Learn how to become a better leader from the inside out. This isn&#39;t your traditional leadership podcast as I believe that leadership lessons come from conventional sources such as entrepreneurs and successful business executives as well as from unexpected places; Navy SEALs, professional athletes, sports coaches, musicians, entertainers and more. On each episode, I interview leaders from all walks of life so that you walk away with tips to apply to your life and career. I&#39;m your host Darren Reinke, founder of <a href="https://www.groupsixty.com/" rel="nofollow">Group Sixty</a> and author of <a href="https://www.groupsixty.com/book" rel="nofollow">The Savage Leader: 13 Principles to Become a Better Leader from the Inside Out</a>.

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2024/4/9/16/ead85353-39d9-482c-a469-f36f31b5249b_aaron_fulkerson_on_tsl.mp3

In this episode of The Savage Leader Podcast, Darren Reinke chats with Aaron Fulkerson, CEO of Opaque Systems. Aaron discusses his transition from entrepreneurship to ServiceNow and how he&#39;s found his way back to the entrepreneurial world. He also discusses the issue of trust erosion within the technology sector and how Opaque Systems is spearheading efforts to rebuild this trust through secure application development for collaborative analytics and AI.Opaque Systems is on a mission to unlock the high-growth market of confidential computing by creating the first Confidential AI platform. It enables secure, collaborative analytics and the usage of AI on confidential and sensitive data stored in Trusted Execution Environments (TEEs).Show Notes:<ul><li>Aaron’s journey from entrepreneurship to ServiceNow to entrepreneurship again [01:10]</li><li>Aaron’s transformative experience in taking time off, reconnecting with personal roots, and sparking new business ideas [02:12]</li><li>How Opaque Systems led Aaron back to entrepreneurship [04:29]</li><li>How UC Berkeley&#39;s RISE Lab led to the founding of Opaque Systems [06:48]</li><li>Opaque’s mission and the importance of privacy in data utilization [10:43]</li><li>Addressing the erosion of trust in tech and how Opaque Systems is enabling developers to secure user data and rebuild consumer trust [13:13]</li><li>Balancing entrepreneurship with personal life and strategies for managing work, family, and self-care [14:39]</li><li>The importance of physical and mental fitness in maintaining balance and enhancing productivity [17:08]</li><li>How Aaron plans to capitalize on the rapid developments in artificial intelligence [22:10]</li><li>Generative AI&#39;s transformative impact on society and the industry [28:29]</li><li>Aaron&#39;s approach to making a positive impact [30:32]</li></ul> Links:<ul><li>Aaron’s LinkedIn: <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/aaronfulkerson/" rel="nofollow">https://www.linkedin.com/in/aaronfulkerson/</a></li><li>Opaque’s Website: <a href="https://opaque.co/" rel="nofollow">https://opaque.co/</a></li></ul>

In this episode of The Savage Leader Podcast, Darren Reinke chats with Aaron Fulkerson, CEO of Opaque Systems. Aaron discusses his transition from entrepreneurship to ServiceNow and how he's found his way back to the entrepreneurial world. He also discusses the issue of trust erosion within the technology sector and how Opaque Systems is spearheading efforts to rebuild this trust through secure application development for collaborative analytics and AI.
Opaque Systems is on a mission to unlock the high-growth market of confidential computing by creating the first Confidential AI platform. It enables secure, collaborative analytics and the usage of AI on confidential and sensitive data stored in Trusted Execution Environments (TEEs).
Show Notes:
-Aaron’s journey from entrepreneurship to ServiceNow to entrepreneurship again [01:10]
-Aaron’s transformative experience in taking time off, reconnecting with personal roots, and sparking new business ideas [02:12]
-How Opaque Systems led Aaron back to entrepreneurship [04:29]
-How UC Berkeley's RISE Lab led to the founding of Opaque Systems [06:48]
-Opaque’s mission and the importance of privacy in data utilization [10:43]
-Addressing the erosion of trust in tech and how Opaque Systems is enabling developers to secure user data and rebuild consumer trust [13:13]
-Balancing entrepreneurship with personal life and strategies for managing work, family, and self-care [14:39]
-The importance of physical and mental fitness in maintaining balance and enhancing productivity [17:08]
-How Aaron plans to capitalize on the rapid developments in artificial intelligence [22:10]
-Generative AI's transformative impact on society and the industry [28:29]
-Aaron's approach to making a positive impact [30:32]

 Links:
Aaron’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aaronfulkerson/
Opaque’s Website: https://opaque.co/

#60: Aaron Fulkerson on Rebuilding Trust in Technology

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2024/3/20/20/e55f7d16-3669-45f7-beda-ee2312e71182_anthony_lee_on_the_savage_leader_podcast.mp3

In this episode, Darren Reinke sits down with Anthony Lee, CEO of Westcliff University. Anthony shares his journey from childhood passions to leading a university that&#39;s making a significant impact in the education sector. They delve into the future of education, how Westcliff University is preparing students for a rapidly evolving job market, and Anthony&#39;s personal insights on entrepreneurship and leadership.Westcliff University was established to provide quality education for students wishing to enter the fast-growing fields of business and education. Westcliff University’s curriculum consists of graduate and undergraduate degree programs in business and education as well as other certificate programs. Westcliff University emphasizes the importance of preparing students personally, academically, and professionally.  Show Notes:<ul><li>Anthony&#39;s early interests and the influence of sports on his life [00:47]</li><li>The entrepreneurial lessons from Anthony&#39;s father [01:25]</li><li>Taking over Westcliff University and early challenges [04:18]</li><li>Learning to lead and the importance of listening and learning from others [05:38]</li><li>The pivotal decision to pursue accreditation for Westcliff University [08:28]</li><li>Early wins and strategic moves that fueled growth [10:50]</li><li>The emotional journey to achieving regional accreditation [12:59]</li><li>Expanding Westcliff University through strategic acquisitions and new programs [15:54]</li><li>The approach to making degree programs practical and relevant to today&#39;s job market [19:15]</li><li>Keeping up with the pace of innovation and the future of education [21:09]</li><li>The importance of culture, support, and fit in choosing a college [27:19]</li><li>Anthony&#39;s advice for students entering the workforce and the significance of internships [28:11]</li><li>Anthony&#39;s personal definition of Greatness and striving for it [30:08]</li><li>Where to learn more about Anthony Lee and Westcliff University [31:06]</li></ul>

In this episode, Darren Reinke sits down with Anthony Lee, CEO of Westcliff University. Anthony shares his journey from childhood passions to leading a university that's making a significant impact in the education sector. They delve into the future of education, how Westcliff University is preparing students for a rapidly evolving job market, and Anthony's personal insights on entrepreneurship and leadership.

Westcliff University was established to provide quality education for students wishing to enter the fast-growing fields of business and education. Westcliff University’s curriculum consists of graduate and undergraduate degree programs in business and education as well as other certificate programs. Westcliff University emphasizes the importance of preparing students personally, academically, and professionally. 

Show Notes:
-Anthony's early interests and the influence of sports on his life [00:47]
-The entrepreneurial lessons from Anthony's father [01:25]
-Taking over Westcliff University and early challenges [04:18]
-Learning to lead and the importance of listening and learning from others [05:38]
-The pivotal decision to pursue accreditation for Westcliff University [08:28]
-Early wins and strategic moves that fueled growth [10:50]
-The emotional journey to achieving regional accreditation [12:59]
-Expanding Westcliff University through strategic acquisitions and new programs [15:54]
-The approach to making degree programs practical and relevant to today's job market [19:15]
-Keeping up with the pace of innovation and the future of education [21:09]
-The importance of culture, support, and fit in choosing a college [27:19]
-Anthony's advice for students entering the workforce and the significance of internships [28:11]
-Anthony's personal definition of greatness and striving for it [30:08]
-Where to learn more about Anthony Lee and Westcliff University [31:06]

#59: Anthony Lee on Revolutionizing Education at Westcliff University

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2024/2/28/16/a1816c55-38fa-49e6-92f4-701ea38f9129_andrew_wolgemuth_on_tsl.mp3

In this episode, Darren Reinke explores the journey of entrepreneurship with Co-Founder of Wove, Andrew Wolgemuth. Andrew recounts his unique journey from West Point to becoming an Army Ranger to starting a jewelry company, highlighting why nobody should face entrepreneurship alone. He shares insights on leveraging distribution channels that help your business win, building a supportive community, and the pivotal moments that shaped Wove. Wove is a 21st century jeweler, bringing the jewelry designer directly to couples for custom engagement ring creation. Show Notes: <ul><li>What Drew Was Like as a Kid [0:53]</li><li>Andrew&#39;s Experience at West Point [1:35]</li><li>Andrew&#39;s Experience with His First Deployment and How He Prepared [6:26]</li><li>How Andrew Earned the Trust of His Team [8:02]</li><li>How a Major Industry Fueled Andrew&#39;s Transition Out of the Military [9:50]</li><li>How Andrew Created a New Identity After the Military [11:45]</li><li>Why Andrew Decided to Start His First Jewelry Business [14:38]</li><li>The Specific Moment Andrew Knew His Business Was Viable [17:02]</li><li>Why Humility Is Critical When Raising Money for Your Company [17:43]</li><li>How Drew Maintained His Belief in His Business [19:42]</li><li>The State of Drew&#39;s Business Today [22:18]</li><li>How Wove Positions Itself to Tackle New Markets [24:20]</li><li>What&#39;s Next for Wove [26:19]</li><li>What Drew Has Learned About Himself Running a Startup [28:06]</li><li>Drew&#39;s Advice for Building a Community Within Your Customer Base [29:12]</li><li>Wove&#39;s 10-Year Plan [31:15]</li></ul>Links: <ul><li>Website: <a href="https://wovemade.com/" rel="nofollow">https://wovemade.com/</a> </li><li>Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/wove_made" rel="nofollow">https://www.instagram.com/wove_made</a></li></ul>

In this episode, Darren Reinke explores the journey of entrepreneurship with Co-Founder of Wove, Andrew Wolgemuth. Andrew recounts his unique journey from West Point to becoming an Army Ranger to starting a jewelry company, highlighting why nobody should face entrepreneurship alone. He shares insights on leveraging distribution channels that help your business win, building a supportive community, and the pivotal moments that shaped Wove. 
Wove is a 21st century jeweler, bringing the jewelry designer directly to couples for custom engagement ring creation. 
Show Notes: 
-What Drew Was Like as a Kid [0:53]
-Andrew's Experience at West Point [1:35]
-Andrew's Experience with His First Deployment and How He Prepared [6:26]
-How Andrew Earned the Trust of His Team [8:02]
-How a Major Industry Fueled Andrew's Transition Out of the Military [9:50]
-How Andrew Created a New Identity After the Military [11:45]
-Why Andrew Decided to Start His First Jewelry Business [14:38]
-The Specific Moment Andrew Knew His Business Was Viable [17:02]
-Why Humility Is Critical When Raising Money for Your Company [17:43]
-How Drew Maintained His Belief in His Business [19:42]
-The State of Drew's Business Today [22:18]
-How Wove Positions Itself to Tackle New Markets [24:20]
-What's Next for Wove [26:19]
-What Drew Has Learned About Himself Running a Startup [28:06]
-Drew's Advice for Building a Community Within Your Customer Base [29:12]
-Wove's 10-Year Plan [31:15]

# 58: How Two Army Rangers Created an Engagement Ring Company

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2023/9/21/13/701fd774-143f-4b6d-8c60-b5b55db0f0e5_som_shahapurkar_on_tsl.mp3

In this episode, Darren Reinke chats with Som Shahapurkar, leading AI expert and founder of OzzSom AI. Som discusses the current state of AI, the importance of guardrails in preventing unintended consequences, why you should prioritize curiosity over judgement, and everything you need to know about ChatGPT, AI, and its future in society. OzzSom AI guides small and medium business to adopt AI cost effectively to grow their business, improve efficiency or become lean, with expertise across fintech, health tech, telematics, manufacturing, IoT, automation, and document processing.Show Notes:<ul><li>How Som became interested in Artificial Intelligence [00:58]</li><li>Where AI started and where we are today [2:54]</li><li>Defining neural networks [5:30]</li><li>Defining generative AI [7:48]</li><li>What ChatGPT is and how people are using it [10:22]</li><li>Understanding the robustness of ChatGPT’s data set [15:04]</li><li>Where did ChatGPT come from [17:50]</li><li>What is next in the near term for ChatGPT [21:40]</li><li>What guardrails are needed for AI to be more efficient [25:13]</li><li>Understanding the greatest misconception surrounding AI [30:35]</li><li>Describing the next wave of AI [33:09]</li><li>Where you can go to learn more about AI [37:22]</li></ul>Links:<ul><li>Som on LinkedIn: <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/shahapurkar" rel="nofollow">https://www.linkedin.com/in/shahapurkar</a></li></ul>

In this episode, Darren Reinke chats with Som Shahapurkar, leading AI expert and founder of OzzSom AI. Som discusses the current state of AI, the importance of guardrails in preventing unintended consequences, why you should prioritize curiosity over judgement, and everything you need to know about ChatGPT, AI, and its future in society.
OzzSom AI guides small and medium business to adopt AI/ML cost effectively to grow their business, improve efficiency or become lean, with expertise across fintech, health tech, telematics, manufacturing, IoT, automation, and document processing.
Show Notes:
*How Som became interested in Artificial Intelligence [00:58]
*What Som was interested in as a kid [1:49]
*Where AI started and where we are today [2:54]
*Defining neural networks [5:30]
*Defining generative AI [7:48]
*What ChatGPT is and how people are using it [10:22]
*Understanding the robustness of ChatGPT’s data set [15:04]
*Where did ChatGPT come from [17:50]
*What is next in the near term for ChatGPT [21:40]
*What guardrails are needed for AI to be more efficient [25:13]
*Understanding the greatest misconception surrounding AI [30:35]
*Describing the next wave of AI [33:09]
*Where you can go to learn more about AI [37:22]

#57: OzzSom AI Founder Som Shahapurkar on Why Knowledge is Dead and Creativity is Flourishing

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2023/9/7/15/f14463e9-65ba-4e1a-b63e-5dc40a7c243c_slp_-_zack_zarrillo.mp3

In this episode, Darren Reinke chats with Zack Zarrillo, the co-founder of Alternate Side, a full service music company that represents a diverse roster of platinum and gold talent with a combined catalog of over 5 Billion streams throughout alternative, rock, indie, electronic, and metal. Zack shares how he got into the music business, how he creates brands and businesses for his artists, the raging epidemic of mental health in music industry, how he got involved in the donut business, and why he tells his artists that nobody can care more about their music than they can.Show Notes<ul><li>Where Zack found his passion for music [00:58]</li><li>The moment Zack knew he could make a living from music [3:00]</li><li>How the Property of Zack blog was started by accident [4:30]</li><li>Navigating an acquisition as an 18-year-old [6:22]</li><li>How Zack went from blogging to band manager [7:48]</li><li>Understanding the different roles within the music industry [8:58]</li><li>How Zack used his brand manager experience to start a business [10:14]</li><li>The arc of success in music [12:16]</li><li>Understanding the economics of music [14:12]</li><li>How Zack helps educate his clients on how to take better deals [16:18]</li><li>How Zack works with his clients to be more proactive in guiding their careers [19:28]</li><li>How Zack builds a brand out of each artist [21:20]</li><li>Helping artists stay both relevant and viable [23:37]</li><li>How Zack addresses the issue of mental health within the music industry [25:49]</li><li>Zack&#39;s definition of Greatness [29:25]</li><li>How Zack got involved in the donut business [31:13]</li></ul>

In this episode, Darren Reinke chats with Zack Zarrillo, the co-founder of Alternate Side, a full service music company that represents a diverse roster of platinum and gold talent with a combined catalog of over 5 Billion streams throughout alternative, rock, indie, electronic, and metal.  Zack shares how he got into the music business, how he creates brands and businesses for his artists, the raging epidemic of mental health in music industry, how he got involved in the donut business, and why he tells his artists that nobody can care more about their music than they can.

Show Notes
*Where Zack found his passion for music [00:58]
*The moment Zack knew he could make a living from music [3:00]
*How the Property of Zack blog was started by accident [4:30]
*Navigating an acquisition as an 18-year-old [6:22]
*How Zack went from blogging to band manager [7:48]
*Understanding the different roles within the music industry [8:58]
*How Zack used his brand manager experience to start a business [10:14]
*The arc of success in music [12:16]
*Understanding the economics of music [14:12]
*How Zack helps educate his clients on how to take better deals [16:18]
*How Zack works with his clients to be more proactive in guiding their careers [19:28]
*How Zack builds a brand out of each artist [21:20]
*Helping artists stay both relevant and viable [23:37]
*How Zack addresses the issue of mental health within the music industry [25:49]
*Zack's definition of Greatness [29:25]
*How Zack got involved in the donut business [31:13]

#56: Alternate Side Co-Founder Zack Zarrillo on Building Authentic Brands in Music

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2023/5/25/14/2eb3a4b7-7d69-4c2b-9880-264aaafa0a22_jonathan_friedman_on_the_savage_leader_podcast.mp3

In this episode, Darren Reinke chats with the Jonathan Friedman, Co-Founder and President of Volo Beauty, about his entrepreneurial journey. Jonathan shares insights into how he dealt with failure as an entrepreneur, how he learned to not take things personally, and how he developed a strong enough risk profile to take the entrepreneurial leap.Volo Beauty is a leading hair care brand dedicated to transforming peoples&#39; daily hair routine. With a mission to make drying and styling your hair easier, faster, and healthier, Volo Beauty has created innovative products that harness the power of cutting-edge technology and thoughtful design. Volo Beauty is committed to empowering individuals to embrace their natural beauty and simplifying their hair care routine with exceptional quality and exceptional results.Show Notes:<ul><li>When Jonathan knew he wanted to be an entrepreneur [00:57]</li><li>How Jonathan went from a MBA student to an entrepreneur [3:53]</li><li>The sequence of Jonathan’s career [5:29]</li><li>What Jonathan learned from being a scrappy salesperson [7:21]</li><li>Jonathan’s journey and key lessons learned from his machine shop and a software company [10:13]</li><li>How Jonathan became comfortable with the risks associated with entrepreneurship [13:06]</li><li>How Jonathan managed the personal toll entrepreneurship took [16:38]</li><li>The Volo Beauty Story [19:40]</li><li>How Jonathan successfully executed the art of the pivot [20:50]</li><li>The moment Jonathan felt like he “made it” [25:46]</li><li>How Volo engineered a wireless hair dryer [28:43]</li><li>Why Jonathan decided to raise additional money to pursue the cordless hair dryer [30:44]</li><li>What’s next for Volo [32:23]</li><li>The challenges Volo has faced while scaling [33:54]</li><li>The most important lessons Jonathan has learned from his entrepreneurial journey [35:30]</li></ul>Links:<ul><li><a href="https://volobeauty.com/" rel="nofollow">https://volobeauty.com/</a></li><li><a href="https://www.target.com/s?searchTerm=Volo" rel="nofollow">https://www.target.com/s?searchTerm=Volo</a></li></ul>

In this episode, Darren Reinke chats with the Jonathan Friedman, Co-Founder and President of Volo Beauty, about his entrepreneurial journey. Jonathan shares insights into how he dealt with failure as an entrepreneur, how he learned to not take things personally, and how he developed a strong enough risk profile to take the entrepreneurial leap.
Volo Beauty is a leading hair care brand dedicated to transforming peoples' daily hair routine. With a mission to make drying and styling your hair easier, faster, and healthier, Volo Beauty has created innovative products that harness the power of cutting-edge technology and thoughtful design. Volo Beauty is committed to empowering individuals to embrace their natural beauty and simplifying their hair care routine with exceptional quality and exceptional results.
Show Notes:
-When Jonathan knew he wanted to be an entrepreneur [00:57]
-How Jonathan went from a MBA student to an entrepreneur [3:53]
-The sequence of Jonathan’s career [5:29]
-What Jonathan learned from being a scrappy salesperson [7:21]
-Jonathan’s journey and key lessons learned from his machine shop and a software company [10:13]
-How Jonathan became comfortable with the risks associated with entrepreneurship [13:06]
-How Jonathan managed the personal toll entrepreneurship took [16:38]
-The Volo Beauty Story [19:40]
-How Jonathan successfully executed the art of the pivot [20:50]
-The moment Jonathan felt like he “made it” [25:46]
-How Volo engineered a wireless hair dryer [28:43]
-Why Jonathan decided to raise additional money to pursue the cordless hair dryer [30:44]
-What’s next for Volo [32:23]
-The challenges Volo has faced while scaling [33:54]
-The most important lessons Jonathan has learned from his entrepreneurial journey [35:30]

#55: Volo Beauty Co-Found​er​ Jonathan Friedman on ​Developing an Entrepreneurial Risk Profile

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2023/5/10/22/c50333fa-dc44-4238-a3e9-f7c5fdac7e05_william_toti_on_the_savage_leader_podcast.mp3

In this episode, Darren Reinke chats with former Navy Submarine Commander and Sparton CEO William Toti. William discusses what it’s really like to live on a submarine for months on end, the key leadership lessons he learned from the navy, solutions to help transitioning military members thrive, why companies need to hire more veterans, and so much more!Show Notes:-William’s original goal of becoming an astronaut [1:06]-What it&#39;s like being in a submarine for extended periods of time [4:36]-How being a submarine captain influenced William’s leadership and communication style [6:27]-The evolution of William’s career and how he transitioned out of the navy [9:47]-The crucial skills William developed that led to his rapid ascent to CEO [16:34]-The importance of mentorship in growing your career [21:43]-The biggest misconception civilians have with transitioning military members [24:58]-William’s suggestions for overcoming the three biggest barriers transitioning military members face [28:06]-The endless benefits companies receive by hiring veterans [30:35] Links:Book: <a href="https://williamtoti.com/from-co-to-ceo-book/" rel="nofollow">https://williamtoti.com/from-co-to-ceo-book/</a>Website: <a href="https://williamtoti.com/" rel="nofollow">https://williamtoti.com/</a>

In this episode, Darren Reinke chats with former Navy Submarine Commander and Sparton CEO William Toti.
William discusses what it’s really like to live on a submarine for months on end, the key leadership lessons he learned from the navy, solutions to help transitioning military members thrive, why companies need to hire more veterans, and so much more!

Show Notes:
-William’s original goal of becoming an astronaut [1:06]
-What it's like being in a submarine for extended periods of time [4:36]
-How being a submarine captain influenced William’s leadership and communication style [6:27]
-The evolution of William’s career and how he transitioned out of the navy [9:47]
-The crucial skills William developed that led to his rapid ascent to CEO [16:34]
-The importance of mentorship in growing your career [21:43]
-The biggest misconception civilians have with transitioning military members [24:58]
-William’s suggestions for overcoming the three biggest barriers transitioning military members face [28:06]
-The endless benefits companies receive by hiring veterans [30:35]

#54: William Toti  on Making the Transition from Submarine Commander to CEO

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2023/4/13/15/71a8ec1b-2622-40ca-81e2-ba4c852b7e40_wes_geer_on_tsl_podcast.mp3

In this episode, Darren Reinke chats with musician and founding member of the band Hed PE and Korn guitarist, Wes Geer. Wes shares his experience falling in love with music, his inspiring story about addiction and how he overcame it, the factors that led him to starting to Rock to Recovery, and how Rock to Recovery is helping people battling addiction and mental illness all around the world.Rock to Recovery helps people heal and transform their lives through the powerful experience of writing, playing, and performing music as a group.Show Notes:<ul><li>What Wes was interested in as a kid [00:50]</li><li>Wes’s first experience playing music [2:42]</li><li>When Wes realized becoming a professional musician was a viable path [5:07]</li><li>How Wes took guitar playing and turned it into a career [7:30]</li><li>Why Wes embraced vulnerability out on stage [12:14]</li><li>Why receiving validation from music is as magical as love [14:05]</li><li>Wes’s experience writing for his audience and witnessing their reactions live [15:53]</li><li>How Wes prepared for playing in front of large audiences [16:55]</li><li>How Wes overcomes negative feedback regarding his music [21:29]</li><li>What led Wes to start Rock to Recovery [25:28]</li><li>Benefits of Rock to Recovery participation [35:10]</li><li>What inspired Wes to turn Rock to Recovery into a business [38:24]</li><li>Rock to Recovery’s work with military veterans [40:30]</li></ul> Links:<ul><li><a href="https://www.instagram.com/rocktorecovery/" rel="nofollow">Rock to Recovery on Instagram</a></li><li><a href="https://www.facebook.com/rocktorecovery/" rel="nofollow">Rock to Recovery on Facebook</a></li><li><a href="https://www.amazon.com/dp/1735529974/ref=sr_1_6?dchild=1&keywords=rock+to+recovery+book&qid=1625766443&sr=8-6" rel="nofollow">Wes Geer’s Book on Amazon</a></li><li><a href="https://rocktorecovery.org/" rel="nofollow">Rock to Recovery Website</a></li><li><a href="https://www.instagram.com/wesgeer/?hl=en" rel="nofollow">Wes Geer on Instagram</a> </li></ul>

In this episode, Darren Reinke chats with musician and founding member of the band Hed PE and Korn guitarist, Wes Geer. Wes shares his experience falling in love with music, his inspiring story about addiction and how he overcame it, the factors that led him to starting to Rock to Recovery, and how Rock to Recovery is helping people battling addiction and mental illness all around the world.
Rock to Recovery helps people heal and transform their lives through the powerful experience of writing, playing, and performing music as a group.
Show Notes:
-What Wes was interested in as a kid [00:50]
-Wes’s first experience playing music [2:42]
-When Wes realized becoming a professional musician was a viable path [5:07]
-How Wes took guitar playing and turned it into a career [7:30]
-Why Wes embraced vulnerability out on stage [12:14]
-Why receiving validation from music is as magical as love [14:05]
-Wes’s experience writing for his audience and witnessing their reactions live [15:53]
-How Wes prepared for playing in front of large audiences [16:55]
-How Wes overcomes negative feedback regarding his music [21:29]
-What led Wes to start Rock to Recovery [25:28]
-Benefits of Rock to Recovery participation [35:10]
-What inspired Wes to turn Rock to Recovery into a business [38:24]
-Rock to Recovery’s work with military veterans [40:30]

# 53: Musician Wes Geer on Life as a Rock Star and Transforming Lives through Music

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2023/3/2/22/f4b4096b-2f96-40f9-a2c1-eee65f7aa95f_dan_chung_on_tsl.mp3

In this episode, Darren Reinke chats with the Co-Founder and Executive Director of Crossing Borders. Dan shares stories of hope from some of the North Korean women he has worked with over the last 20 years, the spark that led him to creating Crossing Borders, his personal definition of Greatness, and so much more!Crossing Borders is a non-profit dedicated to helping North Korean refugees who cross the border into China for food and medical assistance. They are a faith-based organization devoted to helping these refugees and their children live safe, healthy and productive lives. Show Notes:<ul><li>Understanding the North Korean refugee crisis [00:46]</li><li>When Dan became aware of the crisis and his spark to take action [3:44]</li><li>How Dan established a nonprofit to directly solve the crisis [6:20]</li><li>How Dan steered their nonprofit away from an American centric view and created a real organization [8:38]</li><li>How Dan overcame the challenges associated with raising money [10:43]</li><li>Describing early day challenges of having to overcome the American stereotypes many North Korean’s believed [12:51]</li><li>Understanding the services Crossing Borders provides [16:48]</li><li>How Crossing Borders successfully grows their community despite the need for high levels of secrecy [20:40]</li><li>The key differences Dan sees between for profit and nonprofit organizations [21:57]</li><li>What Dan has learned about himself as a leader over the last ten years [24:27]</li><li>Dan’s personal definition of Greatness [27:33]</li><li>What’s next for Crossing Borders [31:15]</li></ul>

In this episode, Darren Reinke chats with the Co-Founder and Executive Director of Crossing Borders. Dan shares stories of hope from some of the North Korean women he has worked with over the last 20 years, the spark that led him to creating Crossing Borders, his personal definition of Greatness, and so much more!
Crossing Borders is a non-profit dedicated to helping North Korean refugees who cross the border into China for food and medical assistance. They are a faith-based organization devoted to helping these refugees and their children live safe, healthy and productive lives.
Show Notes:
-Understanding the North Korean refugee crisis [00:46]
-When Dan became aware of the crisis and his spark to take action [3:44]
-How Dan established a nonprofit to directly solve the crisis [6:20]
-How Dan steered their nonprofit away from an American centric view and created a real organization [8:38]
-How Dan overcame the challenges associated with raising money [10:43]
-Describing early day challenges of having to overcome the American stereotypes many North Korean’s believed [12:51]
-Understanding the services Crossing Borders provides [16:48]
-How Crossing Borders successfully grows their community despite the need for high levels of secrecy [20:40]
-The key differences Dan sees between for profit and nonprofit organizations [21:57]
-What Dan has learned about himself as a leader over the last ten years [24:27]
-Dan’s personal definition of Greatness [27:33]
-What’s next for Crossing Borders [31:15]

# 52: Crossing Borders Co-Founder Dan Chung on the North Korean Refugee Crisis and What His Organization is Doing to Help

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2023/1/18/15/1b08db30-9871-4862-b0fd-74e2143d9dc4_slp_-_amir_sarhangi.mp3

In this episode, Darren Reinke chats with the founder and CEO of Supermojo, Amir Sarhangi. Amir discusses his original spark for entrepreneurship, why conviction is the most important part of entrepreneurship, his decision to start another company after a successful exit, how he become interested in NFTs and so much more!Supermojo is a financing platform designed to make digital assets more accessible for users. The platform facilitates point-of-sale financing, like layaway, to make NFT purchases easier and collateralized lending for improved post-sale liquidity. Supermojo’s initial focus is to partner with marketplaces and storefronts to offer these services. Show Notes:<ul><li>Amir’s original spark for entrepreneurship [00:38]</li><li>Amir’s first successful startup [1:55]</li><li>Embracing the highs and lows of entrepreneurship [4:18]</li><li>Amir’s process for creating alignment with his team [8:06]</li><li>Amir’s motivation to start another company after having a successful first exit [11:22]</li><li>Defining a non-fungible token (NFT) [14:33]</li><li>The current applications of NFTs [19:20]</li><li>What companies are doing to get into the NFT space [27:01]</li><li>How legacy companies can incorporate NFTs within their business [30:40]</li><li>How video games can help you understand NFTs [36:58]</li><li>How to harness the underlying technology of NFTs as a business owner [38:40]</li><li>How Amir prioritizes learning and growth within his business [41:38]</li><li>Where you can go to learn more about crypto, NFTs, and Supermojo [45:36]       </li></ul> Links:<a href="https://supermojo.com/" rel="nofollow">https://supermojo.com/</a><a href="https://www.coinbase.com/" rel="nofollow">https://www.coinbase.com/</a><a href="https://www.dapperlabs.com/candy" rel="nofollow">https://www.dapperlabs.com/candy</a>

In this episode, Darren Reinke chats with the founder and CEO of Supermojo, Amir Sarhangi. Amir discusses his original spark for entrepreneurship, why conviction is the most important part of entrepreneurship, his decision to start another company after a successful exit, how he become interested in NFTs and so much more!
Supermojo is a financing platform designed to make digital assets more accessible for users. The platform facilitates point-of-sale financing, like layaway, to make NFT purchases easier and collateralized lending for improved post-sale liquidity. Supermojo’s initial focus is to partner with marketplaces and storefronts to offer these services.
 Show Notes:
-Amir’s original spark for entrepreneurship [00:38]
-Amir’s first successful startup [1:55]
-Embracing the highs and lows of entrepreneurship [4:18]
-Amir’s process for creating alignment with his team [8:06]
-Amir’s motivation to start another company after having a successful first exit [11:22]
-Defining a non-fungible token (NFT) [14:33]
-The current applications of NFTs [19:20]
-What companies are doing to get into the NFT space [27:01]
-How legacy companies can incorporate NFTs within their business [30:40]
-How video games can help you understand NFTs [36:58]
-How to harness the underlying technology of NFTs as a business owner [38:40]
-How Amir prioritizes learning and growth within his business [41:38]
-Where you can go to learn more about crypto, NFTs, and Supermojo [45:36]

#51: Supermojo CEO Amir Sarhangi On Why You Should Incorporate NFTs Within Your Business

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2022/12/21/19/7e78cffb-ea92-44d4-85af-b45937403bb2_slp_-_mike_lynn.mp3

In this episode, Darren Reinke chats with co-founder and Chief Financial Officer of Pray.com, Mike Lynn. Mike discusses how is mom being swindled out of money during his childhood led him to pursue wealth management, why he left a very successful career at Merrill Lynch to pursue entrepreneurship, why you can’t book smart your way into being an entrepreneur, and so much more.Pray.com was launched in 2017 with a mission to grow faith, cultivate community, and leave a legacy of helping others. Today, Pray.com is the world’s No. 1 app for daily prayer with more than 12 million downloads. In addition to helping people make prayer a priority with its mobile app, Pray.com produced the Bible in a Year podcast, which hit #1 on Spotify in the religion category.Show Notes:<ul><li>Mike Lynn’s background in Green Bay, Wisconsin [1:13]</li><li>How Mike used his mom’s financial tragedy as fuel to manage other people’s wealth [3:55]</li><li>What greatness looked like to Mike at a young age [5:22]</li><li>How Mike used his sense of greatness to achieve success within financial services [7:09]</li><li>Why Mike looked for other opportunities beyond wealth management [9:23]</li><li>The moment Mike learned about Pray.com [12:50]</li><li>Why Mike walked away from an incredibly successful career to pursue Pray.com [17:06]</li><li>How Mike leads with values within his personal and professional life [20:36]</li><li>Why Mike never considered himself a leader [23:29]</li><li>The practical steps Mike took to learn to lead a mission driven team [26:56]</li><li>What Mike is working on to become a better leader as Pray.com continues to grow [29:02]</li><li>Why authenticity is so critical in leadership [34:55]</li><li>Lessons learned from the pandemic [36:06]</li></ul>Links:Website: <a href="http://pray.com/" rel="nofollow">http://pray.com/</a>

In this episode, Darren Reinke chats with co-founder and Chief Financial Officer of Pray.com, Mike Lynn. Mike discusses how is mom being swindled out of money during his childhood led him to pursue wealth management, why he left a very successful career at Merrill Lynch to pursue entrepreneurship, why you can’t book smart your way into being an entrepreneur, and so much more.
Pray.com was launched in 2017 with a mission to grow faith, cultivate community, and leave a legacy of helping others. Today, Pray.com is the world’s No. 1 app for daily prayer with more than 12 million downloads. In addition to helping people make prayer a priority with its mobile app, Pray.com produced the Bible in a Year podcast, which hit #1 on Spotify in the religion category.
Show Notes:
*Mike Lynn’s background in Green Bay, Wisconsin [1:13]
*How Mike used his mom’s financial tragedy as fuel to manage other people’s wealth [3:55]
*What greatness looked like to Mike at a young age [5:22]
*How Mike used his sense of greatness to achieve success within financial services [7:09]
*Why Mike looked for other opportunities beyond wealth management [9:23]
*The moment Mike learned about Pray.com [12:50]
*Why Mike walked away from an incredibly successful career to pursue Pray.com [17:06]
*How Mike leads with values within his personal and professional life [20:36]
*Why Mike never considered himself a leader [23:29]
*The practical steps Mike took to learn to lead a mission driven team [26:56]
*What Mike is working on to become a better leader as Pray.com continues to grow [29:02]
*Why authenticity is so critical in leadership [34:55]
*Lessons learned from the pandemic [36:06]

#50: Pray.com CFO Mike Lynn On Why You Can’t Afford to Play It Safe

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2022/12/8/1/556d3b35-d5e5-46e6-b083-1ff2eef3ecb6_slp_-_christian_gibbs_v2.mp3

In this episode, Darren Reinke chats with singer songwriter Christian Gibbs. Christian discusses how he got into the music business, how he joined iconic 80s band Modern English, how he balances commercial pressure from record labels with his desire to create authentic music, how he uses music to help kids, and so much more. Show Notes:<ul><li>The spark that led Christian to music [0:38]</li><li>Christian’s fascination with song writing [1:15]</li><li>Embracing the vulnerability that comes with song writing [2:33]</li><li>What inspired Christian’s early songs [3:23]</li><li>How Christian harvests his creative ideas and captures them within his music [4:45]</li><li>How the audience influences how Christian’s songs unfold [8:05]</li><li>Christian’s big break [9:21]</li><li>Overcoming the pressure associated with performing in front of a large audience [11:25]</li><li>Christian’s routine to be prepared when it matters most [15:12]</li><li>Why high levels of self-confidence are needed to succeed in music [18:47]</li><li>How Christian balances commercial pressure with being authentic as a songwriter [22:30]</li><li>How music is entrepreneurship [27:45]</li><li>How Christian continues to grow in his craft [29:39]</li><li>Why Christian starting working with Rock to Recovery [31:13]</li><li>Christian’s latest song [35:00]</li></ul>

In this episode, Darren Reinke chats with singer songwriter Christian Gibbs. Christian discusses how he got into the music business, how he joined iconic 80s band Modern English, how he balances commercial pressure from record labels with his desire to create authentic music, how he uses music to help kids, and so much more.
Show Notes:
*The spark that led Christian to music [0:38]
*Christian’s fascination with song writing [1:15]
*Embracing the vulnerability that comes with song writing [2:33]
*What inspired Christian’s early songs [3:23]
*How Christian harvests his creative ideas and captures them within his music [4:45]
*How the audience influences how Christian’s songs unfold [8:05]
*Christian’s big break [9:21]
*Overcoming the pressure associated with performing in front of a large audience [11:25]
*Christian’s routine to be prepared when it matters most [15:12]
*Why high levels of self-confidence are needed to succeed in music [18:47]
*How Christian balances commercial pressure with being authentic as a songwriter [22:30]
*How music is entrepreneurship [27:45]
*How Christian continues to grow in his craft [29:39]
*Why Christian starting working with Rock to Recovery [31:13]
*Christian’s latest song [35:00]

#49: Singer Songwriter Christian Gibbs – The Importance of Prioritizing Authenticity

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2022/11/10/16/b78ba54a-fb78-44c2-ae71-ff4b8fea36e1_beth_thorp_on_the_savage_leader_podcast.mp3

In this episode, Darren Reinke chats with Beth Thorp, co-founder and executive director of the Mitchell Thorp Foundation. Beth discuss how losing her son to a mysterious illness led her and her husband to starting the Mitchell Thorp Foundation, how they harnessed their grief and turned it into purpose, the positive impact their foundation has had on kids with life threatening illnesses, their families, and their communities and so much more!Mitchell Thorp Foundation&#39;s mission is to support families whose children suffer from life-threatening illnesses, diseases, and disorders by providing financial and emotional resources to help with their desperate situations.Show Notes:<ul><li>The story behind the Mitchell Thorp Foundation [0:57]</li><li>How Beth found the courage to start the foundation and honor her son’s legacy [4:59]</li><li>The strategies Beth and Brad Thorp utilized to maximize their foundation’s impact [9:55]</li><li>How Beth goes about engaging her community and attracting volunteers [14:43]</li><li>The early struggles of running a nonprofit and how Beth overcame them [18:22]</li><li>An example of Beth’s nonprofit helping a local family in need [21:43]</li><li>The future of the Mitchell Thorp Foundation [24:45]</li></ul>Links:Website: <a href="https://www.mitchellthorp.org/" rel="nofollow">https://www.mitchellthorp.org/</a>

In this episode, Darren Reinke chats with Beth Thorp, co-founder and executive director of the Mitchell Thorp Foundation. Beth discuss how losing her son to a mysterious illness led her and her husband to start the Mitchell Thorp Foundation, how they harnessed their grief and turned it into purpose, the positive impact their foundation has had on kids with life threatening illnesses, their families, and their communities and so much more!
Mitchell Thorp Foundation's mission is to support families whose children suffer from life-threatening illnesses, diseases, and disorders by providing financial and emotional resources to help with their desperate situations.
Show Notes:
*The story behind the Mitchell Thorp Foundation [0:57]
*How Beth found the courage to start the foundation and honor her son’s legacy [4:59]
*The strategies Beth and Brad Thorp utilized to maximize their foundation’s impact [9:55]
*How Beth goes about engaging her community and attracting volunteers [14:43]
*The early struggles of running a nonprofit and how Beth overcame them [18:22]
*An example of Beth’s nonprofit helping a local family in need [21:43]
*The future of the Mitchell Thorp Foundation [24:45]


#48: Mitchell Thorp Foundation Co-Founder, Beth Thorp – Transforming Grief Into Purpose

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2022/10/26/21/f5ff9a55-4f47-4509-8b27-9c848f71d6a4_slp_-_claudia.mp3

In this episode, Darren Reinke chats with Claudia Castellanos, founder and CEO of Black Mamba Foods. Claudia discusses how a decision to volunteer in Africa led her to find her life’s purpose, the importance of metrics and accountability for social impact businesses, how Black Mamba Food measures their impact, and how companies can expand their influence and make a difference.Black Mamba’s range of chili sauces, chili pastes, pestos, chutneys and jams are all made with organically grown ingredients sourced locally, and “no added nonsense” - they don’t add any artificial preservatives, flavors, or colors. They source their fresh ingredients through Guba, a local permaculture NGO. Guba collaborates with 50 local farmers who grow fresh organic herbs and chilis for their products through regenerative farming methods. The direct positive impact of this partnership reaches over 1,000 individuals in Eswatini.Show Notes:<ul><li>Claudia’s journey from growing up in Bogota, Columbia to starting a business is Eswatini, Southern Africa [1:02]</li><li>Why Claudia originally hoped to never work with food again [3:36]</li><li>Claudia’s quest to find her purpose [4:30]</li><li>How Claudia became clear on her &#34;Why&#34; [7:47]</li><li>Transitioning from part-time volunteering to full-time employment in Africa [9:42]</li><li>The early challenges of starting Black Mamba Foods [11:22]</li><li>The critical marketing strategies Black Mamba Food deployed to gain access to new markets [13:40]</li><li>How Black Mamba Foods connected with customers and developed products for local markets [15:38]</li><li>Black Mamba Food’s impact on the community [17:52]</li><li>The future of Black Mamba Foods [21:43]</li><li>Claudia’s advice for companies wanting to have a greater impact [23:40]</li><li>The practical steps companies can take to be more effective in having an impact [25:22]</li><li>Why you must run your business successfully to have a true impact [26:55]</li><li>How Black Mamba Foods measures their social impact [30:54]</li></ul>Links:Black Mamba Foods Website: <a href="https://blackmambachilli.com/" rel="nofollow">https://blackmambachilli.com/</a>

In this episode, Darren Reinke chats with Claudia Castellanos, founder and CEO of Black Mamba Foods. Claudia discusses how a decision to volunteer in Africa led her to find her life’s purpose, the importance of metrics and accountability for social impact businesses, how Black Mamba Food measures their impact, and how companies can expand their influence and make a difference.
Black Mamba’s range of chili sauces, chili pastes, pestos, chutneys and jams are all made with organically grown ingredients sourced locally, and “no added nonsense” - they don’t add any artificial preservatives, flavors, or colors. They source their fresh ingredients through Guba, a local permaculture NGO. Guba collaborates with 50 local farmers who grow fresh organic herbs and chilis for their products through regenerative farming methods. The direct positive impact of this partnership reaches over 1,000 individuals in Eswatini.
Show Notes:
*Claudia’s journey from growing up in Bogota, Columbia to starting a business is Eswatini, Southern Africa [1:02]
*Why Claudia originally hoped to never work with food again [3:36]
*Claudia’s quest to find her purpose [4:30]
*How Claudia became clear on her "Why" [7:47]
*Transitioning from part-time volunteering to full-time employment in Africa [9:42]
*The early challenges of starting Black Mamba Foods [11:22]
*The critical marketing strategies Black Mamba Food deployed to gain access to new markets [13:40]
*How Black Mamba Foods connected with customers and developed products for local markets [15:38]
*Black Mamba Food’s impact on the community [17:52]
*The future of Black Mamba Foods [21:43]
*Claudia’s advice for companies wanting to have a greater impact [23:40]
*The practical steps companies can take to be more effective in having an impact [25:22]
*Why you must run your business successfully to have a true impact [26:55]
*How Black Mamba Foods measures their social impact [30:54]

#47. Black Mamba Foods Founder and CEO, Claudia Castellanos – The Importance of Metrics and Accountability in Social Impact Companies

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2022/10/12/17/4d310496-a4f4-4261-ad13-ac2a9921dfd2_ryan_mulvany_on_the_savage_leader_podcast.mp3

In this episode, Darren Reinke chats with Ryan Mulvany, Founder and President of Quiverr. Ryan shares how he turned a side hustle into a scalable company that he eventually sold, the importance of trust in scaling critical business relationships, and how his willingness to lean into being different has helped him in both business and in life.Quiverr is a leader in full-service Amazon Marketplace Optimization. They help brands increase their revenue utilizing years of understanding Amazon’s A9 search algorithm, advertising platforms, conversion rate optimization, channel management, and more.Show Notes:<ul><li>Ryan’s first spark with entrepreneurship [1:20]</li><li>Where Ryan originally saw his career going [2:18]</li><li>The catalyst that introduced Ryan to Amazon [4:34]</li><li>The evolution of Ryan’s Amazon sales journey [4:45]</li><li>How the launch of the Kindle introduced Ryan to drop shipping [7:52]</li><li>What sparked the transition from a fun side hustle into a full blown business [9:20]</li><li>How Ryan built trust with huge brands in the marketplace [12:19]</li><li>The business models Ryan and his partners used to exponentially scale the business [15:37]</li><li>The big lessons Ryan had to learn to evolve into an effective CEO [17:46]</li><li>How Ryan inspires an entrepreneurial spirit within his employees [19:37]</li><li>How Ryan navigated making decisions based on gut instinct vs. tangible data [23:52]</li><li>Navigating the discomfort that arises from “being different” [29:36]</li><li>The areas Ryan embraces as being good, not great [31:20]</li><li>How Ryan thinks about building his own personal brand [34:50]</li><li>Why Ryan is a believer in balancing your life by living in the plurality [37:10]</li><li>Ryan’s advice on how to embrace greater creativity and adopt broader perspectives [39:20]</li></ul>Links:<ul><li>Ryan on LinkedIn: <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryanmulvany" rel="nofollow">https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryanmulvany</a></li></ul>

In this episode, Darren Reinke chats with Ryan Mulvany, Founder and President of Quiverr. Ryan shares how he turned a side hustle into a scalable company that he eventually sold, the importance of trust in scaling critical business relationships, and how his willingness to lean into being different has helped him in both business and in life.
Quiverr is a leader in full-service Amazon Marketplace Optimization. They help brands increase their revenue utilizing years of understanding Amazon’s A9 search algorithm, advertising platforms, conversion rate optimization, channel management, and more.
Show Notes:
*Ryan’s first spark with entrepreneurship [1:20]
*Where Ryan originally saw his career going [2:18]
*The catalyst that introduced Ryan to Amazon [4:34]
*The evolution of Ryan’s Amazon sales journey [4:45]
*How the launch of the Kindle introduced Ryan to drop shipping [7:52]
*What sparked the transition from a fun side hustle into a full blown business [9:20]
*How Ryan built trust with huge brands in the marketplace [12:19]
*The business models Ryan and his partners used to exponentially scale the business [15:37]
*The big lessons Ryan had to learn to evolve into an effective CEO [17:46]
*How Ryan inspires an entrepreneurial spirit within his employees [19:37]
*How Ryan navigated making decisions based on gut instinct vs. tangible data [23:52]
*Navigating the discomfort that arises from “being different” [29:36]
*The areas Ryan embraces as being good, not great [31:20]
*How Ryan thinks about building his own personal brand [34:50]
*Why Ryan is a believer in balancing your life by living in the plurality [37:10]
*Ryan’s advice on how to embrace greater creativity and adopt broader perspectives [39:20]

#46. Quiverr Founder and President Ryan Mulvany on Turning a Side Hustle into a Scalable Company

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2022/9/8/14/a3bd0f02-7118-4457-abaa-5f71e6ed32ff_akshay_sateesh_on_the_savage_leader_podcast.mp3

In this episode, Darren Reinke chats with Akshay Sateesh, president of Ziksana Consulting. Akshay discusses how going to school in Malaysia with kids from over 100 different countries equipped him with values of curiosity and adaptability, how improv inspired a career change, and the importance of bringing &#34;play&#34; into the workplace.Show Notes:<ul><li>Akshay’s unique multi-cultural background and how it has shaped his life’s perspective [0:57]</li><li>How celebrating multiple cultures led to Akshay’s values of curiosity and adaptability [2:30]</li><li>Akshay’s next steps after moving out of Malaysia [4:54]</li><li>What defined Akshay’s “awakening” and what drove him to make a shift [8:01]</li><li>Defining Improv and the difference between short form and long form [11:01]</li><li>How play shows up for adults [13:20]</li><li>How Akshay integrates play within the workplace [15:53]</li><li>Darren and Akshay bring play to the podcast [19:19]</li><li>Why you can’t be creative until you are playful [25:58]</li><li>How you can effortlessly introduce play into your workplace [29:20]</li><li>What you can do to cultivate a greater sense of play within yourself and others [33:16]</li><li>How to connect play to your work environment for greater results [36:41]</li></ul>Links:<a href="https://ziksanaconsulting.com/" rel="nofollow">Ziksana Consulting Group website</a><a href="https://www.instagram.com/ziksanaplay/" rel="nofollow">Ziksana Instagram</a><a href="https://www.linkedin.com/company/ziksana/" rel="nofollow">Ziksana LinkedIn</a>

In this episode, Darren Reinke chats with Akshay Sateesh, president of Ziksana Consulting. Akshay discusses how going to school in Malaysia with kids from over 100 different countries equipped him with values of curiosity and adaptability, how improv inspired a career change, and the importance of bringing "play" into the workplace.
Show Notes:
*Akshay’s unique multi-cultural background and how it has shaped his life’s perspective [0:57]
*How celebrating multiple cultures led to Akshay’s values of curiosity and adaptability [2:30]
*Akshay’s next steps after moving out of Malaysia [4:54]
What defined Akshay’s “awakening” and what drove him to make a shift [8:01]
*Defining Improv and the difference between short form and long form [11:01]
*How play shows up for adults [13:20]
*How Akshay integrates play within the workplace [15:53]
*Darren and Akshay bring play to the podcast [19:19]
*Why you can’t be creative until you are playful [25:58]
*How you can effortlessly introduce play into your workplace [29:20]
*What you can do to cultivate a greater sense of play within yourself and others [33:16]
*How to connect play to your work environment for greater results [36:41]

#45. Ziksana Consulting President Akshay Sateesh – The Importance of “Play” in the Workplace

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2022/8/24/21/04120bac-b487-450d-96a8-da05ffbbf387_mike_michalowitz_on_the_savage_leader_podcast.mp3

In this episode, Darren Reinke chats with business author Mike Michalowitz. Mike discusses his entrepreneurial, how he went bankrupt after starting and selling multiple successful companies, how he found his calling of eradicating entrepreneurial poverty, and why psychological ownership is the key to getting the most out of your people.Mike is the author of seven business books published by Penguin Random House, including Get Different, Profit First and Clockwork, and is the former host of the &#34;Business Rescue&#34; segment for MSNBC&#39;s Your Business.Show Notes:<ul><li>Finding your greater why [1:26]</li><li>How Mike’s greater why became eradicating entrepreneurial poverty [3:14]</li><li>How Mike goes about living out his calling [5:33]</li><li>How Mike infuses his purpose within the executives and leaders he helps [7:47]</li><li>The key component most companies miss that costs them high levels of employee engagement [12:26]</li><li>Why psychological ownership is the most important determinant of an individual’s success within their role [15:18]</li><li>Techniques to improve psychological ownership within your organization [18:58]</li><li>Mike’s new book and why he wrote it [21:28]</li></ul> Links:<ul><li><a href="https://www.runlikeclockwork.com/clockwork-life/" rel="nofollow">Clockwork.life</a></li><li><a href="https://mikemichalowicz.com/" rel="nofollow">mikemotorbike.com</a></li></ul>

In this episode, Darren Reinke chats with business author Mike Michalowitz. Mike discusses his entrepreneurial journey, how he went bankrupt after starting and selling multiple successful companies, how he found his calling of eradicating entrepreneurial poverty, and why psychological ownership is the key to getting the most out of your people.
Mike is the author of seven business books published by Penguin Random House, including Get Different, Profit First and Clockwork, and is the former host of the "Business Rescue" segment for MSNBC's Your Business.
Show Notes:
*Finding your greater why [1:26]
*How Mike’s greater why became eradicating entrepreneurial poverty [3:14]
*How Mike goes about living out his calling [5:33]
*How Mike infuses his purpose within the executives and leaders he helps [7:47]
*The key component most companies miss that costs them high levels of employee engagement [12:26]
*Why psychological ownership is the most important determinant of an individual’s success within their role [15:18]
*Techniques to improve psychological ownership within your organization [18:58]
*Mike’s new book and why he wrote it [21:28]

#44. Author and Entrepreneur Mike Michalowitz – Eradicating Entrepreneurial Poverty

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2022/7/28/19/03a84317-77e9-4b00-b8a5-7bb944b1460b_slp_-_leigh_steinberg.mp3

In this episode, Darren Reinke chats with Leigh Steinberg, a premiere sports agent, author, and philanthropist. Leigh discusses the skillsets learned from negotiating with Ronald Reagan, his journey to becoming a successful sports agents, the importance of strong values, and why you should go to a planetarium if you need perspective.During his 41-year career, Leigh Steinberg has represented over 300 professional athletes in football, baseball, basketball, boxing, and Olympic sports. He has represented the No. 1 overall pick in the NFL draft a record eight times and is often credited as the real-life inspiration for the sports agent in Cameron Crowe&#39;s film Jerry Maguire. Show Notes:<ul><li>What Leigh was passionate about growing up in Los Angeles [1:09]</li><li>What drew Leigh to attend UC Berkeley over UCLA [3:01]</li><li>What Leigh learned from negotiating against Ronald Reagan [4:32]</li><li>Why learning how to listen is the key to developing trust [6:44]</li><li>The difficult lessons Leigh learned that helped him become fully present [10:28]</li><li>The practical steps Leigh takes to understand the finiteness of life [15:00]</li><li>How Leigh sharpened his skillsets when first becoming a sports agent [16:10]</li><li>The techniques Leigh uses to help athletes develop their own brands [20:14]</li><li>How Leigh evaluates clients to determine their viability as a brand [23:13]</li><li>How social media has impacted Leigh’s clients and their brands [26:24]</li><li>How athletes’ brands have changed over the years and how Leigh helps coach life after athletics [27:48]</li><li>How Leigh continues to live out his father’s strong values [33:48]</li><li>What’s next for Leigh [38:45]</li></ul>

In this episode, Darren Reinke chats with Leigh Steinberg, a premiere sports agent, author, and philanthropist. Leigh discusses the skillsets learned from negotiating with Ronald Reagan, his journey to becoming a successful sports agents, the importance of strong values, and why you should go to a planetarium if you need perspective.

During his 41-year career, Leigh Steinberg has represented over 300 professional athletes in football, baseball, basketball, boxing, and Olympic sports. He has represented the No. 1 overall pick in the NFL draft a record eight times and is often credited as the real-life inspiration for the sports agent in Cameron Crowe's film Jerry Maguire.
Show Notes:
*What Leigh was passionate about growing up in Los Angeles [1:09]
*What drew Leigh to attend UC Berkeley over UCLA [3:01]
*What Leigh learned from negotiating against Ronald Reagan [4:32]
*Why learning how to listen is the key to developing trust [6:44]
*The difficult lessons Leigh learned that helped him become fully present [10:28]
*The practical steps Leigh takes to understand the finiteness of life [15:00]
*How Leigh sharpened his skillsets when first becoming a sports agent [16:10]
*The techniques Leigh uses to help athletes develop their own brands [20:14]
*How Leigh evaluates clients to determine their viability as a brand [23:13]
*How social media has impacted Leigh’s clients and their brands [26:24]
*How athletes’ brands have changed over the years and how Leigh helps coach life after athletics [27:48]
*How Leigh continues to live out his father’s strong values [33:48]
*What’s next for Leigh [38:45]

#43: Premiere Sports Agent and Best Selling Author Leigh Steinberg – Why You Need to Practice Being More Present

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2022/7/13/19/ab770cba-807f-487b-8b52-e662699a6dae_slp_-_aaron_fulkerson.mp3

In this episode, Darren Reinke chats with Aaron Fulkerson, a technology entrepreneur, founder of MindTouch, and a General Manager for ServiceNow. Aaron talks about his untraditional path into technology, why he thinks you should run a company like a sports team instead of a family, why generalists are less likely to be displaced by technology, and so much more! Show Notes<ul><li>Aaron&#39;s untraditional background and why he started his career later than most [1:12] </li><li>The lessons Aaron learned from solo travel in the woods [3:15]</li><li>How domestic travel led Aaron to philanthropy [4:45]</li><li>How Aaron created a career in technology [9:16]</li><li>Understanding open source projects and how it can integrate within a business model [12:01]</li><li>How you can apply open source concepts within your own business [14:26]</li><li>The implications of creating a technology company without venture capital [16:55]</li><li>How Aaron navigated being a first time CEO when founding MindTouch [18:56]</li><li>How Aaron built a strong value system at his first company [22:37]</li><li>How you execute on a vision and how it differs between startups and large companies [26:03]</li><li>How middle managers and below can successfully execute on a vision [31:15]</li><li>Why Aaron feels he’s been successful in sales [34:03]</li><li>Why you need to always Start with Why [36:09]</li><li>Why leadership requires pathological optimism [39:27]</li><li>The value of being a specialist vs a generalist [40:06]</li></ul>

In this episode, Darren Reinke chats with Aaron Fulkerson, a technology entrepreneur, founder of MindTouch, and a General Manager for ServiceNow. Aaron talks about his untraditional path into technology, why he thinks you should run a company like a sports team instead of a family, why generalists are less likely to be displaced by technology, and so much more! 

Show Notes
*Aaron's untraditional background and why he started his career later than most [1:12] 
*The lessons Aaron learned from solo travel in the woods [3:15]
*How domestic travel led Aaron to philanthropy [4:45]
*How Aaron created a career in technology [9:16]
*Understanding open source projects and how it can integrate within a business model [12:01]
*How you can apply open source concepts within your own business [14:26]
*The implications of creating a technology company without venture capital [16:55]
*How Aaron navigated being a first time CEO when founding MindTouch [18:56]
*How Aaron built a strong value system at his first company [22:37]
*How you execute on a vision and how it differs between startups and large companies [26:03]
*How middle managers and below can successfully execute on a vision [31:15]
*Why Aaron feels he’s been successful in sales [34:03]
*Why you need to always Start with Why [36:09]
*Why leadership requires pathological optimism [39:27]
*The value of being a specialist vs a generalist [40:06]

#42. ServiceNow Impact, GM Aaron Fulkerson - The Power of Pathological Optimism and Strong Values

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2022/6/29/22/4b29c681-0b85-4844-861d-be3a7cbea3ea_slp_-_brad_lee.mp3

In this episode, Darren Reinke chats with Brad Lee, former president and CEO of Breg. Brad discusses his interest in engineering from an early age, the “Aha” moment that led him on his journey to becoming a CEO, the most important lessons he learned from leaning into his fears, and so much more!Show Notes:<ul><li>How taking apart household appliances as a little kid led Brad to engineering [1:06]</li><li>Why Brad decided to pursue chemical engineering [2:27]</li><li>What career Brad hoped to pursue after graduating college [5:15]</li><li>How Brad learned to become a sales person [7:20]</li><li>The evolution of Brad’s career from engineering to sales and to marketing [9:34]</li><li>The moment Brad decided he wanted to be a CEO [12:38]</li><li>What skills, behaviors, and experiences Brad sought out on his journey to becoming CEO [15:00]</li><li>Why people are so afraid of saying “I Don’t Know” [19:25]</li><li>Why leaning into a fear is smart and productive [22:16]</li><li>Brad’s advice for those struggling to lean into their fears [25:09]</li><li>The major differences between running a private and a public company [30:56]</li><li>How Brad’s leadership style evolved between managing a private and public company [34:16]</li><li>The benefits of humility within leadership [35:56]</li><li>How Brad embraced delegating and learned to trust as a CEO [40:58]</li></ul>

In this episode, Darren Reinke chats with Brad Lee, former president and CEO of Breg. Brad discusses his interest in engineering from an early age, the “Aha” moment that led him on his journey to becoming a CEO, the most important lessons he learned from leaning into his fears, and so much more!
Show Notes:
*How taking apart household appliances as a little kid led Brad to engineering [1:06]
*Why Brad decided to pursue chemical engineering [2:27]
*What career Brad hoped to pursue after graduating college [5:15]
*How Brad learned to become a sales person [7:20]
*The evolution of Brad’s career from engineering to sales and to marketing [9:34]
*The moment Brad decided he wanted to be a CEO [12:38]
*What skills, behaviors, and experiences Brad sought out on his journey to becoming CEO [15:00]
*Why people are so afraid of saying “I Don’t Know” [19:25]
*Why leaning into a fear is smart and productive [22:16]
*Brad’s advice for those struggling to lean into their fears [25:09]
*The major differences between running a private and a public company [30:56]
*How Brad’s leadership style evolved between managing a private and public company [34:16]
*The benefits of humility within leadership [35:56]
*How Brad embraced delegating and learned to trust as a CEO [40:58]

#41: Former Breg CEO Brad Lee -Why You Should Lean Into Your Fears

Principles to Become a Leader from the Inside Out

Learn how to become a better leader from the inside out. This isn't your traditional leadership podcast as I believe that leadership lessons come from conventional sources such as entrepreneurs and successful business executives as well as from unexpected places; Navy SEALs, professional athletes, sports coaches, musicians, entertainers and more. On each episode, I interview leaders from all walks of life so that you walk away with tips to apply to your life and career.

I'm your host Darren Reinke, founder of Group Sixty ( https://www.groupsixty.com/ ) and author of The Savage Leader: 13 Principles to Become a Better Leader from the Inside Out ( https://www.groupsixty.com/book ).