Real Leadership

real-leadership
Real Leadership Podcast

Welcome to REAL Leadership, the podcast that takes you on a journey behind the scenes of some of the world’s most successful companies. Produced by The О̄nin Group and hosted by COO Jim Weaver, our show is dedicated to exploring what it truly means to be a leader in industries that make, move and process. In each episode, Jim sits down with C-level executives to discuss their experiences and insights on leadership, as well as the challenges and opportunities that come with leading in dynamic environments. Our guests come from a range of industries, including logistics and manufacturing, and offer real stories and actionable advice to inspire you to take your leadership to the next level. If you’re a seasoned executive or aspiring leader looking to sharpen your leadership skills and stay ahead of the game, then this is the podcast for you. Join us as we dive deep into the world of REAL Leadership.

  1. Paula Marshall, CEO of The Bama Companies: Transforming Leadership Through Care and Accountability

    SEP 3

    Paula Marshall, CEO of The Bama Companies: Transforming Leadership Through Care and Accountability

    Reducing Fear in the WorkplaceHow do you take a family business from survival mode to thriving on the global stage? Paula Marshall, CEO of The Bama Companies, did just that by focusing on reducing fear in the workplace. In this episode, Paula shares how she transformed Bama’s culture by fostering open communication and collaboration. She emphasizes the power of making employees feel valued and secure, which in turn led to better performance and innovation across the board. If you're looking for leadership insights that go beyond the usual playbook, Paula's approach will inspire you to rethink how you lead.Why You Should ListenPaula Marshall didn’t just inherit a business—she transformed it. After taking over The Bama Companies during a family health crisis, Paula navigated the pressures from major clients like McDonald’s and turned a regional pie company into an international powerhouse. In this episode, Paula delves into the lessons she learned from Dr. W. Edwards Deming, particularly the Red Bead Experiment, and how it reshaped her management style. She also discusses the challenges of expanding into China and how maintaining a win-win relationship between the U.S. and China is crucial for future success. If you’re interested in leadership that balances performance with compassion, this conversation is for you.Show Notes and Time Stamps00:00:00 - Introduction and Background: Paula Marshall’s journey to becoming CEO of The Bama Companies. 00:02:13 - Becoming CEO of the Family Business: The challenges of taking over after a family health crisis. 00:09:49 - Growth and Success under Paula’s Leadership: How Bama grew from $30 million to $350 million in revenue. 00:13:09 - Reducing Fear and Fostering Communication: Paula’s focus on creating a safe and open work environment. 00:17:05 - The Influence of the Deming System: Lessons from Dr. W. Edwards Deming that shaped Paula’s leadership. 00:21:28 - The Red Bead Experiment and Faulty Systems: Understanding the impact of systems on employee performance. 00:24:17 - Taking Responsibility and Involving Employees: The importance of leadership accountability and employee involvement. 00:29:15 - From Handheld Pies to International Expansion: The story of Bama’s growth from Tulsa to the global market. 00:32:50 - Challenges and Opportunities in Operating in China: Navigating the complexities of international business. 00:38:36 - Building a Win-Win Relationship between the U.S. and China: Paula’s insights on maintaining positive international relations. 00:43:17 - Loving and Honoring Every Soul Every Second: Paula’s personal mission statement and how it guides her leadership. 00:45:05 - Continuous Improvement and Engagement: Keys to achieving excellence in business. Connect with Paula MarshallPersonal Website: Paula Marshall Official LinkedIn: Paula Marshall on LinkedIn Instagram: Paula Marshall on Instagram

    53 min
  2. David Walker - CEO and President of EBSCO Industries

    AUG 21

    David Walker - CEO and President of EBSCO Industries

    Empowerment Without AbandonmentEver wondered how the leader of a $3.1 billion company maintains a culture of independence and accountability across multiple industries? David Walker, President and CEO of EBSCO Industries, shares his secret: Empowerment without Abandonment. In this episode, David explains how giving his teams the freedom to be entrepreneurial—without leaving them to fend for themselves—has been crucial to EBSCO’s sustained success. If you’re passionate about leadership that fosters innovation and autonomy while ensuring alignment and accountability, this episode is a must-hear.Why You Should ListenDavid Walker isn’t just managing a business—he’s guiding a global enterprise with a deep understanding of how to balance empowerment and oversight. This episode of Real Leadership offers a rare look into how one of America’s largest privately-held companies thrives under his leadership. You’ll hear David discuss practical strategies for: Building and maintaining momentum in a diversified business. Creating a winning company culture that resonates across different sectors. Navigating the challenges of today’s volatile economic environment with resilience and foresight. This episode isn’t just for CEOs—it’s for anyone who wants to learn how to lead with purpose, whether you're managing a team or looking to grow in your career.Show Notes and Time Stamps 00:00:00 - Introduction: Meet David Walker, the leader behind EBSCO Industries. 00:05:30 - David’s Journey: From public accounting to leading a global enterprise. 00:15:00 - Empowerment without Abandonment: How to balance autonomy and accountability in leadership. 00:30:00 - Sustaining Growth: EBSCO’s strategy for long-term success across multiple industries. 00:45:00 - Cultural Insights: Fostering a culture of humility and continuous improvement. 01:00:00 - Work-Life Balance: David’s advice for young professionals on balancing career and family. 01:15:00 - Looking Ahead: David’s thoughts on the future of manufacturing in the U.S. and EBSCO’s role in it. Connect with David Walker LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-walker-826090a/ LinkedIn Company Website: EBSCO Indushttps://www.ebscoind.comtries Email: davidwalker@ebsco.com Listen NowDon’t miss this deep dive into leadership from one of America’s top business minds. Tune in to Real Leadership on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Learn how to lead with empowerment and accountability, and discover what it takes to sustain success in today’s competitive environment.

    37 min
  3. Richard DeBoer, Executive Vice President of Supply Chain Logistics at Carter Logistics

    AUG 6

    Richard DeBoer, Executive Vice President of Supply Chain Logistics at Carter Logistics

    He’s driving operational excellence in a world of milk runs, cross-docks, and lean practices. Richard DeBoer, Executive Vice President of Supply Chain Logistics at Carter Logistics, combines financial acumen with operational expertise to lead one of the top logistics firms. Drawing on his wealth of experience as CFO and COO, Richard has propelled Carter Logistics into a period of expansion, fortifying their presence in markets considered challenging to navigate. In this episode, you will:  Learn the strategies behind a 200% revenue increase in Mexico operations Uncover how lean practices and continuous improvement can boost your efficiency Discover how Carter Logistics evolved from a local player to a major force in transportation Gain insights on navigating cross-border logistics and the impact of infrastructure development in Mexico Show Notes Connect with Richard: https://www.linkedin.com/in/richard-deboer-75738435/  Connect with Carter Logistics: Website: https://www.carter-express.com/  Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/carter-logistics-llc/  Connect with Jim:  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jim-weaver-36457418/ Twitter/X: https://x.com/jpweaverjr  Learn More About Ōnin:  Website: OninGroup.com/clients/ LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/4c1PmRc  Ōnin is a staffing company driven by purpose and focused on the workforce needs of light industrial and manufacturing companies. We're all about solving our clients' toughest workforce challenges head-on so everyone can win in a new era of work.

    34 min
  4. Wes Carter, President of Atlantic Packaging, Founder of A New Earth Project

    JUL 8

    Wes Carter, President of Atlantic Packaging, Founder of A New Earth Project

    We’re still reeling a bit from what we just learned: The uncomfortable truth behind building a great culture. How will the next revolution in packaging impact your business, too?  When innovation beats iteration. Our guest in this episode took us in directions we weren’t expecting (but man, did we need to go there!)His passion and pragmatism are changing an industry.  Wes Carter, President of Atlantic Packaging, is leading the charge in transforming the packaging industry through sustainability. And it isn’t the first time the packaging company has led the charge on an important issue of the day. As a third-generation leader, Wes has infused his lifelong passion for the outdoors into his professional life, positioning Atlantic Packaging at the forefront of the sustainability movement. In this episode of Real Leadership, we delve into: How Atlantic Packaging evolved from a weekly newspaper to one of the largest packaging companies in North America Why Atlantic Packaging decided to get technical and innovate new packaging options How sustainability is poised to revolutionize the packaging industry and beyond The simple but oft-missed key to building a great culture The groundbreaking New Earth Project and its impact on reducing plastic pollution Show Notes Watch the “Journey to a New Earth” Series on Amazon Prime: https://www.amazon.com/Journey-New-Earth-Season-1/dp/B0BZYTGB8W  Connect with Wes:  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wes-carter-32a7a5b/ Connect with Atlantic Packaging:  Website: https://www.atlanticpkg.com/  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/atlantic-packaging/ :  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/atlanticpkg/  Connect with A New Earth Project Website: https://anewearthproject.com/  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/anewearthproject/?miniCompanyUrn=urn%3Ali%3Afsd_company%3A71187370  Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/c/ANewEarthProject  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ANewEarthProject/  Connect with Jim: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jim-weaver-36457418/   or https://x.com/jpweaverjr Learn More About Ōnin: OninGroup.com/clients/ Ōnin is a staffing company driven by purpose and focused on the workforce needs of light industrial and manufacturing companies. We're all about solving our clients' toughest workforce challenges head-on so everyone can win in a new era of work.

    47 min
  5. Steve Ammons, CEO of the Birmingham Business Alliance

    JUN 24

    Steve Ammons, CEO of the Birmingham Business Alliance

    The transcendent career of a recovering politician.   Before Steve Ammons became the CEO of the Birmingham Business Alliance, he served as a Jefferson County Commissioner, focusing on economic development and information technology. Steve’s journey from entrepreneur to city council member to a key figure in regional economic growth has left a lasting impact on the Birmingham region. In this episode of Real Leadership, we discuss: How Steve is transforming the Birmingham Business Alliance amid leadership instability The critical role of workforce development in attracting major employers like the JM Smucker Company Navigating the challenges of regulation and workforce participation at both local and national levels The great reads that have shaped Steve’s outlook on leadership Show Notes Connect with Steve:  LinkedIn Facebook Instagram Connect with the Birmingham Business Alliance:  Website: https://www.birminghambusinessalliance.com LinkedIn Facebook Instagram Twitter Connect with Background IQ:  Website: https://www.backgroundiq.com/  LinkedIn Connect with Jim: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jim-weaver-36457418/  Learn More About Ōnin: OninGroup.com/clients/   Ōnin is a staffing company driven by purpose and focused on the workforce needs of light industrial and manufacturing companies. We're all about solving our clients' toughest workforce challenges head-on so everyone can win in a new era of work.

    39 min
  6. Max Navarro, President of OpTech

    JUN 3

    Max Navarro, President of OpTech

    Living the pros and cons of being a young leader Before stepping into his role as President of Operational Technologies Corporation (OpTech), Maximiliano Navarro III honed his entrepreneurial skills and gained invaluable insights from his family’s business. When it comes to drive and commitment, Maximiliano proves age is just a number.  In this episode of Real Leadership, we explore:  How early exposure to international business and a legacy of leadership shaped Maximiliano’s entrepreneurial spirit The Toyota way The importance of adaptability and relationship-building How young leaders can navigate challenges and drive their companies forward Why “permission” and building trust mean more than any job title Show notes Connect with Operational Technologies Corporation (OpTech) Website: otcorp.com/  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/operational-technologies-corporation-optech/   Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/OpTechGroup/about  Twitter: https://twitter.com/optechgroup?lang=en  Connect with Maximiliano:  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/maxnavarro/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/maximiliano.navarro_/  Connect with Jim: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jim-weaver-36457418/  Learn More About Ōnin: OninGroup.com/clients/   Ōnin is a staffing company driven by purpose and focused on the workforce needs of light industrial and manufacturing companies. We're all about solving our clients' toughest workforce challenges head-on so everyone can win in a new era of work.

    40 min
  7. David Reid, CMO/CTO for NOV

    MAY 9

    David Reid, CMO/CTO for NOV

    A dramatic career shift changed everything.  David Reid, the dual-hatted Chief Technology Officer and Chief Marketing Officer at NOV, brings a unique blend of visionary technology and strategic marketing to one of the leading global energy equipment providers. With a background that spans architecture and engineering, David is helping to steer new frontiers in the energy sector. In this episode of Real Leadership, we discuss:  The surprising synergy between his roles as CTO and CMO in driving breakthroughs Why leaders should create an environment where people can grow instead of growing people The behind-the-scenes challenges and victories in transforming an industry How David uses his passions to fuel innovation, and why it’s important to know who you are without your job Listen to the episode: LINK Show Notes Connect with David: https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidred/  NOV: https://www.nov.com/   Connect with NOV on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/novglobal/  Connect with redM:  Website: https://www.joinredm.com/  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/REDMjointhemovement  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/redmjointhemovement/  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/redmovement/  Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCXxr26ijOONEtsellwwBGlw  Connect with Jim: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jim-weaver-36457418/  Learn More About Ōnin: OninGroup.com/clients/ Ōnin is a staffing company driven by purpose and focused on the workforce needs of light industrial and manufacturing companies. We're all about solving our clients' toughest workforce challenges head-on so everyone can win in a new era of work.

    59 min

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
11 Ratings

About

Welcome to REAL Leadership, the podcast that takes you on a journey behind the scenes of some of the world’s most successful companies. Produced by The О̄nin Group and hosted by COO Jim Weaver, our show is dedicated to exploring what it truly means to be a leader in industries that make, move and process. In each episode, Jim sits down with C-level executives to discuss their experiences and insights on leadership, as well as the challenges and opportunities that come with leading in dynamic environments. Our guests come from a range of industries, including logistics and manufacturing, and offer real stories and actionable advice to inspire you to take your leadership to the next level. If you’re a seasoned executive or aspiring leader looking to sharpen your leadership skills and stay ahead of the game, then this is the podcast for you. Join us as we dive deep into the world of REAL Leadership.

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