Cerius Leadership with Kristen McAlister

Kristen McAlister

Business Insights for Business Leaders kmcalister.substack.com

  1. 11/14/2025

    AI Roadmap for Small to Mid-Sized Businesses

    In this episode, I get to discuss AI for small to mid-sized businesses with AI strategist and advisor, David Espindola. We cover:  ·  The State of AI Today ·   Human Skills Matter More Than Ever ·   Avoiding “Solution Looking for a Problem” Syndrome ·   The “Maker, Shaper, or Taker” Framework ·   Findings from the SBA Project on AI and SMBs ·   How Successful SMBs Are Adopting AI ·   AI Advice for Business Leaders   Show Notes: Cerius for Clients: https://ceriusexecutives.com/ Cerius for Executives: https://ceriusexecutives.com/executives LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/cerius-interim-executive-solutions/ Kristen’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristenmcalister/ David’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidespindola/ / This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit kmcalister.substack.com

    24 min

  2. 10/28/2025

    Team Dependent, Not Owner Dependent

    In this episode, Kristen McAlister sits down with Alex Brown of Exit Stage Left Advisors to unpack what it really means to make a business “exit ready.” From reducing owner dependency to empowering teams that carry the company forward, Alex shares practical insights on maximizing enterprise value and protecting your legacy. They discuss common roadblocks owners face, why predictability drives valuation, and how to future-proof your business through data, documentation, and delegation. Whether you’re thinking about selling someday—or just want to build a stronger, more self-sustaining company—this conversation will change the way you think about readiness and leadership. Show Notes: Cerius for Clients: https://ceriusexecutives.com/ Cerius for Executives: https://ceriusexecutives.com/executives LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/cerius-interim-executive-solutions/ Kristen McAlister LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristenmcalister/ Alex Brown LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexbrown805/ This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit kmcalister.substack.com

    35 min

  3. 06/17/2025

    More Than Policies: HR as the Powerhouse for People, Progress, and AI

    HR isn’t just about policies anymore. It’s the engine behind your company’s people, progress, and yes — even AI adoption. This week on the Cerius Leadership podcast, we spotlight how HR leaders are becoming strategic powerhouses in driving transformation across the business. We cover: - Why people are still the ultimate differentiator - HR non-negotiables every business needs - Talent readiness assessments — are your people prepared for what’s next? - How to reconcile shifting values and culture - Communication loops that build real trust - Embedding AI into the organization — and why HR should lead the way Donna’s global leadership experience spans HR & Tech – from VC backed start-ups to global enterprises which gives me a unique blend of skills & insights to help companies accelerate growth. If you want to future-proof your workforce and lead with intentionality, this episode is your blueprint.  #IntentionalLeadership #Podcast #InterimHR #FractionalHR #HRLeadership #FutureOfWork   Show Notes: Cerius: https://ceriusexecutives.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/cerius-interim-executive-solutions/ Kristen’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristenmcalister/ Donna’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kacyclarke/ This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit kmcalister.substack.com

    35 min

  4. 06/10/2025

    Sustainability - Doing Well While Doing Good

    AI, data centers, devices, platforms… Our digital footprint is growing fast. But at what cost? This week on the Cerius Leadership podcast, we dive into the intersection of technology and sustainability — and what it really means to build a company that thrives and protects the planet. What we cover:- The hidden carbon cost of today’s tech - How to calculate your company's technology carbon footprint - “Do we use it? Do we need it?” – how to rethink your tech stack - The power of energy converting and sustainable infrastructure - Who your Green Champions are — and why you need them Kacy is a fractional CTO and sustainability advisor, specializing in guiding organizations through strategy and implementation of robust sustainable architectures, green software development, GreenOps and FinOps programs to enable cost and resource optimized innovation.  Because doing good for the planet and doing well in business shouldn’t be mutually exclusive. #IntentionalLeadership #Sustainability #TechLeadership #BCorp #CarbonFootprint #Podcast #DoingWellWhileDoingGood Show Notes: Cerius: https://ceriusexecutives.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/cerius-interim-executive-solutions/ Kristen’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristenmcalister/ Kacy’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kacyclarke/ Book Mentioned: The Demand Revolution Resources: SustainableIT.org, SustainableArchitectures.org This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit kmcalister.substack.com

    30 min

  5. 06/03/2025

    Retail Thinking in a Wholesale Tech World

    Tech go-to-market strategies have gotten... complicated. But what if the real edge is going back to basics?  This week on the Cerius Leadership podcast, we dig into why retail thinking — not wholesale — might be the unlock for your next innovation leap. Here's what we explore: The real meaning behind "Innovation isn’t a noun" When the waves of tech will crash on your shores — and how to be ready Why the 3 Horizons Framework still matters How the best gains come after the hype And most importantly, why your customer conversations should be at the center of it all Tim is an entrepreneurial leader with in-depth experience in technology, venture capital, and private/public sector innovation.  If your go-to-market motion feels stuck or stale, this episode might be your reset button.   #IntentionalLeadership #GoToMarket #InnovationStrategy #TechLeadership #Podcast Show Notes: Cerius: https://ceriusexecutives.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/cerius-interim-executive-solutions/ Kristen’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristenmcalister/ Tim’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/timothybernardjones/ Book Mentioned: Technological Revolutions and Financial Capital: The Dynamics of Bubbles and Golden Ages by Carlota Perez This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit kmcalister.substack.com

    42 min

  6. 05/20/2025

    Quiet Cracking, Workforce Development, and the Future of Learning

    We’ve all heard of Quiet Quitting—but have you heard of Quiet Cracking? What happens when employees are disengaged, disillusioned, and distracted? Find out from this week’s guest, Michael LeFort. In this episode of the Cerius Leadership Podcast, we dig into: 🔹What today’s modern learner really needs 🔹How micro-learning is changing the game 🔹The signs of Quiet Cracking you may be missing 🔹Why traditional workforce development isn't working 🔹The role of AI in reshaping how we train, develop, and retain teams Michael is an award-winning brand developer and marketer with an expertise in building go-to-market strategies for brands in technology, education, packaged goods, spirits, media and social impact. If you're tired of throwing training dollars at the wall hoping something sticks, this conversation will give you a clearer way forward. 🎧 Tune in now and start thinking differently about the future of learning and development. #IntentionalLeadership #WorkforceDevelopment #LearningAndDevelopment #FutureOfWork #QuietCracking #Podcast Cerius for Clients: https://ceriusexecutives.com/ Cerius for Executives: https://ceriusexecutives.com/executives LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/cerius-interim-executive-solutions/ Kristen's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristenmcalister/ Michael's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-lefort-4555654b/ Learnie: https://mylearnie.com/ This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit kmcalister.substack.com

    34 min

  7. 05/13/2025

    Always Looking Ahead to What’s Next

    In leadership, communication isn't just about what you say—it’s about how you move people forward. This week on the Cerius Leadership Podcast, we’re diving into the art of transformational communication with Natalie Fine, and why it’s the fuel behind motivation, momentum, and meaningful change. We cover: 🔹 Why communication = motivation 🔹 How to speak to your audience’s persona, not just their position 🔹 The role of intentional pauses in elevating executive presence 🔹 Coaching leaders through growth, change, and reinvention 🔹 Standing out in a noisy world Natalie is passionate about the vital role of well-crafted communications to cultivate key relationships, support transformational growth, and enhance people engagement. If you’re a leader navigating what’s next—for your company or your career—this conversation is your playbook. 🎧 Tune in now and start communicating like the leader you're becoming. #IntentionalLeadership #ExecutivePresence #TransformationalCommunication Cerius for Clients: https://ceriusexecutives.com/ Cerius for Executives: https://ceriusexecutives.com/executives LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/cerius-interim-executive-solutions/ Kristen's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristenmcalister/ Natalie's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nataliefine/ This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit kmcalister.substack.com

    36 min

  8. 05/06/2025

    The Three Killers to Problem Solving

    We’ve all been there—endless meetings, half-baked solutions, and a creeping feeling that we’re fixing symptoms, not the root problem. So what’s getting in the way? In this episode, we tackle the three silent killers of effective problem solving and what to do about them. Aligning process improvements with strategy AND culture The first two questions every leader should be asking (but often don’t) Process. Prioritization. Respect. – the trio that can make or break your success And a fresh take on collaboration: It starts with “I” – Inform, Impact, Input Whether you’re leading change, reworking a broken process, or just trying to stop the cycle of “fixing things that don’t stay fixed,” this one’s for you. 🎧 Listen now and unlock better ways to lead through problems — not around them. #IntentionalLeadership #ProblemSolving #BusinessStrategy #Collaboration #ExecutiveLeadership Show Notes: Cerius for Clients: https://ceriusexecutives.com/ Cerius for Executives: https://ceriusexecutives.com/executives LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/cerius-interim-executive-solutions/ Kristen's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristenmcalister/ Kim's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kim-sentovich/ This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit kmcalister.substack.com

    43 min
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