Success Beneath the Surface

Deborah S. Fell
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This podcast is aimed at helping CEOs dig beneath the surface to find new pathways to increased profitability. Deborah Fell from Chief Outsiders, will seek to challenge and inspire leadership teams and provide immediately actionable solutions to unlock growth.

  1. 12/18/2025

    EP116:The $100 Million Decision - Choosing Patient Outcomes Over Private Equity

    When surgeons stop your heart during surgery, who keeps you alive? That's where Chet Czaplicka comes in. This Detroit native went from ICU nurse to building the world's largest perfusion company—but not the way you'd think. After seeing post-op cardiac patients in the ICU, Chet asked one simple question: "What exactly do you guys do?" That curiosity launched a 42-year career. Perfusionists are the people who become your heart and lungs during surgery. They manage the machines that keep your blood flowing and oxygenated while surgeons work on your stopped heart. During COVID, when patients' lungs failed by the thousands, Chet's teams provided extracorporeal life support at levels he'd never seen in four decades. Here's what sets Chet apart: He's turned down multiple private equity offers that would've made him wealthy beyond measure. Why? "I wasn't put on this earth to buy a yacht. My purpose is way different than that." Instead, he measures success in reduced kidney injuries, lower stroke rates, and better patient outcomes. He's poured tens of millions back into advancing the technology because, as he puts it, "When I walk out of that operating room, I want to know I delivered the best possible care to that patient." From a partnership offer in Fort Wayne he turned down (too small-town for a Detroit guy in his 20s) to building operations across the globe, Chet's story shows what happens when purpose drives profit, not the other way around. Chet's Bio: Chet Czaplicka is the Founder and CEO of Comprehensive Care Services, a perfusion led company providing perfusion, autotransfusion and related allied health services to hospitals across the United States and internationally. He founded CCS in 2002, building it from a handful of hospital accounts into the largest perfusion provider in the world and now a global perfusion leader. As a practicing perfusionist and registered nurse, Chet keeps CCS focused on patient care, clinical excellence, data-driven decision making and strong hospital partnerships. He continues to lead the organization through growth, innovation and an evolving healthcare landscape. Chet on LinkedIn.

    44 min

  2. 12/02/2025

    EP115: Beyond Recruiting: How One Family-Run Staffing Firm Evolved into Global Workforce Solutions

    What if the very challenges dividing our society could become the force that brings us together? In a thought-provoking episode of Success Beneath the Surface, Brett Howroyd, President of ActOne Group, shares a counterintuitive perspective on how economic pressures are creating unexpected unity across generations in the workplace. As the leader of a 65-year family-run staffing organization, Brett has a unique vantage point on workforce dynamics. His observation? When different generations face common struggles with affordability - not for luxuries, but for basic necessities like housing and education - traditional divides begin to dissolve. "A common enemy unites you," Brett explains. "In this case, the enemy is not a person. It's the economic situation people find themselves in." This shared challenge, he argues, is fostering collaboration and understanding that transcend typical generational differences in technology, communication styles, or work preferences. About Brett Howroyd: Brett Howroyd is President of the ActOne Group. As a leader of a multi-billion-dollar (USA$), award-winning international workforce management and technology enterprise, Brett serves as a solutions strategist and technology innovator for the organization. His international business knowledge, understanding of global markets, experience in diverse communities, and capacity to solve complex workforce challenges have added a dynamic perspective to the ActOne Group’s mission. Brett joined the ActOne Group in 2007 and worked in both Los Angeles and Canada, learning the business from the inside out. Later, by working closely with global leaders, he gained a unique perspective on how the industry is evolving. This wide range of experience has shaped Brett’s mission for the company that balances the future’s needs with the core values that define its history.

    37 min

  3. 07/29/2025

    EP114: The Red Tape Crisis: A Cancer Care CEO's Fight for Patient Access

    What happens when personal tragedy becomes professional purpose? In this powerful episode, Christine Verini, CEO of CancerCare, shares her extraordinary 30-year journey from mixing chemotherapy as a pharmacist to leading one of the nation's most impactful cancer support organizations. Sparked by her sister's inflammatory breast cancer diagnosis at 28, Christine has dedicated her entire career to helping cancer patients and their families navigate one of life's most challenging experiences. From launching life-saving drugs in 40 countries to developing innovative meal delivery programs, Christine's path wasn't linear—but it was always purposeful. Now as CEO, she's tackling healthcare's "red tape crisis" while building compassionate, people-first leadership that transforms both organizations and lives. Her insights on leading through uncertainty, making tough decisions with empathy, and staying true to your mission will resonate with any leader facing today's complex challenges. Key Points in this episode: Purpose Drives Success Living your passion and purpose creates unexpected opportunities and sustained career satisfaction. People Make Organizations Compassionate leadership that prioritizes people first leads to stronger, more resilient teams. Infrastructure Enables Impact Investing in foundational systems and capabilities is essential for organizational effectiveness and growth. Decisive Yet Inclusive Great leaders make tough decisions while finding meaningful ways to include their teams in the process. Growth Happens Outside The biggest breakthroughs come from embracing uncertainty and stepping outside your comfort zone. Healthcare Needs Reform The "red tape crisis" in healthcare is costing organizations productivity while adding stress to already vulnerable patients. Christine Verini brings over 25 years of oncology experience to her role as Chief Executive Officer at CancerCare, a national nonprofit providing support services to cancer patients and families. Her career spans progressive leadership roles from medical science liaison to executive positions in global marketing and corporate communications. Notable achievements include developing the Magnolia Meals at Home program for cancer patients, launching metastatic breast cancer treatments in nearly 40 countries, and receiving national recognition through the Eisai Human Healthcare Award (2012) and PharmaVOICE 100 Most Inspiring Award (2019). At CancerCare since 2015, she leads the organization's strategic vision and daily operations across key departments including social services, finance, and communications. She also serves as Chair of HealthyWomen and previously served on the Board of Directors of CancerCare New Jersey. Her advocacy work is driven by personal experience with cancer's impact on families.

    27 min

  4. 07/16/2025

    EP113: The 90% Rule - How Much of Yourself to Show as a Leader

    This conversation  will challenge everything you think you know about leadership identity.  Deborah Fell sits down with powerhouse CEO Ticki Favaroth, a faith-driven leader who has mastered the art of showing up authentically while building multiple successful enterprises. Ticki doesn't mince words: "People don't get to choose my life" - and in this raw, transformative conversation, she explains exactly what that means for leaders who want to build a lasting legacy rather than just temporary success. From her journey through 20 years in corporate America to founding HR&Co and leading The BOW Enterprises, Ticki shares the hard-won wisdom about identity, boundaries, and the courage to let things burn when they're meant to transform. This isn't your typical business strategy episode - it's a masterclass in becoming the leader you're meant to be, complete with practical frameworks for navigating change, building authentic relationships, and focusing on what you can actually control. Perfect for CEOs, founders, and leaders ready to move from pleasing everyone to leading with purpose. About Ticki Favaroth Ticki Favaroth is a faith-driven CEO, founder, and strategic advisor known for empowering leaders and building legacy-focused ecosystems. As Senior Partner & Managing Director at HR&Co., she delivers people-first solutions that drive sustainable growth. She also serves as President of The BOW Enterprises, Vice President & COO of The BOW Collective, and founder of The ADISA Institute. With an MBA from Texas Woman’s University and a BBA from Texas Tech, Ticki’s impact spans Fortune 500s, government, and nonprofits. Rooted in faith and authenticity, she equips others to confront hard truths, redefine success, and lead with purpose Ticki's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ticki/

    30 min

  5. 07/09/2025

    EP112: How Great Leaders Create More Footprints, Not Bigger Shoes

    What if I told you the most successful CEOs I've interviewed this quarter share one counterintuitive trait? They don't try to be the smartest person in the room. From architecture to military leadership to digital transformation, the pattern is unmistakable.  Looking back at this quarter's most listened-to episodes—featuring Jonathan Moody (Moody Nolan), Rear Admiral Brian Luther (Navy Mutual), Ryan Frederick (Transform Labs), Harold Green (Global Emissionary), Eddie Solomon (Net at Work), Joe Yaccarino (MTF Biologics), Jeff Ostenso (Ironmark), and James Hyman (serial turnaround CEO)—I discovered something remarkable. The golden thread connecting every transformative leader: They refuse to be the smartest person in the room. From Jonathan's "create more footprints, not bigger shoes" philosophy to Brian's "reflected light leadership," from Ryan's embrace of "continuous not knowing" to Eddie's insight that "entrepreneurship belongs in psychology," these leaders share seven powerful traits: → Anti-ego leadership - Building teams instead of thrones → Vulnerability as strength - Admitting what they don't know → Empowerment over control - Creating conditions for others to succeed → Psychological wisdom - Understanding leadership is about mindset → Radical transparency - Building trust through openness → Purpose-driven growth - Companies that matter, not just profit → The learning advantage - Staying curious regardless of expertise Whether it's Harold at 69 still having daily learning conversations, Joe asking "is that even legal?" and building from curiosity, Jeff realizing his company "feeds 500 people," or James discovering that Hollywood leadership doesn't work—the pattern is clear. The most successful leaders amplify their impact by avoiding being the bottleneck. Join me as we unpack the strategies that turn good companies into thriving communities where everyone succeeds together. Some of the episodes in this list: EP105: Reflected Light: Leading Through Your People EP103: The Power of Humble Listening in Leadership EP96: Making Carbon Reduction Measurable and Meaningful EP87: Why This Successful Family Business Said No to Nepotism EP83: Heroes at Every Level of Healthcare Innovation EP81: How Teaching the Game of Business Built an Empire EP63: A CEO’s Competitve Edge - Mastering the Art of Corporate Turnarounds

    44 min

  6. 06/26/2025

    EP111: Why the Key to Rapid Growth is Subtraction

    In this powerful commentary episode, Deborah Fell reflects on her recent conversation with Jeff Grass and the stark reality facing mid-market businesses today. Drawing from hundreds of CEO conversations, she reveals why some companies thrive during crisis while others struggle for years—or don't survive at all. The Three Types of Companies in Crisis: Those that thrive (like Jeff's Hungry Marketplace) Those still struggling five years later Those that didn't make it Deborah unpacks the counterintuitive truth that the key to rapid growth is subtraction—eliminating the activities that cloud real results. When every department shows green but business growth shows red, it's time to focus on what truly matters: your customers' biggest pain points. What separates thriving CEOs from the rest? They clarify direction and required outcomes They make 2-3 big strategic decisions per year They lead with inspiration, not just management They ensure every team member understands their role in the bigger picture This episode includes powerful excerpts from Jeff Grass's interview, highlighting how culture built in good times becomes your lifeline during the storm. As Deborah puts it: "Where the eyes are focused, the mind and body go. Get your team looking up and to the right." This episode is perfect for CEOs facing current market headwinds, leaders struggling with focus amid distractions, and executives who want to understand why some businesses defy market trends while others wait it out. Listen to Jeff's full episode here - #110. About HUNGRY Marketplace HUNGRY’s mission is to deliver happiness & wellbeing to the workplace by providing amazing food and food experiences. HUNGRY has a comprehensive platform for office catering, group order, special events, pantry, markets & snacks which enables complete customization to client need.  HUNGRY now operates in 19 major cities across North America. and is rapidly disrupting the $60 billion office food industry.  Learn about HUNGRY at www.TryHungry.com

    9 min

  7. 06/18/2025

    EP110: From 95% Revenue Loss to $100M - A Comeback Blueprint

    Deborah Fell sits down with Jeff Grass, CEO and co-founder of Hungry Marketplace, to explore how exceptional leadership and company culture can turn a 95% revenue loss into a thriving business. Jeff shares the remarkable story of how Hungry Marketplace—a food tech platform connecting local chefs with corporate clients—not only survived the COVID-19 pandemic but emerged stronger than ever. When office catering disappeared overnight, Jeff and his team didn't just adapt—they innovated their way out of crisis, ultimately delivering 1.5 million meals per month to underserved communities and partnering with organizations like World Central Kitchen. About HUNGRY - HUNGRY’s mission is to deliver happiness & wellbeing to the workplace by providing amazing food and food experiences. HUNGRY has a comprehensive platform for office catering, group order, special events, pantry, markets & snacks which enables complete customization to client need.  HUNGRY now operates in 19 major cities across North America. and is rapidly disrupting the $60 billion office food industry.  Learn about HUNGRY at www.TryHungry.com

    27 min

  8. 06/11/2025

    EP109: Activities vs. Outcomes: Why Most Teams Miss the Mark

    There's a fundamental difference between being busy and being effective. You can have a team that hits every activity metric and checks off every box—but if revenue isn't growing, are they really succeeding? This week's commentary explores a powerful shift: moving from loyalty-based cultures to accountability-based ones. It's the difference between rewarding people for showing up versus rewarding them for delivering results that actually move the business forward. We dive into what it means to build a culture where everyone understands how their role contributes to business goals and has the tools to deliver real outcomes. This isn't about micromanagement—it's about creating an environment where success is clearly defined and team members can see the direct connection between their work and company growth. When done right, this shift doesn't just transform businesses—it transforms lives. The full episode is here.   ABOUT OUR GUEST: Carolyn Lagermasini is President and Founder of Association & Conference Group (ACG), which she launched in 2005 after experiencing lackluster service as a volunteer board member and recognizing the industry's potential. With over 25 years of event and association management experience, including launching a successful division at a premier conference production company, Carolyn has grown ACG from an idea to a thriving firm employing over 20 professionals across 13 states. She holds a BA and BS from Rutgers University, earned the Certified Association Executive (CAE) credential, and actively serves on the Rutgers University Alumni Association Alumni Leaders Council and as a member of the AMC Institute.   LINKS FROM THIS EPISODE: SOCIAL HANDLES FOR OUR GUEST: LINKEDIN: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carolyn-lagermasini/ COMPANY ON LINKEDIN: https://www.linkedin.com/company/association-&-conference-group-llc/  COMPANY WEBSITE: https://associationconferencegroup.com/  CHIEF OUTSIDERS: WEBSITE: https://chiefoutsiders.com  LINKEDIN PAGE: https://www.linkedin.com/company/chief-outsiders/  X HANDLE: @chiefoutsiders FACEBOOK HANDLE: @ChiefOutsiders DEBORAH FELL ON LINKEDIN: https://www.linkedin.com/in/deborahfell

    9 min
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About

This podcast is aimed at helping CEOs dig beneath the surface to find new pathways to increased profitability. Deborah Fell from Chief Outsiders, will seek to challenge and inspire leadership teams and provide immediately actionable solutions to unlock growth.

Information

  • Creator
    Deborah S. Fell
  • Years Active
    2023 - 2025
  • Episodes
    116
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2025 All rights reserved.
  • Show Website
    Success Beneath the Surface