Pull the Chute - Grow your People, Grow your Company Podcast

Jeff Sesol and Janna Landry
  • 5.0 (4)
  • ENTREPRENEURSHIP
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

The goal of this podcast is to interview business owners and/or C-level executives to get an understanding of how they built their culture, what worked, what failed, and what tips can they give new and upcoming business owners. Our goal over the next ten years is to help as many small to medium-sized businesses get to the next level by growing their people, which will grow their company. Through coaching and transformational leadership, Pull the Chute can guide company leaders to invest time to get to know their people and understand their roles, goals, and challenges to provide learning & growth opportunities - ultimately helping their people be the best they can be.

  1. You are more than your job title Featuring Nick D' Ambrosio

    9H AGO

    You are more than your job title Featuring Nick D' Ambrosio

    Send us Fan Mail In this premiere episode of Beyond the Title, we go deeper than job titles and org charts to uncover the real stories of the people leading today’s organizations. Our guest, Nick D'Ambrosio, founder of Nomadics, shares his journey from military intelligence and GIS mapping to building a business that balances high-level defense contracts with a deep passion for environmental conservation. Nick discusses the "moments of pause" that led him to pull the chute, the challenges of balancing a demanding career with family life, and why being your true, authentic self is the most powerful leadership tool you have. Key Takeaways Beyond the Label: Leadership is about more than a title; it's about the challenges, breakthroughs, and intentional paths we choose when we "pull the chute."The Diverse Leader: From military defense and GIS technology to environmental preservation, Nick highlights how disparate interests can coexist to create a fulfilling career.Vulnerability and Authenticity: Nick shares personal stories—from dealing with family emergencies to the "stomach bug" chaos—proving that real leaders are human first.Environmental Stewardship: Discover why Nick's commitment to ecological conservation is a vital part of his legacy and a driving force for future generations.Intentional Pauses: Learn why it’s critical for leaders to occasionally stop, reflect, and ensure their path forward is aligned with their true values.What defines you once you step away from your desk? Tune in to the very first episode of Beyond the Title to hear Nick D'Ambrosio’s authentic story. Listen now and discover what it means to lead with intention! 🎙️ Join the Conversation: Pull the Chute Podcast Discussion Group!  Ever listen to an episode of Pull the Chute and wish you could dig deeper into those "aha!" moments with others who get it? Now you can. Join our Facebook Discussion Group here.

    28 min
  2. Beyond The Title: Are you building a company or just a title? Featuring Shakir Husain

    1D AGO

    Beyond The Title: Are you building a company or just a title? Featuring Shakir Husain

    Send us Fan Mail In this episode of Beyond the Title, Jeff Sesol and John Zettler are joined by Shakir Husain, the founder and CEO of Creative Chaos. Shakir takes us through his fascinating career path, moving across continents and industries to master the art of digital transformation and creative scaling. We explore the human side of high-level leadership, the importance of continuous learning, and how to maintain a "growth mindset" while navigating the complexities of global business. Shakir shares his "heart for people" and explains why the most successful leaders are those who focus on the journey and the players, not just the score. Key Takeaways The Global Perspective: Shakir discusses the advantages of a "coast-to-coast" career and how diverse environments shape a leader’s ability to solve complex problems.Continuous Learning: Success isn’t a destination; it’s a process of constantly updating your skills and mindset to stay ahead of industry shifts.The Human Element of Tech: As a leader in digital scaling, Shakir emphasizes that technology is only as effective as the people and culture behind it.Leadership Through Service: Great leadership involves sharing your journey and insights with the next generation of emerging leaders.Passion-Driven Leadership: Whether it’s business or following a favorite sports coach, passion is the fuel that drives consistency and long-term excellence.Are you building a company or just a title? Tune in to this episode of Beyond the Title to hear Shakir Husain’s insights on creative scaling and intentional leadership. Listen now!

    26 min
  3. Do you believe you can do it, or do you HAVE FAITH that you will? Featuring Chris Champion

    2D AGO

    Do you believe you can do it, or do you HAVE FAITH that you will? Featuring Chris Champion

    Send us Fan Mail In this episode of Pull the Chute, Jana and guest host Rob Facker sit down with Chris Champion, a high-performance coach and entrepreneur who has worked with everyone from elite athletes to top-tier executives. Chris shares his powerful "I am" philosophy and discusses why success isn't just about strategy—it's about the internal narrative we carry. From his work with the "School of Hard Knocks" to his insights on the difference between belief and faith, Chris provides a roadmap for anyone looking to break through their mental plateaus and achieve lasting excellence. Key Takeaways The "I Am" Identity: Your results in life will never outperform your identity. To change your outcome, you must first change the way you define yourself.Belief vs. Faith: There is a distinct difference between the two. Belief is thinking you can do something; faith is knowing you can do it.The Power of Environment: Success is contagious. Chris discusses his work with the "School of Hard Knocks" and the importance of surrounding yourself with people who challenge your ceiling.Managing Your Internal State: High performance isn't just about working harder; it's about mastering your internal state so you can perform under pressure.Vulnerability in Leadership: Chris highlights why being real and authentic (even sharing the "critical" feedback) is essential for building a community that resonates with your message. Are you ready to stop thinking you can succeed and start knowing it? Tune in to the full episode to hear Chris Champion’s transformative insights on identity and high performance. Listen now and start shifting your "I am" today! 🎙️ Join the Conversation: Pull the Chute Podcast Discussion Group!  Ever listen to an episode of Pull the Chute and wish you could dig deeper into those "aha!" moments with others who get it? Now you can. Join our Facebook Discussion Group here.

    28 min
  4. Beyond The Title: Are you focused on your title or your impact? Featuring Henry Rao

    MAR 17

    Beyond The Title: Are you focused on your title or your impact? Featuring Henry Rao

    Send us Fan Mail In this episode of Beyond the Title, Jeff Sesol and John Zettler sit down with Harry Rao, the founder and CEO of Testgrad. Harry shares the story of building a multimillion-dollar bootstrapped company and why his success has very little to do with his title. We explore the "nuggets" of career acceleration, the necessity of pivoting in an era of constant change, and how to build a high-performance culture that asks a lot of its people while maintaining a foundation of trust and relationship. Key Takeaways Execution Over Title: It is never about the title you hold; it is about whether you can get things done and deliver results for your partners and team.The Power of Pivoting: In a business world where change is the only constant, the ability to pivot and adapt is the most relevant skill a leader can possess.High Standards, Deep Trust: You can push your team to work hard and achieve great things, but only if you have first built a solid foundation of relationship and trust.Bootstrapping Success: Harry discusses the discipline required to grow a multimillion-dollar business from the ground up through strategic partnerships and team alignment.Retaining Top Talent: Discover the key drivers behind keeping great people and how leadership development plays a role in sustaining business growth. Are you focused on your title or your impact? Tune in to this episode of Beyond the Title to hear Harry Rao’s insights on accelerating your career and leading through constant change. Listen now!

    25 min
  5. Why do so many student-athletes feel like their coach doesn't even know them? 🏀 Featuring Nolan Recker, CEO - HeyCoach

    MAR 10

    Why do so many student-athletes feel like their coach doesn't even know them? 🏀 Featuring Nolan Recker, CEO - HeyCoach

    Send us Fan Mail In this episode of Pull the Chute, Jeff and Jana sit down with Nolan Recker, the founder of HeyCoach. Nolan shares his journey from ministry to sports and explains how his new platform is bridging the "relational gap" between coaches, players, and parents. Discover how simple, automated text messaging can foster self-reflection in Gen Z athletes and create a safer, more connected environment for growth.  Key Takeaways: The Power of Connection: Humans are "communal animals" wired for connection; intentionality in sports culture helps athletes truly "come alive." Management vs. Leadership: While managers expect behaviors, true leaders connect with their people to help them understand the "belief behind the behavior." Meeting Gen Z Where They Are: Texting is a native form of communication for today’s students; HeyCoach uses this to encourage "automated self-reflection" and digital journaling. Safety and Transparency: The platform provides a "third space" that protects coaches and students by documenting all digital correspondence, meeting high standards like those of AAU travel sports. Tune in to this episode today! 🎙️ Join the Conversation: Pull the Chute Podcast Discussion Group!  Ever listen to an episode of Pull the Chute and wish you could dig deeper into those "aha!" moments with others who get it? Now you can. Join our Facebook Discussion Group here.

    28 min
  6. Why CEOs struggle between short-term survival and long-term growth Featuring Rajesh Nagjee

    FEB 26

    Why CEOs struggle between short-term survival and long-term growth Featuring Rajesh Nagjee

    Send us Fan Mail Most leaders think their problem is strategy. It’s not. It’s a bottleneck. In this episode of Pull the Chute, we talk with Rajesh Nagjee about: ✔ Why every system has a constraint ✔ Why CEOs struggle between short-term survival and long-term growth ✔ How fear and regret quietly sabotage decision-making ✔ Why “should” and “must” create pressure — but “works” creates movement ✔ And why coaching isn’t about giving answers One of the biggest takeaways: You don’t eliminate the past. You park it. Then you choose where to stand. Leadership isn’t about complexity. It’s about clarity. 🎧 Listen now. 💬 Comment “WORKS” if this resonated. 🎙️ Join the Conversation: Pull the Chute Podcast Discussion Group!  Ever listen to an episode of Pull the Chute and wish you could dig deeper into those "aha!" moments with others who get it? Now you can. Join our Facebook Discussion Group here.

    29 min
  7. What if the fastest way to become a better leader… Was learning improv? Featuring Kevin Hubschmann

    FEB 26

    What if the fastest way to become a better leader… Was learning improv? Featuring Kevin Hubschmann

    Send us Fan Mail What if the fastest way to become a better leader… Was learning improv? In our 250th episode of Pull the Chute, Kevin Hubschmann shares how comedy skills — not jokes — help leaders: • Listen more effectively • Communicate with clarity • Think on their feet • Create psychological safety • Build stronger, more connected teams One of the biggest takeaways: Humor isn’t just personality. It’s a trainable skill set. Active listening. “Yes, and” communication. Self-awareness. Presence. These are leadership fundamentals. And yes — laughter makes work better. 🎧 Listen now. 💬 Comment “YES AND” if you’re ready to level up your communication. Join the Conversation: Pull the Chute Podcast Discussion Group! 🎙️ Ever listen to an episode of Pull the Chute and wish you could dig deeper into those "aha!" moments with others who get it? Now you can. Join our Facebook Discussion Group here.

    23 min
  8. What happens after a successful business? Featuring Sarah Boes

    FEB 26

    What happens after a successful business? Featuring Sarah Boes

    Send us Fan Mail She didn’t plan to become an entrepreneur. She planned to pass her nurse practitioner boards. But during COVID, battling anxiety and panic attacks, she saw something missing in the market: No one was talking about mental health in test prep. So she did. Within 7 months, she built a 7-figure business. Within 2 years, she sold it. And then? She faced something no one warns founders about: The identity shift after success. In this episode of Pull the Chute, Sarah Boes shares: • What panic attacks taught her about leadership • How undiagnosed OCD shaped her journey • Why self-compassion is a performance tool • The truth about life after an acquisition • Why authenticity beats perfection in the AI era One of the biggest takeaways: You can build something incredible. Sell it. Grieve it. And build again. 🎧 Listen now. 💬 Comment “REAL” if you believe authenticity wins long-term. Join the Conversation: Pull the Chute Podcast Discussion Group! 🎙️ Ever listen to an episode of Pull the Chute and wish you could dig deeper into those "aha!" moments with others who get it? Now you can. Join our Facebook Discussion Group here.

    30 min
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5
out of 5
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About

The goal of this podcast is to interview business owners and/or C-level executives to get an understanding of how they built their culture, what worked, what failed, and what tips can they give new and upcoming business owners. Our goal over the next ten years is to help as many small to medium-sized businesses get to the next level by growing their people, which will grow their company. Through coaching and transformational leadership, Pull the Chute can guide company leaders to invest time to get to know their people and understand their roles, goals, and challenges to provide learning & growth opportunities - ultimately helping their people be the best they can be.

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