Second in Command: The Chief Behind the Chief with Cameron Herold

Second in Command with Cameron Herold
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Welcome to the “Second in Command” Podcast hosted by Cameron Herold, brought to you by the COO Alliance, where top-level COOs share their insights, tactics, and strategies that made them the Chief Behind the Chief. Cameron Herold founded the COO Alliance with one simple goal in mind: to provide COOs with the same professional development and growth opportunities CEOs have enjoyed for many years. COO Alliance is the world's leading network for the Second in Command. Cameron Herold is a top business consultant, best-selling author, and speaker. He’s the mastermind behind hundreds of companies’ exponential growth and he’s touched thousands of businesses indirectly through his work.

  1. 14 小時前

    Ep. 509 - Unlock CFO Success Secrets No One Tells You About Hiring

    In today's episode of the Second in Command podcast, Cameron discusses one of the most critical hires a business can make, a role that directly impacts leadership alignment, financial clarity, and long-term success: the Chief Financial Officer or CFO. The conversation highlights how small red flags during the hiring process, such as scheduling mishaps or lack of accountability, can be early indicators of deeper issues that shouldn’t be ignored. You'll learn why asking tough, direct questions in interviews can uncover whether a candidate truly embodies the ownership and resilience needed for high-stakes leadership. Discover the relationship between this leadership role and the CEO, emphasizing the importance of trust, transparency, and mutual respect. Since not every CEO has the technical expertise to fully evaluate the position, Cameron shows how leaning on outside advisors or experienced professionals can provide the necessary insight to set clear expectations and define success from the outset. This ensures that both sides are aligned on responsibilities and performance measures. This episode offers practical guidance for any company seeking to strengthen its executive team and navigate the complexities of making the right leadership decision. Before you hire your next CFO, hear Cameron’s insider strategies for defining the role and setting clear expectations. If you've enjoyed this episode of the Second in Command podcast, be sure to leave a review and subscribe today! Enjoy! In This Episode You'll Learn: The nuances of hiring a CFO, including addressing red flags and setting clear expectations. The importance of outside experts like fractional CFOs or accounting firms in defining roles and setting new CFOs up for success. The role of outside experts in guiding a new CFO and ensuring they meet the company's needs. The value of having a fractional CFO participate in the interview process to assess the candidate's skills. And much more... Resources: Connect with Cameron: Website | LinkedIn Get Cameron’s latest book – "Second in Command: Unleash the Power of Your COO" Get Cameron’s online course – Invest In Your Leaders Connect with Cameron on Dephi Disclaimer: The views, information, or opinions expressed during this podcast are solely those of the individuals involved and do not necessarily represent those of The Second in Command podcast or its affiliates. The content provided is for informational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice. We make no representations as to the accuracy, completeness, suitability, or validity of any information on this podcast and will not be liable for any errors, omissions, or delays in this information or any losses, injuries, or damages arising from its display or use. Listeners should consult with a professional for specific advice tailored to their situation. By accessing this podcast, you acknowledge that any reliance on the content is at your own risk.

    9 分鐘

  2. 2 天前

    Ep. 508 - Sarah Harris - Uncovering the Secrets of Successful COOs: Empathy, Autonomy, and Impact

    In today's episode of the Second in Command podcast, co-host Sivana Brewer is joined by Sarah Harris, Fractional Chief Operating Officer at OMG Commerce. In this episode, you'll be taken behind the scenes of a dynamic leadership role that’s often misunderstood but critical to a company’s growth and health. Through candid stories and practical insights, the conversation explores the unique balance required to lead both strategically and operationally, juggling long-term vision with short-term problem-solving. You'll hear how strong delegation, prioritization, and clarity of communication help keep leaders out of the weeds and focused on what matters most. Sarah dives into the hidden challenges companies face as they scale, especially around team structure, decision-making, and culture. You’ll learn why emotional intelligence, feedback systems, and psychological safety are not just soft skills but essential operational levers. The episode highlights how creating space for team autonomy, fostering accountability, and removing decision bottlenecks can unlock innovation and engagement at all levels of the business. From moments of breakthrough growth in team members to practical rituals for prioritization, this episode is packed with stories, strategies, and mindset shifts that challenge traditional notions of leadership and invite a new way of thinking about operational excellence. If you've enjoyed this episode of the Second in Command podcast, be sure to leave a review and subscribe today! Enjoy! In This Episode You'll Learn: Sarah's unique background, starting in commercial roles and eventually becoming a managing director, while also being a qualified therapist and coach. The differences between working with a CEO and a founder CEO, as well as the emotional and personal stakes for the founder. The use of post-mortems and team retrospectives to uncover underlying issues and gather data for making informed decisions. The importance of building a culture of feedback and creating an environment where people feel safe giving feedback in all directions. How Sarah's background in therapy and coaching helps her approach problems with empathy and curiosity. And much more... Guest Bio: Sarah Harris is a Fractional COO at OMG Commerce with a unique blend of operational expertise, coaching depth, and psychological insight. With a background as an ICF-certified coach and MBACP-registered counsellor, she supports growth-stage companies by aligning strategy, leadership, and mindset to scale sustainably. Sarah has spent her career leading business transformation—building leadership teams, optimizing operations, and guiding founders through the complexities of growth. Her integrated approach balances execution with people-centered change, helping leaders shift how they think, lead, and show up. From organizational transformation to mergers and acquisitions, Sarah partners with businesses to create resilient, high-performing teams and structures. She knows scaling isn’t just about growing, it’s about building something that works and lasts. Resources: Connect with Sarah: Website | LinkedIn Connect with Cameron: Website | a href="https://ca.linkedin.com/in/cameronherold" rel="noopener noreferrer"...

    53 分鐘

  3. 9月4日

    Ep. 507 - Think Ahead Act Now: Winning the Game with Dual Focus

    In today's episode of the Second in Command podcast, Cameron discusses a common misstep in leadership: blending strategy and planning into one concept.  While many leaders mistakenly see them as interchangeable, Cameron makes a compelling case for treating them as separate disciplines—each vital in its own right. Strategy is about creative thinking, exploring future possibilities, and setting direction, while planning deals with the tangible steps needed to execute that vision within a tightly focused 12-month window. The conversation emphasizes that while a vivid vision helps align a team around long-term aspirations, the execution must happen in short, realistic sprints. Leaders are encouraged to develop strategic goals with a two- to three-year lens, but to avoid placing rigid plans beyond one year due to the unpredictable nature of business environments. The discussion lays out a blueprint for how to reverse-engineer big-picture objectives into actionable, time-bound tasks, down to the staffing needs and recruiting timelines. Curious how to stop wasting time on plans that never land? This episode breaks down the right way to balance long-term vision with short-term execution—listen now and transform your planning mindset. If you've enjoyed this episode of the Second in Command podcast, be sure to leave a review and subscribe today! Enjoy! In This Episode You'll Learn: Why strategy involves long-term thinking and a SWOT analysis, while planning is about making those strategies actionable within a 12-month period. (1:27) The importance of aligning everyone with the company's vision, emphasizing the need for a vivid vision and a focused annual plan. (3:03) Why planning for the entire 12-month period, ensuring all core roles are filled and recruiting processes are well-timed, is vital. (4:03) The process of briefing the management team and frontline staff in November or early December, ensuring everyone knows the plan for the year. (5:15) The value of aligning the right people, having meeting rhythms, and ensuring the team has the necessary leadership skills. (7:00) And much more... Resources: Connect with Cameron: Website | LinkedIn Get Cameron’s latest book – "Second in Command: Unleash the Power of Your COO" Get Cameron’s online course – Invest In Your Leaders Disclaimer: The views, information, or opinions expressed during this podcast are solely those of the individuals involved and do not necessarily represent those of The Second in Command podcast or its affiliates. The content provided is for informational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice. We make no representations as to the accuracy, completeness, suitability, or validity of any information on this podcast and will not be liable for any errors, omissions, or delays in this information or any losses, injuries, or damages arising from its display or use. Listeners should consult with a professional for specific advice tailored to their situation. By accessing this podcast, you acknowledge that any reliance on the content is at your...

    10 分鐘

  4. 9月2日

    Ep. 506 - Roy Jain - How Top CEOs Hack Culture to Skyrocket Growth and Crush

    In this episode of the Second in Command podcast, Cameron is joined by Roy Jain, the co-founder and Chief Operating Officer of Blue River Pet Care. In this fascinating conversation, you'll learn about building an organization that thrives on culture, leadership, and long-term vision. Cameron and Roy explore the foundations of creating a business during challenging times, the importance of surrounding yourself with trusted partners, and the mindset required to navigate uncertainty while pursuing growth. You'll discover the evolving role of leadership, and how true success comes not from doing everything yourself, but from developing others, fostering motivation, and carrying forward a culture that can outlast the original founders. The conversation investigates how structured training, core leadership skills, and intentional people development contribute to sustainable success and scalability. Curious how AI is changing real-world industries like veterinary care? This episode reveals surprising applications every leader should pay attention to. Learn why developing people, not doing it all yourself, is the true key to building a business that lasts. If you've enjoyed this episode of the Second in Command podcast, be sure to leave a review and subscribe today! Enjoy! In This Episode You'll Learn: The Blue River value proposition for owners selling their practices, emphasizing financial transactions and continuity of care. The operational efficiencies achieved through centralized back-office functions and the development of an operations team in 2019. The application of AI in veterinary care, including note-taking and administrative tasks, as well as the limitations of telemedicine in veterinary care. Blue River's marketing strategy for 210 independently branded hospitals, tailoring ads to specific products and promotions.  The growth of the corporate team from four people to 150, with many senior leaders homegrown from within the organization. And much more... Guest Bio: Roy Jain is the co-founder and Chief Operating Officer of Blue River Pet Care, where he oversees daily operations and ensures the company fulfills its mission to be the most user-friendly acquirer of animal hospitals in the country. Since co-founding Blue River in 2009, he has taken on nearly every role within the organization, from marketing and recruiting to shaping the strategic roadmap that drives its success. Roy brings a deep respect for veterinary practice owners, recognizing that selling a hospital is more than a financial transaction—it’s about finding a long-term home that honors each practice’s culture and community. Prior to Blue River, he worked in investment banking and private equity, earned an MBA from Kellogg, and continues to teach and mentor within the veterinary and academic communities. Resources: Connect with Roy: Website | LinkedIn Connect with Cameron: Website | LinkedIn Get Cameron’s latest book – "Second in Command: Unleash the Power of Your COO" Get Cameron’s online course – a...

    46 分鐘

  5. 8月28日

    Ep. 505 - The Unvarnished Truth About Being the Number Two Leader

    In today's episode of the Second in Command podcast, Cameron explores what it truly means to have a second in command and why that role extends far beyond traditional job titles.  You'll hear how title inflation over the last few decades has blurred the lines between what it means to hold a C-level position and the actual responsibilities required for such a role. The discussion highlights the essential qualities of a true second-in-command, including strategic insight, autonomy, and the ability to carry real financial and operational responsibility. Cameron dives into the importance of alignment between a leader and their counterpart. Through examples from high-growth companies, he explains how the ideal second-in-command often changes depending on the stage of the business. What works for a scrappy startup may not be right for a billion-dollar enterprise, and leaders must carefully consider timing, industry, and personal compatibility when filling the role. The yin-and-yang balance between a CEO and their chosen partner becomes a central theme. From conducting self-assessments to defining clear responsibilities, compensation, and cultural fit, this episode offers actionable advice for leaders seeking their own second-in-command. See how hiring the right second-in-command at the right stage can make or break your company’s growth. If you've enjoyed this episode of the Second in Command podcast, be sure to leave a review and subscribe today! Enjoy! In This Episode You'll Learn: How the internet revolution from 1995 to 2000 led to the use of titles as marketing tools, often given in lieu of actual compensation. (2:48) The importance of finding the right COO for different stages of company growth. (4:28) Why the job of a leader is to grow the skills, confidence, and connections of their team members. (7:32) The need to describe the COO role accurately, including responsibilities, metrics, and compensation, to attract the right candidate. (8:48) The benefits of using executive search firms that specialize in recruiting COOs and senior executives to find the right fit for the company. (9:07) And much more... Resources: Connect with Cameron: Website | LinkedIn Get Cameron’s latest book – "Second in Command: Unleash the Power of Your COO" Get Cameron’s online course – Invest In Your Leaders Connect with Cameron on Delphi Disclaimer: The views, information, or opinions expressed during this podcast are solely those of the individuals involved and do not necessarily represent those of The Second in Command podcast or its affiliates. The content provided is for informational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice. We make no representations as to the accuracy, completeness, suitability, or validity of any information on this podcast and will not be liable for any errors, omissions, or delays in this information or any losses, injuries, or damages arising from its display or use....

    11 分鐘

  6. 8月26日

    Ep. 504 - Caitlyn Fagan - How Being #2 Taught Me Authentic Leadership Like No One Else Could

    In this episode of the Second in Command podcast, Cameron is joined by Caitlyn Fagan, Chief Operating Officer for Inner Matrix Systems, a personal mastery training system for high achievers. During this fascinating conversation, Cameron and Caitlyn explore the unique challenges and opportunities of stepping into a leadership role that is not always in the spotlight but is essential for organizational success. You'll discover the importance of clarity in responsibilities, effective communication, and balancing personal growth with professional demands. Learn how behind-the-scenes leadership roles drive company stability and growth. The conversation also examines the personal side of leadership, emphasizing the need for resilience, adaptability, and the ability to align personal values with professional responsibilities. Through real experiences and thoughtful reflection, Caitlyn shares how to navigate complex relationships, build trust, and maintain confidence when carrying significant responsibility. This episode provides practical wisdom for those seeking to grow as leaders while staying true to themselves, offering a perspective that is both grounded and inspiring. Discover how real leadership doesn’t require perfection—just courage, clarity, and compassion. If you've enjoyed this episode of the Second in Command podcast, be sure to leave a review and subscribe today! Enjoy! In This Episode You'll Learn: Caitlyn's background in tech and her deep involvement in the business, including being deeply embedded in scaling the company. The challenges of working with a CEO and fiancé, including the emotional and operational dynamics. How the EOS (Entrepreneurial Operating System) has been instrumental in scaling Inner Matrix Systems. Caitlyn's personal journey with Inner Matrix Systems, starting as a client to address anxiety and becoming part of the business to help others. The balance between the benefits of AI and the importance of human connection and personal development. And much more... Guest Bio: Caitlyn Fagan is the Chief Operating Officer of Inner Matrix Systems, where she leads operational excellence to ensure programs, training, and outcomes deliver maximum value for clients. A results-driven executive, she brings extensive expertise in business operations, process improvement, interactive marketing, technology, and project management. Before joining Inner Matrix Systems, Caitlyn served as CEO of a Denver-based digital agency, helping enterprise businesses craft and share their stories online. Her background in interactive marketing and technology allowed her to design and implement innovative digital strategies that produced measurable success. Caitlyn holds a Communications degree from the University of Miami in Coral Gables, FL, and continues to leverage her skills to drive meaningful impact in every organization she serves. Resources: Connect with Caitlyn: Website | LinkedIn Connect with Cameron: Website | LinkedIn Get Cameron’s latest book – a href="https://www.amazon.com/Second-Command-Unleash-Power-Your/dp/1544537603/" rel="noopener noreferrer"...

    46 分鐘

  7. 8月21日

    Ep. 503 - Unlock the Secret to Winning the Future with Bold Strategic Visualization

    In today's episode of the Second in Command podcast, Cameron shares a powerful analogy between preparing for a trek through Nepal and leading a growing business.  Just like training for a demanding physical challenge, business leaders must begin with a broad vision, identifying where they want to go before diving into the finer details. Early momentum, even without a fully formed plan, sets the stage for long-term success and enables thoughtful preparation when it matters most. You'll learn how forward-looking strategy—distinct from rigid long-term plans—can shape critical business decisions. By thinking through “what if” scenarios and visualizing future states, companies can anticipate needs like infrastructure, staffing, or supply chain adjustments. This mindset doesn’t require perfect predictions but encourages strategic conversations that prime the team for rapid execution when real opportunities or challenges arise. Cameron emphasizes the value of proactive visualization over exhaustive five-year plans. Instead of locking in static goals, this episode advocates for flexible, evolving strategy discussions that spark innovation, expose blind spots, and keep teams agile. The takeaway? Look ahead boldly, plan backwards, and be ready to act when the future arrives faster than expected. Want a clearer path to your $100M vision? This episode reveals how to lead with agility, think ahead, and make bold moves now—tune in and take the first step. If you've enjoyed this episode of the Second in Command podcast, be sure to leave a review and subscribe today! Enjoy! In This Episode You'll Learn: Insights on setting long-term goals, such as hitting $100 million, and the importance of working backward to determine the necessary steps and timelines. Why Cameron prefers a one-year tight plan and broad-brush plans for three and five years, as the landscape changes rapidly. The importance of strategic thinking and visualization, which can lead to proactive actions. The monthly strategy meetings at 1-800-GOT-JUNK, where they laid out 12 months and brainstormed about potential future scenarios. And much more... Resources: Connect with Cameron: Website | LinkedIn Get Cameron’s latest book – "Second in Command: Unleash the Power of Your COO" Get Cameron’s online course – Invest In Your Leaders Disclaimer: The views, information, or opinions expressed during this podcast are solely those of the individuals involved and do not necessarily represent those of The Second in Command podcast or its affiliates. The content provided is for informational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice. We make no representations as to the accuracy, completeness, suitability, or validity of any information on this podcast and will not be liable for any errors, omissions, or delays in this information or any losses, injuries, or damages arising from its display or use. Listeners should consult with a professional for specific advice tailored to their situation. By accessing this podcast, you acknowledge that any reliance on the content is at...

    8 分鐘

  8. 8月19日

    Ep. 502 - Anthony Petitte - Thriving in the Digital Age: How to Empower Remote Teams with Heart

    In today's episode of the Second in Command podcast, co-host Sivana Brewer is joined by Anthony Petitte, Chief Operating Officer at Finloc 2000 Inc. During this engaging conversation, Anthony shares candid insights about managing a fully remote team spread across diverse locations and cultures. The discussion explores the unique challenges of fostering connection and camaraderie when employees rarely meet face-to-face and highlights creative ways to build meaningful relationships that fuel collaboration and retention. You'll discover the importance of nurturing a positive company culture as a key driver for sustainable success. Sivana and Anthony also explore the human side of leadership, recognizing and addressing burnout, loneliness, and the emotional well-being of team members in an often isolating work environment. You'll hear thoughtful reflections on honest communication, empathetic follow-up, and the delicate balance between supporting individuals and meeting business goals. These themes underscore the evolving role of leaders as both strategists and caregivers in today’s complex workplace. This episode provides practical tips and personal stories, offering a perspective on how leaders can stay grounded and inspire their teams amid constant change and uncertainty. If you've enjoyed this episode of the Second in Command podcast, be sure to leave a review and subscribe today! Enjoy! In This Episode You'll Learn: The day-to-day responsibilities of managing Finloc, FinPark, and VHub. The benefits of being a COO, such as ensuring efficiency and effectiveness and preparing the CEO for investor meetings.  The tensions that exist with Anthony's CEO due to different approaches to building the company and fostering creativity. The challenges of managing a fully remote team across different time zones and cultures. The impact of AI on the transportation logistics industry and Finloc's approach to it. And much more... Guest Bio: Anthony Petitte is the Chief Operating Officer at Finloc 2000 Inc., where he leads operations, marketing, partnerships, and strategy for the company’s innovative truck parking marketplace. A seasoned entrepreneur, investor, and advisor, Anthony previously founded and led the first truck parking marketplace in transportation, which successfully exited in 2021. With over 14 years of experience across logistics, executive search, and digital marketing, he is passionate about solving complex challenges in transportation and enhancing the stakeholder experience. Anthony is also an advisor to startups like Simporter, Zuum, and Torch, and holds certifications in Lean Six Sigma and Cybersecurity Board Governance. He earned his business degree with a minor in tourism from Kaplan University. Resources: Connect with Anthony: Website | LinkedIn Connect with Cameron: Website | LinkedIn Get Cameron’s latest book – "Second in Command: Unleash the Power of Your COO" Get Cameron’s online course – a...

    52 分鐘
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簡介

Welcome to the “Second in Command” Podcast hosted by Cameron Herold, brought to you by the COO Alliance, where top-level COOs share their insights, tactics, and strategies that made them the Chief Behind the Chief. Cameron Herold founded the COO Alliance with one simple goal in mind: to provide COOs with the same professional development and growth opportunities CEOs have enjoyed for many years. COO Alliance is the world's leading network for the Second in Command. Cameron Herold is a top business consultant, best-selling author, and speaker. He’s the mastermind behind hundreds of companies’ exponential growth and he’s touched thousands of businesses indirectly through his work.

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