The CEO Podcast

Scott De Long & Vince Moiso

Join southern California-based entrepreneurs and business leaders, Dr. Scott De Long and Vince Moiso, MBA on an inspiring journey through the world of executive leadership. This bi-weekly podcast focusing on Conversations with Entrepreneurs about Opportunity is your exclusive gateway to invaluable insights and dynamic discussions, tailored for C-suite executives, entrepreneurs, and leadership teams. 🚀 Explore a Multiverse of Leadership Topics Each week, our seasoned hosts delve into a kaleidoscope of topics, ranging from visionary business leadership and entrepreneurial ventures to the art of nurturing talent, managing engagement, and retention strategies, and crafting bulletproof strategic plans. We're here to guide you through the ever-evolving landscape of leadership. 🎙️ Meet Our Esteemed Guests In Season 2 and beyond, we're thrilled to introduce a parade of distinguished guests. These industry titans bring their wealth of expertise to our table, enriching our conversations with fresh perspectives and real-world experiences. 🌐 Connect with Us Visit our official website at http://theceopodcast.net for additional resources, show notes, and more. You can also find us on Instagram and Facebook at @theceopodcast. Have questions, challenges, or a burning desire for a deeper dive into any topic? Reach out to Scott and Vince at scottandvince@gmail.com. We value your feedback and ideas! 🎧 Thank You for Being a Part of Our Journey Your listenership is our greatest honor. As we navigate the ever-changing world of leadership together, we're excited to have you with us. Stay tuned, stay inspired, and stay exceptional.

  1. Talk Smarter. Lead Stronger. The CEO's Playbook for Communication That Inspires Action

    JAN 13

    Talk Smarter. Lead Stronger. The CEO's Playbook for Communication That Inspires Action

    In Episode 6.6, Scott and Vince close their limited series with a deep dive into communication, the foundation of effective leadership. They discuss how clarity, tone, and active listening directly influence trust, culture, and performance.   Scott highlights that communication isn't just about speaking clearly but ensuring mutual understanding. Vince shares practical tools such as reflective listening, open-ended questioning, and feedback loops that foster connection and accountability.   They conclude that leaders should model the communication behaviors they want to see, challenge assumptions, and continually ask: What one change could improve your communication right now?   Key Takeaways Listening to understand builds stronger relationships and trust. Clarity depends on what others hear, not what leaders think they said. Modeling communication sets the tone for organizational culture. Key Insights Nearly every leadership issue ties back to poor communication. Reflective listening ensures shared understanding before execution. Empathetic listening fosters mutual respect and trust. Nonverbal cues shape the impact of messages more than words alone. 360-degree feedback uncovers blind spots and strengthens leaders. Open-ended questions clarify intent and expectations. Communication quality defines culture quality. Leaders should ask themselves if they are modeling good communication. Listening before reacting prevents misunderstanding and conflict. Intentional communication transforms engagement across teams. Connect: Scott De Long, Ph.D. & Lead2Goals Instagram: @scottdelongphd @lead2goals.com LinkedIn: @scottdelongphd Web: lead2goals.com Email: scott@lead2goals.com Books: I Thought I Was A Leader You Win Again, Jack (New for 2025!) Vince Moiso & Vis Business Group Instagram: @visbiz.us LinkedIn: @vincentmoiso Web: visbiz.us Email: vince@visbiz.us Books How to Survive in the Wilderness The CEO Podcast Instagram | @theceopodcast LinkedIn | @the-ceo-podcast Facebook | @theceopodcast

    23 min
  2. Redefining the Corner Office: How Today's CEOs Are Trading Control for Connection and Agility

    12/30/2025

    Redefining the Corner Office: How Today's CEOs Are Trading Control for Connection and Agility

    In Episode 6.5, Scott and Vince discuss the CEO's evolving role in the new economy, addressing AI disruption, hybrid work, and generational diversity. They note that leadership today demands flexibility, trust, and a renewed focus on culture and collaboration. Scott argues that CEOs must transition from problem solvers to orchestrators; visionaries who align experts across departments. Vince emphasizes that while innovation is critical, financial fundamentals like profitability and capital discipline remain non-negotiable. They conclude that leaders can't force or ignore change; they must navigate it strategically, balancing adaptability with accountability and clarity of purpose. Key Takeaways Modern CEOs are visionaries who orchestrate culture, talent, and execution. Adapting to change requires trust, clarity, and focus on fundamentals. Change can't be forced or ignored; it must be led intentionally. Key Insights AI and hybrid work redefine business models and team dynamics. Vision and culture have overtaken command as a CEO's key tools. Delegation builds scale and fosters leadership growth. Trust but verify remains a core principle for accountability. Financial fluency strengthens leadership credibility. Generational diversity drives creativity and insight. Remote work expands access to global talent and productivity. Culture bridges generational gaps and builds unity. Innovation thrives when curiosity meets discipline. Leadership today means guiding disruption, not resisting it. Connect: Scott De Long, Ph.D. & Lead2Goals Instagram: @scottdelongphd @lead2goals.com LinkedIn: @scottdelongphd Web: lead2goals.com Email: scott@lead2goals.com Books: I Thought I Was A Leader You Win Again, Jack (New for 2025!) Vince Moiso & Vis Business Group Instagram: @visbiz.us LinkedIn: @vincentmoiso Web: visbiz.us Email: vince@visbiz.us Books How to Survive in the Wilderness The CEO Podcast Instagram | @theceopodcast LinkedIn | @the-ceo-podcast Facebook | @theceopodcast

    23 min
  3. Unarmored Leadership: The Courage to Care and Command

    12/16/2025

    Unarmored Leadership: The Courage to Care and Command

    In Episode 6.4, Scott De Long and Vince Moiso examine the warrior mentality in leadership and question whether it remains relevant or should evolve. They discuss how determination, accountability, and passion can fuel performance when balanced with empathy and collaboration. Vince shares that his warrior mindset is about perseverance and effort, not domination. Scott agrees that drive and ownership matter, but warns that the win-at-all-costs mindset can harm culture and relationships if unchecked. They agree that great leaders fight alongside their teams, not above them. The warrior spirit should inspire commitment and resilience, tempered by compassion and humility. Key Takeaways Resilience and drive are essential, but empathy sustains leadership. The warrior mentality must evolve from control to collaboration. Leaders win by inspiring, not intimidating, their teams. Key Insights The modern warrior leads with love, not fear. Extreme ownership must be paired with humility and care. Toxic win-at-all-costs leadership is unsustainable. True warriors build trust through action and support. Adaptability separates effective warriors from rigid ones. Empathy transforms intensity into inspiration. Accountability should empower, not punish. A leader's warrior energy is best used to lift others. Passion and compassion are equally vital in leadership. Ask yourself: When does your warrior emerge, and does it serve your team? Connect: Scott De Long, Ph.D. & Lead2Goals Instagram: @scottdelongphd @lead2goals.com LinkedIn: @scottdelongphd Web: lead2goals.com Email: scott@lead2goals.com Books: I Thought I Was A Leader You Win Again, Jack (New for 2025!) Vince Moiso & Vis Business Group Instagram: @visbiz.us LinkedIn: @vincentmoiso Web: visbiz.us Email: vince@visbiz.us Books How to Survive in the Wilderness The CEO Podcast Instagram | @theceopodcast LinkedIn | @the-ceo-podcast Facebook | @theceopodcast

    21 min
  4. The Cost of Culture: It's Not Overhead. It's the Engine That Drives Performance.

    12/02/2025

    The Cost of Culture: It's Not Overhead. It's the Engine That Drives Performance.

    In Episode 6.3 of The CEO Podcast, Scott De Long, Ph.D., and Vince Moiso explore how culture shapes organizational success. They discuss culture as a living system that evolves with each new hire and business shift, requiring leadership to nurture and align it with core values. Scott explains that culture happens whether leaders manage it or not; it's how things get done within the company. Vince adds that failing to direct culture leads to misalignment and toxicity. Both stress that true culture management requires clarity in vision, mission, and values across all levels. They conclude that culture isn't a cost but the container that makes sustainable performance possible. A strong, aligned culture fosters communication, reduces turnover, and builds lasting engagement. Key Takeaways: Culture exists with or without leadership; intentional direction makes the difference. Alignment between personal and organizational values drives sustainable success. Investing in culture pays off through engagement, retention, and performance. Key Insights: Culture evolves continuously; leaders must shape it deliberately. Misaligned values are the root of toxic workplaces. Communication defines and sustains company culture. Hiring for cultural fit prevents future misalignment. Engaged employees lead to happier customers and stronger results. Culture building should involve all team levels, not just leadership. Cross-functional collaboration strengthens cultural understanding. Influence, not control, sustains healthy organizational dynamics. Transparency and empathy foster trust in the workplace. Leaders should ask whether employees see the culture the same way leadership does. Connect: Scott De Long, Ph.D. & Lead2Goals Instagram: @scottdelongphd @lead2goals.com LinkedIn: @scottdelongphd Web: lead2goals.com Email: scott@lead2goals.com Books: I Thought I Was A Leader You Win Again, Jack (New for 2025!) Vince Moiso & Vis Business Group Instagram: @visbiz.us LinkedIn: @vincentmoiso Web: visbiz.us Email: vince@visbiz.us Books How to Survive in the Wilderness The CEO Podcast Instagram | @theceopodcast LinkedIn | @the-ceo-podcast Facebook | @theceopodcast

    22 min
  5. From Control to Culture: Evolving Leadership for Resilient, People-Focused, Organization

    11/18/2025

    From Control to Culture: Evolving Leadership for Resilient, People-Focused, Organization

    In Episode 6.2 of The CEO Podcast limited-run reboot series, Leadership at the Crossroads, hosts Vince Moiso and Scott De Long, Ph.D., examine the resurgence of the command-and-control leadership style in today's supercharged economic and political climate. They frame the issue as a common reaction to pressures such as inflation, tariffs, and AI disruption conditions that tempt even seasoned leaders to revert to top-down directives. Vince reflects on his personal evolution from a harddriving, authoritarian approach to a more principled, people-centered model influenced by Stoic philosophy (e.g., Ryan Holiday's work) and his experiences coaching youth sports. Scott underscores the drawbacks of command-and-control: while it can deliver short-term execution, it erodes culture, stifles development, and risks producing the next generation of jerk managers. They argue for data-informed, collaborative decision making that empowers people and sustains performance over time. Both acknowledge there are narrow circumstances where decisive command is warranted—true emergencies (fire in the building) or moments when time is genuinely of the essence. Even then, they recommend anchoring decisions in clear processes (e.g., routing major choices through a single function like finance), aligning actions with a shared vision, and practicing self-reflection; are you stressed, or is the business stressed? The episode closes with a call to choose what's best for the organization (us) over what's easiest for the leader (me). Key Takeaways Command-and-control can drive short-term results but damages culture and long-term performance. Use decisive top-down leadership sparingly—primarily for true emergencies or when time is critical. Sustainable leadership pairs clear processes and shared vision with empowerment, reflection, and data-informed decisions. Key Insights Economic/political pressure often triggers regression to top-down behaviors even in progressive cultures. Personal evolution as a leader may require unlearning early models (e.g., sports-style toughness coaching). Stoic practices (control your response, not external events) help leaders avoid reactive overreach. Command-and-control excels at speed and clarity, but undermines autonomy, development, and trust. Culture built on development (not just training) yields higher productivity, empowerment, and retention. Data-informed, collaborative decisions create buy-in and better execution across functions. Processes can prevent panic leadership (e.g., routing big decisions through finance or another gatekeeper). Leaders should ask: Is this choice better for me or better for us (the whole organization)? Self-check under pressure: Are you stressed personally, or is the business actually stressed? Revisit and align with a near-term vision (35 years) so decisions support strategic direction. Connect: Scott De Long, Ph.D. & Lead2Goals Instagram: @scottdelongphd @lead2goals.com LinkedIn: @scottdelongphd Web: lead2goals.com Email: scott@lead2goals.com Books: I Thought I Was A Leader You Win Again, Jack (New for 2025!) Vince Moiso & Vis Business Group Instagram: @visbiz.us LinkedIn: @vincentmoiso Web: visbiz.us Email: vince@visbiz.us Books How to Survive in the Wilderness The CEO Podcast Instagram | @theceopodcast LinkedIn | @the-ceo-podcast Facebook | @theceopodcast

    22 min
  6. Tough Calls in Tough Times: Leading Through Uncertainty

    11/04/2025

    Tough Calls in Tough Times: Leading Through Uncertainty

    In this episode of The CEO Podcast, Scott De Long, Ph.D., and Vince Moiso return after a long hiatus to discuss the challenges leaders face in making tough calls during uncertain times in this limited-run series, Leadership at the Crossroads. They open with reflections on the current economic and political landscape, including inflation, tariffs, AI disruption, and fluctuating interest rates of which test a leader's ability to remain calm, focused, and strategic. Scott emphasizes the importance of staying calm and making data-driven decisions rather than fear-based reactions. He encourages leaders to balance instinct with analysis, ensuring decisions are informed by both experience and data. Vince adds that focus is more critical than ever, urging leaders to eliminate distractions from constant news cycles to phone notifications so they can maintain clarity and productivity. Together, they explore how external noise and media bias can influence leadership decisions and why critical thinking and perspective are essential traits for modern executives. The conversation shifts to organizational growth, where Scott and Vince share insights on balancing entrepreneurial drive with operational discipline. They discuss a case study of a fast-growing company learning to integrate structure without stifling innovation. The duo agrees that while bold moves are sometimes necessary, leaders must know when to slow down, assess internal processes, and ensure alignment with long-term vision. They conclude by encouraging CEOs to revisit their organizational purpose, assess market realities, and recalibrate their three-year vision to align with today's changing business climate. Key Takeaways Leaders must stay calm, grounded, and data-driven when navigating uncertainty. Eliminating distractions and focusing on what truly matters is essential for effective leadership. Sometimes slowing down to analyze and align can lead to faster, more sustainable growth. Key Insights Economic uncertainty, including inflation and tariffs, demands clear-headed leadership. Data-driven decision-making reduces fear-based reactions and helps maintain stability. Balancing entrepreneurial instinct with structure is key to sustainable scaling. Avoiding constant exposure to news and social media can improve focus and mental clarity. Leaders should question media biases and seek diverse perspectives before forming opinions. Slowing down at key decision points can prevent costly mistakes and promote strategic clarity. Collaborative decision-making fosters buy-in and stronger organizational alignment. Understanding team personalities and communication styles enhances leadership effectiveness. Organizations should routinely reassess vision, processes, and resource allocation. Now is the time for leaders to decide between Connect: Scott De Long, Ph.D. & Lead2Goals Instagram: @scottdelongphd @lead2goals.com LinkedIn: @scottdelongphd Web: lead2goals.com Email: scott@lead2goals.com Books: I Thought I Was A Leader You Win Again, Jack (New for 2025!) Vince Moiso & Vis Business Group Instagram: @visbiz.us LinkedIn: @vincentmoiso Web: visbiz.us Email: vince@visbiz.us Books How to Survive in the Wilderness The CEO Podcast Instagram | @theceopodcast LinkedIn | @the-ceo-podcast Facebook | @theceopodcast

    20 min
  7. The AI Playbook: Strategies for Business Leaders with Special Guest, Joel Neeb

    06/20/2024

    The AI Playbook: Strategies for Business Leaders with Special Guest, Joel Neeb

    In a momentous milestone, Season 5, Episode 20 of The CEO Podcast celebrates its 100th episode with a deep dive into the transformative topic of AI. Hosts Scott and Vince are joined by AI specialist from Inside Edge, Joel Neeb. Together, they explore the imperative need of integrating AI into corporate cultures and the profound impact this technology can have on business growth and scalability. This episode can serve as a bit of a playbook of strategies for you and your team to use as you venture into incorporating AI into your business.  Key Discussion Points: Harnessing AI for Business Advancement: Vince, Scott, and Joel kickstart the conversation by elucidating how business leaders can strategically leverage AI to gain competitive advantages and foster growth within their organizations. Insights from an AI Specialist: Joel Neeb shares invaluable insights garnered from his extensive experience, shedding light on the nuances of AI implementation and its transformative potential across industries.  Embracing Technological Transition: The discussion highlights the importance of embracing technological transitions and cultivating a culture of continuous learning to stay ahead in an increasingly AI-driven business landscape. Path to AI Expertise: Vince and Scott delve into what it takes to become an AI expert, emphasizing the importance of education, curiosity, and practical application in mastering this cutting-edge technology. Harnessing AI Insights: Exploring the newfound insights AI can unlock, the hosts and Joel Neeb discuss practical strategies for harnessing AI-generated data to drive informed business decisions and operational efficiencies. AI Integration in Everyday Tech: Reflecting on the omnipresence of AI in everyday technologies, the conversation touches upon real-world applications that are already reshaping industries and consumer experiences. Utilizing AI for Data Optimization: The discussion extends to different methodologies for capturing, curating, and optimizing data using AI-driven analytics, enhancing business intelligence and predictive capabilities. AI and Workforce Dynamics: Addressing concerns about AI's impact on human employment, the hosts and Joel explore the evolving landscape of work and strategies for upskilling and reskilling vulnerable workforces. Transition from Information to Insights: Vince, Scott, and Joel emphasize the critical shift from data accumulation to deriving actionable insights, enabling businesses to navigate complexities and seize growth opportunities. Strategic Alignment for the Future: The episode concludes with a call-to-action for business leaders to initiate vital conversations and strategic alignments necessary to prepare for the future AI-driven economy. Conclusion: From practical implementation strategies to ethical considerations and workforce implications, Scott, Vince, and Joel deliver actionable insights and thought-provoking discussions that empower entrepreneurs to harness AI's full potential. With a focus on adaptability, education, and strategic foresight, this episode equips business leaders with the tools and knowledge needed to thrive in an AI-driven era, ensuring they stay ahead of the curve and drive sustainable growth in their organizations. ABOUT OUR GUEST: Joel "Thor" Neeb, an F-15 pilot and honors graduate of the U.S. Air Force Academy, has led an illustrious career. As Top Instructor Pilot at Air Force Flight Training Headquarters, he trained pilots from 25 countries. Trained as a safety professional, he managed the safe execution of an $800M/year flight program and investigated major aircraft mishaps. After being diagnosed with Stage III cancer in 2010, Thor founded a youth outreach program in San Antonio, helping over 15,000 at-risk kids and earning the AETC National Public Service Award. He achieved the highest score on the military physical fitness test post-chemotherapy and completed the New Zealand Ironman Triathlon. Thor holds master's degree in Aerospace Science and an MBA from the University of Texas, where he received the Dean's Award for Academic Excellence. As co-founder of PCSgrades and an Afterburner Executive Consultant, he has supported strategic initiatives for companies like AT&T, Capital One, and the Buffalo Bills NFL team. ABOUT OUR HOSTS: Scott De Long, Ph.D., is an entrepreneur, author, educator, and the Founder of Lead2Goals, a business leadership organization that provides coaching, facilitation, and training for growth-oriented organizations. Scott has recently released his first book, "I Thought I Was A Leader... A Journey to Building Trust, Leading Teams & Inspiring Change." Available at Amazon. Vince Moiso, MBA, is the Founder and President of VIS Aspire Inc., a business management consultant group. He is also a Principal and President of Oceanside Glass & Tile. Vince is the author of the book "How to Survive the Wilderness: The Playbook for the Entrepreneur and High Performer." Also available at Amazon. To learn more about Scott De Long, Ph.D., and Vince Moiso, MBA, please visit theceopodcast.net. If you have questions or comments, or to make topic suggestions for future episodes, please contact them at scottandvince@gmail.com. ABOUT LEAD2GOALS: Lead2Goals is based in Southern California and provides business leadership training and employee development through soft skills training, executive coaching, team-building, and strategic planning. To learn more, please contact Scott at scott@lead2goals.com or visit lead2goals.com. ABOUT VIS ASPIRE: VIS Aspire is a small business consulting firm dedicated to the flooring industry. Their mission is to transform your business and exceed expectations through mindful preparation and meaningful action. To learn more, please contact Vince at vincent@visaspireinc.com or visit visaspireinc.com.

    41 min
  8. Generational Insights: Learning and Leading in a Multigenerational World

    06/06/2024

    Generational Insights: Learning and Leading in a Multigenerational World

    In episode 5.19 of The CEO Podcast, hosts Scott and Vince delve into the dynamic topic of leading a multigenerational workforce. In this episode, they explore the importance of effectively leading and managing a multigenerational workforce, emphasizing the value of diversity, collaboration, and inclusive leadership practices. Key Discussion Points: Leading a Multigenerational Workforce: Vince and Scott kick off the discussion by sharing insights on the challenges and opportunities of leading a workforce composed of individuals from different generations. Learning from Diversity: The hosts highlight the importance of learning from individuals belonging to different generations, emphasizing the unique perspectives and skills each generation brings to the table. Promoting Collaboration: Exploring the power of collaboration across generations, the discussion underscores the benefits of fostering a culture of cooperation and knowledge sharing within organizations. Effective Communication: Vince and Scott delve into the nuances of effective communication in a multigenerational workplace, offering practical tips for becoming a more adept communicator. Building a Strong Organizational Culture: The conversation extends to the significance of building a strong organizational culture centered around values of inclusivity, psychological safety, and adaptability. Promoting Development: Highlighting the importance of continuous learning and development, the hosts emphasize the role of organizations in nurturing the growth and advancement of their employees. Equity and Inclusivity: Delving into the difference between equity and equality, Vince and Scott explore strategies for creating an inclusive and equitable work environment that supports the professional growth of all employees. Cultivating a Growth Path: The hosts conclude by discussing the importance of creating clear growth paths for individuals within organizations, encouraging listeners to invest time in assessing and nurturing the culture of their organizations. Conclusion: As the milestone 99th episode draws to a close, Vince and Scott leave listeners with valuable insights and actionable strategies for effectively navigating the complexities of leading a multigenerational workforce. With a focus on fostering diversity, collaboration, and inclusive leadership practices, "Generational Insights" offers listeners a roadmap for creating thriving, inclusive workplaces where every individual has the opportunity to thrive and succeed. ABOUT OUR HOSTS: Scott De Long, Ph.D., is an entrepreneur, author, educator, and Founder of Lead2Goals, a business leadership organization that provides coaching, facilitation, and training for growth-oriented organizations. Scott has recently released his first book, "I Thought I Was A Leader... A Journey to Building Trust, Leading Teams & Inspiring Change." Available at Amazon. Vince Moiso, MBA, is the Founder and President of VIS Aspire Inc., a business management consultant group. He is also a Principal and President of Oceanside Glass & Tile. Vince is the author of the book "How to Survive the Wilderness: The Playbook for the Entrepreneur and High Performer." Also available at Amazon. To learn more about Scott De Long, Ph.D., and Vince Moiso, MBA, please visit theceopodcast.net. If you have questions or comments, or to make topic suggestions for future episodes, please contact them at scottandvince@gmail.com. ABOUT LEAD2GOALS: Lead2Goals is based in Southern California and provides business leadership training and employee development through soft skills training, executive coaching, team-building, and strategic planning. To learn more, please contact Scott at scott@lead2goals.com or visit lead2goals.com. ABOUT VIS ASPIRE: VIS Aspire is a small business consulting firm dedicated to the flooring industry. Their mission is to transform your business and exceed expectations through mindful preparation and meaningful action. To learn more, please contact Vince at vincent@visaspireinc.com or visit visaspireinc.com.

    26 min

Trailers

4.6
out of 5
34 Ratings

About

Join southern California-based entrepreneurs and business leaders, Dr. Scott De Long and Vince Moiso, MBA on an inspiring journey through the world of executive leadership. This bi-weekly podcast focusing on Conversations with Entrepreneurs about Opportunity is your exclusive gateway to invaluable insights and dynamic discussions, tailored for C-suite executives, entrepreneurs, and leadership teams. 🚀 Explore a Multiverse of Leadership Topics Each week, our seasoned hosts delve into a kaleidoscope of topics, ranging from visionary business leadership and entrepreneurial ventures to the art of nurturing talent, managing engagement, and retention strategies, and crafting bulletproof strategic plans. We're here to guide you through the ever-evolving landscape of leadership. 🎙️ Meet Our Esteemed Guests In Season 2 and beyond, we're thrilled to introduce a parade of distinguished guests. These industry titans bring their wealth of expertise to our table, enriching our conversations with fresh perspectives and real-world experiences. 🌐 Connect with Us Visit our official website at http://theceopodcast.net for additional resources, show notes, and more. You can also find us on Instagram and Facebook at @theceopodcast. Have questions, challenges, or a burning desire for a deeper dive into any topic? Reach out to Scott and Vince at scottandvince@gmail.com. We value your feedback and ideas! 🎧 Thank You for Being a Part of Our Journey Your listenership is our greatest honor. As we navigate the ever-changing world of leadership together, we're excited to have you with us. Stay tuned, stay inspired, and stay exceptional.