Ready Set Exec: The Podcast

Ready Set Exec Inc.

Overview: Welcome to Ready Set Exec, the podcast where executive search meets real leadership stories. Enjoy weekly conversations with Executives sharing insights, best practices and knowledge as well as a biweekly founders meeting where you will join hosts John and Patrick—founders of Ready Set Exec Inc.—as they share insider perspectives from their work recruiting top executives in Sales, Marketing, HR, and Operations. What to Expect Each Episode: Conversations with Executives: Hear candid stories from accomplished leaders across Ready Set Exec’s network as they share lessons learned, pivotal career moves, and their outlook on the future of leadership. Industry Insights: Explore the trends shaping leadership in the fields Ready Set Exec knows best—how Sales leaders drive growth, how Marketing executives build brand momentum, how HR shapes culture, and how Operations keeps organizations moving. Talent Strategy Deep Dives: John and Patrick reveal what they’ve learned about hiring executives who don’t just fit the role but elevate the business, by using a relationship-driven approach. Actionable Takeaways: Whether you’re a CEO, HR leader, or an executive shaping your next move, you’ll walk away with practical insights on attracting, retaining, and thriving as top talent. Are you a C-level Exec and want to be a guest on the podcast ? email sales@readysetexec.com Looking to make an executive hire? check out our firm at Readysetexec.com or call us at 737-249-9572

  1. Ready Set Exec THE PODCAST - Conversation with Scott Leese

    1D AGO

    Ready Set Exec THE PODCAST - Conversation with Scott Leese

    Overview: Welcome to Ready Set Exec, the podcast where executive search meets real leadership stories. Enjoy weekly conversations with Executives sharing insights, best practices and knowledge as well as a biweekly founders meeting where you will join hosts John and Patrick—founders of Ready Set Exec Inc.—as they share insider perspectives from their work recruiting top executives in Sales, Marketing, HR, and Operations. In this Episode: In this episode, Scott Leese shares insights on how self-awareness is one of the most critical factors in making strong career decisions—particularly when choosing between startup environments and large, established companies. He explains how understanding your risk tolerance, work style, and personal preferences can dramatically impact long-term performance and fulfillment. Scott breaks down the structural and cultural differences between startups and larger organizations, highlighting why alignment matters more than title or compensation. The conversation dives into what it really takes to build a sales team and pipeline inside a startup, where resources are limited and every hire must create outsized impact. Scott discusses hiring for ownership, resilience, and adaptability, as well as how GTM strategy must be clear and focused before scaling headcount. He also shares insights from the 24-hour GTM sales event he helped create in fall 2025, designed to bring together operators and leaders for practical, real-world revenue execution strategies. The episode explores whether AI SDRs are hype or a meaningful evolution in outbound sales, emphasizing that automation is most powerful when paired with strong messaging and human judgment. Throughout the discussion, Scott reinforces the importance of simplifying messaging, sharpening ICP focus, and building pipeline through clarity and consistency. Takeaways Self-Awareness in Career Decisions Differences Between Startups and Large Companies Hiring for a Startup Building Your GTM Team AI SDRs – Hype or Reality? Simplifying Messaging and Building Your Pipeline How Personal Preferences Influence Professional Success What to Expect Each Episode: Conversations with Executives: Hear candid stories from accomplished leaders across Ready Set Exec’s network as they share lessons learned, pivotal career moves, and their outlook on the future of leadership. Industry Insights: Explore the trends shaping leadership in the fields Ready Set Exec knows best—how Sales leaders drive growth, how Marketing executives build brand momentum, how HR shapes culture, and how Operations keeps organizations moving. Talent Strategy Deep Dives: John and Patrick reveal what they’ve learned about hiring executives who don’t just fit the role but elevate the business, by using a relationship-driven approach. Actionable Takeaways: Whether you’re a CEO, HR leader, or an executive shaping your next move, you’ll walk away with practical insights on attracting, retaining, and thriving as top talent. Subscribe to our Podcast on our your favorite platform Youtube, Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music or Spotify! Looking to make an executive hire or looking for your next executive role? Check us out at readysetexec.com Are you a C-level executive in the USA? message us about being a guest on our podcast!

    49 min
  2. Ready Set Exec THE PODCAST - Conversation with Praveen Kamsetti

    FEB 20

    Ready Set Exec THE PODCAST - Conversation with Praveen Kamsetti

    Overview: Welcome to Ready Set Exec, the podcast where executive search meets real leadership stories. Enjoy weekly conversations with Executives sharing insights, best practices and knowledge as well as a biweekly founders meeting where you will join hosts John and Patrick—founders of Ready Set Exec Inc.—as they share insider perspectives from their work recruiting top executives in Sales, Marketing, HR, and Operations. In this Episode: In this conversation, Praveen Kamsetti discusses his 4L leadership framework, which emphasizes the balance between empathy and results in leadership. He explores the challenges of navigating mergers and acquisitions, the importance of cultural integration, and the role of cybersecurity in business growth. Praveen also shares insights on implementing AI in organizations and the significance of continuous improvement in IT culture. Finally, he reflects on his journey of writing his book on the 4L framework, highlighting the lessons learned along the way. Takeaways The 4L framework consists of leading with empathy, leading by yourself, leading by example, and leading with emotional intelligence. Modern leadership requires resilience, humanity, and vision to navigate disruption. Empathy must be paired with accountability to achieve business results. Cultural integration is crucial for successful mergers and acquisitions. Cybersecurity should enable business growth rather than just compliance.AI has the potential to transform growth, cost, and risk management simultaneously. Continuous improvement should be embedded in IT culture through experimentation and innovation. Clarity in communication is essential for project success. M&A activities often fail due to a lack of focus on cultural integration and operational workflows. Writing the book on the 4L framework was a year-long journey of reflection and learning. Pickup a copy of his book at: Amazon - https://a.co/d/00EENUKb Barnes & Nobel - https://www.barnesandnoble.com/s/4l%20framework What to Expect Each Episode: Conversations with Executives: Hear candid stories from accomplished leaders across Ready Set Exec’s network as they share lessons learned, pivotal career moves, and their outlook on the future of leadership. Industry Insights: Explore the trends shaping leadership in the fields Ready Set Exec knows best—how Sales leaders drive growth, how Marketing executives build brand momentum, how HR shapes culture, and how Operations keeps organizations moving. Talent Strategy Deep Dives: John and Patrick reveal what they’ve learned about hiring executives who don’t just fit the role but elevate the business, by using a relationship-driven approach. Actionable Takeaways: Whether you’re a CEO, HR leader, or an executive shaping your next move, you’ll walk away with practical insights on attracting, retaining, and thriving as top talent. Subscribe to our Podcast on our your favorite platform Youtube, Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music or Spotify! Looking to make an executive hire or looking for your next executive role? Check us out at readysetexec.com Are you a C-level executive in the USA? message us about being a guest on our podcast!

    47 min
  3. Ready Set Exec THE PODCAST - Conversation with Lauren Lefkowitz

    FEB 13

    Ready Set Exec THE PODCAST - Conversation with Lauren Lefkowitz

    Overview: Welcome to Ready Set Exec, the podcast where executive search meets real leadership stories. Enjoy weekly conversations with Executives sharing insights, best practices and knowledge as well as a biweekly founders meeting where you will join hosts John and Patrick—founders of Ready Set Exec Inc.—as they share insider perspectives from their work recruiting top executives in Sales, Marketing, HR, and Operations. In this conversation, Lauren Lefkowitz discusses the common HR challenges faced by small businesses, particularly those with fewer than 100 employees. She emphasizes the importance of strategic HR leadership, compliance, and enhancing both candidate and employee experiences. The discussion also covers the significance of boundary setting to prevent burnout, the need for professional development among HR professionals, and navigating the complexities of HR politics and certifications. takeaways Small businesses often lack strategic HR leadership as they grow. Compliance issues are common in small companies that don't know what they don't know. Candidate experience is crucial for attracting and retaining talent. HR professionals need support and development to grow into their roles. Boundary setting is essential to prevent burnout in HR roles. Professional development can include networking, coaching, and certifications. The way you say no can influence workplace dynamics. Navigating HR politics requires awareness of current trends and standards. Agile and Six Sigma methodologies can enhance HR effectiveness. HR certifications should be recognized and ethical to maintain industry standards. What to Expect Each Episode: Conversations with Executives: Hear candid stories from accomplished leaders across Ready Set Exec’s network as they share lessons learned, pivotal career moves, and their outlook on the future of leadership. Industry Insights: Explore the trends shaping leadership in the fields Ready Set Exec knows best—how Sales leaders drive growth, how Marketing executives build brand momentum, how HR shapes culture, and how Operations keeps organizations moving. Talent Strategy Deep Dives: John and Patrick reveal what they’ve learned about hiring executives who don’t just fit the role but elevate the business, by using a relationship-driven approach. Actionable Takeaways: Whether you’re a CEO, HR leader, or an executive shaping your next move, you’ll walk away with practical insights on attracting, retaining, and thriving as top talent. Subscribe to our Podcast on our your favorite platform Youtube, Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music or Spotify! Looking to make an executive hire or looking for your next executive role? Check us out at readysetexec.com Are you a C-level executive in the USA? message us about being a guest on our podcast! keywords HR challenges, small business, employee engagement, candidate experience, strategic HR, burnout, professional development, HR certifications, compliance, leadership

    46 min
  4. Ready Set Exec THE PODCAST - Conversation with Al Kushner

    FEB 6

    Ready Set Exec THE PODCAST - Conversation with Al Kushner

    Episode notes Overview: Welcome to Ready Set Exec, the podcast where executive search meets real leadership stories. Enjoy weekly conversations with Executives sharing insights, best practices and knowledge as well as a biweekly founders meeting where you will join hosts John and Patrick—founders of Ready Set Exec Inc.—as they share insider perspectives from their work recruiting top executives in Sales, Marketing, HR, and Operations. In this Episode: Unlock the future of leadership with AI and LinkedIn—discover how top executives are transforming their personal brands, creating inbound traffic, and sealing more deals in just minutes a day. If you think AI is just for tech geeks or social media experts, think again. This episode exposes the simple yet powerful tactics that can turn your digital presence into a consistent client magnet—without overloading it with "AI slop." Al Kushner, a renowned keynote speaker and creator of the Linked Vantage system, shares actionable insights on leveraging AI authentically to enhance your LinkedIn profile, craft compelling content, and build a thriving personal brand. Learn how to avoid the pitfalls of lazy copy-paste AI content and instead use AI as a genuine tool to amplify your voice and authority. You'll discover: The one game-changing AI strategy that top professionals use to generate leads and inbound opportunities frequently.Proven profile optimization techniques that make LinkedIn your top search engine for new business—without costly ads.How to create engaging videos, newsletters, and case studies that position you as a trusted thought leader and attract ideal clients organically.The secret to growing your network authentically by giving before you ask—plus tactical group and community engagement tips.Why the shift to short-form video and audio snippets is a must to stay competitive in today’s algorithms—no fancy equipment needed.The future of AI regulation and ethical use—what every executive needs to know to stay on the right side of innovation.This episode isn't just about social media tricks—it's about mindset and strategy. Whether you're an executive, entrepreneur, or emerging thought leader, ignoring these insights will leave you behind in a rapidly evolving digital landscape. What to Expect Each Episode: Conversations with Executives: Hear candid stories from accomplished leaders across Ready Set Exec’s network as they share lessons learned, pivotal career moves, and their outlook on the future of leadership. Industry Insights: Explore the trends shaping leadership in the fields Ready Set Exec knows best—how Sales leaders drive growth, how Marketing executives build brand momentum, how HR shapes culture, and how Operations keeps organizations moving. Talent Strategy Deep Dives: John and Patrick reveal what they’ve learned about hiring executives who don’t just fit the role but elevate the business, by using a relationship-driven approach. Actionable Takeaways: Whether you’re a CEO, HR leader, or an executive shaping your next move, you’ll walk away with practical insights on attracting, retaining, and thriving as top talent. Subscribe to our Podcast on our your favorite platform Youtube, Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music or Spotify! Looking to make an executive hire or looking for your next executive role? Check us out at readysetexec.com Are you a C-level executive in the USA? message us about being a guest on our podcast!

    40 min
  5. Ready Set Exec THE PODCAST - Conversation with Mark Coscarello

    JAN 30

    Ready Set Exec THE PODCAST - Conversation with Mark Coscarello

    Overview: Welcome to Ready Set Exec, the podcast where executive search meets real leadership stories. Enjoy weekly conversations with Executives sharing insights, best practices and knowledge as well as a biweekly founders meeting where you will join hosts John and Patrick—founders of Ready Set Exec Inc.—as they share insider perspectives from their work recruiting top executives in Sales, Marketing, HR, and Operations. In this episode, Mark Coscarello and John Pezoulas explore the complexities of managing technological change, operational transformations, and the evolving nature of remote work. They share practical insights on handling AI integration, cybersecurity, change management, and building resilient leadership in fast-paced environments. Key Topics: Strategies for seamless M&A integrations and change managementHow to implement and evaluate new AI tools effectivelyBuilding trust, transparency, and authenticity in leadershipManaging remote and hybrid teams for engagement and productivityThe importance of cybersecurity protocols amid AI-driven technologiesOptimizing technology stacks to prevent complexity and inefficiencyThe role of KPIs and metrics in measuring operational successPractical approaches to onboarding, training, and employee developmentThe impact of mental health, wellness, and purpose on employee performanceWhat to Expect Each Episode: Conversations with Executives: Hear candid stories from accomplished leaders across Ready Set Exec’s network as they share lessons learned, pivotal career moves, and their outlook on the future of leadership. Industry Insights: Explore the trends shaping leadership in the fields Ready Set Exec knows best—how Sales leaders drive growth, how Marketing executives build brand momentum, how HR shapes culture, and how Operations keeps organizations moving. Talent Strategy Deep Dives: John and Patrick reveal what they’ve learned about hiring executives who don’t just fit the role but elevate the business, by using a relationship-driven approach. Actionable Takeaways: Whether you’re a CEO, HR leader, or an executive shaping your next move, you’ll walk away with practical insights on attracting, retaining, and thriving as top talent. Subscribe to our Podcast on our your favorite platform Youtube, Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music or Spotify! Looking to make an executive hire or looking for your next executive role? Check us out at readysetexec.com Are you a C-level executive in the USA? message us about being a guest on our podcast!

    46 min
  6. Ready Set Exec THE PODCAST - Conversation with Erin Smith

    JAN 23

    Ready Set Exec THE PODCAST - Conversation with Erin Smith

    Welcome to Ready Set Exec, the podcast where executive search meets real leadership stories. Enjoy weekly conversations with Executives sharing insights, best practices and knowledge as well as a biweekly founders meeting where you will join hosts John and Patrick—founders of Ready Set Exec Inc.—as they share insider perspectives from their work recruiting top executives in Sales, Marketing, HR, and Operations. In this Episode: In this episode, John Pezoulas interviews Erin Smith, an award-winning creative executive with over 20 years of experience in brand campaigns and creative team leadership. They discuss the evolving role of creativity in marketing, emphasizing the importance of brand building over mere sales enablement. Erin highlights the need for brands to connect emotionally with customers and the challenges startups face when they overlook brand development in favor of immediate revenue. The conversation also touches on the commoditization of creative processes and the value of taking risks in advertising to create memorable brand experiences. Erin advocates for a balanced approach to marketing budgets, prioritizing brand strategy to ensure long-term success. What to Expect Each Episode: Conversations with Executives: Hear candid stories from accomplished leaders across Ready Set Exec’s network as they share lessons learned, pivotal career moves, and their outlook on the future of leadership. Industry Insights: Explore the trends shaping leadership in the fields Ready Set Exec knows best—how Sales leaders drive growth, how Marketing executives build brand momentum, how HR shapes culture, and how Operations keeps organizations moving. Talent Strategy Deep Dives: John and Patrick reveal what they’ve learned about hiring executives who don’t just fit the role but elevate the business, by using a relationship-driven approach. Actionable Takeaways: Whether you’re a CEO, HR leader, or an executive shaping your next move, you’ll walk away with practical insights on attracting, retaining, and thriving as top talent. Subscribe to our Podcast on our your favorite platform Youtube, Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music or Spotify! Looking to make an executive hire or looking for your next executive role? Check us out at readysetexec.com Are you a C-level executive in the USA? message us about being a guest on our podcast!

    47 min
  7. Ready Set Exec THE PODCAST - Conversation with Rachel Minshall Horne

    JAN 16

    Ready Set Exec THE PODCAST - Conversation with Rachel Minshall Horne

    Overview: Welcome to Ready Set Exec, the podcast where executive search meets real leadership stories. Enjoy weekly conversations with Executives sharing insights, best practices and knowledge as well as a biweekly founders meeting where you will join hosts John and Patrick—founders of Ready Set Exec Inc.—as they share insider perspectives from their work recruiting top executives in Sales, Marketing, HR, and Operations. In this Episode: In this conversation, Rachel Horn discusses the critical intersection of revenue operations and business strategy, emphasizing the importance of alignment across teams to drive growth. She highlights key metrics for SaaS companies, the challenges of setting realistic quotas, and the necessity of effective communication and collaboration. Rachel also shares insights on leveraging data and analytics, the role of AI in transforming operations, and the significance of building a culture of transparency. Additionally, she offers advice for aspiring operations leaders and reflects on her personal growth and lessons learned throughout her career. What to Expect Each Episode: Conversations with Executives: Hear candid stories from accomplished leaders across Ready Set Exec’s network as they share lessons learned, pivotal career moves, and their outlook on the future of leadership. Industry Insights: Explore the trends shaping leadership in the fields Ready Set Exec knows best—how Sales leaders drive growth, how Marketing executives build brand momentum, how HR shapes culture, and how Operations keeps organizations moving. Talent Strategy Deep Dives: John and Patrick reveal what they’ve learned about hiring executives who don’t just fit the role but elevate the business, by using a relationship-driven approach. Actionable Takeaways: Whether you’re a CEO, HR leader, or an executive shaping your next move, you’ll walk away with practical insights on attracting, retaining, and thriving as top talent. Subscribe to our Podcast on our your favorite platform Youtube, Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music or Spotify! Looking to make an executive hire or looking for your next executive role? Check us out at readysetexec.com Are you a C-level executive in the USA? message us about being a guest on our podcast!

    45 min
  8. Ready Set Exec THE PODCAST - Conversation with Lanny Tuchmayer

    JAN 9

    Ready Set Exec THE PODCAST - Conversation with Lanny Tuchmayer

    Episode notes Overview: Welcome to Ready Set Exec, the podcast where executive search meets real leadership stories. Enjoy weekly conversations with Executives sharing insights, best practices and knowledge as well as a biweekly founders meeting where you will join hosts John and Patrick—founders of Ready Set Exec Inc.—as they share insider perspectives from their work recruiting top executives in Sales, Marketing, HR, and Operations. In this Episode: In this conversation, Lanny Tuchmayer, a legal operations executive, discusses his journey in the legal field, focusing on the growth strategies of his firm, talent recruitment, the impact of AI on legal practices, and the evolving expectations of new generations of lawyers. He emphasizes the importance of work-life balance, the challenges faced by law firms in adapting to modern practices, and the need for effective marketing strategies. Lanny also shares valuable advice for new lawyers and those looking to transition within the legal profession. What to Expect Each Episode: Conversations with Executives: Hear candid stories from accomplished leaders across Ready Set Exec’s network as they share lessons learned, pivotal career moves, and their outlook on the future of leadership. Industry Insights: Explore the trends shaping leadership in the fields Ready Set Exec knows best—how Sales leaders drive growth, how Marketing executives build brand momentum, how HR shapes culture, and how Operations keeps organizations moving. Talent Strategy Deep Dives: John and Patrick reveal what they’ve learned about hiring executives who don’t just fit the role but elevate the business, by using a relationship-driven approach. Actionable Takeaways: Whether you’re a CEO, HR leader, or an executive shaping your next move, you’ll walk away with practical insights on attracting, retaining, and thriving as top talent. Subscribe to our Podcast on our your favorite platform Youtube, Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music or Spotify! Looking to make an executive hire or looking for your next executive role? Check us out at readysetexec.com Are you a C-level executive in the USA? message us about being a guest on our podcast!

    34 min

About

Overview: Welcome to Ready Set Exec, the podcast where executive search meets real leadership stories. Enjoy weekly conversations with Executives sharing insights, best practices and knowledge as well as a biweekly founders meeting where you will join hosts John and Patrick—founders of Ready Set Exec Inc.—as they share insider perspectives from their work recruiting top executives in Sales, Marketing, HR, and Operations. What to Expect Each Episode: Conversations with Executives: Hear candid stories from accomplished leaders across Ready Set Exec’s network as they share lessons learned, pivotal career moves, and their outlook on the future of leadership. Industry Insights: Explore the trends shaping leadership in the fields Ready Set Exec knows best—how Sales leaders drive growth, how Marketing executives build brand momentum, how HR shapes culture, and how Operations keeps organizations moving. Talent Strategy Deep Dives: John and Patrick reveal what they’ve learned about hiring executives who don’t just fit the role but elevate the business, by using a relationship-driven approach. Actionable Takeaways: Whether you’re a CEO, HR leader, or an executive shaping your next move, you’ll walk away with practical insights on attracting, retaining, and thriving as top talent. Are you a C-level Exec and want to be a guest on the podcast ? email sales@readysetexec.com Looking to make an executive hire? check out our firm at Readysetexec.com or call us at 737-249-9572