Portfolio Executive Podcast

Charles McLachlan
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What if the future of leadership isn’t full-time—and the most valuable executives are those who work fractionally across multiple businesses? With a host of special guests, presenters Valerie Merrill and Gareth Wax explore the world of portfolio executives, fractional leadership, and creating careers out of that. You will discover what makes the portfolio executive community so unique, from its diverse, global network of talent to the powerful blend of skills and perspectives its members bring. Explore the portfolio executive community, learn how to step into fractional leadership, and stay tuned for more insights in upcoming episodes. Follow us to find out more, and join us on LinkedIn. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  1. 3d ago

    Portfolio Executive Podcast Series 2 Episode 2: Is AI Challenging the Legal Profession?

    Are law firms truly ready for AI, or are they just adding new technology on top of old problems? In this episode of the ‘Portfolio Executive’ Ben Sears from ‘Technotherapy’ explores with hosts Gareth Wax and Valerie Merrill the rapidly changing landscape of AI, technology and legal services. Ben discusses why traditional law firms must rethink their approach to innovation, why data quality and cybersecurity are critical foundations for AI adoption, and how automation could fundamentally transform the future of legal work. The conversation examines the challenges facing law firms as they move away from legacy systems and processes, the evolving role of the CTO, and how fractional leadership can help organisations navigate complex technological change. With AI creating both opportunities and disruption across professional services, Ben shares why firms need to embrace change, understand their data, and prepare for a future where technology reshapes how legal services are delivered. You’ll discover: Why AI is particularly well suited to professional services like law Why many traditional law firms struggle to adopt new technology How poor data management can limit the success of AI initiatives Why “rubbish in, rubbish out” still applies when implementing AI How cybersecurity and data governance are becoming essential priorities The potential impact of automation on the future of legal services Why the legal industry could be facing its own “Kodak moment” How CTOs are becoming increasingly important within law firms The value of fractional leadership in helping businesses navigate change Why collaboration and communication can reduce duplication and inefficiency How legal professionals can stay ahead of technological disruption   TimeStamps: 00:00 Introduction to ‘Technotherapy’ and AI in Law 03:06 Challenges of AI Adoption in Traditional Law Firms 05:54 The Impact of AI on Legal Practices 08:47 Data Management and Cybersecurity in Law 12:01 The Future of Legal Services and Automation 15:11 Navigating Change in the Legal Industry 18:00 The Role of CTOs in Law Firms 20:48 Embracing Fractional Leadership in Law 23:57 Preparing for the Future of Work in Law Guest & Host Links: Ben Sears: https://portfolioexecutive.biz/executive/ben-sears/ Valerie Merrill: https://portfolioexecutive.biz/executive/valerie-merrill/ Gareth Wax: https://portfolioexecutive.biz/executive/gareth-wax/ Explore the Portfolio Executive community, learn how to step into fractional leadership, and stay tuned for more insights in upcoming episodes. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    Portfolio Executive Podcast Series 2 Episode 2: Is AI Challenging the Legal Profession?

  2. Aug 11

    Portfolio Executive Podcast Series 2 Episode 1: Branding Like Dating

    What if building a powerful brand was more like dating than marketing? In this episode of the ‘Portfolio Executive’ hosts Gareth Wax and Valerie Merrill chat with Esther Stanton Gibbons, the creative force behind ‘Holy Custard’, to explore how emotional connection, authenticity, and storytelling shape unforgettable brands. Esther shares the origin story of Holy Custard and reveals why branding isn’t just about strategy—it’s about making people feel something. From bold takes like “make them hate you, make them love you” to the idea that “people act because they feel,” this conversation dives deep into what truly drives customer behaviour.. We also unpack the surprising parallels between marketing and dating, the challenges of building brands across global markets, and how to use AI responsibly without losing the human touch. Whether you're a founder, marketer, or creative leader, this episode is packed with insights on building meaningful relationships with your audience. You’ll discover: Why emotional connection matters more than perfect messaging How to think about branding like dating (and why it works) The real story behind Holy Custard What most brands get wrong about authenticity How to stand out by embracing strong reactions Smart, human-first ways to use AI in marketing Why community is becoming a key leadership advantage TimeStamps: 00:00 Introduction to Portfolio Executives 03:32 The Significance of Branding 07:19 Building Relationships in Marketing 11:11 The Emotional Connection in Branding 15:06 Navigating AI in Marketing 18:40 Transitioning to Fractional Executive Roles 22:29 The Value of Community in Executive Roles   Guest & Host Links: Esther Stanton-Gibbons: https://portfolioexecutive.biz/executive/esther-gibbons/ Valerie Merrill: https://portfolioexecutive.biz/executive/valerie-merrill/ Gareth Wax: https://portfolioexecutive.biz/executive/gareth-wax/ Explore the Portfolio Executive community, learn how to step into fractional leadership, and stay tuned for more insights in upcoming episodes. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    Portfolio Executive Podcast Series 2 Episode 1: Branding Like Dating

  3. Aug 4

    Portfolio Executive Podcast Episode 10: Personal Branding Through Photography

    Are your photos helping your personal brand—or quietly damaging it? In this episode of the ‘Portfolio Executive’ Gareth Wax and Valerie Merrill sit down with branding photography expert Jo Scott to explore how the way you present yourself visually can shape perception, build trust, and influence professional success. In a world where people often encounter you online before ever meeting you, your images are doing more talking than you think. Jo shares how to create authentic, impactful branding photos that don’t just look good—but communicate who you really are.  You’ll discover: •  Why personal branding is critical in today’s professional landscape •  How branding photography shapes first impressions and credibility •  What makes a powerful and authentic professional image •  Why consistency in your visual identity builds trust •  The process behind creating effective branding photos •  How to align your personality and purpose with your imagery •  The difference between technically good photos and communicative ones •  Why pre-shoot planning is key to getting the right results   TimeStamps: 00:00 The Importance of Personal Branding 02:29 Creating Lasting Impressions 05:07 The Pre-Shoot Discovery Process 07:58 Distinguishing Headshots from Branding Photography 10:42 The Power of Visual Storytelling 13:16 Challenging Perceptions in Photography 16:03 Measuring Success in Branding Photography   Guest & Host Links: Jo Scott: https://portfolioexecutive.biz/executive/jo-scott/ Valerie Merrill: https://portfolioexecutive.biz/executive/valerie-merrill/ Gareth Wax: https://portfolioexecutive.biz/executive/gareth-wax/   Explore the Portfolio Executive community, learn how to step into fractional leadership, and stay tuned for more insights in upcoming episodes.         Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    Portfolio Executive Podcast Episode 10: Personal Branding Through Photography

  4. Jul 28

    Portfolio Executive Podcast Episode 9: Harnessing Arctic Power

    Could the Arctic power the future of AI, data centres, and global energy systems? In this episode of the ‘Portfolio Executive’ Gareth Wax and Valerie Merrill sit down with Jeff Krehmer, fractional engineering expert and author of Infinite Resources, to explore how radical thinking in engineering and energy could reshape the way the world builds, powers, and sustains itself. From Arctic development to AI-driven data centres, Jeff explains how interconnected systems—energy, water, food, and infrastructure—may hold the key to solving some of today’s biggest global challenges.   You’ll discover: •          What fractional engineering is—and why it’s changing how complex projects are delivered •          How the Arctic could become a major hub for sustainable energy, water, and food production •          Why data centres may soon be limited more by power than compute •          How temperature differentials and waste heat can unlock new energy efficiency systems •          Why holistic thinking is essential for tackling climate change and infrastructure demand •          The biggest risks in engineering projects, including scope creep and misalignment •          How engineers build trust quickly when entering high-stakes environments •          Jeff’s vision for integrating energy, food, and water systems into one sustainable model   TimeStamps: 00:00 Introduction to Fractional Executives 02:23 Understanding the Role of a Fractional Executive 05:11 Choosing the Right Projects 07:30 Building Trust as an Outsider 09:30 Innovative Energy Solutions 13:44 Exploring Infinite Resources 19:49 Holistic Approaches to Energy, Food, and Water 22:49 Final Thoughts and Future Directions Guest & Host Links: Jeff Krehmer: https://portfolioexecutive.biz/executive/jeff-krehmer-p-eng-cswp/ Valerie Merrill: https://portfolioexecutive.biz/executive/valerie-merrill/ Gareth Wax: https://portfolioexecutive.biz/executive/gareth-wax/   Explore the Portfolio Executive community, learn how to step into fractional leadership, and stay tuned for more insights in upcoming episodes.   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    Portfolio Executive Podcast Episode 9: Harnessing Arctic Power

  5. Jul 20

    Portfolio Executive Podcast Episode 1: Digital Nomad

    Are charities failing to make an impact—or just failing to tell their story effectively? In this insightful episode of the ‘Portfolio Executive’ Gareth Wax and Valerie Merrill sit down with Dr David Simmons to explore the evolving world of charities, storytelling, and the future of work. From building trust with funders to navigating a rapidly changing, AI-driven landscape, David shares powerful lessons from his diverse career and deep experience in social impact. You’ll Discover •          Why impact storytelling is essential for charity success •          How trust directly influences funding and longevity •          The importance of adaptability in a volatile, uncertain world •          How AI is transforming how organisations measure and prove impact •          Why community work often leads to unexpected, meaningful outcomes •          What it means to build a portfolio career in today’s economy •          How strong leadership communicates long-term impact effectively   TimeStamps: 00:00 Introduction to Charity Effectiveness 00:34 David's Cosmopolitan Upbringing and Its Impact 04:56 The Role of Morale in Organisations 06:29 Building Trust and Measurable Impact in Charities 11:52 Communication Strategies for Charities 15:25 Adaptability in the Modern Workforce 20:01 The Future of AI in Charitable Work 22:52 Additional Insights 23:03 Closing Thoughts Guest & Host Links: David Simmons: https://portfolioexecutive.biz/executive/david-simmons/  Valerie Merrill: https://portfolioexecutive.biz/executive/valerie-merrill/ Gareth Wax: https://portfolioexecutive.biz/executive/gareth-wax/   Explore the Portfolio Executive community, learn how to step into fractional leadership, and stay tuned for more insights in upcoming episodes. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    Portfolio Executive Podcast Episode 1: Digital Nomad

  6. Jul 17

    Portfolio Executive Podcast Episode 7: Midwise Alliance

    What if the most powerful untapped resource in the world isn’t technology—but the wisdom of everyday people? In this thought-provoking episode of the ‘Portfolio Executive’ hosts Gareth Wax and Valerie Merrill sit down with Rhonda L. Bowen to explore the vision behind the Midwise Alliance—a groundbreaking platform designed to empower what she calls the “middle society.” Rhonda shares how this often-overlooked group holds immense untapped wisdom that could reshape global innovation, business, and collaboration. We dive into how digital tools like Estonia’s e-residency are opening doors for global entrepreneurship, and how emerging technologies like AI and blockchain are reshaping the future of work and participation. This conversation challenges traditional hierarchies and explores a more inclusive, collaborative future—where diverse voices and lived experience are not just valued, but essential. You’ll Discover: •          Why the “middle society” may be the missing link in solving global challenges •          How the Midwise Alliance is creating space for shared wisdom and co-creation •          The real opportunity behind Estonia’s e-residency for global entrepreneurs •          How AI is both a powerful tool and a potential risk—and how to navigate both sides •          Why age is no barrier to entering the digital economy •          The role of blockchain and token economies in creating fairer global systems •          How diverse perspectives lead to better, more sustainable innovation •          “AI has two sides: creation and destruction.” •          “Age is no barrier to digital entrepreneurship.”   TimeStamps: 00:00 – Introduction to the Midwise Alliance 07:07 – Expanding the Vision of Middle Society 10:35 – Integrating AI into the Midwise Alliance 15:37 – Navigating Compliance in a Global E-Company 19:43 – Lessons from Building the Midwise Alliance 22:36 – The Future of Inclusive Innovation 22:47 – Final Thoughts & What’s Next Guest & Host Links: Rhonda L. Bowen: https://portfolioexecutive.biz/executive/rhonda-l-bowen/ Valerie Merrill: https://portfolioexecutive.biz/executive/valerie-merrill/ Gareth Wax: https://portfolioexecutive.biz/executive/gareth-wax/   Explore the Portfolio Executive community, learn how to step into fractional leadership, and stay tuned for more insights in upcoming episodes. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    Portfolio Executive Podcast Episode 7: Midwise Alliance

  7. Jul 10

    Portfolio Executive Podcast Episode 6: Hiring

    Is hiring more people actually slowing your business down? Many growing businesses assume that bringing in more people will solve their problems—but what if hiring is actually masking deeper issues? In this episode of the ‘Portfolio Executive’ Gareth Wax and Valerie Merrill are joined by Business Scaling Specialist David Parry to unpack the myth of hiring as a silver bullet. They explore why growth challenges often persist despite new hires, and what leaders should focus on instead. From role clarity and onboarding to motivation and strategic planning, this conversation is packed with practical insights to help you scale your team the right way.    You’ll discover: •          Why hiring alone won’t fix underlying business problems •          The importance of clearly defined roles and expectations •          How to design processes before expanding your team •          What effective onboarding really looks like •          How motivation and environment impact performance •          How to balance structure without stifling creativity   TimeStamps 00:00 Introduction to Business Scaling and Hiring Challenges 01:40 The Reality of Hiring: More Than Just a Silver Bullet 02:29 Why Structural Problems Persist Despite New Hires 03:48 The Importance of Role Definition and Expectations 05:05 Matching Skills to Role Levels and Avoiding Mismatches 05:49 The Goldilocks Hire: Finding the Right Fit 06:47 Setting Clear Goals and Boundaries for New Hires 08:46 Dealing with Long-Term Reluctance and Failed Hires 09:58 Supporting and Onboarding New Team Members 10:51 Motivating and Growing Your Team 11:29 The Role of Leadership in Onboarding and Support 13:09 The Impact of Environment and Motivation on Performance 14:37 Case Study: The Cost of Mismatched Expectations 15:54 Controlling Growth Without Stifling Creativity 16:32 Rules and Freedom in Business Management 17:32 Designing Business Strategy Before Hiring 18:49 The Merlin Strategy: Envisioning Future Business Success 19:55 Aligning Strategy, Structure, and Resources 20:37 Conclusion and Final Thoughts on Business Growth and Hiring 20:45 Additional Insights 20:56 Closing Thoughts   Guest & Host Links: David Parry: https://portfolioexecutive.biz/executive/david-parry/ Valerie Merrill: https://portfolioexecutive.biz/executive/valerie-merrill/ Gareth Wax: https://portfolioexecutive.biz/executive/gareth-wax/   Explore the Portfolio Executive community, learn how to step into fractional leadership, and stay tuned for more insights in upcoming episodes.   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    Portfolio Executive Podcast Episode 6: Hiring

  8. Jul 10

    Portfolio Executive Podcast Episode 5: Short-Term Profits

    Are you focusing too much on short-term wins—and unknowingly holding your business back long-term? In this episode of the ‘Portfolio Executive’ hosts Gareth Wax and Valerie Merrill chat with Rachael Wheatley exploring the constant tension between short-term profits and long-term purpose—and why getting the balance right is critical for sustainable growth. They dive into the often-misaligned relationship between sales and marketing, highlighting how clarity in business objectives can transform performance. They unpack the shift from “busy work” to meaningful marketing, and why metrics like customer lifetime value matter far more than quick wins. You’ll also hear how creating the right kind of tension in your business can actually drive innovation, and why bringing in a fractional CMO can provide the strategic direction many growing companies lack. You’ll discover: •          Why focusing only on short-term profits can limit long-term growth •          The real reason sales and marketing often feel misaligned—and how to fix it •          How to move from busy marketing activity to meaningful strategy •          Why customer lifetime value is a critical metric for success •          How creating tension between short- and long-term goals can drive innovation •          The role of a fractional CMO in scaling your business effectively •          Why purpose-led businesses (including B Corps) outperform traditional models •          How clarity in your business strategy unlocks better results   TimeStamps: 00:00 Introduction to Short-Term Profits vs Long-Term Purpose 01:06 Understanding the Tension Between Marketing and Sales 03:02 The Importance of Clarity in Business 05:33 From Busy Work to Meaningful Marketing 07:10 The Need for a Balanced Approach 09:36 Metrics That Matter for Long-Term Success 12:07 Creating Tension for Growth 15:14 The Role of Marketing in Business Strategy 17:18 B Corp and Long-Term Purpose 19:19 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Guest & Host Links: Rachael Wheatley: https://portfolioexecutive.biz/executive/rachael-wheatley/ Valerie Merrill: https://portfolioexecutive.biz/executive/valerie-merrill/ Gareth Wax: https://portfolioexecutive.biz/executive/gareth-wax/   Explore the Portfolio Executive community, learn how to step into fractional leadership, and stay tuned for more insights in upcoming episodes. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    Portfolio Executive Podcast Episode 5: Short-Term Profits
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About

What if the future of leadership isn’t full-time—and the most valuable executives are those who work fractionally across multiple businesses? With a host of special guests, presenters Valerie Merrill and Gareth Wax explore the world of portfolio executives, fractional leadership, and creating careers out of that. You will discover what makes the portfolio executive community so unique, from its diverse, global network of talent to the powerful blend of skills and perspectives its members bring. Explore the portfolio executive community, learn how to step into fractional leadership, and stay tuned for more insights in upcoming episodes. Follow us to find out more, and join us on LinkedIn. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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