The Growth Fire
Kevin Hourigan
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This is The Growth Fire Podcast where we focus on talking about growing your business. We will be discussing digital marketing, or your culture to help listeners get better every day.
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The Metaverse: The Next Hot Trend for Large Brands
Ann Hand is the Chairman and CEO of Super League Gaming, a NASDAQ publicly traded company and global leader in the gaming metaverse on platforms like Roblox and Minecraft. Before joining Super League, Ann was the CEO of Project Frog, a company specializing in wholesale building materials to streamline design and construction processes. Ann has garnered many accolades, including the Forbes 50 Over 50 Award and being named Ad Age Leading Women of 2022, 100 Most Intriguing Entrepreneurs by Goldman Sachs, and the 10 Most Powerful Women Entrepreneurs by Fortune magazine. In this episode…
The metaverse is a collaborative, immersive virtual world with the potential to revolutionize how we work, learn, and socialize. People can use this space for entertainment, playing games, shopping, and attending virtual events. Is this the next innovator in big brand marketing?
It’s a common myth that gaming is an unhealthy pastime appealing only to introverted young people. According to seasoned marketing executive Ann Hand, the metaverse shifts the video game landscape through eSports, activities rooted in STEM learning that offer fair, safe, and inclusive environments. Ann elaborates that companies can save money and reach new audiences by promoting their brands through the metaverse, much like advertising during the Super Bowl. Additionally, companies can conduct real-time focus groups using digital products produced in less time instead of navigating excess inventory and complex supply chain operations.
On today’s episode of The Growth Fire Podcast with Kevin Hourigan, Ann Hand, Chairman and CEO of Super League Gaming, discusses how the company innovates large brand marketing. Ann talks about her career progression, how transitioning from global corporations to a small startup groomed her for her current role, and leveraging the metaverse as a marketing tool and focus group.
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Nov 15, 2023
How Positive Language Shapes Company Culture
Raymond Watt is the Global Chairman of YPO, an American-based global leadership community, and the Chairman at RIMAR Capital, a tech-driven investment firm. He is also the Co-founder and CEO of Omnislash, a platform that helps gamers capture media and stats while playing their favorite games. With 25 years of experience in software development and enterprise systems, Raymond was a three-time CEO for various companies in South Africa. Beyond his leadership duties, Raymond is a voting member of the Television Academy and a member of the Producers Guild of America. In this episode…
Clear communication and language are integral to attracting and retaining talented employees, improving team morale, and boosting productivity. Creating a culture aligned with company values starts with using language strategically.
Your company language is a powerful tool that can shape your organization's culture. Executive leader Raymond Watt affirms that using company-specific vocabulary and creating new words can influence how your employees think, act, and feel. Establishing your company culture on the first day of onboarding is essential for clarifying team expectations. You can accomplish this by creating a behavior code, holding regular meetings to discuss company values, and providing training on using the company language effectively.
In this episode of The Growth Fire Podcast, Marc Reifenrath welcomes Raymond Watt, Global Chairman of YPO, to discuss language's impact on company culture. Raymond shares his inspiration for joining YPO, how the organization impacted his views on company culture and core values, and the responsibilities of an effective CEO.
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Nov 6, 2023
Credit Unions | More Than Just a Lending Institution
Dana Karzan is the Chief Marketing Officer at VyStar Credit Union, a member-owned cooperative providing financial products and services such as investments, insurance, retirement planning, and financial counseling. At VyStar, Dana leads branding, marketing, advertising, social media, and community engagement. She has 20-plus years of experience in banking and fintech, with rich expertise in marketing, product management, and brand strategy.
Before Vystar, Dana held leadership roles at Facebook, Citibank, Wells Fargo, GE, Lloyds TSB, and US Bank. Her ingenuity in leadership earned her the 2022 OnCon Icon Top 50 Marketer Award, which recognizes top marketers worldwide. In addition to her work in the corporate world, Dana is an active board member at Groundworks JAX and the Jacksonville Symphony. In this episode…
Financial institutions can easily engender fear or anxiety in customers when it comes to service provision. Credit unions offer an alternative solution when it comes to financial services. They strive to make the customer experience as stress-free as possible while supporting local communities in various ways.
Marketing professional Dana Karzan explains that cooperatives like Vystar seek to live up to their mission of improving their members’ lives by providing better financial services and being a force of change in their communities. Beyond opening accounts and lending money, Vystar provides members with educational resources to learn how to save, grow equity, and consolidate debt. Credit unions help people achieve dreams such as buying a home, getting a college education, and taking once-in-a-lifetime vacations while revitalizing neighborhoods through supporting local businesses and serving on organization boards.
In this episode of The Growth Fire Podcast, Kevin Hourigan sits down with Dana Karzan, Chief Marketing Officer at VyStar Credit Union, for a riveting conversation about marketing in the financial space. Dana shares VyStar’s mission and the benefits it provides, how to evoke emotion in marketing, and how to leverage community service to drive business growth.
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Oct 23, 2023
Strategies for a Successful Company Rebrand
Joel Swanson is the VP of Marketing at Affinity Plus Federal Credit Union, a Minnesota-based financial cooperative offering full-service personal and business banking products. At Affinity Plus, Joel leads all marketing, public relations, and community initiatives. During his five-year tenure, he and his team have implemented a brand refresh responsible for the credit union’s record growth. Before joining Affinity Plus, Joel offered his leadership talents at UnitedHealth Group, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Minnesota, Bethel University, and Education Minnesota. In this episode…
Differentiation is critical to company success because it helps focus on a market niche. Initiating a brand refresh is necessary when an organization no longer appeals to its target audience. What are essential strategies to concentrate on when rebranding?
Marketing expert Joel Swanson explains the first step is to analyze the problem and target audience you want to serve. Once those areas are determined, establish a clear brand identity and story. Joel offers that customer surveys aid in this process by asking critical questions. Using the data correctly adds authenticity when creating campaigns using digital marketing. Joel advises avoiding the use of stock photos to tell a story. Instead, create bright images using real customers and employees that resonate with your core demographic.
On this episode of The Growth Fire Podcast, Kevin Hourigan welcomes Joel Swanson, VP of Marketing at Affinity Plus Federal Credit Union, to discuss rebranding strategies. Joel shares how customers benefit from rebranding, why digital marketing is critical to company branding, and how to build and motivate a team.
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Oct 23, 2023
Driving Top and Bottom Lines Through Effective Leadership
Scott K. Edinger is the Founder of Edinger Consulting, where he helps worldwide Fortune 50 CEOs and executive leaders develop leadership strategies to drive top and bottom-line results. Scott is also a published author, having penned over 100 articles for prominent publications like Forbes and the Harvard Business Review. He’s written three books, including The Growth Leader: Strategies to Drive the Top and Bottom Lines, set to be released in October 2023, and in 2015, he co-authored the best-selling book The Hidden Leader: Discover and Develop Greatness Within Your Company. In this episode…
For many businesses, the ability to sell solutions is the missing link in their sales strategy. In some organizations, companies need competent leadership to train their salespeople effectively. How can executives bridge the gap between sales and strategy?
Entrepreneur and growth leadership expert Scott K. Edinger offers a resolution in his upcoming book The Growth Leader. Senior executives can generate healthy profits by merging strategy, leadership, and sales tactics. Once leaders realize that growth strategy must align across all company levels, a company can reap a viable competitive advantage. Scott also argues that sales and strategy shouldn’t be separate functions. Instead, they should integrate the two into a cohesive whole to achieve their goals.
In this episode of The Growth Fire Podcast with Kevin Hourigan, Scott K. Edinger, Founder of Edinger Consulting, discusses leadership and sales. Scott explains the differences between management and leadership, how leaders can drive results, and how to differentiate the sales experience for customers. Plus, Scott discusses his latest book, The Growth Leader: Strategies to Drive the Top and Bottom Lines.
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Oct 16, 2023
Creating Extraordinary Leaders and Experiences With YPO
Thayer Smith is the CEO of YPO, a global leadership community connecting elite chief executives and cultivating extraordinary leaders to improve lives and businesses worldwide. Before joining the C-suite at YPO, Thayer led Bayshore Capital as an Operating Partner. Thayer has lent his expertise in complex manufacturing, financial management, strategic planning, and leadership development. He’s also been a YPO member since 2007, serving as the Chapter Forum Officer for the Florida Chapter and Regional Chair for the Southeast US and Caribbean Region. From 2019 to 2023, he served multiple roles for the Global Board of Directors before accepting his position as CEO. In this episode…
A company is only as good as its leaders, who are often tasked with making difficult decisions. Where can executives in power go to sharpen their leadership skills and gain support?
Seasoned business leader Thayer Smith recommends joining YPO, which brings together top-tier company heads to brainstorm challenges. Thayer believes that the essence of YPO is the forum itself, the relationships that members build, and the exposure to new ideas. He also recommends that members attend network and chapter events to reap the most benefit from their YPO membership.
In this episode of The Growth Fire Podcast with Marc Reifenrath, Thayer Smith, CEO of YPO, discusses the benefits of being a YPO member. Thayer explains the value of YPO and its influence on members, how the organization helps leaders navigate change and challenges, and shares memorable YPO experiences.
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Oct 11, 2023
Creating a Positive and Productive Work Culture
June Archer is known as the Puzzle Maker because of her ability to analyze and solve complex business problems across various industries. She is a former C-suite leader and business builder of global brands, including the Walt Disney Company, Sesame Workshop, Godiva Chocolatier, and NEST Fragrances. In her spare time, June lends her talents to organizations such as the American Marketing Association, the New Jersey Performing Arts Center, and the Princeton University Alumni Network. June is also the Chairman of the Board of Trustees for the Princeton University Store.
June Archer is known as the Puzzle Maker because of her ability to analyze and solve complex business problems across various industries. She is a former C-suite leader and business builder of global brands, including the Walt Disney Company, Sesame Workshop, Godiva Chocolatier, and NEST Fragrances. In her spare time, June lends her talents to organizations such as the American Marketing Association, the New Jersey Performing Arts Center, and the Princeton University Alumni Network. June is also the Chairman of the Board of Trustees for the Princeton University Store. In this episode…
Leading an organization is a complex endeavor encompassing company goals, values, communication, and attitudes. How does an effective leader control the culture of an organization?
Executive leader June Archer explains managing teams means understanding the needs of the business and the needs of the people in various roles — and can be accomplished when aligning company goals and objectives with the skills and abilities of each team member. Creating a fair and equitable work environment where everyone feels valued and respected is also critical. Communication is vital to help employees accelerate their careers and develop specialized skills. The culmination of these criteria indicates your investment in their success and willingness to help them reach their full potential.
In this episode of The Growth Fire Podcast with Kevin Hourigan, June Archer, former C-Suite and P&L Leader, discusses how to balance company culture while establishing goals. June shares her professional experience to educate others on the value of adapting to a new environment, the effects of including team members in cultivating company culture, and hiring with a focus on cultural fit.
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Sep 27, 2023
Cast Vision and Execute Goals With EOS
Ross Gibbs is a Coach, Expert Implementer, and Speaker at EOS Worldwide, where he creates simplified processes to help organizations improve their business models to achieve success. His business coaching career launched after a successful profession in sales and marketing. Ross is a serial entrepreneur who has successfully owned and exited four companies, including a consulting firm and a boxing gym. Beyond his leadership efforts, Ross enjoys staying physically active. In this episode…
If your business has plateaued and you’re struggling to find motivation, programs and resources are available to help you take your business to the next level. However, it can be challenging to know where to start.
Business coach Ross Gibbs recommends employing the help of an Entrepreneurial Operating System (EOS) Implementer. EOS is a proven system that helps organize, focus, and align business processes and provides a framework for casting vision and executing goals. By following the process — vision, traction, health — companies can identify and solve problems, improve communication, and increase profitability.
In today’s episode of The Growth Fire Podcast with Kevin Hourigan, Ross Gibbs, Coach, Expert Implementer, and Speaker at EOS Worldwide, discusses finding your calling and the Entrepreneurial Operating System (EOS). Ross shares his past entrepreneurial failures, how EOS has impacted his life, and sales and marketing strategies for generating business.
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Sep 20, 2023
Growing a Successful Business Leveraging Previous Mistakes
Jon Morris is the Founder and CEO of Ramsay Innovations, helping businesses quickly scale through financial education and strategic funds allocations. Before joining Ramsay Innovations, Jon founded Rise Interactive, a full-service internet marketing agency — growing it from a $10,000 bootstrap business to one of the largest independent digital agencies. Beyond his leadership responsibilities, Jon is an Advisor for Fiscal Advocate and was an Advisory Board Member at Pixability for nearly five years. In this episode…
Failure is inevitable when growing a business. What distinguishes successful business owners is their ability to learn from previous mistakes.
Jon Morris, a serial entrepreneur, turned a loss into a learning opportunity when he bootstrapped his second entrepreneurial venture and grew it into one of the most prominent digital marketing agencies. As a marketing principal, it’s crucial to understand your niche and keep up with industry trends to pivot when necessary. Have a clear vision, including understanding the types of employees needed to propel your business. To ensure you hire high-performing talent, consider designing a meticulous interview process and an assessment with a desired passing rate. Through reflection, entrepreneurs can identify business strategies in need of improvement.
In this episode of The Growth Fire Podcast, Jon Morris, Founder and CEO of Ramsay Innovations, joins Kevin Hourigan to share his growth journey as an entrepreneur. Jon discusses using failures as learning lessons, rigorous acquisitions for hiring elite talent, and sales strategies for generating new business.
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Sep 13, 2023
A Viable Workplace Culture Starts With the Right People
Cynthia Cleveland is a Partner at CEO Coaching International, the leading coaching firm for growth-focused CEOs and entrepreneurs. Cynthia is a five-time CEO and president who led companies generating over $4 billion in worldwide sales in consumer products, entertainment, and retail industries. In her 30-plus-year career, she has overseen popular brands, including Universal Studios, Teleflora, Mattel Toys, and Carnation Foods. Cynthia has been an active member of YPO for over three decades and is the former Chair of the Women’s International Network. In 2015, Real Leaders Magazine named her one of the Top 100 Visionary Leaders. In this episode…
Workplace culture is the culmination of shared values, beliefs, and behaviors that characterize a company or organization. It’s a doctrine influenced by the company's mission, vision, and values, but how can it be adequately assimilated to create a positive work environment?
As an accomplished company head who guided numerous teams for major corporations, including a Fortune 500, Cynthia Cleveland explains viable workplace culture is only possible with the ideal people. When leadership recognizes employees who negatively impact team dynamics, they’re responsible for placing them in a different department or part ways. Being a leader sometimes includes making difficult decisions — and in these situations, they must learn to trust their instincts. Leaders also create a culture conducive to employee success by establishing boundaries, setting expectations, respecting employees’ opinions, and giving workers autonomy.
In this episode of The Growth Fire Podcast, Marc Reifenrath welcomes Cynthia Cleveland, a Partner at CEO Coaching International, to discuss how leaders create workplace culture. Cynthia shares her insight on company culture and core values, why leaders need to trust their instincts, and why it’s beneficial to respect employees’ personal lives.
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Sep 6, 2023
Why Fear is a Formula for Success With Jon Tsourakis
Jon Tsourakis is the Co-owner, President, and Chief Revenue Officer at Oyova, an agency offering integrated digital solutions such as app development, web design, and marketing to create efficient processes for company growth. Jon is a serial entrepreneur and marketing strategist whose continual study of brand identity, business communications, buyer behavior, sales conversion, and various digital marketing techniques, keeps him astute to industry standards. His resume includes executive positions with digital agencies, including Innersight dZine Studio, REVOLT, and the Digital Mastermind Group, and his sales and leadership expertise led him to roles as Marketing Director and President for Astrum and CentralComp, respectively. In this episode…
Adversity catalyzes change, forcing people to step outside their comfort zones and try something new, which leads to personal and professional development. Learning new skills lends itself to growth, enriching our life experiences and is attained as a result of learning from our mistakes — and can work in our favor to build successful businesses.
Jon Tsourakis, an agency principal and business owner, is a prime example. He stumbled into the marketing industry after a friend invited him to work for his father's agency. Jon quickly discovered his talents and put his expertise to work by launching his own marketing business. Starting any business is intimidating, but without risks, there are no rewards. Jon’s experience with launching his company is a testament to how we can leverage mistakes to build a successful company.
In this episode of The Growth Fire podcast, Kevin Hourigan talks to Jon Tsourakis, Co-owner, President, and Chief Revenue Officer of Oyova, about his career journey in the marketing industry and the lessons it taught him. Jon shares marketing strategies, why he partnered with another agency to create Oyova, and the motivation behind going into business for himself.
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Aug 30, 2023
Leading From the Front While Learning From Your Employees With Scott Price
Scott Price is the Founder and CEO of A-LIGN, a technology-enabled security and compliance engine that mitigates cybersecurity risks. Scott has over 20 years of leadership experience, having held executive positions at Arthur Andersen and SAS 70 Solutions. His dedication to leadership has earned him industry awards and nominations, such as Accounting Today’s 2016 Managing Partner Elite and Ernst & Young 2021 Entrepreneur of the Year Florida Award finalist. Scott also volunteers for nonprofits, including the Junior League and Humane Society of Tampa Bay. In this episode…
Career-focused people have definitive goals and a planned timeline to reach a specific position within the workplace. But what happens when the company you planned to retire from folds?
Scott Price, a seasoned leader and entrepreneur, dreamed of climbing the corporate ladder at one of the country’s premier accounting firms before retiring. When circumstances beyond his control ended that dream, he turned adversi…
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Aug 23, 2023
How To Pave a Path in Advertising With Steve Wyatt of Kenneth Cole Productions
Steve Wyatt is the VP of Marketing and Global Creative Director of Content at Kenneth Cole Productions, an American fashion house founded in 1982. He celebrates 20 years with the company, working across all labels, product categories, communication channels, and global territories. Additionally, he has contributed to the brand’s social impact initiatives for organizations such as The Mental Health Coalition, The Foundation for AIDS Research, Help USA, and the Human Rights Campaign. A gifted writer across various mediums, his works have been featured in The American Bystander, Point in Case, Two Fifty One, The Haven, and MuddyUm. Steve’s also a humor writer, publishing two books, Do More Don’ts, and Humanity Breeds Profanity: Random Thoughts Against My Better Judgment. In this episode…
Achieving one’s dreams, regardless of the field, is arduous. Advertising, in particular, is an ever-evolving and highly competitive industry, so how can you make it in the industry?
There is n…
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Aug 16, 2023
How Peer Groups Influence Career and Personal Development With Matthew Connor
Matthew Connor, Founder and CEO of CyberLynx, began his programming career at 12 while working as a coder for his father’s company. His passion led him to develop his own company, which focuses on offering premium IT services — specializing in protecting growing businesses from ransomware.
CyberLynx, previously known as Your IT Department, continues to provide cybersecurity and professional IT and support services for expanding companies. Matthew is on a mission to assist business leaders in increasing their profitability using cutting-edge technology. He served in the US Army for 17 years as a human intelligence officer and received his bachelor’s in business administration and management from the University of Maryland Global Campus. In this episode…
Whether you’ve graduated with a formal education or not, some of the most valuable lessons learned have been from peers. Peers can be a great source of learning, offering knowledge and experience through workshops, forums, an…
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Aug 9, 2023
How Leaders Help Cultivate Opportunities for Success With Media Publisher Bridgette Bello
Bridgette Bello is the CEO and Publisher of Tampa Bay Business & Wealth, a magazine examining the lives of Tampa Bay’s most accomplished business leaders. Under her tenure, TBBW has been awarded two Charlie Awards from the Florida Magazine Association. Bridgette is a media professional with over 30 years of experience. Before joining TBBW, she was the President and Publisher of the Tampa Bay Business Journal for 11 years — and the first woman publisher in the newspaper’s 40-year history. Bridgette’s further accomplishments include her roles as a previous Governor Appointed Vice Chair for the St. Petersburg College board of trustees, a board member for Jameis Winston Dream Forever Foundation, and a former member on the Board of Directors for the Spring of Tampa Bay. In 2011, Bridgette was named St. Petersburg’s Chamber “Business Woman of the Year.” In this episode…
Many of us choose a career path once we discover how to monetize our talents. However, often what we want…
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Aug 2, 2023
How Different Leadership Styles Affect Company Morale With Hugh Campbell
Hugh Campbell is the President of AC4S Technologies, a hybrid cloud company providing technology solutions such as IT network management, data migrations, and hardware and software solutions. Hugh has experience in planning, designing, and implementing large-scale telecommunications networks for commercial and government sectors. Prior to starting AC4S, he held executive leadership roles at Intermedia Communications and Accelacom. Hugh is a graduate of the United States Military Academy at West Point and spent 10 years on active duty as a Communications Officer in the US Army. In this episode…
Most of us have heard the term “natural born leader,” but leadership is usually a learned skill we adopt from watching others. In addition to parents, elders, teachers, and managers have a profound impact on our lives. For business leader Hugh Campbell, he attributes his successful career path to his parents, a former teacher, and the military.
Not only did the military teach Hugh discipl…
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Jul 26, 2023
Cultivating the Career You Want Through a Community of Peers With Elizabeth Zucker of YPO
Elizabeth Zucker is the Managing Partner at Interior Investments of St. Louis, a contract office furniture dealership providing solutions for professional organizations, including furniture selection, order fulfillment, delivery, and installation. Under Elizabeth’s leadership, the company has successfully scaled to $35 million. Before joining Interior Investments of St. Louis, Elizabeth spent six years climbing the ranks at Herman Miller, a furniture manufacturing company. Beyond her work as a managing partner, Elizabeth contributes her leadership expertise to the YPO St. Louis chapter, holding over seven chapter officer roles. In 2016, she joined the YPO board of directors, and from 2019 - 2020, she served as the organization’s chairman. In this episode…
Being a leader in the workplace is not only lonely, but challenging. Leaders ranging from managers to directors to the C-suite take on demanding responsibilities, including budgets, meeting deadlines, and motivating employees w…
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Jul 19, 2023
Providing Staffing Solutions in a Post-Pandemic Workforce With Carrie Charles
Carrie Charles is the Co-founder and CEO of Broadstaff, a staffing firm providing workforce solutions in the energy, technology, and telecommunications sectors. Under Carrie’s tutelage, the firm was recognized in 2022 by Inc. Magazine and Tampa Bay Business Journal as one of the fastest-growing companies. Her additional accolades include the 2021 Tampa Bay CEO of the Year and Tampa Bay Businesswoman of the Year awards. She’s a keynote speaker and thought leader in diversity, women in tech, and workforce development. Carrie’s also the host of the 5G Talent Talk podcast, where she offers tech leaders strategic hiring methods for attracting, acquiring, and retaining top-tier talent. As a mother of a childhood cancer survivor, Carrie sits on the National Pediatric Cancer Foundation’s board of directors. In this episode…
A staffing agency — also referred to as a recruiting firm — serves as a liaison between companies searching for talent and job seekers. Because staffing firm…
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Jul 12, 2023
Discussing Digital Trends Coming in 2023 With Kevin Hourigan
Kevin Hourigan is the President of Spinutech, a full-service website design and digital marketing agency dedicated to developing customized and data-driven digital marketing solutions. Before merging his business with his current business partner, Kevin founded Bayshore Solutions, which he operated for over two decades. When Kevin is not leading his digital agency, he spends his time boating, skiing, golfing, and enjoying other outdoor activities. In this episode…
In previous years, new digital trends gained traction with certainty. But as we head into 2023, many companies are taking precautionary measures. Why are companies hesitant to embrace new digital trends?
Digital agency leader Kevin Hourigan suggests doubts concerning digital trends stem from a non-trending digital marketplace. Many companies lack the confidence they once had due to an uncertain economy. But it’s not only the economy that has business leaders pumping the brakes on newer trends. Want to find out more?
Tu…
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Jul 5, 2023
Living With Intent and Passion With Dwayne Allen
Dwayne Allen is the Senior Vice President and Chief Technology Officer at Unisys, a global technology solutions company devoted to helping its customers reach innovative breakthroughs via intellectual property, patents, and strategic planning. Dwayne has exercised his expertise in digital transformation in various fields including healthcare, financial services, government, manufacturing, and hospitality. Additionally, he is an active member of the George Washington University Leadership Advisory Council, and sits on the Cross Country Healthcare board of directors. Dwayne formerly served on the board of directors for KPIT, an India-based technology and engineering company. In this episode…
Enrolling in a graduate program is the next step for many students after completing their bachelor’s degree. Some students pursue their master’s degree to stay connected with peers while others continue their education because they’re not ready to enter the workforce. Although many agree it…
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Jun 28, 2023
From Bank Executive to Business Owner: Risking it All for a Happier Lifestyle With Jamie Harden
Jamie Harden is the CEO and President of Creative Sign Designs, a company specializing in the production of architectural design solutions by providing consultation, design, project management, fabrication, and installation services. Before his CEO tenure, Jamie held executive leadership roles, including Senior Vice President of Bank of America and Vice President of Nations Bank/NCNB, where he achieved a Six Sigma Green Belt. Jamie is also actively involved in the community through YPO, the CEO Council of Tampa Bay, and the Greater Tampa Chamber of Commerce. In this episode…
If you’ve contemplated pivoting to entrepreneurship, acquiring an existing company is one venture to consider. An acquisition involves purchasing and molding a business to suit your business model and values. It’s an innovative, efficient, and cost-effective transaction because it doesn’t involve building from the ground up. Financing is easier, too, when a company has a proven track record, existing custo…
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Jun 21, 2023
Boats Gone Wild: The Inspirational Story of How Billy Pavlock Grew His Maritime Digital Agency
Boating enthusiast Billy Pavlock is the Founder and CEO of Nautical Network, a contemporary global creative and media outlet helping maritime companies create brand awareness to increase business growth. Billy was introduced to the boating industry after opening a car and detailing business upon graduating college. Passionate about the maritime industry and marketing, Billy’s niche business has reached over 2M followers on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and YouTube. In this episode…
Have you ever envisioned a concept, but the people in your inner circle doubted you? Did the experience prevent you from following your dreams, or did it encourage your motivation? As entrepreneurs, your confidence must overshadow others’ doubts and fears.
This was the case for Billy Pavlock, a pioneer in the marine agency niche. Before social media was widely viewed as a source of income, Billy was charting the way for the influencers following in his wake. His understanding of the maritime industry…
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Jun 14, 2023
Spinutech: Your Website Design and Digital Marketing Solution
Marc Reifenrath is the Co-founder and CEO of Spinutech, a full-service website design and digital marketing agency dedicated to developing customized and data-driven digital marketing solutions. Marc is passionate about culture and understands firsthand how critical a company’s culture is to achieving and maintaining success. When he has time away from growing his team and working with clients, Marc enjoys family time, golfing, and traveling. In this episode…
Are you struggling to complete the tasks needed to achieve your business goals? What strategies can you introduce that will support the goals you’ve set out to achieve?
Running a successful business is the culmination of a multitude of moving parts and you may not have the expertise to effectively and efficiently execute them all. Spinutech is an agency that will come alongside your business to understand your goals, as well as your pain points, and tailor their solutions to support your bottom line.
In this episode of th…
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Jun 7, 2023
Branding and Marketing Tips for Scaling
George Spowart is the Chief Marketing Officer at Red Rover, a moving and storage solutions company more affordable and convenient than traditional options. He directs all marketing and sales activities, including brand strategy, creative development, media planning/buying, website, call center, and public relations. George’s skill for developing strong working relationships has contributed to his experience growing brands through strategy, implementing innovative tactics, and building high-performing marketing teams. Prior to Red Rover, he was the CMO at The Perfect Workout and PODS (Portable on Demand Storage). In this episode…
Do you feel like you have a good product or service but still struggle to make the desired sales? It's probably because of how you are marketing and branding yourself.
According to George Spowart, good branding and marketing strategies are fundamental for the success of any company. His experience in the marketing field has given him the knowledge to grow…
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May 31, 2023
Kara Goldin: Undaunted, Overcoming Doubts + Doubters
Kara Goldin is the Founder of Hint Inc., a beverage company most known for Hint Water, an award-winning unsweetened water with hints of fruit. Kara has been named one of InStyle’s Badass 50, Fast Company’s Most Creative People in Business, Fortune’s Most Powerful Women Entrepreneurs, Fortune's Most Innovative Women in Food & Drink, and EY Entrepreneur of the Year for Northern California. She is an active speaker, writer, and host of her podcast, The Kara Goldin Show, where she interviews founders, entrepreneurs, and other disruptors across various industries. Kara is the author of the best-selling book, Undaunted: Overcoming Doubts and Doubters. In this episode…
Do you have a fire burning in your belly? You’ve always desired to be successful and live out your dreams unapologetically. But, unfortunately, life isn’t a smooth road. You will often encounter speed bumps in your journey, some of which are negative individuals telling you no or filling your head with doubts. So,…
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May 24, 2023
You Can’t Fake Culture — And Other Lessons From Building a Business
Marc Reifenrath is the Co-founder and CEO of Spinutech, a full-service website design and digital marketing agency dedicated to developing customized and data-driven digital marketing solutions. Marc watched Spinutech grow from a college startup to one of the premier digital marketing agencies in the country, and he understands how culture plays a critical role in a company’s success. Outside of his role as CEO, Marc hosts the Culture Starts With U podcast and is an active member of the Young Presidents’ Organization (YPO). In this episode…
Company culture could make or break your business. How do you develop an outstanding culture and use it to drive your company forward?
When Marc Reifenrath and his friends started Spinutech in college, they created the company as a resume-builder. However, their passion for the industry grew substantially each year, and now Spinutech is one of the premier full-service digital marketing agencies in the country. The secret behind all of this g…
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May 17, 2023
Creating Strategies for Business Growth
Shelia Reed is the Business Engagement and Strategy Lead at Ameritas, a mutual-based organization offering insurance, financial services, and employee benefits. As an experienced sales and marketing leader in both the financial and healthcare industry, Shelia helps companies identify brand strategies that leverage the most growth. She was chosen as a finalist for the Chief Marketer of the Year award due to the impact she’s had on the marketing industry. In this episode…
Both private and public growth companies are diligent and responsible with corporate funding. The real challenge for private equity partners is the expectation for them to grow and provide results.
The good news is that there are tools available to help track performance. When evaluating and implementing strategy, measuring your progress is paramount. Shelia Reed has adopted resources designed to track growth, retention, and engagement using dialed-in marketing strategies to scale businesses.
In this episode of t…
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May 10, 2023
The Golden Nuggets of a Thriving Family-Owned Jewelry Store
Steve Weintraub is the Founder and CEO of Gold & Diamond Source, a family-owned fine gold and diamond jewelry store. Steve was introduced to the jewelry business by a friend from high school and began making gold-plated seashells. In 1983, they built a 10,000-square-foot building and Steve began producing fine jewelry. After joining forces with his wife Julie, Steve’s business grew from a small jewelry store to one of the most successful standalone family operations in the US.
Julie Weintraub is the Vice President of Gold & Diamond Source. She is also the President and Founder of Julie Weintraub’s Hands Across the Bay, a nonprofit organization with a mission to positively impact the lives of Tampa Bay residents and organizations by advocating for change and providing resources for those in need. Recognizing needs within their community, but not having money to donate, she and her husband Steve started the organization to be able to give away jewelry and help victims of domestic vi…
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May 3, 2023
Scott Mordell former YPO CEO
Scott Mordell is the Founder and CEO of The Forrader Group, a company providing strategic counsel and support to leaders and their organizations. He was the longest-serving CEO in the seventy-year history of Young Presidents’ Organization (YPO), a global leadership development community of more than 30,000 chief executives in 142 countries. Scott's experience in various industries, geographies, organizations, and business disciplines has helped him develop influential leadership lessons and collaborative skills for success. In this episode…
Are you struggling as a leader? How can you elevate your leadership journey to become a better leader and person?
According to Scott Mordell, being a better leader can be challenging. He recommends joining a leadership development community like the YPO. It helps supercharge your goals and passions, challenges your status quo, and encourages you to make better decisions to keep your business, the people you lead, your family, and your life on…
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Apr 19, 2023
The Journey to Becoming a Better Leader
Mary Harris is the Vice President of Marketing at SRS Real Estate Partners, a firm building upon its retail foundation to provide commercial real estate solutions to tenants, owners, and investors. Mary is a results-oriented marketing executive skilled in client and business development, quantitative analysis, negotiations, strategic planning, and branding. Before her years in the commercial real estate industry, Mary served as head of marketing at BankUnited, responsible for the bank’s corporate communications, advertising, and public relations. In this episode…
Are you in a leadership position? What can you do to lead your team better?
Throughout her career and entrepreneurial journey, Mary Harris has had the privilege of holding different leadership positions. She’s discovered that to thrive as a leader she needs to prioritize the people she leads. She has also learned leaders need to surround themselves with mentors who have more experience and ask for guidance when necessa…
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Apr 12, 2023
Turning a Childhood Passion Into a Leading Digital Marketing Agency
Kevin Hourigan is the President of Spinutech, a full-service website design and digital marketing agency dedicated to developing customized and data-driven digital marketing solutions. Before merging his business with his current business partner, Kevin founded Bayshore Solutions, which he operated for over two decades. When Kevin is not leading his digital agency, he spends his time boating, skiing, golfing, and enjoying other outdoor activities. In this episode…
As the adage goes, find something you love to do, and you’ll never work a day in your life. Many people struggle to realize their passions, let alone convert them into a career, but Kevin Hourigan is one of the fortunate ones. What is his passion, and how did he turn it into a successful career?
For Kevin, it was building websites in the early 1990s when websites were something of a novelty. Since then, websites have evolved into a phenomenon and just about everyone has their own, from aspiring artists to global organiz…
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Apr 5, 2023
Increase Your Organic Reach Through Social Media Marketing
Matthew (Matt) Brown is the President and CEO of ThumbStopper, a technology solution created for brands to boost content traction on social media and search networks at the local level. A serial entrepreneur since the mid-1990s, Matt remains active in digital media markets and SaaS companies. His 20-plus years as an entrepreneur have sharpened his skills in team development, B2B integration, business management, and mergers and acquisitions. Matt is also the President of Trucks.com, which has the vision to help revolutionize how enthusiasts find the perfect truck, SUV, or van. In this episode…
As an entrepreneur, are you struggling to grow your business? Have you considered leveraging social media marketing to increase organic reach and connect with customers?
According to Matt Brown, many businesses are struggling to scale. Having been an entrepreneur since the mid-1990s, he has discovered simple and actionable ways brands can utilize technology for their benefit. Using this infor…
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Mar 29, 2023
Scaling in the Health and Wellness Industry
Ed Buckley is the CEO of FitOn, formerly known as Peerfit, the largest health and wellness platform on a mission to empower individuals to live healthy lifestyles by providing instant access to a variety of workout programs taught by top-of-the-line fitness professionals and celebrities. Noticing gaps in health and wellness, Ed’s passion for problem-solving allowed him opportunities to work with talented teams in the industry. His experience leveraging advanced data methods, identifying new market solutions, and building and launching effective solutions will add value to any team. In this episode…
Are you wanting to venture into the health and wellness industry as an entrepreneur? What do you need to know to succeed in this space?
Upon graduating college, Ed Buckley found his passion as an entrepreneur in the health and wellness industry. His experience scaling a business and leading teams has earned him a wealth of knowledge in his field. After merging Peerfit with FitOn, he sh…
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Mar 24, 2023
Intrepid Powerboats — Leading the Boatbuilding Industry
Ken Clinton is the President of Intrepid Powerboats, the leading boatbuilder focusing on innovative designs, superior performance, and safety. Ken began his career in the marine industry immediately after graduating high school, working as a machinist manufacturing submarines for the U.S. Navy. In 1991, he was hired by Intrepid to work on the assembly line and continued to move up the ranks.
Driven by his passion for the marine industry, Ken’s hands-on management style has been described as truly unique for his position in the marine industry.
Ken received his degree in business administration and management from the University of Tampa. When time allows, he spends his free time pursuing his passion for Harley Davidson motorcycles, sports cars, and travel. In this episode…
Do you find fulfillment in enjoying sunny days on a boat floating in open water? Where can you purchase a boat that reflects your unique personality and provides the commodities you desire?
According to Ken C…
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Mar 15, 2023
Melissa Massa, VP of Sales for Lenovo Cloud Service Providers
Melissa Massa is the Vice President of Sales at Lenovo, a multinational technology company specializing in designing, manufacturing, and marketing consumer electronics, personal computers, software, business solutions, and related services. She is an experienced sales executive with ten years of leading global and US sales teams in IT hardware, software, and services. Melissa is a trusted voice in the industry due to her in-depth knowledge of cloud providers and business transformation. She was nominated for the Women in IT Award in Silicon Valley, given the Hero Award by her CEO at Lenovo, and was a finalist for the Top 50 Most Powerful Women in Technology in 2021. In this episode…
As an IT company, how can you increase your revenue? Have you considered hiring a sales and marketing expert to help?
For companies to thrive in any industry, they need sales professionals who understand the product and the market to help them make more sales. Having been a leader and sales executive in…
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Mar 15, 2023
Leading With Compassion and Integrity: A Conversation with YPO’s Marc Reifenrath and Sean Magennis
South African native Sean Magennis is the CEO of Mutual Capital Alliance, a financial services firm that assists private companies to establish shareholder value and liquidity through its exit advisory and management services. Before moving to MCA, Sean served as the Global President and COO at YPO, a global community of chief executives spanning more than 30,000 members across 138 countries.
Sean credits his skills in team building, psychology, and sociology to his time in the military, which later evolved into his entrepreneurial strengths. Sean has cultivated over 14 years as a lucrative business owner and is an active member of the Entrepreneurs’ Organization. In this episode…
Think about what you seek in an employer or company you desire to work for. Aside from livable compensation, work-life balance, and autonomy, working for an organization with integrity, great leadership, and support are desirable traits in a company. Did you know that chief executives also desire these…
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Mar 7, 2023
How To Thrive in the Insurance Industry
Bob Murphy is the Chief Revenue Officer at Patra Corporation, the leading provider of technology-enabled services for the insurance industry. Patra powers insurance processes by optimizing the application of people and technology, supporting insurance organizations as they sell, deliver, and manage policies and customers through the PatraOne platform.
Bob leads all sales, marketing, and strategic initiatives to help scale Patra's business, develop new technologies, and continue to provide top-level service to Patra's customers. Prior to Patra, Bob served as the CRO for Cloud Lending Solutions and held numerous positions in the financial and technical services industry. In total, Bob has 40-plus years of professional experience in the sales and marketing industry. In this episode…
As an insurance company, it’s essential to have the technology and automation that allows you to provide quality service to your clients. In the insurance landscape, it’s imperative to combine your ser…
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