The EO Visionary Voices Podcast

Brent W. Peterson

I'm Brent Peterson from the Minnesota chapter of Entrepreneurs' Organization, and I believe every entrepreneur's journey is a marathon worth sharing. EO Visionary Voices brings you raw, honest conversations with founders who understand that building a business isn't about the sprint—it's about strategic endurance. Each episode, I sit down with EO members, startup founders, and seasoned Entrepreneurs who've learned that success comes from preparation, persistence, and the willingness to adjust mid-race. We dig into the pivots that changed everything, the mistakes that taught the most, and how these leaders use frameworks like EOS to turn complexity into clarity. You'll hear stories about balancing growth with purpose, leveraging peer learning, and building companies that can go the distance. Because entrepreneurship isn't just about crossing the finish line—it's about how you run the race. Whether you're starting mile one or approaching mile twenty-six, these conversations will give you the insights and inspiration to keep moving forward. After all, we're all in this ultramarathon together. Welcome to EO Visionary Voices—where entrepreneurs share the strategies that matter most.

  1. Blind CEO Runs 17 Marathons & Transforms Lives | EO Visionary Voices with Dr. Randy Pierce

    25 SEP

    Blind CEO Runs 17 Marathons & Transforms Lives | EO Visionary Voices with Dr. Randy Pierce

    In this episode of EO Visionary Voices , Dr. Randy Pierce, president and CEO of Future Insight, shares his journey of overcoming challenges as a visually impaired runner and how it parallels with business success. He emphasizes the importance of goal setting, teamwork, and accountability in both running and entrepreneurship. Dr. Pierce also discusses the impact of AI on business dynamics and the necessity of maintaining human connections in the workplace. The conversation concludes with insights into the mission of Future Insight and the importance of community in supporting those with vision loss. Takeaways Dr. Randy Pierce is the CEO of Future Insight, focusing on vision rehabilitation.Running has become a team sport for Dr. Pierce due to his visual impairment.Setting goals is crucial for personal and professional growth.The journey of training for a marathon mirrors the process of achieving business goals.Teamwork is essential; together everyone achieves more.Accountability should be viewed as a positive reward, not a punitive measure.AI is transforming business landscapes, but human connections remain vital.The process of achieving goals should be enjoyable, not just focused on the end result.Listening to negative thoughts is passive; one should actively change the narrative in their head.Building community is key to supporting individuals with vision loss. Chapters 00:00Introduction to Dr. Randy Pierce and His Role 02:09The Journey of Running and Overcoming Challenges 04:03The Importance of Goal Setting and Action 06:07Connecting Running with Business Goals 08:48The Role of Teamwork in Achieving Success 11:48Navigating Accountability in Business 13:54Comparing Running and Mountain Climbing 16:11The Impact of AI on Business and Team Dynamics 19:01Closing Thoughts and Future Insight 19:45UE - Outtro All AV version 1.mp4

    22 min
  2. From People-Pleaser to CEO: How to Say No and Build Boundaries in Business | EO Visionary Voices with Jen Fry

    3 SEP

    From People-Pleaser to CEO: How to Say No and Build Boundaries in Business | EO Visionary Voices with Jen Fry

    In this powerful episode of EO Visionary Voices, host Brent Peterson sits down with Dr. Jen Fry, CEO of Coordle and author of "I Said No: How to Have a Backbone and Boundaries Without Being a Jerk." As a professional speaker specializing in conflict resolution and culture, and founder of a tech company revolutionizing group travel and sports tourism, Jen brings invaluable insights on leadership, entrepreneurship, and the art of saying no. Jen shares her journey from being a "kind asshole" (her words!) to becoming a successful entrepreneur who helps others build essential boundary-setting skills. She reveals why conflict is actually a mental health issue and how leaders can create cultures where failure becomes a learning opportunity rather than a career-ending event. Throughout this engaging conversation, you'll discover practical strategies for setting boundaries without being a jerk, how to handle rejection in business, and why your best entrepreneurial lessons come from your worst failures. Jen also breaks down the critical difference between being nice versus being kind, and shares her unique approach to leadership that encourages innovation while maintaining accountability. Whether you're struggling with people-pleasing tendencies, looking to improve your leadership skills, or building your own business, this episode provides actionable insights that will transform how you approach difficult conversations and decision-making in professional settings. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Dr. Jen Fry and Coordle01:30 The Free Joke Project02:49 The Origin of "I Said No"05:29 Applying Boundaries to Business Leadership07:13 Setting Feelings Aside in Business Decisions10:02 When Leaders Should Listen vs. Say No13:59 Learning Entrepreneurship Through Failure15:37 Teaching Teams to Learn from Failure19:59 Shameless Plug: "I Said No" BookFollow Talk Commerce on your favorite platform: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@talkcommerceBluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/talkcommerce.bsky.socialApple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/talk-commerce/id1561204656Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7Alx6N7ERrPEXIBb41FZ1nTwitter: @talkingcommerceLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/talk-commerceFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/talkingcommerceWebsite: https://talk-commerce.com/

    22 min
  3. The Adaptive Leader: Embracing Vulnerability and Generational Wisdom with Jennifer Jensen

    26 AGO

    The Adaptive Leader: Embracing Vulnerability and Generational Wisdom with Jennifer Jensen

    In this powerful episode of EO Visionary Voices, we dive deep into the world of authentic leadership with Jennifer Jensen, founder of Authentic Leader. Discover why traditional leadership approaches are failing in today's multigenerational workplace and learn the revolutionary strategies that are transforming how successful entrepreneurs lead their teams. Jennifer shares her unique perspective on the critical difference between performance leadership and authentic leadership, revealing why vulnerability isn't weakness—it's your competitive advantage. From navigating generational differences to implementing reverse mentorship programs, this conversation is packed with actionable insights that will transform your leadership approach. You'll learn why investing in your people delivers the highest ROI of any business strategy, how transparency builds trust that drives innovation, and the surprising truth about what today's workforce really wants from their leaders. Jennifer's approach to unlearning outdated leadership myths while embracing adaptive leadership principles offers a roadmap for entrepreneurs ready to elevate their organizational culture. Whether you're leading a startup, scaling a business, or managing diverse teams across generations, this episode provides the tools and mindset shifts needed to become the authentic leader your organization needs. Don't miss Jennifer's insights on coaching, advisory services, and the power of developing leaders at every level of your organization. Chapters:00:00 - Introduction to Authentic Leadership with Jennifer Jensen03:23 - The Journey of Leadership Development and Entrepreneurial Growth06:07 - Performance vs. Authentic Leadership: Understanding the Difference09:10 - Generational Differences in Leadership and Workplace Dynamics12:23 - The Importance of Vulnerability in Leadership Success15:25 - Closing Thoughts and Leadership Resources This episode is essential viewing for entrepreneurs, business leaders, and anyone committed to building high-performing teams through authentic leadership principles. This has been produced in cooperation with Talk Commerce Follow Talk Commerce on your favorite platform: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@talkcommerceBluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/talkcommerce.bsky.socialApple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/talk-commerce/id1561204656Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7Alx6N7ERrPEXIBb41FZ1nTwitter: @talkingcommerceLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/talk-commerceFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/talkingcommerceWebsite: https://talk-commerce.com/

    17 min
  4. 19 AGO

    Building Ancient Traditions in the Digital Age: 29 Years of E-commerce Evolution with Michael Shapiro

    In this compelling episode, we explore the remarkable 29-year journey of Michael Shapiro, who founded Ketubah.com in 1996 and has successfully navigated the ever-changing landscape of e-commerce. From his early career setbacks to building a thriving business around the ancient Jewish tradition of the Ketubah (marriage contract), Michael shares invaluable insights about resilience, innovation, and the art of adapting traditional businesses for the digital age. Guest Bio Michael Shapiro is the founder and visionary behind Ketubah.com, one of the oldest continuously operating e-commerce sites, launched in 1996. With a background in history, political science, and brand management at Procter & Gamble, Michael left the corporate world to build a business that bridges ancient Jewish traditions with modern technology. He leads a team of nine and has recently authored "Ketubah Renaissance," a coffee table book chronicling the modern revival of Jewish marriage contracts. Business Evolution & Technology Platform Journey: HTML → ColdFusion → WordPress/WooCommerceAI Integration:HebrewNamer.com: AI-powered Hebrew name suggestion toolAI Ketubah text writing assistant with multiple styles (traditional to Shakespearean)Behind-the-scenes order processing automationBuilding custom functionality on standardized platformsLeadership & Team Building Transitioning from hands-on founder to visionary leaderBuilding a team of 9 that brings their own innovative ideasWorking with a Director of Operations (EOS-style integrator role)The joy of having team members contribute creative solutionsCreative Projects "Ketubah Renaissance" Book: Coffee table book documenting 60+ years of modern Ketubah artistry12-year journey from initial idea to publicationWorking with demanding editors and the growth processPublishing with Jewish Publication Society, releasing August 1st Notable Quotes "It's not just they're implementing my ideas, they're bringing their ideas. And that's something that has been a long-term goal for me." "I have a very well-developed creative side... connecting the dots in ways that perhaps other people haven't." "Writing the book was a labor of love and sometimes a labor of hate." Connect with Michael Shapiro Website: Ketubah.comEmail: info@ketubah.comInstagram: @Ketubah.comLinkedIn: Michael ShapiroBook Pre-order: "Ketubah Renaissance" on AmazonChapters 00:00Introduction to Michael Shapiro and Ketubah 02:24Michael's Journey to Entrepreneurship 07:43Understanding Ketubah: The Jewish Marriage Contract 09:33The Creative Vision Behind Ketubah 13:15Leveraging AI in Ketubah and Hebrew Namer 14:39Seasonality and Trends in the Ketubah Business 15:42Exploring EOS and Business Strategies 16:44The Ketubah Renaissance Book Project 19:06E-commerce Evolution and Platform Migration 21:53Closing Thoughts and Shameless Plug This has been produced in cooperation with Talk Commerce Follow Talk Commerce on your favorite platform:  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@talkcommerceBluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/talkcommerce.bsky.socialApple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/talk-commerce/id1561204656Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7Alx6N7ERrPEXIBb41FZ1nTwitter: @talkingcommerceLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/talk-commerceFacebook:  https://www.facebook.com/talkingcommerceWebsite: https://talk-commerce.com/

    25 min
  5. 16 JUL

    Blind Spots & Bad Decisions: Kevin McCarthy's Fall from Grace and Rise to Wisdom

    In this episode of Uncharted Entrepreneurship, Kevin McCarthy shares his journey as an entrepreneur, discussing his early ventures, the importance of leadership, and the concept of blind spots in decision-making. He emphasizes the need for connection in leadership and offers insights into how to better engage with teams. Kevin also introduces the Blind Spot Assessment, a tool designed to help individuals and organizations identify and address their blind spots for improved decision-making and relationships. Takeaways Kevin's passion lies in helping people make better decisions.He started his entrepreneurial journey with a lemonade stand.Blind spots can significantly impact decision-making in business.Leadership requires connection and understanding of team dynamics.The younger generation values purpose over money in their careers.Organizations often fail by promoting technical experts to leadership roles.Effective leadership is crucial for employee engagement and retention.The Blind Spot Assessment is a quick tool for identifying personal blind spots.Humility and vulnerability are essential traits for modern leaders.People want to feel valued and heard in their workplace. Chapters 00:00Introduction to Kevin McCarthy and His Passion 02:45Kevin's Early Entrepreneurial Journey 08:51Identifying Blind Spots in Business 14:01The Importance of Leadership and Connection 17:36Advice for New Leaders and Understanding Generational Differences 22:50The Blind Spot Assessment and Its Impact 26:01EOMinnesota-10sec-intro.mp4

    26 min
  6. 10 JUL

    Driving Change in Medical Transportation with Marsha Marseille on Uncharted Entrepreneurship

    In this episode of Uncharted Entrepreneurship, Marsha Marseille, co-founder of Cross Care Transport, shares her journey into the medical transportation industry. She discusses her day-to-day operations, the importance of defining roles within her business partnership, and the unique marketing strategies that set her company apart. Marsha reflects on her previous entrepreneurial experiences and the lessons learned, as well as her outlook on navigating economic challenges in the future. Takeaways Marsha Marseille is the co-founder of Cross Care Transport, focusing on non-emergency medical transportation.Her passion for self-care influences her approach to business and life.The idea for Cross Care Transport stemmed from her experiences in project management with seniors.Having a business partner allows for defined roles and effective teamwork.Marketing strategies include unique branding, such as their distinctive pink vans.Understanding the local market is crucial for a startup's success.Previous entrepreneurial experiences have equipped Marsha with valuable lessons.Navigating economic challenges requires adaptability and a positive outlook.Team dynamics and clear communication are essential for operational success.Marsha emphasizes the importance of customer service and responsiveness in her industry. Chapters 00:00Introduction to Marcia Marseille and Cross Care Transport 05:55Navigating Business Partnerships 12:02Lessons from Previous Ventures 16:54UE - Outtro All AV version 1.mp4

    19 min

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I'm Brent Peterson from the Minnesota chapter of Entrepreneurs' Organization, and I believe every entrepreneur's journey is a marathon worth sharing. EO Visionary Voices brings you raw, honest conversations with founders who understand that building a business isn't about the sprint—it's about strategic endurance. Each episode, I sit down with EO members, startup founders, and seasoned Entrepreneurs who've learned that success comes from preparation, persistence, and the willingness to adjust mid-race. We dig into the pivots that changed everything, the mistakes that taught the most, and how these leaders use frameworks like EOS to turn complexity into clarity. You'll hear stories about balancing growth with purpose, leveraging peer learning, and building companies that can go the distance. Because entrepreneurship isn't just about crossing the finish line—it's about how you run the race. Whether you're starting mile one or approaching mile twenty-six, these conversations will give you the insights and inspiration to keep moving forward. After all, we're all in this ultramarathon together. Welcome to EO Visionary Voices—where entrepreneurs share the strategies that matter most.