The Executive Connect Podcast

The Executive Connect Podcast
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This is the Executive Connect Podcast - a show for the new generation of leaders. Join us as we discover unconventional leadership strategies not traditionally associated with executive roles. Our guests include upper-level C-Suite executives charting new ways to grow their organizations, successful entrepreneurs changing the way the world does business, and experts and thought leaders from fields outside of Corporate America that can bring new insights into leadership, prosperity, and personal growth - all while connecting on a human level. No one has all the answers - but by building a community of open-minded and engaged leaders we hope to give you the tools you need to help you find your own path to success.

  1. How to Turn SEO Into a Revenue Engine for Your Business | Steven Schneider

    2D AGO

    How to Turn SEO Into a Revenue Engine for Your Business | Steven Schneider

    What actually works in SEO today for founders and growth-focused companies? In this episode of Executive Connect, host Melissa Aarskaug sits down with Steven Schneider, CEO of Trio SEO, to break down the real strategies behind search visibility, content marketing ROI, and scalable organic growth. Steven shares how he built a seven-figure business without paid ads and why most companies misunderstand SEO entirely. This conversation explores what separates content that converts from content that gets ignored, how founders should think about SEO timelines and investment decisions, and why strategy always matters more than tactics. Steven also explains the biggest AI content mistakes companies are making and how to build a long-term SEO system that compounds authority, leads, and revenue. If you are a founder, CMO, or executive leader looking to create sustainable growth without relying solely on ads, this episode delivers a practical roadmap. What You Will Learn  What ROI-driven SEO actually looks like for modern businesses The biggest SEO myths founders still believe How to create content that converts into revenue Why strategy matters more than volume in content marketing Realistic timelines for SEO growth and ROI expectations How AI content helps or hurts search performance Metrics that matter beyond traffic, including conversions and revenue The minimum viable SEO strategy for startups and lean teams Why personal brands and podcasts accelerate search authority Chapters 00:00 Why SEO is misunderstood by founders 01:07 Steven Schneider’s journey into SEO 04:18 Systems and scaling content production 05:49 What ROI-driven SEO really means 07:06 Content that converts versus content that ranks 08:30 How long SEO takes to produce results 09:46 SEO myths and AI misconceptions 12:47 Ideal content length and quality factors 13:56 How to identify weak AI-generated content 15:42 SEO shortcuts that always fail 16:59 Trio SEO process for scalable growth 18:17 Metrics that matter beyond traffic 19:27 Why most content calendars fail 21:08 Where founders should start with SEO 23:34 When SEO is not the right strategy 24:48 Minimum viable SEO for small teams 25:46 Listicles and authority-building tactics 27:30 Podcasting as an SEO accelerator 28:12 Rapid-fire SEO insights Guest Bio Steven Schneider is the CEO and Founder of Trio SEO, a B2B SEO agency focused on helping companies turn content into predictable revenue growth. Before launching Trio SEO, Steven built and scaled a portfolio of more than 40 websites, gaining deep experience in organic traffic generation, systems development, and content operations. Today, he works with growth-focused companies to develop long-term SEO strategies that compound authority, lead generation, and brand visibility without reliance on paid advertising. Connect with Steven Schneider LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/schneis/ Website: https://trioseo.com Connect with Executive Connect Website: https://www.executiveconnectpodcast.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/melissa-aarskaug YouTube: Executive Connect Podcast Instagram: @executiveconnectpodcast TikTok: @executiveconnectpodcast

    30 min
  2. High-Impact PR in a Divided Media World: How to Break Through Without Selling Out | Kurt Osenlund

    3D AGO

    High-Impact PR in a Divided Media World: How to Break Through Without Selling Out | Kurt Osenlund

    How Can Leaders Communicate Clearly in a World Addicted to Outrage? In this episode of the Executive Connect Podcast, host Melissa Aarskaug sits down with Kurt Osenlund, VP at Mark Allen & Co. and former journalist, to unpack how social media reshaped storytelling and why extreme reactions now dominate the media cycle. Kurt shares his journey from community newspaper editor to PR executive, explaining how algorithms reward outrage and how echo chambers limit progress. He offers practical guidance for executives and founders who want to build strong brands without chasing every headline. From media literacy and cancel culture to authenticity and long-term brand positioning, this conversation is a powerful reminder that listening, consistency, and clear identity matter more than quick reactions.  If you want to communicate with confidence, cut through noise, and build trust that lasts, this episode is essential listening. What You Will Learn Why social media rewards extreme viewpointsHow echo chambers shape public opinionThe real-world impact of reaction-driven mediaWhy consistency builds stronger brands than quick statementsHow to decide when your company should speak upWhy active listening is a competitive advantageHow to improve your media literacy as a leaderThe role of authenticity in personal and executive brandingWhy chasing trends can damage long-term credibilityHow thoughtful communication wins in divided environmentsChapters (00:43) Kurt's journey from journalism to PR leadership (03:20) Before and after social media in storytelling (05:48) Echo chambers and their real-world consequences (11:56) How brands compete in a click-driven world (13:12) When companies should and should not take a public stance (18:29) The power of listening in client relations (29:13) Media literacy and being a smarter consumer (33:19) Brand identity vs reacting to cultural shifts (36:16) Authenticity and personal branding (39:14) Cancel culture and seeking the full story (40:50) Final advice for leaders Guest Bio Kurt Osenlund is Vice President at Mark Allen & Co., a PR firm representing creative companies. He previously served as editor of Out Magazine and has written for publications including Esquire, Time Out New York, and Slant Magazine. With more than 20 years in media and communications, Kurt specializes in client relations, brand positioning, and helping leaders tell stories that resonate with clarity and integrity. Connect with Kurt Osenlund Website: https://www.markallenco.com PrideNow Division: https://www.pridenow.co LinkedIn: R. Kurt Osenlund Instagram/X: @rkurtosenlund Connect with Executive Connect Website: https://www.executiveconnectpodcast.com YouTube: Executive Connect YouTube Channel LinkedIn: Melissa Aarskaug Instagram: @executiveconnectpodcast TikTok: @executiveconnectpodcast Facebook: Executive Connect

    42 min
  3. How to Build a Digital Marketing Strategy That Actually Delivers ROI | Corey Morris

    4D AGO

    How to Build a Digital Marketing Strategy That Actually Delivers ROI | Corey Morris

    Is your digital marketing strategy driving real revenue or just creating more noise? In this episode of the Executive Connect Podcast, host Melissa Aarskaug sits down with Corey Morris, award-winning marketer and CEO of Voltage Digital, to break down why most companies waste money on tactics without a true growth plan. Corey shares how misaligned content, unclear metrics, and scattered execution lead to unsubscribes, burnout, and lost prospects. He introduces his START planning framework and explains how leaders can align marketing, sales, and operations around real business outcomes. From AI and automation to authentic communication and human-centered branding, this conversation delivers a practical blueprint for building marketing systems that scale profitably. If you want marketing that works, converts, and supports long-term growth, this episode is essential listening. What You Will Learn Why most digital marketing fails to generate real ROIHow to stop wasting money on disconnected tacticsThe START framework for building scalable marketing systemsHow to align sales, marketing, and leadership around shared goalsWhy content timing and relevance matter more than volumeHow to use AI without losing authenticityHow to build marketing systems that adapt and scaleWhy human connection outperforms automation alone Chapters (00:00) Why irrelevant content kills engagement (01:03) Corey’s journey into digital strategy (02:12) The ROI lesson that changed everything (03:41) Building a system that delivered 2300 percent ROI (05:18) Strategy vs tactics in marketing (06:45) Why marketing must be treated as an investment (08:25) Defining success across departments (10:57) The START planning framework explained (12:56) Turning strategy into execution (15:42) Avoiding burnout through focused planning (17:25) Review, reporting, and real attribution (19:03) Building systems that survive leadership changes (21:29) Staying agile in fast-changing markets (24:51) Using AI the right way in marketing (27:31) Why personalization beats mass automation (30:07) Creating content people actually read (33:31) Testing instead of following outdated best practices (36:44) The power of authenticity in branding (40:50) Final advice and where to connect Guest Bio Corey Morris is an award-winning digital marketing strategist, founder of Digital Marketing Success Plan, and CEO of Voltage Digital. With over two decades of experience helping companies improve ROI, Corey specializes in building integrated systems that connect marketing performance to real business results. He is also a contributor to Search Engine Land and author of The Digital Marketing Success Plan. Connect with Corey Morris Website: https://thedmsp.com Agency: https://voltage.digital LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/coreymorris Connect with Executive Connect Website: https://www.executiveconnectpodcast.com YouTube: Executive Connect YouTube Channel LinkedIn: Melissa Aarskaug Instagram: @executiveconnectpodcast TikTok: @executiveconnectpodcast Facebook: Executive Connect

    43 min
  4. How Smart Investors Win in Real Estate Cycles and Avoid Costly Mistakes | Brian Burke

    FEB 12

    How Smart Investors Win in Real Estate Cycles and Avoid Costly Mistakes | Brian Burke

    Timing matters. Capital structure matters. And choosing the right sponsor matters more than almost anything. In this episode of Executive Connect, host Melissa Aarskaug sits down with Brian Burke, founder and CEO of Praxis Capital, to break down how successful investors navigate market cycles, manage risk, and build long-term wealth through real estate syndication. With more than three decades of experience and over one billion dollars in acquisitions, Brian explains why most investors fail by chasing returns, overleveraging deals, and ignoring capital structure. He shares lessons from the 2009 collapse, today’s multifamily downturn, and his strategic shift into senior housing. From sponsor selection to diversification, this conversation delivers a clear framework for investing with discipline, patience, and precision. If you want to protect capital, avoid emotional decisions, and invest with confidence in any market, this episode is essential listening. What You Will Learn Why timing and capital structure matter more than deal volumeHow overleveraging destroys long-term returnsWhat real estate syndication really is and how it worksHow to evaluate sponsors and verify track recordsWhy senior housing is emerging as a major opportunityHow to balance control versus passive returnsThe biggest mistakes passive investors makeWhy diversification protects wealth in down cyclesHow systems create competitive advantageHow to think long-term in volatile markets Chapters (00:00) Why timing matters in real estate investing (01:01) Brian’s background and building Praxis Capital (03:33) Lessons from the 2009 financial collapse (05:49) Capital structure and surviving downturns (07:30) Real estate syndication explained (08:27) Why sponsor selection is critical (09:21) Matching capital to investment timelines (11:07) Active versus passive investing (13:16) How high earners approach real estate (14:46) Evaluating sponsor track records (16:49) Verifying performance and due diligence (18:56) Why senior housing is a strategic shift (22:54) Separating operations from ownership (25:41) Where risk lives in syndications (27:51) Why systems create leverage (31:00) Control versus return (31:56) The danger of chasing projections (33:13) Why diversification matters (35:42) Best asset class for beginners (36:18) Biggest myths about passive investing (37:16) Financing and long-term survival (39:23) Mistakes even smart investors make (40:53) Choosing better versus doing more (41:50) Final advice and how to connect Guest Bio Brian Burke is the founder and CEO of Praxis Capital, a vertically integrated real estate private equity firm founded in 2001. Over a 36-year career, he has acquired more than one billion dollars in real estate across multifamily, senior housing, single-family, land development, and resort properties. He is the author of Hands Off Investor and is widely respected for his disciplined approach to risk management, capital structure, and market timing. Brian specializes in helping everyday investors participate in institutional-quality real estate without becoming full-time landlords. Connect with Brian Burke Website: https://praxcap.com Instagram: @InvestorBrianBurke BiggerPockets: BiggerPockets Forums Connect with Executive Connect Website: https://www.executiveconnectpodcast.com YouTube: Executive Connect YouTube Channel LinkedIn: Melissa Aarskaug Instagram: @executiveconnectpodcast TikTok: @executiveconnectpodcast Facebook: Executive Connect

    43 min
  5. How to Build Customer Loyalty That Drives Revenue and Retention | Shep Hyken

    FEB 10

    How to Build Customer Loyalty That Drives Revenue and Retention | Shep Hyken

    What if customer loyalty had nothing to do with points, perks, or rewards programs? In this episode of Executive Connect, host Melissa Aarskaug sits down with customer experience expert Shep Hyken to reveal why loyalty is built on emotion, trust, and consistency. Drawing on research from thousands of consumers, Shep explains how companies are being compared to Amazon, Apple, and the best experiences customers have ever had. They explore how friction destroys loyalty, why predictable service creates “customer amazement,” how AI should enhance rather than replace human connection, and how CX directly impacts revenue and retention. This conversation is essential for executives, founders, and leaders who want to turn service into a competitive advantage. What You Will Learn Why loyalty is an emotional connection, not a rewards systemHow customers benchmark your business against Amazon and AppleThe difference between repeat customers and true brand advocatesHow eliminating friction increases retention and revenueWhy consistency matters more than occasional “wow” momentsHow AI should support, not replace, customer experience teamsHow CX culture impacts every department in your organizationWhy customer support should be viewed as a revenue centerHow to rebuild trust after service failuresWhat today’s consumers actually expect from businesses Chapters (00:00) Loyalty Is an Emotion, Not a Program (01:38) Why Customers Compare You to Amazon (03:17) Becoming World Class in Experience (04:08) The “Our Customers Are Different” Myth (06:17) Creating Predictable Customer Amazement (08:48) What Consumer Research Reveals (11:38) Eliminating Friction in Customer Journeys (15:38) Why Most Surveys Fail (17:45) Generational CX Differences (21:56) Training Customers the Right Way (27:58) AI and Customer Trust (31:40) The Amazon Effect Explained (33:16) How Small Companies Can Compete (35:55) Communication as a Growth Strategy (38:03) AI as an Experience Multiplier (43:26) Repeat vs Loyal Customers (46:08) Where CX Initiatives Fail (48:00) Connecting CX to Revenue (49:19) Rapid Fire Leadership Insights (52:16) Restoring Customer Confidence Guest Bio Shep Hyken is a globally recognized customer service and experience expert, New York Times and Wall Street Journal bestselling author, and keynote speaker. He advises organizations on how to build loyalty through consistent, frictionless, and emotionally engaging experiences. Shep has worked with companies across industries to transform customer service into a strategic growth engine. His research-driven insights help leaders increase retention, trust, and long-term brand value. He is the founder of Hyken Research and the host of the Amazing Business Radio podcast. Connect with Shep Hyken Website: https://hyken.com/ YouTube: https://www.sheptv.com Newsletter: https://hyken.com/research/ Podcast: Amazing Business Radio Connect with Executive Connect Website: https://www.executiveconnectpodcast.com YouTube: Executive Connect LinkedIn: Melissa Aarskaug Instagram: @executiveconnectpodcast TikTok: @executiveconnectpodcast Facebook: Executive Connect

    54 min
  6. How to Speak With Confidence and Build Executive Presence | Jill Pavlov

    FEB 9

    How to Speak With Confidence and Build Executive Presence | Jill Pavlov

    Ever blank out in a boardroom, stumble through an introduction, or feel unsure when it is time to speak up? In this episode of Executive Connect, host Melissa Aarskaug sits down with Jill Pavlov, brand messaging coach, comedian, and former radio host, to break down how leaders can communicate with clarity, confidence, and credibility. Jill explains how improv training, storytelling, and intentional practice help executives think faster, listen better, and present themselves with authority. From overcoming stage fright and imposter syndrome to building a personal brand that stands out, this conversation offers practical tools for leaders who want to strengthen their voice and influence. If you want to speak with confidence, connect with your audience, and elevate your executive presence, this episode delivers a clear roadmap. What You Will Learn How improv improves executive communication and leadership presenceWhy active listening is a competitive advantage in businessHow to overcome stage fright and imposter syndromeSimple techniques to deliver clear and confident introductionsHow storytelling builds trust and strengthens personal brandsWhy practicing your pitch daily improves performanceHow to stop overthinking and communicate with ease Chapters (00:18) Why leaders struggle with communication (01:20) Jill’s journey from radio to executive coaching (03:18) Using improv to sharpen leadership skills (04:23) The power of active listening in meetings (05:41) Practicing confidence through daily habits (06:46) Building a strong personal pitch (08:32) Understanding stage fright and fear blocks (09:37) Overcoming imposter syndrome (10:28) Turning nerves into excitement (11:25) Why storytelling builds influence (12:06) Branding lessons from Liquid Death (13:48) What it means to make your brand pop (15:19) Defining your audience and strengths (16:57) Why brands must evolve (19:50) Using feedback to improve messaging (22:02) Advice for long-term confidence (23:46) How to stop overthinking (26:28) Where to connect with Jill Guest Bio Jill Pavlov is a brand messaging coach, comedian, and former radio host who helps high-achieving professionals communicate with confidence and authenticity. With a background in improv, media, and performance psychology, Jill works with executives and entrepreneurs to strengthen their voice, refine their messaging, and build personal brands that connect and convert. Connect With Jill Pavlov Website: https://copy-pop.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/comedyjill/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jill-pavlov/ Connect With Executive Connect Website: https://www.executiveconnectpodcast.com YouTube: Executive Connect LinkedIn: Melissa Aarskaug Instagram: @executiveconnectpodcast TikTok: @executiveconnectpodcast Facebook: Executive Connect

    27 min
  7. Why Traditional CRM Is Failing Sales Teams and How AI Is Replacing It | Adam Honig

    FEB 5

    Why Traditional CRM Is Failing Sales Teams and How AI Is Replacing It | Adam Honig

    Is your CRM helping your sales team close deals or slowing them down with endless data entry? In this episode of Executive Connect, host Melissa Aarskaug sits down with Adam Honig, founder and CEO of Spiro, to explain why traditional CRM systems are broken and how AI is transforming sales operations in manufacturing and B2B companies. Adam shares why most sales teams never fully adopt CRM, how manual reporting destroys productivity, and why forcing data entry leads to bad data and wasted investment. He introduces Spiro’s AI-driven approach that captures customer intelligence automatically and delivers real-time insights without administrative burden. From voice-based interfaces to predictive preparation tools, this conversation reveals how modern companies can eliminate CRM friction, improve customer relationships, and increase revenue without burning out their sales teams. If you want your sales systems to work for your people instead of against them, this episode is essential listening. What You Will Learn Why most CRM systems fail inside sales organizationsHow manual data entry destroys sales productivityWhy bad CRM data is worse than no dataHow AI can automate customer intelligenceThe difference between CRM systems and anti-CRM platformsHow manufacturers can modernize sales operationsWhen it is time to replace your existing CRMHow voice and chat interfaces will reshape business softwareHow to reduce administrative costs in sales teams Chapters (00:00) Why most companies never adopt CRM (01:26) The hidden cost of forced data entry (03:25) The inspiration behind Spiro’s AI model (04:52) Why salespeople should not be behind desks (05:16) The data quality problem in CRM (06:27) How Spiro prepares reps for meetings (07:49) Reducing administrative burden in sales (08:26) Why Spiro calls itself an anti-CRM (09:06) Real-world examples in customer service (10:38) The future of voice and chat interfaces (12:58) Security and biometric risks (14:49) How manufacturers should start using AI (16:43) The No CRM philosophy (17:51) Quotes, contracts, and ERP integration (18:55) Adam’s background in sales and CRM (20:47) When companies should replace CRM (23:29) Hidden organizational resistance (24:44) Final thoughts on CRM (25:10) Where to connect with Adam Guest Bio Adam Honig is the founder and CEO of Spiro, an AI-powered sales platform designed for manufacturers and B2B companies. With decades of experience in CRM consulting and enterprise software, Adam is known for challenging traditional CRM models and building systems that eliminate manual reporting. His work focuses on helping sales teams spend more time with customers and less time on administration. Connect with Adam Honig Website: https://spiro.ai LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adamhonig Connect with Executive Connect Website: https://www.executiveconnectpodcast.com YouTube: Executive Connect YouTube Channel LinkedIn: Melissa Aarskaug Instagram: @executiveconnectpodcast TikTok: @executiveconnectpodcast Facebook: Executive Connect

    26 min
  8. Burnout, Reinvention, and Sustainable Success | Adriana Cowdin

    FEB 3

    Burnout, Reinvention, and Sustainable Success | Adriana Cowdin

    What happens when success comes at the cost of your health, identity, and life itself? In this episode of Executive Connect, host Melissa Aarskaug sits down with Adriana Cowdin, Forbes and New York Times featured executive coach and author, to share her powerful story of burnout, medical trauma, and complete reinvention. After building a seven figure business and leading at the highest levels, Adriana was forced to walk away when her body could no longer keep up. She reveals how high performers ignore warning signs, why hustle culture is quietly destroying leaders, and how to redefine success without losing ambition. This conversation offers real tools for resilience, boundaries, and sustainable leadership in today’s demanding world. If you are feeling exhausted, disconnected, or stuck in survival mode, this episode will challenge how you think about performance and help you lead with clarity and purpose. Listen now and take your next step toward sustainable success. What You Will Learn How to recognize burnout before it becomes a health crisisWhy hustle culture damages long term performanceHow medical trauma reshapes ambition and identityThe head, heart, and gut framework for better decisionsHow to set boundaries without guilt or fearWhy high achievers struggle to slow downHow to redefine success on your own termsStrategies for sustainable leadership and resilienceHow to stop postponing personal growthPractical steps to reclaim clarity and confidence Episode Chapters (0:00) Listening To Your Body’s Warning Signs (0:43) Adriana’s Journey From Executive To Reinvention (2:21) The Medical Crisis That Changed Everything (4:53) The True Cost Of Walking Away (7:37) Redefining Success And Identity (11:04) How To Recognize Burnout Early (12:54) Medical Trauma And Ambition (16:48) Why Overworking Is Rewarded (19:40) Head, Heart, And Gut Decision Making (21:00) The “I’ll Do It Later” Trap (23:50) Boundaries And Personal Growth (26:38) Navigating Resistance And Change (31:47) Setting Goals That Matter (34:37) Reclaiming Stubbornness As Strength (37:34) Rapid Fire On Reinvention (40:07) What’s Next And How To Connect Guest Bio Adriana Cowdin is a Forbes and New York Times featured executive coach, author, and entrepreneur who helps high performing leaders rebuild their lives and careers after burnout, illness, and major transitions. A former Fortune 500 executive and successful founder, Adriana built a seven figure business while managing multiple chronic illnesses and recovering from severe medical trauma. She is the author of Stubborn As Fck* and the founder of a growing AI driven healthcare technology company focused on patient empowerment. Through her coaching and speaking work, Adriana teaches leaders how to achieve sustainable success without sacrificing their health, relationships, or identity. Connect With Adriana Cowdin Website: https://adrianacowdin.com/ Instagram: @adrianalcowdin LinkedIn: Adriana Cowdin Book: Stubborn As F*ck Available on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Books A Million, and her website Connect With Executive Connect Website: https://www.executiveconnectpodcast.com YouTube: Executive Connect LinkedIn: Melissa Aarskaug Instagram: @executiveconnectpodcast TikTok: @executiveconnectpodcast Facebook: Executive Connect

    42 min
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About

This is the Executive Connect Podcast - a show for the new generation of leaders. Join us as we discover unconventional leadership strategies not traditionally associated with executive roles. Our guests include upper-level C-Suite executives charting new ways to grow their organizations, successful entrepreneurs changing the way the world does business, and experts and thought leaders from fields outside of Corporate America that can bring new insights into leadership, prosperity, and personal growth - all while connecting on a human level. No one has all the answers - but by building a community of open-minded and engaged leaders we hope to give you the tools you need to help you find your own path to success.

Information

  • Creator
    The Executive Connect Podcast
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    164
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © Copyright Executive Connect
  • Show Website
    The Executive Connect Podcast