Trailblazing for Success: Inspiring Leaders

Bruce and Gail Montgomery
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Join us on Trailblazing for Success: Inspiring Leaders, a podcast celebrating remarkable leaders and their journeys to success. Discover their secrets, adventures, challenges, and innovations.

  1. E46 | Revolutionizing Fan Engagement with AI and Storytelling, with Bill Bailey

    09/26/2025

    E46 | Revolutionizing Fan Engagement with AI and Storytelling, with Bill Bailey

    Summary In this engaging conversation, Bill Bailey, head of sports and entertainment at Satisfi Labs, shares his journey from the food industry to the sports world, highlighting the innovative work being done at Satisfi Labs to enhance fan engagement through AI and data analytics. He discusses the importance of storytelling in business, building meaningful relationships, and adapting to different learning styles. Bill also offers insights into the future of AI in sports and entertainment and shares valuable leadership lessons. Takeaways Bill Bailey has a diverse background in food and sports industries.Satisfi Labs focuses on enhancing fan engagement through AI.The company has a 70% market share in sports entertainment.AI is used to provide instant answers to fan inquiries.Storytelling is crucial for effective communication in business.Building relationships is key to success in sales.Different people consume information in various ways.Repetition and multiple formats help in effective communication.AI will continue to evolve and play a significant role in business.Effective leadership involves providing context and removing obstacles. Chapters 00:00 Family Life and Personal Updates 00:20 Satisfye Labs and Innovations in Sports Entertainment 03:48 Guardrails for Brand Protection 04:45 The Art of Storytelling in Business 08:02 From Food Business to Sports Leadership 10:25 Evolving Storytelling Techniques 14:19 AI in Customer Engagement 17:23 The Future of AI in Business 19:48 Leadership Lessons and Advice Keywords Bill Bailey, Satisfi Labs, AI, sports, entertainment, fan engagement, storytelling, leadership, data analytics, technology

    22 min
  2. E45 | Biology Meets Boardroom: Aim Your Effort Where It Counts, with Carla Fowler

    09/05/2025

    E45 | Biology Meets Boardroom: Aim Your Effort Where It Counts, with Carla Fowler

    SummaryIn this engaging conversation, Bruce and Gail speak with Dr. Carla Fowler, the Managing Director of THAXA Executive Coaching. They discuss Carla's journey from a medical and academic background to the world of executive coaching, exploring themes of leadership, performance science, and the importance of visibility in achieving success. Carla shares her insights on the methodologies she employs in coaching, emphasizing the need for a holistic approach that includes strategy, execution, mindset, and biology. The conversation wraps up with valuable advice on making impactful decisions and the significance of understanding one's own capabilities in a leadership role.Takeaways- The importance of personal stories in connecting with others.- Making a career pivot can be a brave and necessary decision.- Leaders need to be aware of their visibility and impact.- Performance science encompasses strategy, execution, mindset, and biology.- A bias for action can lead to burnout if not managed properly.- Understanding one's own capabilities is crucial for effective leadership.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Personal Anecdotes02:45 Carla Fowler's Journey to Executive Coaching05:37 The Decision to Pivot Careers08:21 Understanding Leadership and Performance Science11:14 The Importance of Visibility in Leadership13:52 Advice and Insights on Effective Leadership16:39 Final Thoughts and Closing RemarksKeywordsexecutive coaching, performance science, leadership, personal development, career pivot, mindset, strategy, biology, visibility, advice

    26 min
  3. E44 | Casting Big Nets: How Adventure and Alignment Fuel Sam Vandervalk’s Mission

    05/30/2025

    E44 | Casting Big Nets: How Adventure and Alignment Fuel Sam Vandervalk’s Mission

    Summary In this conversation, Sam Vandervalk shares his journey from being a sport fishing guide to founding Arc Trips, a mastermind retreat experience for high-achieving entrepreneurs. He discusses the importance of aligning success with deeper meaning, the challenges he faced in building his fishing business, and his latest venture into creating an adventure booking platform that utilizes AI. Sam emphasizes the significance of personal growth for entrepreneurs and how it impacts their business success. Takeaways Sam Vandervalk founded Arc Trips to help leaders find purpose beyond success.True fulfillment comes from aligning achievement with deeper meaning.Sam started his fishing business while attending university, aiming for financial independence.He became a leader in SEO for fishing keywords, achieving top rankings on Google.Sam's business model includes a unique fish guarantee for customers.He emphasizes the importance of personal growth for business leaders.Sam is developing an AI-driven adventure booking platform.The platform aims to enhance the experience for both hosts and guests.Finding Purpose Beyond Success with Sam Vandervalk Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Sam Vanderwalk 01:04 The Concept of Adventure-Based Mastermind Retreats 02:04 Exploring Vancouver's Natural Wonders 03:30 Sam's Journey to Entrepreneurship 08:14 Overcoming SEO Challenges 10:26 Innovating the Fishing Experience 14:18 Building an Adventure Booking Platform 22:12 The Importance of Personal Growth in BusinessKeywords Sam Vandervalk, Arc Trips, mastermind retreats, adventure-based retreats, personal growth, entrepreneurship, fishing business, adventure booking platform, leadership, purpose-driven business

    25 min
  4. E43 | When Math Meets Humanity: The Trailblazing Leadership of Renu Hooda

    05/16/2025

    E43 | When Math Meets Humanity: The Trailblazing Leadership of Renu Hooda

    Summary In this engaging conversation, Renu Hooda, Chief People Officer at Credera, shares her unique journey into HR leadership, emphasizing the importance of people-first values in business. She discusses the challenges and opportunities presented by AI and technology, the significance of soft skills in the workplace, and her approach to leading teams through uncertainty. Renu highlights the value of believing in others and fostering a supportive environment, drawing from her own experiences to inspire and empower her team. Takeaways Renu Hooda emphasizes the importance of a people-first approach in business.Her journey to becoming a Chief People Officer was unexpected but fulfilling.Credera's unique value lies in its commitment to integrity and teamwork.AI and technology are changing the landscape of HR, but human creativity remains essential.Soft skills are increasingly recognized as critical in the workplace.Leaders must help their teams embrace uncertainty and change.Effective communication is key to alleviating fears during transitions.Renu's background in applied mathematics informs her leadership style.Finding joy in work and personal life is crucial for motivation.Believing in others can unlock their potential and drive success. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Setting the Stage 00:40 Renu Huda's Journey to Cradera 05:58 The Role of People in Business Transformation 08:51 Embracing Change and Uncertainty 13:10 The Cobbler's Shoes and Management Consulting 15:26 Connecting with Teams During Uncertainty 19:21 Finding Joy and Inspiration 20:47 Empowerment Through Belief Keywords Renu Hooda, Credera, Chief People Officer, HR leadership, AI in HR, employee experience, navigating change, uncertainty in business, human resources, corporate culture

    24 min

  5. 05/09/2025

    E42 | Boil the Chicken: Finding Simplicity in Business with Liza & Jay Graves

    Summary In this engaging conversation, Bruce and Gail interview Liza and Jay Graves, a married couple who co-founded Style Blueprint, an online publication dedicated to supporting local businesses in the South. They discuss the challenges and rewards of working together as a couple, the importance of community involvement, and the strategies they employ to create a positive workplace culture. The Graves share their insights on balancing personal and professional life, the significance of employee satisfaction, and the best advice they've received throughout their entrepreneurial journey. Keywords Style Blueprint, entrepreneurship, working couples, local businesses, company culture, advice, partnership, positivity, community involvement, business growth Chapters 00:00 Introductions to Jay and Liza Graves 01:30 How Style Blueprint Got Started 05:41 How Jay Joined Style Blueprint 13:10 Reflections on Partnership and Growth 22:42 Building a Strong Company Culture 30:31 Advice and Lessons Learned

    37 min

  6. 04/18/2025

    E41 | Raise Your Hand, Raise It Often: Meme Callnin’s Guide to Bold Transitions

    Summary: In this episode of Trailblazers, we sit down with Meme Callnin - retired global HR exec, unapologetic question-asker, and newly minted independent board director. Meme takes us through her bold and beautifully nonlinear career path, from starting out as a computer science major (spoiler: she’s not a programmer) to finding her calling in human capital strategy, sales leadership, and now, boardroom impact. She shares what it means to lead with curiosity, make authentic transitions, and - yes - raise your hand and raise it often. Whether you’re mid-career, exploring a pivot, or dreaming of a board seat, Meme offers a grounded and energizing perspective on staying relevant, passionate, and gutsy. Takeaways Meme transitioned from a corporate HR role to board directorship.Diversity in board composition leads to better organizational outcomes.Engagement and culture are critical for effective governance.Asking questions is essential for board members.Meme emphasizes the importance of women in leadership roles.Risk management should focus on opportunities for innovation.A strong connection with the CEO is vital for board effectiveness.Meme's nonprofit work has been deeply fulfilling and impactful.Raising your hand for opportunities is crucial for career growth.Authenticity and passion are key traits for effective board members. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Mimi Kalman and Her Journey 03:05 Transitioning to Board Directorship 06:05 The Importance of Women on Boards 08:58 Unique Contributions to Board Dynamics 11:59 Navigating Risks in Modern Board Governance 14:59 Defining the Ideal Board Experience 18:11 Proud Moments in Nonprofit Board Work 21:15 Advice for Leaders Keywords board director, women in leadership, corporate governance, human capital, nonprofit boards, risk management, career transition, influential leadership, diversity in boards, mentorship

    25 min
  7. E40 | From West Point to Workplace: How Ryan Hill is Rewriting the Rules of Leadership Development

    04/04/2025

    E40 | From West Point to Workplace: How Ryan Hill is Rewriting the Rules of Leadership Development

    SummaryIn this engaging conversation, Ryan Hill shares his journey from a military career to becoming a business and personal coach. He discusses the importance of behavior change in leadership, the lessons learned from his military background, and how these experiences shape his coaching philosophy. Ryan emphasizes the need for sustained leadership development and the value of recognizing uncertainty in decision-making. He also reflects on the differences between military and civilian leadership opportunities and the lessons learned from toxic leadership experiences.Takeaways- Ryan Hill transitioned from a military career to coaching.- Behavior change in leadership requires time and sustained effort.- Leadership skills are universal across sectors.- Opportunities for leadership development are often lacking in civilian roles.- Toxic leadership experiences can provide valuable learning opportunities.- Experiences, both good and bad, serve as data points for growth.Chapters00:00 Ryan Hill's Background and Transition to Coaching03:28 Leadership Lessons from Military Experience08:45 Managing Uncertainty in Leadership11:20 Differences in Leadership: Military vs. Civilian14:08 The Value of Learning from Toxic Leadership19:20 Final Thoughts and AdviceKeywordsleadership, coaching, military, behavior change, uncertainty, followership, personal development, business coaching, Ryan Hill, leadership training

    21 min
  8. E39 | Fins to the Left, AI to the Right: A Conversation with CEO of ManoByte Kevin Dean

    03/14/2025

    E39 | Fins to the Left, AI to the Right: A Conversation with CEO of ManoByte Kevin Dean

    Summary In this episode, we dive deep—literally and figuratively—into the world of AI, business strategy, and entrepreneurial resilience with Kevin Dean, CEO of ManoByte. From his early days as a self-proclaimed geek to building a company that helps businesses leverage technology for growth, Kevin shares his journey, the lessons learned from launching a startup during a recession, and how AI is reshaping the way we work. We explore the rapid evolution of AI, the balance between human intuition and artificial intelligence, and the surprising ways digital twins are already transforming industries. Plus, a shared love for scuba diving, Jimmy Buffett, and navigating uncertainty makes for a conversation that’s equal parts insightful and fun. This is an engaging discussion packed with wisdom, humor, and a few fins-to-the-left moments! Takeaways ManoByte focuses on leveraging technology for business strategy.Entrepreneurship often involves learning from failures.Timing is crucial in business decisions.AI is evolving rapidly and is just getting started.Human intuition and empathy are irreplaceable by AI.AI will change job landscapes, but it won't eliminate all jobs.Failure is a necessary part of growth and innovation.Understanding the underlying questions is key to effective communication.Personal relationships and communication are vital in business. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Background 01:38 The Journey of ManoByte 05:29 Lessons from Early Challenges 13:03 The Evolution of AI in Business 18:03 Client Success Stories and Insights 22:49 Final Thoughts and Advice 24:16 Trailblazer Outro Keywords ManoByte, Kevin Dean, AI, sales enablement, entrepreneurship, digital twins, business strategy, technology, client success, lessons learned

    24 min
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Join us on Trailblazing for Success: Inspiring Leaders, a podcast celebrating remarkable leaders and their journeys to success. Discover their secrets, adventures, challenges, and innovations.

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