Particle Accelerator: A Particle41 Podcast

Particle41
  • 5.0 (2)
  • TECHNOLOGY
  • UPDATED DAILY

Welcome to the Particle Accelerator Podcast, presented by Particle41. Hosted by Ben Johnson, a serial entrepreneur who has founded, built, and sold multiple businesses, this podcast delves into conversations with future-thinking business leaders about how to accelerate their business and grow their teams. Each episode features in-depth discussions that reveal strategies for accelerating business growth, cultivating high-performing teams, and uncovering new technological advancements across various industries. Catered for CEOs, entrepreneurs, and forward-thinking professionals alike, the podcast provides valuable insights to help you discover emerging technologies and stay ahead in the competitive tech landscape. It's highly relevant for those seeking to expand their horizons and make impactful connections in the technology world. Tune in to stay ahead of the curve and gain a deeper understanding of the forces driving the evolution of technology and business. The Particle Accelerator Podcast—where innovation meets acceleration. #ParticleAcceleratorPodcast #Particle41 #Entrepreneurship #BusinessGrowth #Innovation #Leadership #BusinessStrategies #TechnologyLeadership #EmergingTechnologies #TechEntrepreneurs #Business #TechnologyInsights #HighPerformingTeams #CompetitiveAdvantage #ForwardThinking #IndustryInnovators #TechIndustry #GrowthMindset #SuccessStrategies #FutureOfBusinessLearn more about Ben @ Particle41.com

  1. The Communication Secret to IT Strategy & Leadership | David Fazio

    SEP 30

    The Communication Secret to IT Strategy & Leadership | David Fazio

    David Fazio, VP of IT & Data Management at Vira Insight, for a masterclass in technology strategy and leadership. With a 27+ year career spanning engineering, leadership at Amazon, and working with private equity, David shares the hard-won lessons that propelled him from engineer to VP. He emphasizes one crucial ingredient for success in tech: effective communication. You'll get actionable advice on how to translate technical concepts for business leaders, use language to drive decisions, and balance technical expertise with essential diplomacy. If you're a technology professional, leader, or anyone interested in the future of business IT, this conversation is packed with takeaways. Key Discussion Points: From Engineer to VP: David's 27-year journey in tech, including his foundational experiences. The Communication Superpower: Why effective language is the #1 tool for IT leaders and strategy. Lessons from Amazon & Private Equity: Unique insights from working in high-growth, demanding environments. The Art of Persuasion: How to offer strategic options that enhance decision-making instead of just technical solutions. Blending Creativity & Tech: The importance of bringing a creative mindset to technical roles. Top Takeaways: Communication is the engine of leadership success—it's not enough to be technically right. Know Your Audience: Speak the language of results and business strategy, not just solutions. Diplomacy Matters: Balance your technical expertise with the soft skills needed to navigate leadership. Options Drive Action: Present leadership with strategic choices to empower them, not just demands. Connect with the Guest: David Fazio David Fazio is a Digital Transformation Expert, Product Architect, and Strategic Advisor with over 25 years of experience leading digital transformations and cloud platform engineering. He currently serves as VP of IT & Data Management at Vira Insight. LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/davefazio/ Website: https://davefaz.io/ About The Host & Podcast Ben Johnson is a seasoned entrepreneur and technology leader with a proven track record of building and scaling successful companies. As the founder of Particle41, he helps forward-thinking businesses modernize and grow through cutting-edge technology and expert teams. To explore how Particle41 can support your business growth and technology needs, visit https://Particle41.com. Connect with Ben Johnson: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benjaminrjohnson/ Website: https://Particle41.com

    51 min

  2. SEP 29

    How AI is Transforming the Supply Chain at SwagUp | Prashant Shah

    Join Prashant Shah, a seasoned supply chain leader at SwagUp, as he shares insights on how AI agents, automation, and a data-first leadership philosophy are revolutionizing the promotional products and corporate gifting industry. Learn how his unique background—from a U.S. Marine to an industry veteran—has shaped his approach to logistics and digital transformation. In this episode, Prashant discusses the company’s strategic response to modern technology trends and the challenges of maintaining a competitive edge in a fast-evolving market. He reveals how SwagUp is tackling common industry pain points like vendor integration, real-time inventory management, and outdated legacy systems to drive business growth. Key Highlights: Military-to-Corporate Journey: Prashant's transition from logistics in the Marines to leading the supply chain at SwagUp. COVID Impact: How the pandemic accelerated the corporate gifting industry and its subsequent post-pandemic plateau. Practical AI Use Cases: The application of AI agents for faster customer responses, reduced administrative work, and better utilization of human expertise. "Packs" Innovation: How SwagUp uses intent-based search to create curated promotional product bundles for onboarding and events. Leadership Philosophy: Why leading with facts and data is crucial and the importance of keeping vision flexible while setting specific, measurable goals. Culture of Innovation: Fostering a team culture that embraces experimentation, celebrates small wins, and promotes analytics fluency. Strategic Frameworks: A deep dive into using OKRs and SMART goals to align every department with a core set of three company objectives. Connect with Prashant Shah: LinkedIn: [linkedin.com/in/prashant-shah-mba] Website: https://www.swagup.com/ Email: pshah8460@gmail.com Chapters 00:00 Intro & Welcome 00:14 Guest Intro: Marines to Supply Chain Leader at SwagUp 01:13 First Jobs & Early Lessons 02:11 Duty, Service, and Giving Back 03:01 Math Over Social Studies: Leading with Data 04:18 Quote & Leadership Mindset 04:27 Tech Picks: Blockchain, AI, Automation 06:17 COVID’s Impact on Corporate Gifting & Events 08:11 Building Internal Tech + Salesforce Integration 09:56 AI Use Cases: Faster Answers, Less Admin 11:07 Agents & Intent-Based Product Discovery 12:34 “Packs” for Onboarding/Events 13:28 Reality vs Ambition: Vendor Integration & Inventory Visibility 16:08 Dimensions/Packaging Chaos; Legacy Interoperability 19:44 Strategy to Edge: Cross-Functional Roadmaps 21:23 From Vision to Three Aligned Goals 23:10 OKRs, SMART Goals, Meaningful KPIs 23:58 Cascading Goals & ROI Visibility 25:14 Cadence: Weekly KPIs, Biweekly Projects 27:01 Startup vs Enterprise Recalibration 28:29 Focus, Shiny Objects, and Learning by Failing 29:12 Pilots, Change Management, Stakeholder Buy-in 30:32 Culture: Celebrate Small Wins; Safe to Fail 32:31 Advice for Early Careers & Founders 35:10 Vision vs Goals—North Star vs Mileposts 37:35 How to Reach Prashant To explore how Particle41 can support your business growth and technology needs, visit   particle41.com  . About @BenJohnson: Ben Johnson is a seasoned entrepreneur and technology leader with a proven track record of building and scaling successful companies. As the founder of @Particle41, he helps forward-thinking businesses modernize and grow through cutting-edge technology and expert teams. Connect with Ben to discover how @Particle41 can help you overcome your most complex digital challenges and drive meaningful results. Connect with @BenJohnson: LinkedIn:   / benjaminrjohnson   Website:   particle41.com

    38 min
  3. AI & Cybersecurity in Healthcare | Randi Deckard

    SEP 28

    AI & Cybersecurity in Healthcare | Randi Deckard

    Explore the intersection of AI and cybersecurity in healthcare with Randi Deckard, SVP of Client Engagement at Besler. Discover how AI-driven platforms like Heart Health Community are enhancing patient education while addressing data security challenges. Randi Deckard, with her extensive background in healthcare finance and digital health, discusses the transformative impact of AI and machine learning on patient care. Delve into how cybersecurity challenges are shaping healthcare innovation and the importance of governance in AI implementation. - Key Highlights:   • AI and ML in patient education   • Cybersecurity's impact on healthcare   • Importance of governance in AI   • Randi's career journey from farm to SVP   • The role of diversity in team performance - Key Takeaways:   • AI can enhance patient engagement and education   • Cybersecurity is a critical concern in healthcare innovation   • Effective AI governance is essential for data protection   • Diverse teams bring unique perspectives and strengths   • Curiosity and continuous learning drive success in business Learn how Randi Deckard is helping companies through Besler. LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/randisuedeckard Website: https://www.besler.com/ To explore how Particle41 can support your business growth and technology needs, visit https://Particle41.com. About @BenJohnson: Ben Johnson is a seasoned entrepreneur and technology leader with a proven track record of building and scaling successful companies. As the founder of @Particle41, he helps forward-thinking businesses modernize and grow through cutting-edge technology and expert teams. Connect with Ben to discover how @Particle41 can help you overcome your most complex digital challenges and drive meaningful results. Connect with @BenJohnson: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benjaminrjohnson/ Website: https://Particle41.com Chapters: 00:00 Introduction Subscribe for More Insights on: • healthcare • machine learning • cybersecurity • patient education • digital health 👉 What childhood toy or hobby sparked your interest in healthcare or technology, leading you to where you are today? Share your early inspirations in the comments! #particleacceleratorpodcast #particle41 @besler7603

    48 min
  4. Discover How AI Is Reshaping Business Strategies | Jared Barol

    SEP 27

    Discover How AI Is Reshaping Business Strategies | Jared Barol

    Join us as Jared, a seasoned go-to-market strategy leader, delves into the intricacies of building effective market strategies. Drawing from his experiences with global giants like Salesforce, Jared shares insights on organizational structuring, technology integration, and the evolving role of AI in business. In this episode, we explore Jared's expertise in go-to-market strategies, focusing on sales, marketing, and customer success. Jared discusses his journey from selling Cutco knives to leading international sales efforts, highlighting the impact of languages and cultural understanding on business expansion. We delve into AI's transformative role and how it has reshaped expectations in business deliverables. Key Highlights: • Jared's transition from Cutco sales to global strategy leadership • The role of language in international business expansion • AI's impact on business expectations and deliverables • Lessons from intensive language immersion programs • The importance of intention in achieving business outcomes Key Takeaways: • Align strategies with cultural nuances for global expansion • Use future-focused language to enhance performance • Understand the balance of intention and mechanism in achieving results • AI is reshaping deadlines and expectations permanently • Language skills can unlock new market opportunities Connect with Jared: Website:https://www.copy.ai/ Linkedin:https://www.linkedin.com/in/jaredbarol/ Learn how Jared is helping companies adapt to a rapidly changing business landscape. To explore how Particle41 can support your business growth and technology needs, visit https://Particle41.com. About @BenJohnson: Ben Johnson is a seasoned entrepreneur and technology leader with a proven track record of building and scaling successful companies. As the founder of @Particle41, he helps forward-thinking businesses modernize and grow through cutting-edge technology and expert teams. Connect with Ben to discover how @Particle41 can help you overcome your most complex digital challenges and drive meaningful results. Connect with @BenJohnson: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benjaminrjohnson/ Website: https://Particle41.com Chapters: 00:00 Introduction Subscribe for More Insights on: • go-to-market strategy • sales strategy • customer success • ai in business • organizational structure 👉 What was your first job experience like? Did it shape your career path in any way, like Jared's experience with selling cutco knives door to door? Let us know in the comments! #particleacceleratorpodcast #particle41 @Copyai

    48 min
  5. B2B Podcasting & AI Trends | Jeremy Wellman

    SEP 26

    B2B Podcasting & AI Trends | Jeremy Wellman

    Explore the evolution of B2B podcasting with Jeremy Wellman, Director of Operations of Sweet Fish Media. Discover how AI is reshaping content creation and the unique strategies for building niche audiences in the digital age. Join us in this episode of the Particle Accelerator Podcast as we delve into the world of B2B podcasting with Jeremy Wellman, Director of Operations of Sweet Fish Media. Jeremy shares insights on forming niche audiences, leveraging AI in content creation, and the strategic principles guiding his company. From his early experiences to his views on technology's impact, Jeremy offers a compelling look at the future of media. Key Highlights: • Jeremy's journey from music to multimedia • The power of niche marketing in B2B podcasting • AI's role in audio and video content creation • The importance of maintaining authenticity in automated processes • Overcoming financial and adoption barriers in tech Key Takeaways: • Build trust with niche audiences for deeper connections • Embrace AI as a tool for enhancing content quality • Prioritize the human touch in automated systems • Seek strategic partnerships to overcome financial constraints • Continuously adapt to stay competitive in the tech landscape Connect with Jeremy Wellman: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeremywellman/ Company: Sweet Fish Media Website: https://www.sweetfishmedia.com/ Learn how Jeremy Wellman is helping companies through Sweet Fish Media. To explore how Particle41 can support your business growth and technology needs, visit https://Particle41.com. About @BenJohnson: Ben Johnson is a seasoned entrepreneur and technology leader with a proven track record of building and scaling successful companies. As the founder of @Particle41, he helps forward-thinking businesses modernize and grow through cutting-edge technology and expert teams. Connect with Ben to discover how @Particle41 can help you overcome your most complex digital challenges and drive meaningful results. Connect with @BenJohnson: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benjaminrjohnson/ Website: https://Particle41.com Chapters: 00:00 Introduction Subscribe for More Insights on: • b2b podcasting • content creation • ai in media • niche marketing • digital content 👉 What was your first job or how did you make your first dollar? Share your experience in the comments below! #particleacceleratorpodcast #particle41 @b2bgrowth

    35 min
  6. Executive Coaching Insights & Tech Trends | Stephen Jarrett

    SEP 25

    Executive Coaching Insights & Tech Trends | Stephen Jarrett

    Discover how Stephen Jarrett, an executive coach with 18 years in sales and operations, leverages technology to enhance business processes. Dive into his insights on digital marketing, executive coaching, and community support. Explore the journey of Stephen Jarrett, an accomplished executive coach and business leader with extensive experience in sales, operations, and digital marketing. In this episode, Stephen shares his transition from leading international teams to developing a successful executive coaching practice. Learn about his passion for supporting marginalized communities and the innovative use of technology in business growth. Key Highlights: • Stephen's journey from sales and operations to executive coaching. • The role of digital marketing in modern business strategies. • Insights into building a successful executive coaching practice. • The impact of technology on business processes and security. • Stephen's community initiatives in supporting marginalized groups. Key Takeaways: • Effective communication is crucial for business success. • Technology can significantly enhance business efficiency. • Building trust is essential in executive coaching relationships. • Community involvement can drive social impact. • AI tools are transforming coaching and business development. Connect with Stephen Jarrett: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephen-jarrett-jarrettsolutions/ Website: https://www.jarrett-solutionsllc.com Learn how Stephen Jarrett is helping companies through Jarrett Solutions LLC.  To explore how Particle41 can support your business growth and technology needs, visit https://Particle41.com. About @BenJohnson: Ben Johnson is a seasoned entrepreneur and technology leader with a proven track record of building and scaling successful companies. As the founder of @Particle41, he helps forward-thinking businesses modernize and grow through cutting-edge technology and expert teams. Connect with Ben to discover how @Particle41 can help you overcome your most complex digital challenges and drive meaningful results. Connect with @BenJohnson: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benjaminrjohnson/ Website: https://Particle41.com Subscribe for More Insights on: • executive coaching • sales strategy • digital marketing • business growth • leadership development #particleacceleratorpodcast #particle41

    41 min
  7. Scaling Beyond CEO-Led Sales: Insights from Matt Hudson

    FEB 28

    Scaling Beyond CEO-Led Sales: Insights from Matt Hudson

    Data, automation, and AI are transforming the way businesses scale beyond founder-led sales. In this episode, Matt Hudson, CEO and founder of Startup to Scale, shares how companies can build sustainable sales structures and leverage technology to drive predictable growth. Key Highlights: • The biggest tech trends impacting sales scalability • How data-driven insights improve customer acquisition • The role of automation and AI in modern sales strategies • Common pitfalls when expanding sales teams too quickly • Why culture and leadership are critical for sustainable growth Key Takeaways: • Moving from CEO-led selling requires the right people, processes, and tools • AI and automation are enhancing—but not replacing—human-driven sales efforts • Understanding customer behavior through data improves conversion rates • Effective scaling requires avoiding knee-jerk hiring and focusing on structure • Building a strong, collaborative culture is essential for long-term success Matt Hudson brings years of experience in sales leadership and business transformation, helping startups and small businesses scale efficiently. Learn how to build a sustainable sales organization that thrives beyond its founder. Connect with Matt Hudson: Website: https://www.startup2scale.us/ Subscribe for More Discussions on: • Sales leadership & business scaling • AI and automation in sales • Data-driven decision-making • Startup growth strategies #SalesLeadership #BusinessGrowth #Automation #AIinSales #Startup2Scale #MattHudson #ParticleAcceleratorPodcast

    42 min
  8. Smart Home Tech That Will Change How You Live in 2025

    FEB 20

    Smart Home Tech That Will Change How You Live in 2025

    Inside the Future of Franchise Tech with Kelsey Stewart | Particle Accelerator Podcast The window covering and franchising industries have long been reliant on outdated processes—but Kelsey Stewart, Chief Development Officer of Bloomin’ Blinds, is changing that. In this episode, we explore how AI, automation, and custom-built software are redefining how franchise owners manage their businesses and generate higher-quality leads. Key Highlights: • The slow tech adoption in the window covering and franchising industries • The difficulties of integrating third-party software into a franchise model • How Bloomin’ Blinds is utilizing AI to optimize lead generation and cash flow management • The rise of smart blinds and IoT-driven home automation • Predictive analytics' role in enhancing business operations Key Takeaways: • Many industries still rely on outdated tech due to cost and accessibility barriers • Developing custom AI and software enables businesses to tailor tech to their specific needs • AI-driven marketing strategies can generate better leads at lower costs • Home automation continues to evolve, with Matter technology improving smart device integration • Effective communication and iterative rollouts are key to successful tech implementation Discover how Bloomin’ Blinds is leading the way in franchise technology and home automation. Connect with Kelsey Stewart:  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kelsey-stuart-014b7b50/  Website: https://www.bloominblinds.com/ Subscribe for More Discussions on: • Franchising & Business Growth • AI & Automation in Home Services • Emerging Trends in Smart Home Tech • Leadership & Innovation #Franchising #ArtificialIntelligence #HomeAutomation #BusinessGrowth #BloominBlinds

    49 min
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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
2 Ratings

About

Welcome to the Particle Accelerator Podcast, presented by Particle41. Hosted by Ben Johnson, a serial entrepreneur who has founded, built, and sold multiple businesses, this podcast delves into conversations with future-thinking business leaders about how to accelerate their business and grow their teams. Each episode features in-depth discussions that reveal strategies for accelerating business growth, cultivating high-performing teams, and uncovering new technological advancements across various industries. Catered for CEOs, entrepreneurs, and forward-thinking professionals alike, the podcast provides valuable insights to help you discover emerging technologies and stay ahead in the competitive tech landscape. It's highly relevant for those seeking to expand their horizons and make impactful connections in the technology world. Tune in to stay ahead of the curve and gain a deeper understanding of the forces driving the evolution of technology and business. The Particle Accelerator Podcast—where innovation meets acceleration. #ParticleAcceleratorPodcast #Particle41 #Entrepreneurship #BusinessGrowth #Innovation #Leadership #BusinessStrategies #TechnologyLeadership #EmergingTechnologies #TechEntrepreneurs #Business #TechnologyInsights #HighPerformingTeams #CompetitiveAdvantage #ForwardThinking #IndustryInnovators #TechIndustry #GrowthMindset #SuccessStrategies #FutureOfBusinessLearn more about Ben @ Particle41.com

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