Realistic CEO Podcast

Realistic CEO
  • 5.0 (2)
  • BUSINESS
  • UPDATED WEEKLY
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. 41 | Pho Saigon | Lena Phommathan | From Occupational Therapy to Successful Restaurant Owner

    MAR 27

    Ep. 41 | Pho Saigon | Lena Phommathan | From Occupational Therapy to Successful Restaurant Owner

    Join us on this episode of the Realistic CEO Podcast as we dive into Lena's inspiring journey from pursuing occupational therapy to becoming a successful restaurant owner. Lena shares the story of her family's deep-rooted passion for cooking, the challenges she faced in her career switch, and the steps she took to establish and run the only LAO restaurant in Western Massachusetts. Learn valuable insights on leadership, team-building, handling business partnerships, and balancing work with family life. Don't miss her practical advice for aspiring entrepreneurs and her reflections on maintaining a positive mindset amid the ups and downs of business ownership. 00:00 Introduction: The Dream of Becoming a CEO 00:23 Welcome to the Realistic CEO Podcast 00:32 Guest Introduction: Lena's Journey 01:26 The Birth of SouLao'd Kitchen 04:30 Challenges and Values in Business 07:05 Leadership and Legacy 09:34 Acquiring an Established Business 11:50 Building and Trusting Your Team 13:25 Balancing Family and Business 17:51 Starting Your Own Restaurant: Essential Tools and Costs 19:48 Understanding the Financials of Your Business 20:57 Key Questions for Business Success 22:18 The Lonely Born Work (LBW) Journey 23:31 Balancing Humility and Confidence 27:55 Building Effective Business Systems 33:43 Balancing Work and Family Life 35:06 Advice for Aspiring CEOs 35:59 Fun Facts and Closing Remarks

    38 min
  2. Ep. 40 | Caring Health Center | Tania Barber | From Switchboard Operator to CEO |

    MAR 15

    Ep. 40 | Caring Health Center | Tania Barber | From Switchboard Operator to CEO |

    In this episode of the Realistic CEO Podcast, Tania Barber shares her incredible journey on becoming the President and CEO of Caring Health Center in Springfield. Tania opens up about starting as a switchboard operator and navigating her way through various challenges, including struggling with reading comprehension and balancing full-time work and education. Her story emphasizes the importance of believing in oneself, the power of perseverance, and the impact of setting both goals and growth plans. Tania's conversation provides invaluable insights into leadership, overcoming adversities, and inspiring others to achieve their potential. Tune in to hear how she turned every obstacle into an opportunity and learn what it takes to succeed against all odds. 00:00 Introduction: Defying Expectations 00:28 Meet Tania Barber 00:51 Tania's Role at Caring Health Center 01:25 From Switchboard Operator to CEO 03:14 Transition from Hairdresser to Switchboard Operator 05:22 The Journey of Growth and Education 06:44 Overcoming Self-Doubt and Embracing Leadership 10:35 Balancing Family, Work, and Education 14:00 Developing a Growth Mindset 19:56 Improving Reading Comprehension 21:48 Struggles and Triumphs in Education 22:42 Favorite Books and Influences 24:11 Leadership and Self-Value 26:28 Humility and Teamwork 29:23 Developing a Growth Mindset 33:34 Overcoming Negativity and Perseverance 38:40 Final Reflections and Fun Facts 41:45 Conclusion and Future Goals

    43 min
  3. Ep.39 | The Atlas Network | Kerim Kfuri | From Blueberries to Global Supply Chains

    MAR 4

    Ep.39 | The Atlas Network | Kerim Kfuri | From Blueberries to Global Supply Chains

    Join us in this episode of the Realistic CEO Podcast as we dive deep into the incredible journey of Kerim, the founder and CEO of the Atlas Network. Kerim discusses his entrepreneurial beginnings from selling blueberries as a child to leading a global supply chain company. He shares insights from his 20-year experience, the importance of flexibility, and the challenges faced by businesses in managing international supply chains. Learn about the complexities of global trade, the impact of tariffs and duties, and how COVID-19 has shifted attention to supply chain management. Kerim also touches on his personal journey, lessons learned, and a surprising musical passion. Don't forget to check out the book 'Realistic CEO' and support children in lower to moderate-income communities. 00:00 Introduction: Defying Expectations 00:24 Welcome to the Realistic CEO Podcast 00:53 Interview with Kerim: Atlas Network 02:02 The Journey to Becoming a CEO 04:48 Understanding the Supply Chain 11:21 Challenges in Supply Chain Management 14:22 Global Trade and Tariffs 21:08 Inflation and Global Economics 23:34 Cryptocurrency and Future Prospects 25:47 Leadership Lessons and Personal Growth 36:45 The Role of Music in My Life 38:35 Conclusion and Thank You

    40 min
  4. Ep. 38 | Follow My Steps | Kashawn Sanders | Starting a Nonprofit & Overcoming Challenges

    FEB 16

    Ep. 38 | Follow My Steps | Kashawn Sanders | Starting a Nonprofit & Overcoming Challenges

    In this episode of the Realistic CEO Podcast, we explore the inspiring journey of Kashawn Sanders, founder of Follow My Steps Foundation. Kashawn shares how his organization provides customized youth mentoring focusing on financial literacy, professional development, and health. He recounts the challenges faced growing up in a non-diverse setting, the inception of the nonprofit during the pandemic and social unrest in 2020, and emphasizes the importance of building a solid team and effective networking. Kashawn also provides insights into starting a nonprofit, maintaining relationships, and the impact of long, lonely, boring work (LBW) necessary for success. Join us to learn how more than 10,000 youths have been positively impacted by Follow My Steps. 00:00 Introduction: Defying Expectations 00:28 Meet Kashawn Sanders 00:44 The Follow My Steps Foundation 01:51 Kashawn's Journey to Nonprofit Leadership 04:23 Building a Mentor Network 05:00 Starting a Nonprofit: Key Steps 06:24 Mission and Impact of Follow My Steps 07:39 Networking and Overcoming Fear 11:22 Advice for Aspiring Nonprofit Founders 12:39 Lessons Learned and Favorite Moments 14:47 Event Planning and Execution 24:24 Feedback and Continuous Improvement 26:25 Final Thoughts and Fun Facts 30:05 Conclusion and Call to Action

    31 min
  5. Ep. 37 | Digiarks | Rob Madrid | Journey to Building a Successful Digital Marketing Agency

    FEB 6

    Ep. 37 | Digiarks | Rob Madrid | Journey to Building a Successful Digital Marketing Agency

    In this episode of the Realistic CEO Podcast, we sit down with Rob Madrid, founder of digiarks, a digital marketing agency. Rob shares his journey from working in various industries, including sports and automotive, to finally taking the leap to start his own business. He discusses the importance of SEO, ad campaigns, and creating a strong digital presence. Rob also highlights the significance of networking and finding the right clients, as well as the challenges of balancing work and family life. Tune in to learn valuable insights about the path to becoming a successful CEO and the honest, no-BS approach to business. 00:00 Introduction: The Dream of Becoming a CEO 00:23 Welcome to the Realistic CEO Podcast 00:29 Meet Rob Madrid: Digital Marketing Expert 02:12 The Journey to Entrepreneurship 03:48 Taking the Leap: From Employee to Entrepreneur 05:53 Navigating Business Partnerships 07:52 Networking and Client Relationships 14:47 Honesty in Business: The No BS Approach 16:27 The Importance of Honesty in Business 16:51 Implementing the Hedgehog Concept 17:46 Building Effective Advertising Campaigns 19:44 B2B vs. B2C Advertising Strategies 21:44 Leadership and Employee Engagement 25:05 The Long, Lonely, Boring Work 28:29 Balancing Work and Family Life 30:13 A Life-Changing Experience 31:56 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

    32 min

  6. JAN 27

    Ep. 36 | Upscale Socks | Leonard Underwood | The Journey of Building Two Successful Businesses

    Join us on this episode of the Realistic CEO Podcast as we hear from Lenny, the founder of Underwood Photography and Upscale Socks. Learn how Lenny pursued his dreams despite being told to get a 'real job,' transitioning his passion for photography into a full-time business and later launching a successful sock line inspired by a vivid dream. Lenny shares insights on the importance of networking, the challenges of balancing work and life, and the significance of stepping out of your comfort zone to grow personally and professionally. Don't miss this inspiring conversation filled with practical advice for aspiring entrepreneurs! 00:00 Introduction: Defying Expectations 00:23 Welcome to the Realistic CEO Podcast 00:40 Lenny's Journey: From Hobby to Business 03:01 Overcoming Doubts and Challenges 05:39 The Importance of Networking 08:08 The Birth of Upscale Socks 15:37 Balancing Multiple Ventures 22:55 Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs 28:26 Balancing Work and Personal Life 30:12 Fun Facts and Conclusion

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

    JAN 21

    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
  8. 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
See All (43)

    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
      43
    • Rating
      Clean
    • Copyright
      © All rights reserved
    • Show Website
      Realistic CEO Podcast

    Content Restricted

    This episode can’t be played on the web in your country or region.

    To listen to explicit episodes, sign in.

    Stay up to date with this show

    Sign in or sign up to follow shows, save episodes, and get the latest updates.
    Select a country or region

    Africa, Middle East, and India

    Asia Pacific

    Europe

    Latin America and the Caribbean

    The United States and Canada