Realistic CEO Podcast

Realistic CEO
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Realistic CEO Podcast

My high school teacher said it’s unrealistic for me to be a CEO. Now I interview CEOs on my podcast to learn how to be a CEO. My goal for my journey, podcast, public speaking and book is to inspire people to pursue their dreams confidently, no matter what anyone tells them. Learn to be a CEO or become a better CEO with Realistic CEO.

  1. Ep. 35 | Link To Libraries | Laurie Flynn | Books as Bridges: Journey to Empower Young Readers

    1 DAY AGO

    Ep. 35 | Link To Libraries | Laurie Flynn | Books as Bridges: Journey to Empower Young Readers

    In this episode of the Realistic CEO Podcast, we sit down with Laurie, the CEO of Link to Libraries. Laurie shares the inspiring mission of Link to Libraries, which aims to provide books to kids in need to help improve their literacy skills. She discusses the impact of their work, the challenges due to COVID-19, and why having books that represent cultural diversity is crucial. Laurie also shares her personal journey to becoming a CEO, insights on balancing work and personal life, and practical tips for parents to foster a love for reading in their children. Don't miss this heartfelt conversation on the importance of reading and community support. 00:00 Introduction: Defying Expectations 00:24 Welcome to the Realistic CEO Podcast 00:35 Meet Laurie: CEO of Link to Libraries 00:42 The Importance of Reading 01:41 Challenges in Education 02:32 Encouraging Reading at Home 03:41 Laurie's Journey to CEO 05:05 Role of a Press Secretary 05:55 Community Support and Sponsorship 07:53 Impact on Children and Families 09:35 Running a Nonprofit vs. For-Profit 12:05 The Power of Representation in Books 19:51 Balancing Work and Life 21:44 Fun Fact and Conclusion

    23 min
  2. Ep. 34 - Springfield BID

    JAN 8

    Ep. 34 - Springfield BID

    In this episode of the Realistic CEO Podcast, join us as we chat with Michelle Grout, Executive Director of the Springfield Business Improvement District. Michelle shares her incredible journey from managing retail stores to transitioning into real estate, and finally, into her current role where she enhances the downtown Springfield community. Hear about the challenges she faced, the importance of listening, and why balancing work and family life is crucial. Michelle also highlights the significance of face-to-face communication, the impact of community events, and the exciting aspects of her job that keep her motivated. Tune in for valuable leadership insights and a behind-the-scenes look at city management! 00:00 Introduction: Defying Expectations 00:23 Welcome to the Realistic CEO Podcast 00:43 Meet Michelle Grout: Springfield Business Improvement District 01:50 Michelle's Journey: From Retail to Real Estate 04:38 The Importance of Listening and Learning 07:26 Transitioning to Executive Director 09:51 Leadership and Team Building 17:26 Community Engagement and Events 27:07 Balancing Work and Family 28:18 Fun Facts and Farewell

    29 min
  3. Ep. 33 | RMC Strategies | Ryan McCollum | Navigating a Career in Politics

    JAN 4

    Ep. 33 | RMC Strategies | Ryan McCollum | Navigating a Career in Politics

    Join us in this insightful episode of the Realistic CEO Podcast where we dive into the inspiring journey of Ryan McCollum. From dreamer to doer, Ryan shares his dynamic career in politics, working on campaigns, legislative direction, and founding his own business. Learn about the importance of relationships, mentorship, and kindness in achieving success, and discover how Ryan skillfully balances his professional aspirations with his love for golf and family life. Tune in for a riveting conversation filled with valuable lessons, personal anecdotes, and motivational insights. 00:00 The Dream of Becoming a CEO 00:23 Welcome to the Realistic CEO Podcast 00:38 Ryan McCollum's Political Journey 01:08 From Campaigns to State House 02:12 Economic Development and Lobbying 02:54 Working with Governor Patrick 04:01 Founding Young Professional Society 04:40 Marketing and Lobbying Ventures 05:46 Golf and Community Involvement 14:10 The Importance of Kindness in Networking 23:57 The Perils of Procrastination 24:29 Overcoming Early Challenges 26:44 The Importance of Relationships 28:32 Turning Retainers into Equity 30:45 From Athlete to Politician 33:07 The Long, Lonely, Boring Work 35:38 The Value of Mentorship 39:28 Balancing Work and Family 42:58 A Fun Fact and Final Thoughts

    47 min
  4. Ep. 27 | Lyman Island Supply | Matt Lyman | From sales person to Director & Managing Partner

    12/27/2024

    Ep. 27 | Lyman Island Supply | Matt Lyman | From sales person to Director & Managing Partner

    In this episode of the Realistic CEO Podcast, host Mikey interviews Matt Lyman. Matt, shares insights from his experience running a local distribution business. He discusses the transition from sales roles to entrepreneurship, inventory management, building customer relationships, networking, and the importance of resilience. Additionally, Matthew highlights balancing personal life with business demands and the role of mentorship from his father. Tune in to learn valuable tips for aspiring business owners. 00:00 Introduction: Defying Expectations 00:24 Welcome to the CEO Podcast 00:35 Matthew's Journey to Entrepreneurship 01:22 Sales Strategies and Business Growth 03:03 Inventory Management Insights 08:06 Networking and Building Relationships 10:24 Balancing Work and Personal Life 21:49 The Grind: Long, Lonely, Boring Work 24:42 Fun Fact and Conclusion

    26 min
  5. Ep. 28 | Holyoke Community College | Dr. George Timmons| First Gen College Grad to College President

    12/27/2024

    Ep. 28 | Holyoke Community College | Dr. George Timmons| First Gen College Grad to College President

    In this episode of the Realistic CEO Podcast, the host interviews Dr. George Timmons, President of Holyoke Community College. Dr. Timmons shares his journey from being a first-generation college graduate to becoming a college president. He emphasizes the importance of time management, involvement in college activities, and networking. Dr. Timmons offers valuable advice on setting and achieving goals, the significance of grit, and the need for deferred gratification. He also underscores the importance of ethics, humility, and kindness in leadership. Join us to learn about the challenges and rewarding experiences of Dr. Timmons' career and get inspired to pursue your own path to success. 00:00 Introduction: Defying Expectations 00:24 Welcome to the Realistic CEO Podcast 00:29 Meet Dr. George Timmons 01:04 Journey to Presidency 02:30 The Importance of Belonging and Inclusiveness 03:13 Keys to College Success 05:40 Networking: The Key to Opportunities 06:49 Honing Your Craft 09:50 Deferred Gratification and Hard Work 15:58 Finding Your Purpose 20:43 Overcoming Adversity: My Background and Purpose 21:37 Core Values and Leadership Principles 23:38 Building and Leading a Strong Team 24:45 Handling Difficult Conversations and Decisions 27:52 Approachability and Humility in Leadership 34:34 Balancing Work and Personal Life 40:16 Cultural Insights and Personal Experiences 42:19 Conclusion and Farewell

    43 min
  6. Ep. 30 | Western MA Hospital | Anthony DiStefano | Rising to CEO The Inspiring Journey

    12/27/2024

    Ep. 30 | Western MA Hospital | Anthony DiStefano | Rising to CEO The Inspiring Journey

    Join us on this episode of the Realistic CEO Podcast as we dive into the fascinating story of Anthony DiStefano, CEO of Western Mass Hospital. Anthony shares his journey from dreaming of being in business as a child, through various pivotal roles like sales, auditing, CFO, COO, and finally to his current position as the CEO. Learn about the challenges he faced, key lessons he learned, and the importance of mentorship, people skills, and work-life balance. Don't miss this insightful conversation packed with valuable advice for aspiring leaders. 00:00 Introduction: Defying Expectations 00:23 Welcome to the Realistic CEO Podcast 00:29 Meet Anthony DiStefano 00:45 Overview of Public Health Facilities 01:58 Roles and Responsibilities of a CEO 02:12 Anthony's Career Journey 02:44 Early Career in Sales 03:21 Transition to Public Service 05:02 Lessons from Auditing 17:23 Importance of Mentorship 24:51 Leadership Characteristics 39:23 Balancing Work and Family 42:34 Fun Facts and Conclusion

    44 min
  7. Ep. 31 | Iona's Kitchen | Kelly Dobbins | From a Young Cook to Owning his Own Restaurant

    12/27/2024

    Ep. 31 | Iona's Kitchen | Kelly Dobbins | From a Young Cook to Owning his Own Restaurant

    In this episode of the Realistic CEO Podcast, the host interviews Kelly Dobbins, a successful restaurateur, about his journey from a young cook to owning his own restaurant with an American Southern twist menu. Kelly shares his experiences, challenges, and lessons learned along the way, including his motivations, the importance of customer service, networking, and the significance of staying humble. He provides valuable advice for young entrepreneurs and aspiring chefs on finding and following their passions, building a strong support system, and the critical role of hard work and constructive criticism in business success. 00:00 Introduction: Defying Expectations 00:24 Welcome to the Realistic CEO Podcast 00:37 Kelly Dobbins' Business Journey 03:14 Finding Passion in Cooking 04:08 Advice for Young Entrepreneurs 09:12 The Importance of Networking 14:53 Lessons Learned in Business 15:41 The Joy of Cooking: Bringing Smiles Through Food 15:54 The Creative Process: Perfecting Recipes 16:44 The Role of Constructive Criticism 17:40 Staying Humble in Business 18:33 Handling Bad Days and Customer Service 19:09 Building a Strong Team 20:19 Turning Mistakes into Lessons 23:21 The Passion for Cooking 25:34 The Long, Lonely Journey of Entrepreneurship 26:34 Finding Motivation and Balancing Family 28:59 Final Thoughts and Fun Facts

    33 min
  8. Ep. 32 | 413 Elite | Charles Evans | From NBA Dreams to CEO

    12/27/2024

    Ep. 32 | 413 Elite | Charles Evans | From NBA Dreams to CEO

    In this episode of the Realistic CEO Podcast, our host interviews Charles Evans, who shares his remarkable journey from aspiring NBA player to owner of a professional basketball team in the American Basketball Association (ABA). Despite facing discouragement and obstacles, Charles overcame academic challenges and pursued his basketball passion, leading him to play internationally. Along the way, he started his own clothing line and learned valuable life lessons. Now, as the first African American owner of a professional basketball team in Springfield, Massachusetts, Charles discusses the importance of balancing academics with athleticism, the transition from player to owner, and the relentless work ethic required to achieve one's dreams. Tune in for an inspiring conversation about perseverance, self-discovery, and giving back to the community. 00:00 Introduction: Defying Expectations 00:29 Meet Charles Evans: A Basketball Journey 01:25 Overcoming Adversity: The High School Years 03:22 The Turning Point: College and Beyond 07:27 From Player to Owner: A New Path 12:22 The Importance of Education and Mentorship 20:18 Building a Legacy: Owning a Team 22:54 Navigating Life's Path 23:57 From Player to Owner: A Mindset Shift 24:16 Entrepreneurial Spirit and Overseas Adventures 27:10 The Joy of Playing Overseas 31:04 Winning and Giving Back 32:08 Advice for Aspiring Team Owners 32:59 Core Values and Leadership 37:32 Personal Growth and Spiritual Guidance 39:36 Fun Facts and Final Thoughts

    42 min
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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
2 Ratings

About

My high school teacher said it’s unrealistic for me to be a CEO. Now I interview CEOs on my podcast to learn how to be a CEO. My goal for my journey, podcast, public speaking and book is to inspire people to pursue their dreams confidently, no matter what anyone tells them. Learn to be a CEO or become a better CEO with Realistic CEO.

Information

  • Creator
    Realistic CEO
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2025
  • Episodes
    37
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © All rights reserved
  • Show Website
    Realistic CEO Podcast

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