Disruptive CEO Nation

What’s the secret to creating tech that people not only use but love? In this episode, I have the pleasure of sitting down with Erin Rollenhagen, founder of People Friendly Tech, to discuss her journey of creating innovative tech solutions that drive real behavioral change. Erin shares the importance of emotional engagement in tech products, offering a fresh perspective on why technology should move people, not just serve them. We dive into the challenges of scaling a tech company, her approach to leadership, and how her new book, Love at First Launch, provides a roadmap for visionary leaders looking to bring extraordinary tech to life. Here are some highlights: -Emotional Engagement in Tech: Erin explains why successful products aren’t just functional—they must connect with users on an emotional level to create lasting impact. -The Importance of Leadership in Tech Projects: Explore the leadership principles that drive successful tech launches, including clear communication and team alignment. -Creating Tech Products People Love: Find out how to identify the emotional core of your product and use it to engage users and drive loyalty. -Leveraging AI and Data Insights for Smarter Decision-Making: Understand how to integrate AI and data insights into your tech solutions to help businesses make more informed, strategic decisions. About the guest: Erin Rollenhagen is the founder and CEO of Entrepreneurial Technologies and People Friendly Tech, a company specializing in custom technology solutions, including apps, software, and AI integrations. With nearly 20 years of experience in the tech industry, Erin has led over 200 successful product launches, helping businesses create innovative products that drive meaningful change. She is passionate about building tech that not only solves problems but also connects with users on an emotional level. Erin is also the author of Love at First Launch, a guide for visionary leaders looking to bring extraordinary tech to life. Connect with Erin: Website: https://peoplefriendlytech.com/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/erin-rollenhagen-b4b7317/ Connect with Allison: Feedspot has named Disruptive CEO Nation as one of the Top 25 CEO Podcasts on the web, and it is ranked the number 6 CEO podcast to listen to in 2025! https://podcasts.feedspot.com/ceo_podcasts/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/allisonsummerschicago/ Website: https://www.disruptiveceonation.com/ #CEO #leadership #startup #founder #business #businesspodcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

If you’re making tech decisions faster than your team can absorb them or you’re worried AI might erase the “human” from your business; this conversation will feel like a deep breath and a reset button. Today, I sit down with Kate O’Neill. She’s known as the “tech humanist,” founder and CEO of KO Insights, and newly named member of the Thinkers50 list of top management thinkers in the world. We unpack her new book, What Matters Next? A Leader’s Guide to Making Human-Friendly Tech Decisions in a World That Is Moving Too Fast, and explore how leaders can stay grounded in purpose while navigating AI, automation, and constant change. Kate shares the “now–next continuum” and her Insights & Foresights model as practical ways to reduce overwhelm, make better decisions, and design a future that works for both your business and your people. If you’re leading through chaos and want your organization to be both high-performing and deeply human, this one is for you. Here are some highlights: -Redefining purpose as a question: How Kate uses one core question “How can we help humanity prepare for an increasingly tech-driven future?” and why reframing your mission as a question can sharpen strategy and culture. -The Now–Next continuum: A practical way for leaders to connect past, present, and future so the “future of work” feels less murky and more manageable, with clearer signals about what to do today. -Insights, Foresights, and “bankable foresights”: Inside Kate’s decision-making model that helps executives ask better questions, synthesize what they’re learning, and build a growing bank of future-ready insights instead of reacting in panic. -What “human-friendly” tech decisions really look like: From AI-driven layoffs to chatbots and educational tools, we talk about the hidden human costs of short-sighted tech choices for employees, customers, and students, and how to design more holistic, human-centered solutions. -AI, higher education, and the next generation of talent: Why banning tools like ChatGPT is a missed opportunity, how good prompting mirrors good delegation, and what universities and employers can do to better prepare young professionals for a prompt-based, AI-enabled workplace. About the guest: Kate O’Neill, known globally as the “Tech Humanist," is the founder and CEO of KO Insights, a strategic advisory firm dedicated to improving human experience at scale. Her innovative approach bridges the gap between technological advancement and human-centric values, influencing how organizations navigate digital transformation. She is also author of the book What Matters Next: A Leader's Guide to Making Human-Friendly Tech Decisions in a World That's Moving Too Fast, which was named a Thinkers50 2025 Best Management Book. With a career spanning over 25 years, Kate’s expertise is rooted in hands-on experience with category-defining companies. She was one of the first 100 employees at Netflix, where she pioneered the first content management role. She developed Toshiba America’s first intranet and founded [meta]marketer, one of the earliest digital strategy and analytics agencies. Connect with Kate: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kateoneill/ Website: https://www.koinsights.com/ Book: https://www.amazon.com/What-Matters-Next-Human-Friendly-Decisions/dp/1394296428 Connect with Allison: Feedspot has named Disruptive CEO Nation as one of the Top 25 CEO Podcasts on the web, and it is ranked the number 6 CEO podcast to listen to in 2025! https://podcasts.feedspot.com/ceo_podcasts/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/allisonsummerschicago/ Website: https://www.disruptiveceonation.com/ #CEO #leadership #startup #founder #business #businesspodcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Can love be a business strategy? In this episode, we talk about how leading with love can transform your team and your bottom line. Frank Danna, a seasoned leader and marketing expert, brings his wisdom on building authentic connections in the workplace. We explore how AI can enhance, rather than replace, human creativity and the importance of creating a culture that values trust, inclusion, and vulnerability. Frank shares his personal journey from a toxic work environment to one where love and empathy drive success, offering actionable advice for leaders looking to transform their organizations. Here are some highlights: -The Power of Love in Leadership: Frank explains how love, empathy, and trust are essential to creating a successful and human-centered workplace culture. -AI and Creativity: Frank discusses how AI can free up time for leaders to be more creative and focus on what truly matters: human connections. -Building a Culture of Love: Learn the six key behaviors—Inclusion, Empathy, Vulnerability, Trust, Empowerment, and Forgiveness—that make up a culture of love in the workplace. -The Challenge of Toxicity in Leadership: Frank shares his experience of working through a toxic work culture and how a shift in leadership behavior can turn things around. -Vulnerability as a Leadership Strength: Frank highlights the importance of vulnerability in leadership and how sharing personal stories can foster real connections with your team. About the guest: Frank E. Danna is the Marketing Director at Softway and Co-Founder of Culture+, where he transforms leadership through love, empathy, and behavior-driven change. Co-author of Love as a Business Strategy and Love as a Change Strategy, Frank challenges fear-based leadership practices and champions a human-first approach. He co-created Culture Rise, a transformative leadership experience that’s impacted over 6,000 leaders worldwide. Frank’s expertise spans storytelling, communication strategy, and creative content, having reached 100 million viral views on Vine and co-founding GhostCodes, acquired by Softway. He’s worked with brands like HBO, Twitter, and Coca-Cola, and is a sought-after speaker on culture, AI, and change. Connect with Frank: Website: ​​www.softway.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/frankdanna/ Connect with Allison: Feedspot has named Disruptive CEO Nation as one of the Top 25 CEO Podcasts on the web, and it is ranked the number 6 CEO podcast to listen to in 2025! https://podcasts.feedspot.com/ceo_podcasts/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/allisonsummerschicago/ Website: https://www.disruptiveceonation.com/ #CEO #leadership #startup #founder #business #businesspodcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

If your product strategy stops at the download, you’re leaving impact—and revenue—on the table. In this conversation, I sit down with Ghazenfer Mansoor, CEO & founder of Technology Rivers, to talk about building software that actually gets used, loved, and shared. Ghazenfer has been in mobile since the pre-iPhone days and has led the build of nearly 60 apps, primarily in healthcare. We explore ideas from his forthcoming book, Beyond the Download, including why retention beats acquisition, when a mobile app truly makes sense (and when a web experience is smarter), and how AI-driven, proprietary workflows can become a company’s real moat. We also step into leadership, including what it takes to fix “broken” projects, the values that guide his global remote team (transparency, fairness, and getting things done), and why peer networks and coaching matter for founders. It’s a practical, fast-moving chat for leaders who want their technology to create efficiency, differentiation, and long-term value. Here are some highlights: -Retention over acquisition: Ghazenfer shares practical ways to design for daily use and bring people back because downloads without engagement aren’t success. -“Do you really need an app?”: We unpack decision criteria for native vs. web, and why solving a real, repeat problem is the first gate before writing any code. -Workflow is the moat: How codifying proprietary processes, especially in healthcare and HIPAA-sensitive environments, creates efficiency, margin, and higher valuations. -Fixing broken projects: Common failure patterns (from feature chasing to UX missteps) and how to course-correct so you “build it right the first time.” -Leading a global team: The operating system behind Technology Rivers; clear KPIs, remote-first communication, fairness, and a growing commitment to women in tech. Plus the role of EO/Vistage-style peer groups and coaching for tough decisions. About the guest: Ghazenfer Mansoor is the founder and CEO of Technology Rivers, a Washington, D.C.–area software firm specializing in HIPAA-compliant healthcare SaaS and mobile apps. A mobile veteran since the pre-iPhone era, he has led the build of 59+ apps and numerous AI-powered workflow platforms that help service businesses scale, boost margins, and increase valuation. Known for “building it right the first time,” Ghazenfer is frequently tapped to rescue broken software projects. He’s the author of the forthcoming book Beyond the Download: How to Build Mobile Apps That People Love, Use, and Share Every Day and host of the podcast Lessons from the Leap. Active in EO and other CEO peer groups, he leads a global, values-driven team grounded in transparency, fairness, and getting things done. Connect with Ghazenfer: Website: https://technologyrivers.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gmansoor/ Connect with Allison: Feedspot has named Disruptive CEO Nation as one of the Top 25 CEO Podcasts on the web, and it is ranked the number 6 CEO podcast to listen to in 2025! https://podcasts.feedspot.com/ceo_podcasts/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/allisonsummerschicago/ Website: https://www.disruptiveceonation.com/ #CEO #leadership #startup #founder #business #businesspodcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

From dentist to consciousness architect, Dr. Kevin Kremer shares how purpose, processes, and mindset can transform a practice into a portfolio and a leader into a builder of thriving cultures. In this conversation, I sat down with Kevin, a dentist-turned-entrepreneur who has grown and scaled ten ventures and founded the Kremer Leadership Institute. We unpack the journey from a single practice to acquisitions, a patient finance company, and an implant surgery center delivering same-day reconstructions. Kevin explains his “three Cs” framework—customer, culture, company—and why culture is the hardest to keep healthy in 2025. We also dig into his book, Quantum Accountability, and his Quantum Awareness Model, exploring how accountability for your mindset leads to action and, ultimately, abundance. Along the way, Kevin shares a remarkable 93% year-over-year turnaround from a recent acquisition, practical ways he trains teams with playbooks and interactive learning, and how AI is reshaping both clinical and operational excellence. Here are some highlights: • The three Cs in practice: how balancing customer experience, culture, and company health creates the “sweet spot” for sustainable growth and why culture is the toughest to maintain. • From chairside to CEO: the steps that took Kevin from solo practitioner to acquiring practices, launching patient finance and membership programs, and opening an implant surgery center. • Playbooks that actually work: mapping the entire customer journey, training with short videos, and reinforcing skills through interactive quizzes to keep standards high across teams. • Mindset drives outcomes: inside Quantum Accountability and the Quantum Awareness Model and how accountability for your thinking leads to better actions and an abundance mindset. • Technology with a human core: real examples of AI in diagnostics, workflow, and same-day full-mouth restorations, plus why communication and trust will always be the differentiators. About the guest: Dr. Kevin Kremer is a dentist-turned-entrepreneur with 25 years of leadership in healthcare and business. He has built and scaled ten ventures, including a multi-location dental group, a patient finance and membership company, and a same-day implant surgery center. As founder of the Kremer Leadership Institute and author of Quantum Accountability, Kevin teaches his Quantum Awareness Model—moving from accountability to action to abundance—and the “three Cs” framework of customer, culture, and company. Known for practical playbooks and team training that elevate service standards, he’s led notable turnarounds, including a 93% year-over-year lift at a recent acquisition. Kevin combines cutting-edge technology with human-centered care and mentors clinicians to grow as confident, purpose-driven business leaders. Connect with Kevin: Website: https://www.kremerleadership.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/kremer-leadership-institute/ Connect with Allison: Feedspot has named Disruptive CEO Nation as one of the Top 25 CEO Podcasts on the web, and it is ranked the number 6 CEO podcast to listen to in 2025! https://podcasts.feedspot.com/ceo_podcasts/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/allisonsummerschicago/ Website: https://www.disruptiveceonation.com/ #CEO #leadership #startup #founder #business #businesspodcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

If you're ready to unlock the blueprint for explosive growth and transformative leadership, this conversation is for you. Dhaval Jadav, CEO of alliantgroup, shares insights into adapting and scaling a business in today’s fast-paced, disruptive world. From AI discovery and business innovations to talent and tax strategies, Dhaval has succeeded in building an integrated consultancy firm to help businesses overcome blind spots and thrive. In this episode, Dhaval dives into the power of investing in people, cultivating a transparent culture, and staying ahead of the competition with cutting-edge technology. He also offers practical advice on navigating the challenges of growth and change, and how CEOs can lead their businesses into the future with resilience and innovation. Here are some highlights: -Scaling with a Focus on People: Dhaval discusses how investing in and empowering his team has been the key to alliantgroup’s rapid growth from 2 to over 2,500 employees. -Building a Culture of Transparency: Learn how alliantgroup’s roundtable approach allows for open communication, where the best ideas win, no matter the title. -Embracing Disruption: Dhaval explains why businesses must disrupt themselves to stay relevant and how alliant uses technology like AI to stay competitive. -Managing Change in Growth: Scaling a business requires a solid change management plan. Dhaval shares strategies for helping employees adapt as the company evolves. -Future-Proofing the Workforce: With AI and digital workers on the rise, Dhaval offers insights on how to balance human talent with technology for a thriving, adaptable workforce. About the guest: Dhaval Jadav is the co-founder and CEO of alliantgroup. Under Jadav’s leadership, the firm has empowered 24,000+ companies in 70+ industries with actionable business solutions. Prior to founding alliant, Jadav developed his expertise in high-tech business deals as a member of a Mergers & Acquisitions/Private Equity/Strategic Buyer Services Group in San Francisco and honed his business operations acumen with Deloitte & Touche in its Washington National Office. Connect with Dhaval: Website: https://www.alliantgroup.com/ LinkedIn: Dhaval Jadav | LinkedIn Connect with Allison: Feedspot has named Disruptive CEO Nation as one of the Top 25 CEO Podcasts on the web, and it is ranked the number 6 CEO podcast to listen to in 2025! https://podcasts.feedspot.com/ceo_podcasts/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/allisonsummerschicago/ Website: https://www.disruptiveceonation.com/ #CEO #leadership #startup #founder #business #businesspodcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What if machines could sense the world like we do and use that awareness to make cities safer and more connected? In this episode, I sit down with Michael Kelly, Chief Strategy Officer at Mozee, to unpack Generative Perception Intelligence (GPI)—a fundamentally different approach to machine perception that goes beyond today’s catch-all “AI.” Michael shares how Mozee’s “community-first, human-centered” mission shows up in beautiful, real-world transportation experiences, why GPI is their beachhead for autonomous mobility (and far more), and how a band of “super builders” scaled from 4 to 20 people while preparing for a big Series A year. We also get personal: Michael’s path from JP Morgan to startups, his passion for entrepreneurship and intrapreneurship, and the books he recommends for anyone intent on building meaningful work and stronger communities. If you’re near a browser, peek at Mozeealong.com while you listen. Here are some highlights: -GPI vs. AI—what’s different: Michael explains “perception lag” and why Mozee built a single “brain” that processes multiple sensor inputs simultaneously rather than stitching together separate systems. -On-device, ultra-fast, resilient: GPI runs entirely on device (no cloud dependency), reacts orders of magnitude faster than human pain response, and is designed to operate even in disconnected or high-risk environments. -Autonomy as the beachhead: While autonomous vehicles are the first proving ground (and the inspiration behind “Mozee Along”), the same perception engine translates to drones, robotics, warehouses, traffic systems, and city-scale applications. -Scaling the builder culture: From 4 to 20 team members, a move into a 63,000-sq-ft facility, and a pipeline of large city contracts, including work tied to 2026 global events and groundwork for 2028, Mozee is preparing to launch its Series A off a major public milestone. -Purpose, category design, and careers: Michael’s take on entrepreneurship as a path to meaning and mobility, why Play Bigger belongs on every builder’s shelf, and how to apply category-creation thinking even as an intrapreneur. About the guest: Michael Kelly is the Chief Strategy Officer at Mozee, an autonomous mobility company revolutionizing urban transit with AI-powered, electric shuttles. Before joining Mozee, Michael spent 12 years at JPMorgan as VP of Investments, managing a global portfolio. He held Series 7, Series 66, and insurance licenses across 20+ states and was recognized for driving 60x business growth under his leadership. A serial entrepreneur, Michael launched his first venture in 2005 and now sits on the Dallas Entrepreneur Center’s Venture Board, fostering startup growth in DFW. He mentors with Plug and Play, Capital One, and MassChallenge accelerators and was an Entrepreneurship Fellow at SMU. Outside of work, Michael is an avid sports fan and enjoys serving as his daughter’s jester in his free time. Connect with Michael: Website: https://www.mozeealong.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/resolutemichael/ Connect with Allison: Feedspot has named Disruptive CEO Nation as one of the Top 25 CEO Podcasts on the web, and it is ranked the number 6 CEO podcast to listen to in 2025! https://podcasts.feedspot.com/ceo_podcasts/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/allisonsummerschicago/ Website: https://www.disruptiveceonation.com/ #CEO #leadership #startup #founder #business #businesspodcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What if the next level of your leadership isn’t about learning more but aligning more? In this conversation with Grace Najean, we explore how high achievers can move from stress-driven success to effortless, purpose-anchored leadership. As a former concert pianist turned corporate strategist and master coach with Tony Robbins, Grace brings a rare left-brain/right-brain lens to leadership. In our talk, we unpack her “vessel, compass, and light” model—body, mind, and consciousness—and why knowledge alone rarely transforms a leader. We also name the pattern many of us feel but seldom admit: “achievement fatigue.” Grace offers simple, practical practices and a dimensional view of leadership. If you’re ready to trade pressure for presence, this episode will meet you where you are and invite you to lead from alignment. Here are some highlights: • From knowledge to integration: Shift from simply collecting information to truly integrating it by aligning your body (energy/resilience), mind (clarity/emotional intelligence), and consciousness (presence/intuition), so leadership transforms rather than just informs. • Naming “achievement fatigue”: Recognize the often-hidden cost of success—feeling drained despite appearing successful—and gain the language and awareness to identify the blind spots that high achievers often overlook. • A practical reset you’ll actually use: Implement simple yet effective practices, such as coherent breathing (inhale for 5, exhale for 5), a 50-to-1 countdown for focus, and a morning visualization of 2–3 outcomes, to shift your day from reactive to intentional. • The 3D→4D→5D leadership framework: Progress from 3D (survival/reactive) to 4D (awakening/self-aware) to 5D (visionary/aligned), realizing that true leadership comes not from more strategy, but from changing the dimension in which you operate. • Retreat as a catalyst for alignment: Discover why immersive environments, like Grace's 7-day retreat in Lombok, are key to accelerating transformation, using vocal empowerment and energy work to help leaders align their mind, body, and purpose. About the guest: Grace’s professional and personal journey embodies the fusion of creativity, strategy, and soulful leadership. Starting as a professional pianist in her youth, she cultivated discipline and artistic expression that remain integral to her leadership approach. Transitioning into corporate roles, Grace spent over a decade excelling in strategy and business development before stepping into her calling as a leadership coach. Her eight years as a Platinum Tony Robbins Coach and over 4,500 hours of coaching have empowered her to transform high-performing leaders around the globe. Through these experiences, she developed The Soulfluence© , a framework that harmonizes Body, Mind, and Consciousness for authentic and impactful leadership. Connect with Grace: Website: https://gracenajean.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gracenajean/ Soulfluence Retreat: https://app.gohighlevel.com/v2/preview/hKSyiNjj4Hx9IrbZaWNN?notrack=true Connect with Allison: Feedspot has named Disruptive CEO Nation as one of the Top 25 CEO Podcasts on the web, and it is ranked the number 6 CEO podcast to listen to in 2025! https://podcasts.feedspot.com/ceo_podcasts/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/allisonsummerschicago/ Website: https://www.disruptiveceonation.com/ #CEO #leadership #startup #founder #business #businesspodcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Want to be the leader people lean in to hear—without getting louder, longer, or “less you”? This conversation shows you how to turn your ideas into influence and how to say them. Today I’m joined by Dr. Laura Sicola—executive presence mentor, TEDx advisor, and author of Speaking to Influence: Mastering Your Leadership Voice. We dig into the moment that matters most: those first seven seconds and the next seven when you open your mouth. Laura unpacks the “authenticity myth,” shares her simple “digital mixing board” for tuning your delivery (without changing who you are), and explains why even the quietest voice can command a room. We also talk about pitch coaching for founders, crafting a TED-worthy talk, and how to make networking feel natural. If you’re climbing to the C-suite, raising a round, or leading a mission-driven team, this is a masterclass in aligning what you say with how you say it so your credibility, clarity, and confidence are undeniable. Here are highlights: -7 + 7 Seconds Rule: First impressions land fast—and the next seven seconds (your first words) either confirm or rewrite them. Make those opening lines count. -The Authenticity Myth: Being “authentic” isn’t being unfiltered. Leadership requires tact, intention, and alignment—not a louder version of you. -Your Digital Mixing Board: Don’t flip an on/off switch—tweak levers like pace, volume, jargon, and intensity to fit the audience while staying you. -Quiet Can Command: Authority comes from congruence and presence, not decibels. Calm, focused delivery can move 200 people without raising your voice. -From Pitch to TED: Win investors (bet the jockey!) and craft a killer TED talk by challenging assumptions, telling real stories, and driving to one clear takeaway. About the guest: Dr. Laura Sicola is a leadership communication and influence expert based in Philadelphia, PA. She is the founder of Vocal Impact Productions and the author of Speaking to Influence: Mastering Your Leadership Voice. With over 20 years of experience, she helps executives, entrepreneurs, and rising leaders develop executive presence, master the art of influence, and align how they speak with what they want to achieve. A TEDx speaker and advisor, Laura has worked with leaders from Fortune 500 companies, government agencies, and nonprofits worldwide, guiding them to communicate with clarity, confidence, and impact. Connect with Laura: Website: https://laurasicola.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/laurasicola-inc/ Buy the book: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CP4D611Z?ref_=cm_sw_r_cp_ud_dp_6GKSA3X8WMAPHBGSDH0B Connect with Allison: Feedspot has named Disruptive CEO Nation as one of the Top 25 CEO Podcasts on the web, and it is ranked the number 6 CEO podcast to listen to in 2025! https://podcasts.feedspot.com/ceo_podcasts/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/allisonsummerschicago/ Website: https://www.disruptiveceonation.com/ #CEO #leadership #startup #founder #business #businesspodcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

If you’ve ever felt stuck running the day-to-day while the future rushes past, this conversation is your permission slip to step outside the building and rethink how your company actually innovates. In this episode, I sit down with innovation strategist and author Alan Gregerman to challenge the way leaders pursue “new.” We unpack his upcoming book The Wisdom of Ignorance and the counterintuitive idea that breakthrough ideas often come from not being the expert. Alan shares why most companies confuse process improvement with innovation, how to unlock the genius in your teams (especially your newest hires), and six leadership habits that keep organizations relevant in a world that won’t slow down. You’ll leave with practical ways to fuel curiosity, test faster, and future-proof your business. Here are highlights: -Innovation ≠ Incrementalism: Alan draws a sharp line between improving what exists and pursuing big, valuable problems, urging CEOs to imagine their company five years out and backcast a path to get there. -The 99% Rule: Breakthroughs are rarely born on a whiteboard. 99% of new ideas build on something that already exists. Get your team out into the world (museums, neighborhoods, other industries) to borrow and remix smarter. -Six Keys to Relevance: Be purposeful, curious, humble, respectful, future-focused, and a bit paranoid. You’re creating value while scanning for the competitor who might “eat your lunch.” -Use Fresh Eyes on Purpose: In onboarding, hand new hires a clipboard and ask them what you’re doing well, where you’re stuck, and what other industries are doing better—before you “teach” them your way. -Ship the Half-Bake (Responsibly): Stop waiting for perfection. Launch minimally viable ideas that deliver real value and let customers help you iterate your way to remarkable. About the guest: Alan Gregerman is an innovation strategist, author, and the President & Chief Innovation Officer of Venture Works. For more than two decades, he has helped companies of all sizes remain relevant in fast-changing markets by unlocking the “genius” in their people and organizations. Alan has been featured in over 250 outlets, including The Wall Street Journal, NPR, and CNN. He is the author of Lessons from the Sandbox, Surrounded by Geniuses, The Necessity of Strangers, and the forthcoming The Wisdom of Ignorance, a blueprint for leading breakthrough innovation. Based in the Washington, D.C. area, Alan works across industries and donates 20% of his time to small nonprofits, bringing the same tools and rigor he uses with corporate clients to missions that make the world better. Connect with Alan: Website: www.alangregerman.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alan-gregerman-a33b236/ Connect with Allison: Feedspot has named Disruptive CEO Nation as one of the Top 25 CEO Podcasts on the web, and it is ranked the number 6 CEO podcast to listen to in 2025! https://podcasts.feedspot.com/ceo_podcasts/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/allisonsummerschicago/ Website: https://www.disruptiveceonation.com/ #CEO #leadership #startup #founder #business #businesspodcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ever wondered how AI can actually make a real impact on your bottom line? In this episode of Disruptive CEO Nation, Ron Green, co-founder of KungFu.AI, shares how he helped a publicly traded company cut their fraud rate, reduce turnaround times to mere seconds, and add $250 million to their market cap with the power of AI. Join me for an enlightening conversation with Ron Green as we explore the true potential of AI beyond the buzzwords. From real-world case studies to the challenges and opportunities AI presents, Ron explains how businesses are using AI to drive innovation and growth. Whether you're a CEO looking to understand AI’s role in your company or just curious about its impact, this episode is packed with valuable takeaways for today’s leaders. Here are highlights: -AI in Business Transformation: Ron shares how AI is being used to drive real, measurable results across various industries, including healthcare and finance.-Avoiding the AI Boondoggle: Learn why many AI projects fail and how to avoid common pitfalls that waste time and capital. -Case Study Successes: Discover how Kung Fu AI helped a loan factoring company transform its operations, saving time and money while increasing customer satisfaction. -Practical Advice for CEOs: Ron discusses the best approach for CEOs to adopt AI, stressing the importance of starting small and focusing on ROI. -The Future of AI in Programming: Hear about the impact of AI on software development, and why junior programmers are particularly affected. About the guest: Ron Green is an AI expert and serial entrepreneur with over 20 years of experience in the technology and business sectors. As the Co-founder and Chief Technology Officer of KUNGFU.AI, Ron leads a team of talented machine learning engineers and data scientists in developing cutting-edge AI solutions. With a proven track record in deploying AI systems across a variety of industries including healthcare, government, retail, real estate, and financial services, Ron has consistently driven innovation and measurable impact. He is also the host of Hidden Layers: Exploring the People and Tech Behind AI, where he delves into the world of AI, its evolution, and its transformative potential. Connect with Ron: Website: https://www.kungfu.ai/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rongreen/ Resources: https://www.kungfu.ai/resources/hidden-layers Connect with Allison: Feedspot has named Disruptive CEO Nation as one of the Top 25 CEO Podcasts on the web, and it is ranked the number 6 CEO podcast to listen to in 2025! https://podcasts.feedspot.com/ceo_podcasts/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/allisonsummerschicago/ Website: https://www.disruptiveceonation.com/ #CEO #leadership #startup #founder #business #businesspodcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

When life throws chaos at you like typhoons, tech meltdowns, or 87 million live viewers; Anne Marie Anderson’s rule never changes: work the problem. In this week’s energizing conversation, broadcaster and author Anne Marie Anderson joins Allison to explore the mindset behind her book Cultivating Audacity: How to Dismantle Doubt and Take Bold Risks. Drawing on three decades in elite sports and leadership rooms, Anne Marie breaks down the four barriers that stall careers and shows how to turn each into fuel. She shares the now-famous mantra “work the problem,” reframing failure as data, not drama, and walks us through practical frameworks like Your Two Lives, the Front Row (your accountability circle), Jump (taking the leap before you feel ready), and the continual Reevaluation Loop. From international travel snafus with her 13-year-old to her first on-air moment beamed into 87 million homes, Anne Marie reveals how calculated risk builds resilience, clarity, and results. Here are highlights: -Work the Problem (Always): Strip out ego and emotion, identify what’s actually true, list options, act, then iterate. -Name the Four Barriers: Most stalls trace back to fear, time, money, or the inner critic; bring each into the open and use it. -Failure = Data, Not Identity: Trade shame for information. What did you try, what happened, what will you change next? -Your Two Lives & the Jump: You can keep the life you have or take a calculated leap; you’ll never feel fully “ready.” -Build Your Front Row: Curate challengers, not cheerleaders, who push, check in, and keep you accountable without jealousy. About the guest: Anne Marie Anderson is a three-time Emmy Award–winning broadcaster, keynote speaker, and author with over three decades in sports television, covering six Olympic Games, heavyweight title fights, golf’s majors, NBA and MLB playoffs, and the Super Bowl. As one of the most experienced female play-by-play announcers in the country, she calls more than 75 live events each year for ESPN, ABC, NBC, FOX, and TBS, and has been nationally recognized for her journalism and leadership in advancing sport. She is the author of Cultivating Audacity: How to Dismantle Doubt and Take Bold Risks, a guide to overcoming barriers like fear, time, money, and the inner critic by reframing failure as data and embracing persistence, resilience, and curiosity. Known for her humor, authenticity, and storytelling, Anne Marie is also a sought-after keynote speaker and emcee who inspires audiences to pursue audacious and fulfilling lives. Connect with Anne Marie: Get the book on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1646871693 Website: https://annemarieanderson.com/ LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/anne-marie-anderson-3557ab39 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/annemarieandersontv/ Connect with Allison: Feedspot has named Disruptive CEO Nation as one of the Top 25 CEO Podcasts on the web, and it is ranked the number 6 CEO podcast to listen to in 2025! https://podcasts.feedspot.com/ceo_podcasts/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/allisonsummerschicago/ Website: https://www.disruptiveceonation.com/ #CEO #leadership #startup #founder #business #businesspodcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What does it mean for business leaders to not just keep their heads down—but lift their chins up? In this episode, we explore how CEOs and entrepreneurs can step into authentic leadership that unites, inspires, and drives change. In this thought-provoking conversation, we sit down with Neil Ghosh, President of MGR Professional Services and author of Do More Good. With a career spanning government, nonprofit, and for-profit sectors, Neil has reinvented himself as a bridge builder and champion of authentic business leadership. Together, we unpack the unique role businesses play in today’s culture and governance, and why trust, empathy, and purpose are no longer “nice to haves” but essential pillars of leadership. Neil also shares powerful insights from his book, which features stories of inspiring leaders and provides actionable steps for anyone who wants to move beyond inspiration to meaningful action. From cultivating moral leadership to embedding corporate social responsibility into a company’s DNA, this episode challenges us all to consider what kind of citizen—corporate and personal—we want to be. Here are highlights: -The Trust Recession: Why Neil calls this moment in history a “trust recession”—and why business leaders are now more trusted than governments and media. -Shifts in the Workforce: The three major shifts reshaping the workforce: cultural diversity, generational expectations, and the demand for moral leadership. -Navigating Polarization: How leaders can unite their teams without diluting core values in today’s divisive climate. -CSR as Strategy, Not Charity: Why doing good isn’t just a feel-good exercise—it’s good business, and how companies can integrate CSR into their DNA. -Purpose, Empathy, and Action: The pillars of Neil’s book Do More Good and how small steps can drive outsized impact. About the guest: Neil Ghosh is a seasoned executive whose expertise spans the nonprofit, government, philanthropic, and private sectors. His book, Do More Good, showcases some of the most captivating individuals in modern history—people he has met and interacted with on his mission to inspire meaningful change. With 30+ years of experience, Neil has successfully launched and scaled both nonprofit and for-profit ventures, building teams, business models, partnerships, and strategies to drive impact and support vulnerable populations in more than 50 countries. Neil’s work has been featured in national outlets including CNN, Devex, the Washington Post, Economic Times, Voice of America, the Australian, the Huffington Post, Patheos, and Stanford Social Innovation Review. Connect with Neil: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/neilghosh1/ Website: https://www.neilghosh.org/⁠ Connect with Allison: Feedspot has named Disruptive CEO Nation as one of the Top 25 CEO Podcasts on the web, and it is ranked the number 6 CEO podcast to listen to in 2025! https://podcasts.feedspot.com/ceo_podcasts/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/allisonsummerschicago/ Website: https://www.disruptiveceonation.com/ #CEO #leadership #startup #founder #business #businesspodcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What does it mean to be the kind of leader who doesn’t break even in the face of chaos, uncertainty, and relentless pressure? In this episode of Disruptive CEO Nation, we sit down with Andrew Wittman, PhD– author, speaker, and founder of the Mental Toughness Training Center. With a background ranging from U.S. Marine Corps combat to protecting high-profile leaders as a Federal agent, Andrew now equips CEOs and entrepreneurs with the “inner armor” needed to thrive under pressure. Together, we explored the concepts of mindset, resilience, and problem-solving skills that allow leaders to safeguard their reputation, make better decisions, and lead with confidence in unpredictable times…and we have to add that Andrew was one of our most humble and down-to-earth guest that we are sure you will enjoy listening to. Here are highlights: -Perpetual resilience vs. bouncing back: Why true leadership is about pre-deciding who you are before the crisis hits. -Thinking as a physical skill: How to train your mind to stay calm, ordered, and in control under stress. -Cellular problem-solving: The importance of diagnosing the root cause instead of treating surface-level symptoms in business. -Guarding your reputation: Why CEOs must see themselves as brand ambassadors and protect both their image and their people. -Thriving in chaos: How to lead decisively when uncertainty, AI disruption, and global instability make predictability impossible. About the guest: Andrew D. Wittman, PhD, is a United States Marine Corps infantry combat veteran, former police officer, and federal agent. As a Special Agent for the U.S. Capitol Police, he led the security detail for Nancy Pelosi and personally protected high-profile figures including Hillary Clinton, Benjamin Netanyahu, King Abdullah of Jordan, and Sir Elton John. As a private military contractor for the U.S. State Department, he trained former Navy SEALs, Marines, Army Rangers, and Special Forces in high-threat diplomatic security. These are the real-world crucibles where he forged the system behind Inner ArmorTM—his powerful framework for mastering pressure, mental toughness, and emotional control. Wittman’s latest book, INNER ARMOR: Perpetual ResilienceTM, is the centerpiece of his national media campaign and corporate speaking tour. Drawing on three decades of elite military, law enforcement, and leadership experience, this tactical guide provides the tools to build emotional sovereignty and thrive in the chaos of today’s world. It’s more than just another book on grit—it’s a field manual for rewiring your mental operating system. Connect with Andrew: Email: info@getwarriortough.com Website: https://getwarriortough.com/ LinkedIn: linkedin/com/Andrew-D-Wittman YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/TheWarriorMonk316 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/warriortoughphd/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GetWarriorTough/ Connect with Allison: Feedspot has named Disruptive CEO Nation as one of the Top 25 CEO Podcasts on the web, and it is ranked the number 6 CEO podcast to listen to in 2025! https://podcasts.feedspot.com/ceo_podcasts/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/allisonsummerschicago/ Website: https://www.disruptiveceonation.com/ #CEO #leadership #startup #founder #business #businesspodcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What does it really take to lead with empathy in today’s fast-paced world? Today we invited Angie Morgan, a New York Times bestselling author and Marine Corps veteran. She reveals how blending mission-driven leadership with genuine care for your people creates unstoppable teams. In this insightful conversation, Angie dives deep into the evolving world of leadership. From her time in the Marine Corps to leading multinational companies, Angie teaches us how empathy, clarity, and courage are the foundation for effective leadership. Learn how to strike the balance between caring for your team and driving results without compromising your mission. Whether you're a leader or aspiring to be one, this episode is packed with real-world wisdom that will help you rise to your best leadership potential. Here are highlights: -Empathy in Leadership: How understanding and connecting with your team's emotions fosters stronger performance and results, without lowering expectations. -Leading from the Front: The Marine Corps philosophy of "Mission First, People Always" and how it can transform your approach to leadership in any business. -The Power of Clarity: Angie explains how getting clear on your vision and purpose is the first step toward leading yourself and others effectively. -Courage to Take Risks: Why embracing calculated risks is essential for leadership growth, and how to overcome the fear of failure. -Authenticity in Leadership: Angie reflects on the importance of leading as your true self and how authenticity breeds trust and respect within your team. About the guest: Angie Morgan is a respected author, leadership expert, and thought leader, having written three books on leadership: Leading from the Front, Spark, and Bet on You. She’s a regular contributor to publications like Harvard Business Review, Fast Company, and Inc. For the past 20 years, Angie has worked with major organizations such as Google, FedEx, and Boston Scientific, helping them develop leadership potential through keynotes, consulting, and coaching. Passionate about empowering others, she shares insights via her blog, social media, podcast, and online courses. When she's not helping others succeed, Angie enjoys spending time with her two boys and training for her next race by the lakeside in Traverse City, Michigan. Connect with Angie: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/theactualangie/ Website: https://angieconnect.com/ Connect with Allison: Feedspot has named Disruptive CEO Nation as one of the Top 25 CEO Podcasts on the web, and it is ranked the number 6 CEO podcast to listen to in 2025! https://podcasts.feedspot.com/ceo_podcasts/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/allisonsummerschicago/ Website: https://www.disruptiveceonation.com/ #CEO #leadership #startup #founder #business #businesspodcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What if your biggest business breakthroughs aren’t just about strategy or hard skills but about building real, meaningful connections? In this thought-provoking episode, Noah Askin, a professor and leadership expert at UC Irvine, explores the powerful intersection of culture, vulnerability, and connection in the business world. Through a detailed discussion of his research, he uncovers how business leaders can intentionally craft an environment that nurtures authentic relationships. Noah explains how to balance results with meaningful cultural practices and why understanding yourself is the key to building thriving networks and communities. Whether you're a CEO, manager, or entrepreneur, Noah’s insights are sure to inspire new strategies for achieving both personal fulfillment and business success. Here are highlights: -Building Trust Through Vulnerability: Noah explains how being vulnerable is a cornerstone of trust-building, both personally and professionally. -The Importance of Self-Awareness for Leaders: Discover why great leadership begins with understanding your own biases, values, and assumptions. -The Role of Connection in Business: Learn how intentional connection not only improves workplace culture but drives better results across teams. -Creating a Thriving Company Culture: Noah shares practical tips for CEOs and leaders on cultivating a culture that aligns with both organizational goals and personal values. -The 8 Archetypes of Connection: Get introduced to different ways people connect and how understanding your own archetype can enhance your leadership style. About the guest: Noah Askin is an Associate Professor of Organization and Management at UC-Irvine’s Paul Merage School of Business, where he also serves as Faculty Director of their Leadership Development Institute. An award-winning teacher and researcher, Noah is an expert in organizational dynamics, leadership, and culture, focusing on the informal networks of communication and connection that drive organizational life. Noah’s work has garnered him recognition on the Thinkers 50 Radar list and has been covered by various publications, including the BBC, The Economist, Rolling Stone, NPR, Vox, and Forbes. He lives with his family in Southern California. His book, Orchestrating Connection: How to Build a Purposeful Community in a Tribal World has been co-authored with David Homan. Connect with Noah: Website: https://noahaskin.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/noahaskin/ Connect with Allison: Feedspot has named Disruptive CEO Nation as one of the Top 25 CEO Podcasts on the web, and it is ranked the number 6 CEO podcast to listen to in 2025! https://podcasts.feedspot.com/ceo_podcasts/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/allisonsummerschicago/ Website: https://www.disruptiveceonation.com/ #CEO #leadership #startup #founder #business #businesspodcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What happens when a former automotive executive pivots into e-commerce logistics and builds one of the fastest-scaling fulfillment companies in the world? You’ll find out in this revealing conversation with Abel Horvath. In this episode of Disruptive CEO Nation, Abel Horvath, Founder and CEO of Fulfillment Hub USA joins the conversation. Starting out in Miami just months before the pandemic, Abel scaled his business to include facilities across the U.S., Europe, and South America—all while navigating global supply chain chaos, customer needs, and explosive e-commerce demand. Abel shares what it takes to lead a fast-growing logistics company, why customization is the future of fulfillment, and the unexpected lessons he’s learned along the way. If you’re in the business of physical products or curious about global entrepreneurship, this is a must-listen episode packed with operational wisdom, leadership insights, and inspiring grit. Here are highlights: -Abel’s Journey from Volkswagen to Founder: He left a corporate job at VW to start his own fulfillment business beginning with package forwarding and expanding into global e-commerce logistics. -Global Growth in Just a Few Years: Fulfillment Hub USA now has facilities in Miami, New York, LA, San Francisco, Poland, Germany, Colombia, India, and more. -Helping Clients Sell More, Not Just Ship: The company offers product customization, website setup, and marketing support to help clients grow, not just store and ship products. -Adapting to Tariffs and Changing Margins: When tariffs increased, Abel noticed which clients could absorb the cost and which couldn’t. This helped shape new strategies to serve different types of businesses. -Hard Lessons from Rapid Scaling: Abel shares the importance of cash reserves, having multiple backup plans, and building a team that’s willing to grow with you even during 14-hour workdays. About the guest: Abel Horvath is the visionary founder and CEO of Fulfillment Hub USA, a rapidly scaling e-commerce logistics company. With a Ph.D. in economics and years of experience at Volkswagen Group, Abel pivoted during the early days of the pandemic to build a global fulfillment network—from Miami to Europe and South America. Under his leadership, the company has grown to include multiple U.S. hubs and international operations in Poland, Germany, Colombia, and India, with new facilities on the horizon. Passionate about innovation, Abel empowers clients with value‑add services like product customization, marketing support, and full business setup. A relentless problem‑solver, he advocates for strong cash reserves, agility, and a loyal, dedicated team to support fast-paced growth. Connect with Abel: Website: https://fulfillmenthubusa.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/abelhorvath/ Connect with Allison: Feedspot has named Disruptive CEO Nation as one of the Top 25 CEO Podcasts on the web, and it is ranked the number 6 CEO podcast to listen to in 2025! https://podcasts.feedspot.com/ceo_podcasts/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/allisonsummerschicago/ Website: https://www.disruptiveceonation.com/ #CEO #leadership #startup #founder #business #businesspodcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It’s the 300th episode of Disruptive CEO Nation, and Allison Summers is flipping the script! Join her as she’s interviewed by Seth Greene, CEO of Market Domination LLC, for a special celebration filled with powerful leadership insights, behind-the-scenes stories, and a look at the incredible journey that led to this milestone. You won’t want to miss this! Together, they revisit the journey that led to this milestone and share invaluable insights on leadership, business growth, and the power of storytelling. With deep reflections on her evolving mission and what it truly means to be a disruptive CEO, Allison reveals how the show has influenced her leadership style and impacted her guests. From breakthrough moments to hidden gems of wisdom, this episode is a testament to the impact of business storytelling and the incredible leaders that shape it. Here are highlights: -The Journey to 300 Episodes: Allison reflects on her podcast journey, from initial self-doubt to confidently hosting deep, meaningful conversations with top CEOs and thought leaders across the globe. -The Power of Storytelling: Seth shares how Disruptive CEO Nation has embraced the art of storytelling to build authentic, profitable relationships for listeners, proving that the right message reaches the right ears at the right time. -Leadership Lessons: Allison discusses how her perspective on leadership has evolved through her conversations with innovative leaders, highlighting the importance of adaptability, trust, and fostering culture. -Impactful Guests & Global Business Insights: Allison shares touching stories of inspiring guests from around the world, including female entrepreneurs breaking barriers and global leaders shifting the way business is done. -Advice for Disruptive CEOs: Seth and Allison dive into what it takes to be a disruptive CEO, with Allison stressing the importance of resilience, self-awareness, and staying true to your mission in business. Features: Seth Greene is Chief Executive Officer at Market Domination, one of the fastest growing privately held marketing firms. Seth is the only person to be nominated 3 years in a row for Dan Kennedy's prestigious Marketer of the Year award. He is the author of the Ultimate Podcast Book, how to grow your business with a podcast. https://www.marketdominationllc.com/ A note from the producer: Shout out to you, the listeners, and to Allison! Allison, your weekly stories are so inspiring and I am so happy to be here celebrating 300 episodes with you. This milestone is truly an accomplishment. So excited to see the next one! Connect with Allison: Feedspot has named Disruptive CEO Nation as one of the Top 25 CEO Podcasts on the web, and it is ranked the number 6 CEO podcast to listen to in 2025! https://podcasts.feedspot.com/ceo_podcasts/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/allisonsummerschicago/ Website: https://www.disruptiveceonation.com/ #CEO #leadership #startup #founder #business #businesspodcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week, Josip Rupena, Founder and CEO of Milo, reveals how his company is revolutionizing access to credit by letting clients use their crypto— without cashing it out. If you're curious about real-world crypto applications, borderless lending, and leading through regulatory headwinds, this is the episode you’ve been waiting for. Drawing on experience at Goldman Sachs and Morgan Stanley, Josip shares his journey from traditional finance to crypto-backed mortgages. Yes, buying real estate without selling your Bitcoin. We dive into how Milo raised millions in venture capital, scaled across six continents, and navigated the volatile regulatory landscape around crypto. You’ll also hear the story behind Milo’s owl logo, why “obvious” is a company value, and how Josip keeps his team aligned and energized across borders. Whether you're crypto-curious or a fintech founder in growth mode, this episode will challenge how you think about innovation, leadership, and the future of financial services. Here are highlights: -Bitcoin as Collateral: Learn how Milo lets clients buy U.S. real estate without selling their Bitcoin or paying capital gains tax. -Crypto Myths Debunked: Why the average crypto-backed mortgage client isn’t a “tech bro” but a responsible, long-term investor in their 30s to 50s. -From Wall Street to Web3: Josip’s journey from Goldman and Morgan Stanley to launching a global fintech startup powered by digital assets. -Building Through Volatility: How Milo adapted through regulatory pushback, rising interest rates, and crypto market downturns. -Branding with Purpose: The story behind the Milo name, its owl mascot, and the core company value: Simple, Fast, and Obvious. About the guest: Josip Rupena is the founder and CEO of Milo, a financial technology company that offers innovative crypto mortgage and lending solutions. Milo started in 2019 and has raised $24 million in venture capital from M13 Ventures, QED Investors, Metaprop, and 10x Capital. Prior to founding Milo, Josip was a financial advisor at Morgan Stanley working with international clients and financial institutions. Josip also worked at an investment firm with $1 billion in assets under management as a portfolio manager and head trader. He began his career at Goldman Sachs covering institutional private clients with over $3.5 billion in assets. Josip graduated Cum Laude from the University of Miami and majored in Finance. Connect with Josip: Website: https://www.milo.io/ LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/josiprupena Connect with Allison: Feedspot has named Disruptive CEO Nation as one of the Top 25 CEO Podcasts on the web, and it is ranked the number 6 CEO podcast to listen to in 2025! https://podcasts.feedspot.com/ceo_podcasts/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/allisonsummerschicago/ Website: https://www.disruptiveceonation.com/ #CEO #leadership #startup #founder #business #businesspodcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

From Hollywood stuntman to tech founder saving lives—Kenny Kelley’s journey is anything but ordinary. In this powerful episode, he shares how a motorcycle accident led him to create a game-changing safety tech company that’s revolutionizing workplace protection. We sat down with Kenny Kelley, founder and CEO of Silent Beacon, a personal safety technology company helping protect vulnerable workers through panic button solutions. Kenny’s journey to become to tech entrepreneur is a masterclass in resilience, reinvention, and listening to the market. He shares the origin story of Silent Beacon and the hard-earned lessons that came with funding, product-market fit, and scaling in regulated industries like healthcare. Kenny opens up about surviving the startup trenches, rebounding from naysayers, and why feedback is the fuel behind every innovation. If you’ve ever faced rejection, doubted your vision, or wondered how to pivot with purpose, this one’s for you. Here are highlights: A Stuntman’s Wake-Up Call: After a motorcycle accident left him unable to reach his phone, Kenny realized the tech gap in personal emergency response. From Shark Tank to Strategic Capital: Kenny passed on a Shark Tank deal to partner with a seasoned business mentor, prioritizing long-term guidance over fast fame. The Reality of Go-to-Market Missteps: Kenny candidly discusses how his initial launch strategy flopped and how shifting from B2C to B2B in regulated industries transformed his company’s trajectory. The Power of Listening (Especially to “No”): Silent Beacon 2.0 wasn’t born from flashy features. It was built by fixing what users hated. Kenny explains how product evolution is all about humble iteration. Protecting the Protectors: With alarming statistics on workplace assaults in healthcare, Kenny outlines how Silent Beacon is helping nurses, social workers, and educators feel safer on the job. About the guest: Kenny Kelley is the founder and CEO of Silent Beacon LLC. He began his entrepreneurial journey as a Hollywood motorcycle stuntman and founder of Adrenaline Crew LLC, where he produced videos and led teams of daredevil riders in live, on-road stunt shows that gained a global following online and at major events. After a serious motorcycle crash left him unable to reach his phone and call for help, the idea for Silent Beacon was born — a wearable, one-touch safety device that can instantly contact any number, including 911, and share your GPS location in real time. Connect with Kenny: Website: https://silentbeacon.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kenny-kelley-b3202555 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/Silentbeacon Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/silentbeacon/# Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thesilentbeacon Connect with Allison: Feedspot has named Disruptive CEO Nation as one of the Top 25 CEO Podcasts on the web, and it is ranked the number 6 CEO podcast to listen to in 2025! https://podcasts.feedspot.com/ceo_podcasts/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/allisonsummerschicago/ Website: https://www.disruptiveceonation.com/ #CEO #leadership #startup #founder #business #businesspodcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices