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. 1d ago

    Portfolio Executive Podcast Series 3 Episode 2: Fractional CMO - Go To Market

    Is your marketing strategy built to drive growth — or is it time to rethink the role of the CMO? In this episode of the Portfolio Executive Podcast, Gareth Wax and Valerie Merrill speak with Nikki Dawson, Fractional CMO and go-to-market specialist, about how marketing leadership is evolving, how AI is reshaping the profession, and what it really takes to stand out in a crowded market. From the importance of differentiation and thought leadership to building trust, aligning sales and marketing, and creating effective go-to-market strategies, Nikki shares insights into the challenges facing modern marketing leaders — and how to turn marketing into a genuine driver of business growth. You’ll discover: Why the traditional CMO role may need redesigning to meet today’s business needsHow to integrate AI into marketing effectively — and why human taste and judgement still matterWhy differentiation and thought leadership are essential for Fractional CMOsHow to overcome misalignment between marketing, sales and wider business teamsWhy marketing takes time to build trust, recognition and lasting impactHow positioning, sales enablement and collaboration strengthen go-to-market strategiesThe value of coaching, supporting teams and creating a culture of shared goals and accountabilityWhat makes the Portfolio Executive community valuable for fractional leaders TimeStamps 00:00 Introduction to the episode and guest 01:11 Reactions to redesigning the CMO role 02:02 The evolving role of the CMO and AI’s impact 03:23 The importance of taste and judgement in AI 04:18 Challenges in marketing and organisational alignment 07:41 Redesigning the CMO role and its current issues 09:52 Building effective go-to-market strategies 11:44 The role of marketing and innovation in growth 13:14 The value of coaching and supporting teams 16:25 Why join Portfolio Executive and the benefits of community Guest & Host Links: Nikki Dawson: https://portfolioexecutive.biz/executive/nikki-dawson/ 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 3 Episode 2: Fractional CMO - Go To Market

  2. Oct 27

    Portfolio Executive Podcast Series 3 Episode 1: What Actually Holds You Back

    What could change if marketing had a permanent seat at the boardroom table? In this episode of the ‘Portfolio Executive Podcast’ Graeme Davies of UXL Marketing Communications explores with hosts Gareth Wax and Valerie Merrill, how taking a flexible, sector-agnostic approach to marketing can create stronger strategies, sharper priorities, and more sustainable business growth. You’ll discover: Why a sector-agnostic approach can bring fresh thinking and new perspectives to your marketing strategy.How generative AI is changing search, including the rise of GEO (Generative Engine Optimisation) and what it means for being discovered online.Why effective marketing starts with understanding the customer journey, rather than simply focusing on individual tactics.How marketing can move beyond a tactical function to become a strategic business discipline at board level.Why having marketing represented at the executive table can influence better business decisions.How to prioritise marketing activity when there are more ideas and opportunities than resources.Why long-term marketing planning often creates greater impact than chasing short-term wins.The challenges of measuring marketing ROI and distinguishing meaningful business outcomes from vanity metrics.How consultative discovery and scoping can uncover the marketing challenges that really need solving.Why long-term client relationships can create deeper and more measurable impact.How community and peer support can benefit fractional and portfolio leaders navigating complex marketing and leadership challenges. TimeStamps 00:00 Introduction to Graeme Davies and his sector-agnostic approach 00:52 What does sector-agnostic mean and why is it valuable? 02:25 The importance of fresh eyes in marketing strategy 03:36 The rise of generative AI and its impact on search 04:47 Audience-first approach to AI and the customer journey 05:16 Marketing as a strategic business function 06:28 The need for marketing representation at board level 07:24 Prioritisation and focus in marketing activities 10:11 Using a marketing whiteboard for idea prioritisation 11:14 Why marketing is underrepresented in boardrooms 12:39 The broader view of marketing beyond traditional tactics 14:17 Measuring marketing effectiveness and ROI 15:16 Vanity metrics versus real business impact 16:38 Discovering and scoping through consultative work 17:32 Long-term client relationships and impact 19:38 The community aspect of portfolio leadership 20:34 The value of peer support for fractional leaders 21:18 Closing thoughts and key takeaways from Graeme Guest & Host Links: Graeme Davies: https://portfolioexecutive.biz/executive/graeme-davies/ 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 3 Episode 1: What Actually Holds You Back

  3. Oct 19

    Portfolio Executive Podcast Series 2 Episode 10: AI Strategies

    How can AI understand the connections between millions of pieces of information? In this episode of the ‘Portfolio Executive’ podcast, Edwin Trebels, founder of LangOptima, explores with hosts Gareth Wax and Valerie Merrill, how AI is evolving beyond large language models and why trustworthy, responsible AI will be essential as these technologies become more powerful and accessible. Edwin shares his journey from language translation into AI, explaining how AI is transforming translation, automation and the way businesses access information. He also explores neurosymbolic AI, knowledge graphs and structured data, and how these approaches could help make AI more reliable. From hallucinations and deepfakes to voice AI and digital twins, this conversation looks at both the opportunities and risks of rapidly advancing AI—and what businesses need to consider when adopting it. You'll discover: Why AI systems can produce hallucinations, or “confabulations”How neurosymbolic AI combines different approaches to AIWhat knowledge graphs bring to AI and structured informationWhy guardrails and responsible deployment matterHow AI is transforming language translation and automationWhy mimicking human voices can be both powerful and dangerousHow deepfakes and voice AI are changing the technology landscapeThe role of legal frameworks and compliance in AIHow AI can become more accessible to SMEsWhat trustworthy AI could look like over the next 3–5 yearsWhy building an AI community can help people navigate this rapidly changing field TimeStamps 00:00 Introduction to Edwin Trebels and LangOptima 01:04 Edwin's background in language translation and AI 02:04 AI's impact on language translation and automation 04:26 Hallucinations in AI and confabulation 05:32 Understanding AI confabulation and its implications 07:04 Responsible AI and ethical considerations 08:07 Legal frameworks and compliance in AI 09:24 Neurosymbolic AI and structured knowledge 10:31 Industry research and academic collaboration 12:53 Voice AI evolution and digital twins 14:41 Community building for knowledge graphs and responsible AI 16:55 Trustworthy AI in the next 3–5 years 18:57 Common misconceptions about AI and paid vs free tools 19:45 Closing thoughts and future outlook Guest & Host Links: Edwin Trebels: https://portfolioexecutive.biz/executive/edwin-trebels/ 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 10: AI Strategies

  4. Oct 12

    Portfolio Executive Podcast Series 2 Episode 9: The Myth of Quick AI Automation

    Are you adopting AI because it’s right for your business — or simply because everyone else is doing it? AI is evolving at an extraordinary pace, but rushing to adopt the latest tools can create more problems than it solves. In this episode of the ‘Portfolio Executive’, Katherine Mora, AI strategist and fractional CTO, explains to hosts Gareth Wax and Valerie Merrill why businesses need to get their foundations right before diving into AI. Katherine explores how businesses can approach AI strategically — from understanding their business model, workflows and people, to choosing the right tools, managing security risks and avoiding costly technology lock-in. She also explains how a fractional CTO can help businesses navigate the rapidly changing AI landscape, bringing strategic technology expertise without the need for a full-time CTO. You’ll discover: •          Why AI strategy starts with understanding your business, not choosing a tool •          The risks of rushing into AI automation without the right foundations •          How to choose AI tools without becoming unnecessarily locked into one platform •          What businesses need to understand about LLMs, AI agents and emerging technologies •          Why AI security and governance need to be considered from the beginning •          How a fractional CTO can provide strategic guidance in a rapidly changing technology landscape •          The balance between strategic thinking and hands-on AI implementation •          Why cross-department collaboration is essential for successful AI projects •          How businesses can empower their existing teams to make better use of AI •          Why building AI solutions without the right expertise can create significant risks   TimeStamps: 00:00 Introduction to Katherine Mora and AI Strategy 02:43 The Myth of Quick AI Automation 05:00 Choosing the Right AI Tools and Avoiding Lock-in 07:18 Understanding Core AI Concepts 09:24 Security and Vulnerabilities in AI Projects 12:09 The Value of Fractional CTOs in AI Strategy 13:49 Balancing Strategic and Hands-On AI Work 16:22 The Importance of Cross-Department Collaboration in AI 17:00 Empowering Business Experts with AI 18:04 Closing Remarks and Future Outlook   Guest & Host Links: Katherine Mora: https://portfolioexecutive.biz/executive/katherine-mora/ 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 9: The Myth of Quick AI Automation

  5. Oct 6

    Portfolio Executive Podcast Series 2 Episode 8: Leadership Through the AI Gloom

    How can leaders use AI to transform their organisations without losing the human judgement, values and oversight that make good leadership possible? In this episode of the ‘Portfolio Executive Podcast’, hosts Gareth Wax and Valerie Merrill sit down with José Solera, fractional CIO and CTO, to explore what AI really means for leadership, data management and organisational transformation. Drawing on more than 25 years of experience in technology, José shares practical lessons on using AI effectively — from improving data quality and building better teams to navigating AI bias, regulation and the risks of moving too quickly. You’ll discover: Why data quality and consistency are fundamental to successful AI implementationHow AI is changing expectations of technology leaders and organisationsWhy starting small with AI projects can help manage expectations and deliver meaningful resultsHow proactive teams can reduce reactivity and create a stronger foundation for innovationWhy human oversight remains essential when implementing AIHow organisations can use AI to augment human skills rather than simply replace themWhat leaders can learn from major technology projects such as Y2K and Intel InsideHow to think about AI ethics, bias and AI driftWhere AI can already be used to tackle legal and regulatory challengesHow technology leaders can identify practical, achievable AI opportunitiesWhy a human-centric approach to AI matters for organisational culture and valuesThe value of connecting with a community of portfolio and fractional executives TimeStamps: 00:00 Introduction to AI and Leadership 02:03 Leadership Lessons from 25 Years in Tech 04:07 Scope and Focus in Data Management 07:07 Y2K and the Importance of Preparedness 08:37 Cloud Data and Data Mess 09:16 Where Things Usually Go Wrong in Data 10:15 Communication and Expectations Between Teams 11:01 Reactive vs Proactive Teams 12:34 AI's Impact on Leadership Expectations 13:03 Training AI and Managing Bias 14:26 AI Drift and Human Oversight 15:22 Using AI to Build Systems Quickly 17:23 Adopting AI Responsibly and Ethically 18:49 AI Augmentation and Automation 20:13 Legal and Regulatory Use Cases for AI 21:22 First Steps for Tech Leaders in AI 22:28 Focusing on Easy Wins in AI Projects 23:31 The Importance of Human-Centric AI 24:14 The Value of the Portfolio Executive Community 25:32 Final Thoughts and Advice for Leaders Guest & Host Links: José Solera: https://portfolioexecutive.biz/executive/jose-solera/ 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 8: Leadership Through the AI Gloom

  6. Sep 28

    Portfolio Executive Podcast Series 2 Episode 7: Architect Not Plumber

    Are you fixing marketing problems… or redesigning your entire marketing strategy for real business growth? In this episode of the ‘Portfolio Executive’ Gareth Wax and Valerie Merrill chat with Rachael Wheatley unpacking the true role of a fractional CMO—and why modern businesses need more than just tactical marketing fixes. If you’ve ever wondered whether your marketing is working as a system, this conversation will challenge how you think about marketing leadership, operations, and long-term success. You’ll discover: •Why marketing leaders should act more like architects than plumbers •What a fractional CMO actually does day-to-day (and what they don’t do) •How to assess your marketing capability across the whole business •Why customer engagement and marketing success depend on internal alignment •The importance of finding allies and champions within your organisation •When it makes sense to hire a fractional CMO vs. a full-time marketing leader •How marketing strategy and operations drive sustainable business growth •The different ways fractional CMO engagements evolve—from short-term fixes to long-term partnerships TimeStamps: 00:00 Architect vs. Plumber: Rethinking Marketing Roles 03:00 Understanding the Role of a Fractional CMO 06:07 Building Relationships and Finding Champions 08:51 The Day-to-Day of a Fractional CMO 11:53 When to Hire a Fractional CMO 15:05 The Common Arc of Engagement 18:07 Key Takeaways for Businesses in Need 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 Series 2 Episode 7: Architect Not Plumber

  7. Sep 22

    Portfolio Executive Podcast Series 2 Episode 6: Beyond the Numbers

    Can businesses grow without losing sight of sustainability and impact? In this episode of the ‘Portfolio Executive Podcast’ Rene Bonomi shares with Gareth Wax and Valerie Merrill his journey from Brazil to Cornell and explores the ideas that have shaped his approach to sustainable finance, impact entrepreneurship, and global business. From biotech startups and European accelerator programmes to founding ‘Bonomics’, Rene discusses how financial education, sustainability, and strong communities can help entrepreneurs build businesses that are designed not just for growth, but for lasting impact. We explore why understanding your numbers is essential before making business decisions, how businesses can balance growth with sustainability, and what entrepreneurs can learn from working across different cultures. Rene also shares his experiences supporting impactful projects spanning charities, NGOs, startups, and entrepreneurial communities. Whether you're an entrepreneur, investor, founder, or business leader, this conversation offers practical insights into building sustainable businesses and creating meaningful impact.   You'll discover: •          How Rene Bonomi’s journey from Brazil to Cornell shaped his perspective on business and impact •          Why sustainability is essential for long-term business growth •          How to balance ambitious growth with sustainable business practices •          Why entrepreneurs need to understand their numbers before making important decisions •          How financial education can empower entrepreneurs to build stronger businesses •          The role of cross-cultural understanding in successful international business •          Key differences between doing business in Brazil, the US, and other cultural environments •          How strong relationships and community support can create meaningful opportunities •          What Rene has learned from working with charities, NGOs, startups, and impact projects •          How a fractional CFO can help businesses make more informed financial decisions   Time Stamps 00:00 Introduction to Rene Bonomi and his background 02:02 Rene’s journey from Brazil to Cornell and his focus on impact 03:53 Experience in biotech startups and European accelerator programmes 05:38 The founding of Bonomics and its mission 07:04 Balancing growth and sustainability in business 08:31 Rene’s training academy and its practical approach 11:00 Impactful projects and community building 12:35 Cross-cultural business insights between the US and Brazil 14:00 Adapting to different cultural environments 15:53 Key financial advice for business owners 16:51 Rene’s vision for his role as a fractional CFO   Guest & Host Links: Rene Bonomi: https://portfolioexecutive.biz/executive/rene-bonomi/ 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 6: Beyond the Numbers

  8. Sep 15

    Portfolio Executive Podcast Series 2 Episode 5: Confusion to Marketing Clarity

    Are you wasting time and money on marketing tactics that aren't actually reaching the right customers? In this episode of the ‘Portfolio Executive’ marketing expert Paul Rees explores with Gareth Wax and Valerie Merrill the common marketing pitfalls facing SMEs and explains why having a clear strategy matters more than simply doing more marketing. From “spray and pray” marketing to identifying your ideal customer, Paul shares practical insights into how businesses can focus their efforts, avoid costly mistakes and make their marketing more effective. The conversation also explores the growing role of AI in marketing — and why businesses should use AI to augment human expertise rather than replace it.   You'll discover •          Why “spray and pray” marketing can waste valuable time and resources •          Why SMEs need a clear marketing strategy before investing in tactics •          How to identify and focus on your ideal target audience •          The difference between strategy and tactics and why both matter •          How targeted marketing can help businesses scale more effectively •          How AI can augment marketing expertise and where human judgement remains essential •          Common marketing habits businesses should consider leaving behind •          Why tracking and measuring results is critical to marketing success •          How focusing on the right customers can improve marketing efficiency and business growth •          The value of community and networks, including the Portfolio Executive   TimeStamps 00:00 Introduction to the podcast and guest 02:05 Early warning signs of poor marketing strategy 04:21 Universal marketing strategies across business sizes 07:24 The role of strategic targeting in marketing 09:29 Using AI to augment marketing efforts 11:59 Common marketing habits to let go of 13:16 Scaling business through targeted marketing 14:55 The importance of tracking and measuring marketing results 15:56 Community and network benefits of the Portfolio Executive 16:42 Closing remarks and future outlook   Guest & Host Links: Paul Rees: https://portfolioexecutive.biz/executive/paul-rees/ 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 5: Confusion to Marketing Clarity
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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.

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