Sparking The Fuse

Chris Cook
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  • MARKETING

Real conversations with the leaders sparking growth in their businesses. Host Chris Cook explores the wins, failures, and breakthroughs that fuel progress. If you’re building, scaling, or leading—this podcast will light your next fuse.

  1. MAR 2

    Ryan Chesterfield: Revolutionizing Warehouse Safety and Automation

    Warehouse automation is booming — but most systems still earn a C+. Ryan Chesterfield, Founder of Auto-FC & Auto-FX, breaks down what companies get wrong about robotics, safety, and digital readiness. If you're investing in automation, this conversation could save you years of frustration. In this episode, Chris Cook sits down with Ryan Chesterfield, Founder of Auto-FC & Auto-FX, to unpack the realities behind warehouse automation. While robotics and AI promise efficiency, many companies struggle to achieve expected outcomes. Ryan explains why setting realistic expectations, prioritizing safety, and building digital readiness are essential before deploying automation solutions. They explore common misconceptions in the industry, the importance of customer-side expertise, and how data-driven decision making can dramatically improve results. The discussion also highlights the balance between technology and human operators, ensuring automation enhances operations without fully replacing the workforce. Key Takeaways Improving outcomes of automated projects is crucialSetting realistic expectations is key to successSafety is a primary concern in warehouse operationsDigital readiness is essential before implementing automationCustomer-side expertise is often lackingAutomation projects can take time to show measurable resultsThe first automation project is usually the hardestData drives informed operational decisionsThe automation market is expanding rapidlyUnderstanding client needs determines successful implementation Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Automation in Warehousing 02:53 Challenges in Implementing Automation 05:56 The Role of Safety in Warehouse Operations 08:49 Understanding Client Needs and Expectations 11:42 The Importance of Digital Readiness 14:38 Industry Trends and Misconceptions 17:44 The Impact of Expertise on Automation Projects 20:27 Navigating the Automation Landscape 23:26 Future of Automation and AI in Warehousing 26:07 Scaling Challenges for Automation Consulting 29:05 The Importance of Data in Decision Making 32:05 Building a Sustainable Business Model 34:48 Conclusion and Future Outlook Keywords automation, warehousing, robotics, safety, logistics, digital readiness, industry trends, consulting, AI, machine learning 🔗 Connect With Chris LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/scalewithchris/ Work With Five Fuse: https://www.fivefuse.com/ 🔗 Connect With Today’s Guest LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryan-chesterfield-8178431b/ Website: https://auto-fc.com/ 🎧 Listen on Other Platforms Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5rgYjB8RxYKfgvOf1PrNFv?si=0dd85415f6174756 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sparking-the-fuse/id1857737431 📸 Socials Five Fuse LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/five-fuse/

    40 min

  2. FEB 16

    Rachel Mawhirter: Navigating Accidental Entrepreneurship and Building a Marketing Empire

    What does it really take to grow from accidental entrepreneur to trusted marketing leader? Rachel Mawhirter shares how strategy, client relationships, and adaptability drive long-term business growth. A practical conversation on entrepreneurship, marketing strategy, and using AI to strengthen—not replace—great thinking. Episode Summary In this episode of Sparking the Fuse, Chris Cook interviews Rachel Mawhirter, Founder and CEO of Marketing Maven Consulting. Rachel shares her unexpected journey into entrepreneurship, the early challenges she faced, and how she refined her approach to marketing by focusing on strategy and client outcomes. The conversation explores how businesses can better understand client needs, adapt to market shifts, and build systems that support sustainable growth. Rachel also discusses the evolving role of technology and AI in marketing, the importance of strong company culture, and how consistency and reputation shape long-term success. She also shares insights into her future goals as she continues refining financial strategies and expanding service offerings. Key Takeaways Rachel's journey into entrepreneurship was not a typical oneCuriosity and a desire for change are key traits of successful entrepreneursFinancial management is a crucial challenge for many entrepreneursBuilding effective systems is essential for business growthUnderstanding client needs is vital for successful marketingStrategy is often missing in many companies' marketing effortsAI can be a valuable tool for sparking creativity and ideasA strong company culture fosters shared ownership and accountabilityBuilding a reputation takes time and consistencyFuture goals include refining financial strategies and enhancing service offerings Chapters 00:00 The Journey to Entrepreneurship 02:54 Overcoming Early Challenges 05:59 Evolving Marketing Strategies 08:47 Understanding Client Needs 12:00 Navigating Market Shifts 15:09 The Importance of Strategy 17:52 Leveraging Technology and AI 21:00 Building a Strong Company Culture 23:53 Identifying Opportunities for Growth 26:52 Future Goals and Aspirations Keywords entrepreneurship, marketing strategies, business growth, client relationships, AI in marketing, company culture, overcoming challenges, financial management, brand management, strategic planning 🔗 Connect With Chris LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/scalewithchris/ Work With Five Fuse: https://www.fivefuse.com/ 🔗 Connect With Today’s Guest LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hireamaven/ Website: https://www.marketingmavenconsulting.com/ 🎧 Listen on Other Platforms Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5rgYjB8RxYKfgvOf1PrNFv?si=0dd85415f6174756 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sparking-the-fuse/id1857737431 📸 Socials Five Fuse LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/five-fuse/

    41 min

  3. FEB 12

    Tony Tom: Transforming B2B Customer Support with AI

    Tony Tom, Co-founder & CEO of Orca AI, explains how AI is reshaping B2B customer support and product management. A practical discussion on adapting to rapid technology change and making better product decisions. If you operate in SaaS or B2B, this episode breaks down what AI actually changes inside organizations. Episode SummaryIn this episode of Sparking the Fuse, Chris Cook sits down with Tony Tom, Co-founder and CEO of Orca AI, to discuss how AI is transforming B2B SaaS, product management, and customer support. Tony shares lessons from his startup journey, including the challenges of building marketplaces and leading teams through rapid technological change. The conversation explores how AI is influencing product prioritization, customer insights, and support experiences, while emphasizing the importance of building a culture of learning as organizations adapt. Tony also discusses the growing noise in marketing, the changing effectiveness of email, and how businesses can maintain strong customer relationships in an AI-driven environment. Key TakeawaysTony Tom emphasizes the challenges of building marketplaces.AI is reshaping product management and customer insights.The importance of adapting to rapid technological changes.Customer support should focus on relationship building, not just problem-solving.AI can help product teams prioritize features more effectively.Email marketing is becoming less effective due to oversaturation.A culture of learning is essential for adapting to AI.Product management is a decision-making engine, not just task management.Chapters00:00 The Journey of Tony Tom: From Startups to Orca.ai 02:49 Navigating the Marketplace Challenge 05:57 A Day in the Life of a CEO 08:51 The AI Divide in Product Management 12:06 Upskilling in the Age of AI 14:53 AI's Impact on Product Prioritization 20:53 The Accelerated Pace of Tech and AI 24:01 The Future of Industries in an AI World 25:51 AI Competition in Industries 27:31 The Noise of Marketing 29:48 The Future of Email Marketing 35:32 The AI Silver Bullet Myth 38:43 B2B Customer Support Evolution 43:32 Connecting with Tony Tom KeywordsTony Tom, Orca AI, B2B SaaS, product management, AI, customer support, SaaS strategy, startup leadership, technology trends, business strategy 🔗 Connect With Chris LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/scalewithchris/ Work With Five Fuse: https://www.fivefuse.com/ 🔗 Connect With Today’s Guest LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tonytom/ Website: https://getorca.ai/ 🎧 Listen on Other Platforms Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5rgYjB8RxYKfgvOf1PrNFv?si=0dd85415f6174756 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sparking-the-fuse/id1857737431 📸 Socials Five Fuse LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/five-fuse/

    44 min

  4. FEB 10

    Cyrus Kazi: Bridging Tech and Social Impact

    How nonprofits can move beyond reporting and start measuring real impact. Cyrus Kazi, CEO of Quantibly, explains how technology is reshaping social impact measurement. A conversation on transparency, data, and building stronger nonprofit outcomes through partnerships. Episode SummaryIn this episode of Sparking The Fuse, Chris Cook sits down with Cyrus Kazi, Founder and Operating Partner of Lexington Advisory and CEO of Quantibly, to discuss how nonprofits can better measure and communicate their impact. Cyrus shares how his experience in social impact led to building Quantibly, a platform focused on improving data transparency and outcome-based reporting. The conversation covers the shift from compliance-driven reporting to strategic learning, the challenges nonprofits face when adopting technology, and why partnerships are essential to scaling meaningful impact. Cyrus also shares his vision for making impact data more accessible so organizations and funders can make better decisions. Key TakeawaysCyrus Kazi has over 25 years of experience in social impactQuantibly emerged from research on nonprofit data challengesImpact measurement should focus on outcomes, not activitiesTransparency and accountability strengthen nonprofit sustainabilityNonprofits are shifting toward strategic learningPartnerships are critical to expanding impactChapters00:00 Introduction to Cyrus Kazi and Quantibly 02:02 The Genesis of Quantibly 04:53 Cyrus's Day-to-Day as CEO 06:58 Shifts in Nonprofit Technology and Impact Measurement 11:48 Transforming Impact Measurement 13:40 The Importance of Transparency in Nonprofits 18:42 The Changing Landscape of Philanthropy 19:35 Current Developments at Quantibly 23:37 Challenges and Friction in Adoption 28:34 Working with Organizations of All Sizes 30:33 Future Aspirations for Quantibly 35:47 Addressing Lexington's Challenges 37:56 The Impact Ecosystem 39:20 Connecting with Nonprofits 43:35 Innovative Approaches to Outreach 47:25 Strategic Partnerships for Growth 52:29 Lead Generation in the Nonprofit Sector Keywords: Cyrus Kazi, Quantibly, nonprofit technology, impact measurement, social impact, data transparency, nonprofit funding, impact reporting, partnerships 🔗 Connect With Chris LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/scalewithchris/ Work With Five Fuse: https://www.fivefuse.com/ 🔗 Connect With Today’s Guest LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cyruskazi/ Website: https://lexingtonadvisory.com/ Website: https://quantibly.com/ 🎧 Listen on Other Platforms Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5rgYjB8RxYKfgvOf1PrNFv?si=0dd85415f6174756 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sparking-the-fuse/id1857737431 📸 Socials Five Fuse LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/five-fuse/

    41 min

  5. FEB 5

    Steve Feinberg: Navigating the Surplus Solar & Battery Market

    How surplus solar panels are solving supply chain delays and accelerating clean energy adoption. Steve Feinberg of Blue Water Battery Logistics explains the hidden market behind solar repowering and recycling. Learn how surplus solar and battery solutions reduce waste and keep projects moving. Episode Summary Chris Cook interviews Steve Feinberg, President of Blue Water Battery Logistics, about the growing surplus solar and battery market. Steve explains how surplus panels come from canceled projects or overordering and how sourcing compatible equipment helps prevent costly project delays. He shares insights into rapid solar technology advancements and how reusing surplus equipment reduces environmental impact. The discussion also highlights Blue Water’s broader service offerings, the importance of trust-based client relationships, and real examples of problem-solving in a highly specialized clean energy niche. Key Takeaways Surplus solar panels arise from canceled projects or overorderingSourcing compatible panels requires extensive data and expertiseSurplus equipment helps reduce supply chain delays and downtimeSolar technology is advancing rapidlyReusing surplus panels reduces environmental impactClient relationships are built on trust and problem-solvingBlue Water also provides batteries and inverter solutionsThe surplus market presents unique sales and sourcing challengesThe company focuses on sustainable growth Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Surplus Solar Panels 03:00 Sourcing and Compatibility Challenges 05:53 Impact of Surplus Equipment on Supply Chain 08:46 Technological Advancements in Solar Panels 11:55 Environmental Benefits of Surplus Panels 14:18 Repowering Strategies for Solar Farms 17:21 Blue Water's Broader Offerings 19:56 Client Success Stories and Problem Solving 22:59 Building Relationships and Networking 25:10 Honest Communication in Business 26:24 Growth Vision Question 27:14 Connecting with Blue Water Battery 29:18 Blue Water Battery Services 30:23 Sourcing and Sales Challenges 35:34 Pricing Models in the Battery Business 39:10 Repeat Business and Relationships 44:48 The Feel-Good Factor in Business Keywords surplus solar panels, clean energy, recycling, solar technology, supply chain, renewable energy, solar farms, efficiency Connection Section 🔗 Connect With Chris LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/scalewithchris/ Work With Five Fuse: https://www.fivefuse.com/ 🔗 Connect With Today’s Guest LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/steve-feinberg-9727581a/ Website: https://www.bluewaterbattery.com/ 🎧 Listen on Other Platforms Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5rgYjB8RxYKfgvOf1PrNFv?si=0dd85415f6174756 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sparking-the-fuse/id1857737431 📸 Socials Five Fuse LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/five-fuse/

    32 min

  6. JAN 23

    Mark Michael: From Startup Struggles to Digital Success

    Mark Michael, CEO and co-founder of DevHub, shares the real journey of entrepreneurship. From early struggles to building a scalable digital platform, this episode focuses on execution. A candid conversation on websites, leadership, and winning the franchise market. Episode Summary Mark Michael, CEO and co-founder of DevHub, joins the show to share the real story behind building and evolving a digital business. He talks through the early confidence that pushed him into entrepreneurship, the pivots that shaped DevHub’s growth, and the leadership decisions required to scale through uncertainty. Mark explains why websites remain the foundation of digital presence, how quality content directly impacts revenue, and why data will play an even bigger role as AI reshapes search and discovery. The conversation also explores hiring, team dynamics, and DevHub’s focus on the franchise market. Key Takeaways Early confidence played a major role in Mark’s entrepreneurial pathDevHub evolved through constant iteration and market-driven pivotsWebsites remain a core asset in digital strategyQuality content drives traffic, engagement, and revenueLeadership decisions compound over timeHiring the right people is essential for growthThe pandemic forced rapid business model adaptationWebsite data will become more valuable as AI evolvesCustomer understanding is key to effective digital presenceMark views capitalism as a competitive team sport Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Mark Michael and DevHub 01:03 Mark's Journey and the Evolution of DevHub 04:06 Challenges and Triumphs: The Early Years 07:46 Pivots and Innovations in Business Strategy 11:45 The Impact of the Pandemic on Business Models 15:37 Shifts in the Website Landscape 19:58 The Role of Content in AI and Search 22:22 Website Pages and Revenue Correlation 25:58 The Importance of Quality Content 29:26 Leadership Lessons and Team Dynamics 34:11 Hiring Strategies and Business Growth 40:49 Future Goals and Market Focus Keywords DevHub, Mark Michael, entrepreneurship, business strategy, website innovation, leadership, digital presence, franchise market, AI integration 🔗 Connect With Chris LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/scalewithchris/ Work With Five Fuse: https://www.fivefuse.com/ 🔗 Connect With Today’s Guest LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/markmichaelseattle/ Website: https://www.devhub.com/ 🎧 Listen on Other Platforms Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5rgYjB8RxYKfgvOf1PrNFv?si=0dd85415f6174756 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sparking-the-fuse/id1857737431 📸 Socials Five Fuse LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/five-fuse/

    43 min

  7. JAN 12

    Ty Crandall: From Mortgage Crisis to CreditSuite Success

    From mortgage crisis to building a business credit powerhouse Ty Crandall explains how funding and lender decisions really work Inside CreditSuite, business credit, and the future of AI in finance Episode SummaryIn this episode of Sparking the Fuse, Chris talks with Ty Crandall, founder of CreditSuite, about his journey from being personally impacted by the mortgage crisis to helping entrepreneurs access funding and build business credit. Ty breaks down how business credit actually works, why misinformation causes founders to make costly mistakes, and what lenders look for when evaluating funding applications. The conversation also explores how technology and AI are shaping the future of financing and what business owners need to understand before seeking capital. This episode is a practical look at funding fundamentals, lender criteria, and where AI fits into modern financial services. Key TakeawaysTy’s experience during the mortgage crisis led to founding CreditSuiteSeparating personal and business credit is essentialEducation and content drive trust in financial servicesMisinformation in business credit leads to poor decisionsAI is changing access to fundingLenders evaluate more than just credit scoresCash flow, credit, and collateral matter mostHard money lending serves higher-risk borrowersBuilding business credit early expands optionsFinancing will become more personalizedChapters00:00 The Journey of Ty Crandall 03:05 Current Operations at Credit Suite 06:10 Shifts in Financial Services and Content Creation 08:48 Navigating Misinformation in Business Credit 12:04 The Role of Technology and AI in Financing 15:07 Sales and Financing Systems 17:57 Revenue Streams and Business Models 21:03 Financing Options 27:46 SBA Readiness Challenges 28:35 First Steps for Entrepreneurs 31:18 Risk and Reward 33:09 AI and Capital Access 36:03 Human Element in AI 38:59 AI Limitations 42:54 Partnerships and Competitors Keywordsbusiness credit, funding, entrepreneurship, financial services, AI, CreditSuite, Ty Crandall Connection Section🔗 Connect With Chris LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/scalewithchris/ Work With Five Fuse: https://www.fivefuse.com/ 🔗 Connect With Today’s Guest LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tycrandall/ Website: https://www.creditsuite.com/ 🎧 Listen on Other Platforms Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5rgYjB8RxYKfgvOf1PrNFv?si=0dd85415f6174756 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sparking-the-fuse/id1857737431 📸 Socials Five Fuse LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/five-fuse/

    38 min

  8. JAN 7

    Jason Trace: Growth and Innovation in Home Services

    How leading home services companies grow without losing culture Jason Trace shares lessons from running Cool Today Orlando Growth, talent, AI, and innovation in HVAC and the trades Episode Summary In this episode of Sparking the Fuse, Chris Cook talks with Jason Trace, General Manager of Cool Today Orlando, about what it takes to operate and scale a modern home services business. Jason shares how leadership, culture, and operational discipline show up in HVAC, plumbing, and electrical services. They cover staffing shortages, rising customer expectations, and how technology and AI are improving dispatching and efficiency. Jason also explains private equity-backed models versus smaller “mom and pop” operators, and why process and culture matter more as companies grow. The episode closes with refrigerant transitions and what they mean for service teams and customers. Key Takeaways General managers must drive results across people, process, and performanceCulture is essential for long-term customer and employee relationshipsDoing the right thing supports sustainable growthClear communication is critical to daily operationsStructured sales processes improve customer experienceAI is increasing efficiency in dispatching and operationsTalent retention depends heavily on leadership and cultureCustomer experience should guide decision-makingStaffing challenges can restrict growthRefrigerant changes are impacting the HVAC industry Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Jason Trace and Cool Today Orlando 02:41 Daily Operations and Responsibilities of a General Manager 05:34 Understanding the Structure of Cool Today Orlando 07:52 Sales Process and Customer Engagement 08:47 Industry Trends and Challenges 11:06 Attracting and Retaining Talent in the Trades 12:21 Current Successes and Team Dynamics 14:30 Fleet Management and Safety Responsibilities 15:58 Growth Challenges and Capacity Management 16:52 Exploring Growth Opportunities 18:14 Future Goals and Growth Projections 19:48 Differences in Business Models: Private Equity vs. Mom and Pop 21:58 Addressing Major Headaches in the Business 26:32 Conclusion and Contact Information Keywords Jason Trace, Cool Today Orlando, HVAC, plumbing, electrical, customer service, team culture, industry trends, talent retention, business growth 🔗 Connect With Chris LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/scalewithchris/ Work With Five Fuse: https://www.fivefuse.com/ 🔗 Connect With Today’s Guest LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jason-trace-b1503419/ Website: https://www.cooltoday.com/ 🎧 Listen on Other Platforms Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5rgYjB8RxYKfgvOf1PrNFv?si=0dd85415f6174756 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sparking-the-fuse/id1857737431 📸 Socials Five Fuse LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/five-fuse/

    27 min
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About

Real conversations with the leaders sparking growth in their businesses. Host Chris Cook explores the wins, failures, and breakthroughs that fuel progress. If you’re building, scaling, or leading—this podcast will light your next fuse.

Information

  • Creator
    Chris Cook
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    13
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2025 Chris Cook