa shares how his upbringing, his father’s early death, and his transition from a baseball player to a talent agent shaped his work ethic and perspective. He also discusses how his clients reflect his own values, explaining that success in sports—and life—depends on commitment, adaptability, and the ability to surround yourself with the right people. Filled with moving anecdotes and sage advice, Rafa’s story, as shared here today, makes for yet another episode of Together at the Top that you just do not want to miss!

“Your clients are a reflection of you and vice versa. It only works in the long run with people who share the same values.”

“I was 16 when I got on a plane to Florida by myself, and I had to grow up really fast. This wasn’t a game anymore—it was serious.”

“You have to be like a Swiss Army knife as an agent. From legal to medical, you’re handling it all.”

“I look at my kids as three startups, and those are the most valuable companies in my life.”

“Money isn’t my drive. If the only thing you bring to the table is money, this isn’t going to work.”

“If you don’t have a competitive spirit, you’re not going to be great. You might be good, but not great.”

“Preparation is the key to success. Whether in life or sports, you have to put in the work off the field to succeed on it.”

“Sometimes I think I should be growing the company, but my priority right now is being present for my kids.”

“I see the flaws in the system and how teams treat players as assets. It’s too transactional at times, and that takes the love out of the game.”

Links:

Nick Warner Consulting: https://www.nickwarnerconsulting.com/

Together at the Top on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@togetheratthetopnickwarner

Rafael Nieves: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rafael-nieves-72034a57/

Republik Sports: https://gorepublik.com/

Nick welcomes Wes Senechal, a veteran business leader with a diverse career transitioning from large corporate roles to small business entrepreneurship to the podcast today. Offering deep insights into leadership, Wes emphasizes the critical role of humility and the delicate balance between professional success and personal fulfillment. The discussion highlights the challenges faced when moving from a corporate environment to leading a small business, underscoring the need to maintain integrity and cultivate a positive workplace culture.

Nick and Wes further explore the evolving definition of hard work, shedding light on the pitfalls of hustle culture and the importance of focusing on meaningful, impactful efforts. Wes advocates for building strong, high-integrity teams and stresses the significance of preparation and deliberate action in achieving long-term success. The episode also touches on essential financial planning and saving strategies, providing valuable advice for emerging leaders and seasoned professionals navigating career transitions. Join Nick and Wes here today for their  experience-based perspective on achieving great success without compromising personal well-being.

Episode Highlights:



Key Takeaways:

"Leadership isn’t about ego; it’s about guiding your team with humility and creating an environment where they can thrive."

"Hustle culture is overrated. Focus deeply on fewer things, and you'll find true success."

"The definition of hard work has changed. It's not about doing 100 things poorly; it's about doing a few things with excellence."l

"Corporate America doesn't have all the answers. You need to be high integrity, take the high road, and do what's right for the customer."

"You can win big at work, but if your family feels left behind, there’s no real victory."

"Success is not just about climbing the ladder; it’s about achieving balance and finding happiness in what you do."

"Preparation is key, but trust yourself to deliver when the time comes."

"I wasn’t looking to climb the ladder; I was looking to do bigger things and have more fun."

"In small business, the projects may be smaller, but they mean more because they're directly tied to your name and your success."

"Save early, save often, and live below your means – it gives you the freedom to make bold moves later in life."

Links:

Nick Warner Consulting: https://www.nickwarnerconsulting.com/

Together at the Top on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@togetheratthetopnickwarner

Wes Senechal: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wessenechal/

Courtney Escalante, a dedicated McDonald's franchise owner in Northern California joins Nick on the podcast today to share her inspiring journey from childhood involvement in the family business to becoming a next-generation owner-operator. Their conversation delves into the significance of community support, effective leadership, and the unique challenges and rewards of running a family business. Filled with valuable insights into teamwork and balancing personal and professional life, today’s episode uncovers the core qualities necessary for creating a uniquely positive work environment.

Courtney's story highlights not only business success but also the profound impact of strong values and community support. She emphasizes the importance of servant leadership, maintaining integrity, and the role of continuous learning and adaptability in leadership. The episode provides a comprehensive understanding of the McDonald's franchise model and offers strategies for aspiring leaders to foster a supportive and inclusive work environment. Ultimately, Courtney's experiences serve as an inspiring testament to the power of community and teamwork in achieving outstanding business success.

Episode Highlights:

Key Takeaways:

"In either environment, we are responsible as team members because no one's getting this done on their own."

"The smell of fries reminds me of my family and what's important."

"There are many challenges, but there were also some incredible victories."

"As long as you're green and growing and not ripe and rotten, you can increase your ability, your talent to exponential levels."

"In a McDonald's restaurant you are going to have more than 1000 opportunities a day to refine those skills."

"We say, 'Hey, we hope that your experience here is a stepping stone for wherever you're going next.'"

"There's always gold in your backyard. When you think that times are tough, or a key employee quit, or something isn't going exactly right, sourcing what you already have, there are some incredible things there."

“The reality is, in either environment, we are responsible as team members because no one's getting this done on their own.”

"At the end of the day, if things aren't right at home, they're never going to be right in the workplace."

Links:

Nick Warner Consulting: https://www.nickwarnerconsulting.com/

Together at the Top on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@togetheratthetopnickwarner

Nick welcomes Placer County Sheriff Wayne Woo to the podcast this week for a deep dive into . the themes of leadership and business management. Sheriff Woo shares his journey from his small business family background to leading a large county sheriff's office with a $200 million budget and 750 employees. The discussion highlights the importance of maintaining a healthy work-life balance, the challenges and rewards of leadership in law enforcement, and the crucial role of employee wellness. As you will hear, Sheriff Woo's personal experiences, from working in his family's grocery store to his highly successful career in law enforcement, have shaped his leadership approach, emphasizing continuous learning and adaptation.

Sheriff Woo stresses the dangers of becoming too comfortable in a leadership role, advocates for ongoing self-reflection and improvement, and notes that his upbringing in a hard working immigrant family instilled a strong sense of dedication and community service, which has significantly influenced his leadership style. He goes on to discuss the inefficiencies in government operations, the lessons that can be learned from the private sector, and how building strong relationships and trust with employees, community members, and other stakeholders is essential for effective leadership. Placing strong emphasis upon the importance of mentoring and continuous learning in developing effective leadership skills, Sheriff Wayne Woo provides listeners here today with valuable insights that can be applied across virtually all sectors and roles.

Episode Highlights:

Key Takeaways:

"I'm never comfortable. That's a philosophy that has been key to my success."

"If I look back at my leadership journey, where I've failed, it was because I was comfortable."

"Employee wellness is really one of the top issues facing our profession."

"You have to have that work-life balance to have a healthy, long career."

"One thing Government can take away from private business is efficiency. There's a lot of bureaucracy and waste."

"We're in the people business. Most of our expenses are our employees that provide a service to the public."

"You can always delegate the authority to do something, but you can't delegate the responsibility."

"The more you can think and make decisions at the level above you, the better you'll be."

"You have to be a very good storyteller."

Links:

Nick Warner Consulting: https://www.nickwarnerconsulting.com/

Together at the Top on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@togetheratthetopnickwarner

Sheriff Wayne Woo: https://www.placer.ca.gov/2776/Sheriff-Wayne-Woo

Zac Kilpatrick, Vice President of Global GTM Partnerships at Cribl joins Nick for this latest installment of Together at the Top. Drawing upon his 27 years of experience in the high-tech industry with a specialization in cybersecurity, Zac offers valuable insights into his career journey, the rapid expansion of Cribl, and the dynamic challenges of the tech landscape. He and Nick also discuss the importance of vulnerability, empathy, and strong business relationships, highlighting Zac's leadership style that prioritizes transparency and collaboration.

Their conversation also covers the intricacies of scaling a tech company, navigating international business travel, and achieving work-life balance in a high-pressure environment. Zac shares practical advice on building trust and collaboration within teams, maintaining ethical standards, and the role of mentorship in professional growth. This episode is packed with valuable lessons from a seasoned tech leader, offering deep insights into the ever-evolving world of cybersecurity and high-tech industries. Tune in today, soak in the wealth of practical knowledge shared, and find inspiration in the experiences and impactful leadership approach of this highly acclaimed industry leader.

Episode Highlights:

Quotes:

"Being a little more vulnerable about what I don't know really gravitates people towards deeper engagement."

"You have to build the plane as you're flying it."

"Stick to your guns, be confident in what you're doing, and don't let distractions derail you."

"Success at the micro level is about achieving small things daily, personally or professionally."

"The spirit of collaboration and trust within a team is essential for success."

“To build a good team, you have to set the strategy, the rules by which we're going to operate ethically and morally, and those are, sort of, the immutable laws.”

"Failing fast is important. Learn lessons quickly and move on to the next thing."

"Leadership is about setting the strategy and helping your team be successful through servant leadership."

Links:

Nick Warner Consulting: https://www.nickwarnerconsulting.com/

Together at the Top on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@togetheratthetopnickwarner

Zac’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/zachary-kilpatrick-54b0317/

Cribl: https://cribl.io/

Listeners are treated to an informative and inspiring episode here today as Nick welcomes the truly remarkable Louie Brown Jr., esteemed managing partner at Kahn, Soares & Conway, LLP (KSC), a leading law firm in Sacramento, California, to the podcast. Louie's captivating narrative, spanning from humble beginnings on a Central Valley farm to a position of prominence in the legal and political spheres, offers a rich tapestry of insights into leadership, advocacy, and personal growth. Throughout their dialogue, Nick and Louie explore the pivotal role of seizing opportunities, adapting to change, and fostering a culture of collaboration and adaptability in achieving professional success. 

From navigating the intricacies of advocacy to cultivating a diverse and cohesive team, Louie's expertise illuminates the path forward for aspiring leaders in any field. Delving deeply into the dynamics of effective leadership, he and Nick dissect the nuances of leadership styles, mentorship, and team management. Louie's emphasis on humility, continuous learning, and fostering open communication resonates throughout their discussion, highlighting the importance of cultivating a supportive and innovative work environment. As they reflect on the challenges of balancing professional obligations with personal responsibilities, Nick and Louie offer practical strategies for managing stress and maintaining resilience in the face of adversity. Embracing technological advancements and promoting a culture of lifelong learning and adaptability, this episode serves as a beacon of inspiration for leaders striving to make a lasting impact in their respective domains.

Episode Highlights:

Quotes:

"Our expertise is access, relationships, and strategy."

"In our office, the best idea wins. We achieve success together."

"We have to adapt, we have to change if we want to continue being successful."

"Words matter. It's reflective of how you think as a leader."

"In order to be a successful leader, you must be able to recruit top talent and then put them in winning positions."

"Mistakes are inevitable, especially when you're trying new things and pushing yourself to do more."

"Adapting to new challenges while adhering to core principles is critical for sustained success."

"We have to have adaptability. We cannot have ego."

"Being involved in your community, volunteering, getting outside of this bubble that we live in, I think, is absolutely necessary."

Links:

Nick Warner Consulting: https://www.nickwarnerconsulting.com/

Together at the Top on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@togetheratthetopnickwarner

Kahn, Soares & Conway, LLP: https://www.ksclawyers.com/

This week, listeners are presented with a compelling glimpse into the life and work of former ICU nurse and now prominent professional equestrian and entrepreneur, Alexa Thompson. Leading Clearview Equestrian in Lexington, Kentucky, Alexa adeptly manages the demanding world of competitive horse riding on both the competition side as well as the business side. Today’s narrative showcases Alexa's journey as a testament to the power of passion, perseverance, and leadership in achieving success while taking on diverse roles.

Alexa’s conversation with Nick here today reveals the strategic thinking and resilience required to thrive in the equestrian realm, imparting lessons valuable to professionals in any industry. Her transition from the ICU to the equine arena not only marks a bold shift driven by her passion but also highlights the critical aspects of work-life balance, ongoing education, and the necessity to adapt to changing generational dynamics within the workforce. Alexa's international experiences contribute to a broader discourse on global business tactics, underlining the importance of ethical conduct and effective sponsorship relationships in establishing a flourishing business. Rich with stories of navigating obstacles and celebrating victories, this episode ultimately affirms the transformative effect of commitment and the quest for excellence, inspiring a deep respect for the path of personal and professional evolution.

Episode Highlights:

Quotes:

"Riding and training horses professionally is akin to being a cowboy or cowgirl in terms of the impact on the body and the commitment required."

"There's never a 'normal' day in the horse world, but that's what draws us all to wanting to do this as a profession."

"Being surrounded by a great team is the only way to function.”

"Life's too short to do something that you don't enjoy. Working hard in an area that you love is so much more fulfilling."

"It's not about doing everything; it's about how well you're doing what you're committed to."

"The horse is the true athlete. The rider has to be athletic enough to stay out of the horse's way."

"Losing money sucks, but at the end of the day, it could be worse."

"I completely redid my programs... It helped me with knowing what my income was going to look like every month."

"Without family support, it would be impossible."

Links:

Nick Warner Consulting: https://www.nickwarnerconsulting.com/

Together at the Top on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@togetheratthetopnickwarner

Alexa’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alexa.e.thompson/

In today’s insightful episode of Together at the Top, listeners are given the prized opportunity to glean wisdom from Nick’s very special guest, Brandon Castillo, a Managing Partner of powerhouse California public relations firm Bicker, Castillo, Fairbanks & Spitz Public Affairs. Brandon's narrative encompasses the dynamic evolution of leadership, emphasizing the paramount importance of self-awareness and adaptability in navigating professional growth, and his journey underscores the transformative power of mentorship, drawing attention to the pivotal role mentors play in shaping trajectories toward success. 

In this riveting conversation, Brandon notes that the path to leadership requires a willingness to embrace change and relinquish ego, paving the way for collaborative empowerment and collective achievement. He also candidly shares the personal impacts of success, shedding light on the inherent challenges of balancing career aspirations with familial responsibilities. Through anecdotes and insights, he emphasizes the significance of communication, presence, and prioritization in maintaining harmony between professional ambition and personal fulfillment. As the discussion unfolds, Brandon's emphasis on mindful leadership and the value of diversity in driving innovation underscores the multifaceted nature of effective leadership. Ultimately, today’s enriching dialogue serves as a testament to the enduring power of mentorship, resilience, and celebration in the pursuit of both professional excellence and personal fulfillment.

Episode Highlights:



Quotes:

"It takes confidence to say, 'I don't need to be the one that leads this meeting every single time.'" 

"Don't be afraid to ask questions.”

"It takes confidence to push work down. But, man, when you do and you get it right, it frees you up to do bigger things."

"Nothing beats preparation, other than maybe hard work."

"Own what you're given. Become the expert."

"Don't be afraid to change. No matter how successful you have been for how long, you have to constantly evolve."

"There's no substitute for hard work. There's so many smart people, there are so many savvy people, but you've got to work hard, you’ve got to have grit, you’ve got to have grind."

"As a father, I think it's different now that I'm older because I consider them all like my own kids. It's just the father in me, so it's really cool."

"There's a lot of data that drives our decisions. But it's also about balance, Nick. You have to have confidence in yourself and the data."

Links:

Nick Warner Consulting: https://www.nickwarnerconsulting.com/

Together at the Top on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@togetheratthetopnickwarner

Bicker, Castillo, Fairbanks & Spitz Public Affairs: https://bcfspublicaffairs.com/

Amanda Cone, CEO of Mario's Early Toast, a thriving breakfast and lunch restaurant chain in Northern California, shares her inspiring journey from reluctant restaurateur to powerful industry leader. Balancing her roles as a devoted wife and mother, and the overseer of this exceptional business and its 150 employees, Amanda candidly discusses her battles with imposter syndrome, emphasizing the importance of delegation, time management, and building trust. Her experiences offer valuable insights into leadership, employee management, and sustaining a successful business in a competitive landscape.

Highlighting the significance of cultivating a unique company culture, fostering unity among a transitory workforce, and hiring individuals based on character, Amanda’s compassionate leadership style, coupled with the challenges it presents, is explored in depth. The episode also delves into the role of technology in the restaurant industry, as well as effective time management, the evolving challenges of HR management, and actively seeking constructive feedback. As you will hear, Amanda Cone's journey is a testament to resilience, teamwork, adaptability, and the pursuit of excellence - tune in today for her valuable insights and hard earned leadership lessons that apply well beyond the restaurant industry.  

The Finer Details of This Episode:

Amanda’s journey to, and with, Mario’s Early Toast

Fostering a unique culture

Imposter Syndrome

Unifying a transitory workforce

Character-based hiring

Compassion in leadership

Embracing technology

Time management and delegation

Navigating HR challenges

The reward of caring leadership

Quotes:

"I doubt myself on a daily basis. I struggle with self-confidence and realizing that I can do this and I'm cut out to do it."

"One of my 2024 goals for this year is to start managing my time a little bit better and balancing the act of CEO, restaurant owner, mom, wife."

"But the things you suck at, you're probably not going to be great at the exercise. So supercharge what you're amazing at."

"Simplicity scales. Complexity does not."

"Nobody does anything alone."

"Building processes and making yourself redundant is the key."

"As long as somebody is teachable and coachable, you can teach them how to be a server, how to carry a tray, and those customer service skills. Interpersonality is the kind of stuff that you can't teach."

"As much as I want to get that location on its feet, I'm also feeling like there might be more growth coming sooner rather than later. And I'm excited about it because every time, I learn something new."

“The six most expensive words that you can say as a business are "We have always done it that way."”

Links:

Nick Warner Consulting: https://www.nickwarnerconsulting.com/

Together at the Top on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@togetheratthetopnickwarner

Mario’s Early Toast: https://mariosearlytoast.com/

In this celebratory episode marking two years of exceptional podcasting, Nick introduces Scott Kernan, the CEO of LEO Technologies, whose remarkable journey from prison guard to warden to Secretary of the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation and now LEO’s CEO serves as a truly inspiring testament to leadership evolution. His fascinating conversation with Nick here today navigates through themes of leadership development, trauma-informed leadership, resilience, and dealing with adversity. 

As you will hear, Scott's background, deeply rooted in the California Department of Corrections, has significantly shaped his empathetic leadership style, and, despite facing setbacks and public scrutiny, his unwavering commitment to continuous learning shines through. The episode transcends the boundaries of public and private sectors, unraveling the intricate dynamics between the two, and offering valuable insights for leaders of all backgrounds and levels. Together, Nick and Scott explore the transformative power of experience, leadership evolution, and the shared mission of public and private sectors in problem-solving and innovation. Tune into today and discover the resilience, adaptability, and enduring impact of Scott Kernan's journey, and gain profound lessons regarding the development of leadership skills within unique environments and beyond. 

The Finer Details of This Episode:



Quotes:

"I have a really challenging job with LEO Technologies... It's an interesting technology company that's providing a great public safety benefit to our customers."

"What motivated me at 30 was an exciting time... You get to know maybe 5000 inmates and maybe 1500 staff, and you get to know them by names and get to know their lives."

"It's important to remember that everybody is an individual.”

"We're all fallible. We make mistakes, we work through them, and we continue to press on." - 

"I think it's about relationships. I think it's about helping the government solve problems and address issues."

"Continue to learn, and please continue to listen critically. Listen critically. That's where your opportunities are."

"It's maximum accountability, but you're also describing maximum support. It's not just accountability; it's accountability, but with support."

"I think it's patience in communication. I can also be very definitive in making my decision when necessary."

Links:

Nick Warner Consulting

Together at the Top on YouTube

LEO Technologies