Pushing The Envelope

Send us a Text Message. In this episode of Pushing the Envelope, host James Gilman welcomes Phil Van Gelder, co-founder and principal at Atlanta Office Technologies (AOT). The conversation dives into Phil's journey from aspiring professional athlete to successful business leader in the copier industry. Phil shares his experiences, challenges, and insights on business leadership, personal growth, and the evolving landscape of technology. Key Points: From Sports to Sales:Starting AOT in Atlanta:Guiding Principles for Business Success:Adapting to Technological Changes:Balancing Professional and Personal Life:Phil Van Gelder’s story is a testament to the power of resilience, strategic thinking, and adaptability. His journey from aspiring athlete to a business leader offers valuable insights into overcoming challenges and thriving in a competitive industry. For a deeper dive into Phil's experiences and advice, be sure to listen to the full episode. This Show is sponsored by Perimeter Office Products

Send us a Text Message. In this episode of Pushing the Envelope, host James Gilman interviews Mike Scher, founder of Frontline Selling and CEO of Reach7. The conversation delves into Mike's career journey, the foundation and growth of his businesses, and his insights on leadership, sales, and entrepreneurship. Mike shares valuable lessons from his experiences, including the impact of 9/11 on his career path, the development of effective sales methodologies, and the recent launch of Reach7 Diabetes Studios. Key Points Discussed From Sales to Entrepreneurship Importance of the First Conversation Navigating Economic Crises Transition to Remote Work Innovating with Reach7 Diabetes StudiosMike Scher's journey from a seasoned sales professional to a successful entrepreneur showcases the importance of adaptability, discipline, and making decisive actions. His ventures, Frontline Selling and Reach7, demonstrate innovative approaches to solving complex problems in sales and healthcare. The episode offers valuable insights into leadership, business growth, and the impact of strategic decision-making. Remember, keep learning, thriving and pushing the envelope! This Show is sponsored by Perimeter Office Products

Send us a Text Message. In this episode of Pushing the Envelope, host James Gilman invites Kevin D. Monroe to discuss the power of gratitude, appreciation, and connection. They explore how these concepts can transform everyday experiences and foster deeper human connections. The conversation delves into Kevin's journey with gratitude, the impact of his gratitude challenges, and practical ways listeners can incorporate gratitude into their lives. Key Takeaways From This Episode: Kevin's Gratitude Journey: Kevin shares how he discovered the profound impact of gratitude on his life during a period of despair. His journey began with a 13-week challenge and evolved into a daily practice, leading to significant personal transformation. Gratitude Challenges: Kevin talks about the gratitude challenges he created, which engaged thousands of people globally. These challenges involved creative prompts to help participants recognize and express gratitude in various aspects of their lives. Fundamental Human Need: The discussion highlights a quote from William James about the fundamental human craving for appreciation. Kevin explains how recognizing and fulfilling this need can create meaningful connections and combat feelings of loneliness and disconnection. Practical Gratitude Practices: Kevin introduces simple yet powerful practices for cultivating gratitude, such as the "pause, notice, express" method. He emphasizes the importance of being intentional about noticing and expressing gratitude in everyday interactions. Impact Stories: Kevin shares moving stories from participants in his gratitude programs, including a single mother who overcame anxiety and a truck driver who experienced profound appreciation. These stories illustrate the life-changing effects of consistent gratitude practices. This episode with Kevin reveals the transformative power of gratitude and appreciation. Through engaging stories and practical advice, Kevin and James discuss how intentionally practicing gratitude can enhance personal well-being and foster deeper connections. Kevin’s journey and the success of his gratitude challenges offer inspiring examples of how ordinary people can achieve extraordinary lives by focusing on gratitude. Remember, keep learning, thriving and pushing the envelope! This Show is sponsored by Perimeter Office Products

Send us a Text Message. In this episode of "Pushing the Envelope," host James Gilman chats with Jeremy Porter, the CEO and founder of Atlanta Motorsports Park (AMP). The discussion delves into Jeremy's journey of establishing AMP, the challenges faced along the way, and the innovative strategies employed to turn his vision into a reality. Jeremy shares his insights on entrepreneurship, creativity, and leadership, offering valuable lessons from his extensive experience. 1. Fear as a Motivator: Jeremy explains how fear initially held him back from pursuing his dream but ultimately became a driving force. Despite lacking confidence and resources, he launched AMP in 2007, facing the 2008 financial crisis head-on. 2. Creativity Over Capital: With limited funds, Jeremy used creative strategies to build AMP. He negotiated financing terms with contractors, bartered for sponsorships, and leveraged memberships to generate revenue, demonstrating the importance of resourcefulness in business. 3. Continuous Innovation: AMP’s success lies in its constant evolution. Jeremy emphasizes the need for continuous innovation, adding new amenities and programs to keep the business fresh and engaging for members, ensuring they always get more than they expect. 4. Building a Strong Team: Jeremy discusses the importance of hiring the right people and learning from mistakes. He values generosity but cautions against rapid promotions, advocating for a balanced approach to employee growth and compensation. 5. Educating and Engaging Clients: AMP focuses on educating potential clients about the unique experiences it offers. By maintaining a feedback loop and adapting to clients' needs, AMP has created a community that thrives on shared passion for motorsports. In conclusion, Jeremy Porter’s journey with Atlanta Motorsports Park highlights the power of innovation, resilience, and strategic thinking. His experiences offer valuable lessons for entrepreneurs and leaders looking to push the envelope in their own ventures.

Send us a Text Message. In this engaging episode of Pushing the Envelope, host James Gilman talks with Carl Lubbe, a curiosity coach and founder of Get More Curious. They delve into the transformative power of curiosity in the workplace, exploring how it can alleviate common business challenges like talent retention, conflict resolution, and managing anxiety. Carl shares insights from his diverse career, including his background in music and non-profits, and discusses how these experiences shaped his approach to curiosity coaching. Key Points Discussed: 1. The Journey to Curiosity Coaching Carl reveals how his background in music and non-profits led him to recognize recurring problems in leadership and team dynamics. He emphasizes the importance of being interested in others to inspire them, a lesson he learned from his diverse professional experiences. 2. Curiosity as a Superpower Carl discusses how curiosity can defuse anger and anxiety in the workplace. He shares a powerful insight: “It’s neurologically impossible to be curious and angry at the same time.” This approach helps build empathetic bridges, reducing workplace tension and fostering better communication. 3. The Three A’s of Conflict Resolution Carl introduces his practical framework for managing difficult conversations: Acknowledge the other person's difficulty, affirm their effort, and ask what their win is. This method helps create a productive dialogue and ensures both parties feel valued and understood. 4. Adapting to Generational Differences in the Workplace Carl highlights the challenges of managing a multigenerational workforce. He explains the differences in work attitudes between older and younger generations and offers strategies for bridging these gaps through better communication and understanding. 5. Balancing Consumption and Creation Carl advises on managing the digital noise in our lives by balancing consumption with creation. He encourages listeners to carve out quiet time to foster creativity and share their unique perspectives, emphasizing the value of personal contribution over passive consumption. This episode sheds light on the significant impact curiosity can have on improving workplace dynamics and personal well-being. Carl Lubbe's insights and practical tools provide valuable guidance for leaders and employees alike, aiming to create happier, more productive work environments. To learn more about Carl Lubbe's work and the resources available at Get More Curious, visit getmorecurious.com and curiosity.training

Send us a Text Message. In this episode of "Pushing the Envelope," host James Gilman sits down with Kevin Brown, CEO of LeadSmart Technologies. Kevin shares his remarkable journey from being a firefighter in California to becoming a successful tech entrepreneur. Throughout their conversation, they discuss the importance of pushing boundaries in personal and professional life, the evolving landscape of sales and customer management, and the role of technology in modern business. Five Key Points from the Episode From Firefighter to Entrepreneur The Transition to Business Challenges and Growth in Entrepreneurship The Birth of LeadSmart Technologies Adapting to Technological Advancements Kevin Brown's story is a testament to the power of resilience, adaptability, and innovation. From his beginnings as a firefighter to leading a tech company, Kevin's journey underscores the importance of leveraging diverse experiences to push boundaries and achieve success. His insights into the evolving landscape of sales and technology provide valuable lessons for entrepreneurs and business leaders alike.

Send us a Text Message. In this episode of Pushing the Envelope, host James Gilman welcomes Cannon Berrong, CEO & Founder of Berrong Construction, with a compelling journey from sports and family life to entrepreneurship in the construction industry. This conversation offers a deep dive into the lessons learned and strategies employed by Cannon over his career, providing valuable insights into the world of business and personal development. Key Points Discussed: Early Influences and Competitive Spirit: Transition from Sports to Business: Establishing Berrong Construction: Business Growth and Strategy: Leadership and Building a Team: This episode encapsulates Cannon's journey through various phases of personal and professional growth, reflecting on the impact of early life experiences on his business acumen and leadership style. His narrative is a testament to the value of hard work, strategic planning, and community engagement in crafting a successful business. This show is Sponsored by Perimeter Office Products,

Send us a Text Message. In this week's episode of Pushing the Envelope, host James Gilman welcomes Steven Lefkoff, a seasoned attorney with a vibrant career narrative that captures both the essence of legal practice and the human side of the profession. Steven shares his journey from an intern to a passionate advocate for the legal profession, emphasizing his niche in business law and his unique approach to client relationships. 1. A Turning Point in London Steven recounts a pivotal moment during a study abroad trip in London where witnessing a trial at the Old Bailey, complete with the traditional robes and wigs of the British court, completely transformed his perception of the legal profession. This experience inspired him to pursue law, despite his initial reservations about the field's excitement level. 2. Building a Career on Relationships The core of Steven's practice revolves around being a "counselor" in the truest sense of the word—providing comprehensive support to his clients and prioritizing their reputation and trust over mere legal outcomes. This approach has helped him foster long-lasting relationships with clients, particularly in the automotive industry, where he has made a significant impact. 3. The Entrepreneurial Leap Steven details his transition from working at a small firm to founding Lefkoff Law in 2017. He discusses the strategic decisions and preparations involved, including financial planning and client transitions, which were crucial for his successful shift to entrepreneurship in the legal field. 4. Innovative Client Engagement Unique client engagement strategies set Steven apart. He utilizes tools like social media and personalized greeting cards to maintain and strengthen client relationships, ensuring that they feel valued and seen beyond the professional sphere. 5. Future-Focused Leadership In his leadership role, Steven emphasizes the importance of a positive workplace culture and proactive business planning. He uses strategic tools like organizational charts to plan future growth effectively and maintain a hands-on approach to team development and morale. This episode dives into the nuances of legal practice, highlighting the importance of personal connections, ethical practice, and innovative entrepreneurship within the traditionally rigid framework of law. Steven Lefkoff’s story is a testament to the dynamic and evolving nature of legal practice. Listeners are encouraged to delve deeper into the fascinating discussions of this episode and explore how traditional fields can be transformed by passion and innovation.

Send us a Text Message. In this episode of "Pushing the Envelope," host James Gilman welcomes Bruce Smith, a seasoned professional in business development and client service. The discussion revolves around Bruce's transition into the podcasting world with his show "Consuming Careers," which cleverly combines discussions on career development with a unique twist. Key Points from the Episode: Bruce's Leap into Podcasting: The Core Question: Impactful Stories and Insights: Reflections on Purpose and Perseverance: The Power of Authentic Conversations: In this episode, Bruce Smith delves into the motivations behind his podcast "Consuming Careers," discussing the intricate balance between being consumed by work and consuming one's career with intention and joy. The episode is a testament to the power of storytelling in understanding and navigating the complexities of professional life.

Send us a Text Message. In this enlightening episode of "Pushing the Envelope," host James Gilman welcomes Dirk Beveridge, a seasoned consultant and speaker with over 35 years of experience. They delve into Dirk's unique approach to leadership and distribution, providing valuable insights into navigating post-COVID challenges and harnessing personal energy for professional growth. Key Points Discussed: 1. Energizing Leadership: Dirk shares his philosophy on leadership, emphasizing the integration of mind, body, and soul to unleash one's spirit and energy. This holistic approach helps leaders maintain their drive and inspire their teams. 2. Post-COVID Observations: Dirk reflects on the changes he's observed in the distribution sector pre and post-COVID. He highlights the renewed focus on humanity and the importance of seeing beyond mere products to the value of helping people thrive. 3. The Noble Calling of Distribution: Describing distribution as a noble profession, Dirk explains its critical role in the economy and its power to create meaningful work that enhances lives. 4. We Supply America Initiative: Dirk discusses his initiative, "We Supply America," which involves traveling across the country to engage with and learn from various distribution companies. This journey underscores the significance of connecting with people at all organizational levels. 5. Personal Growth and Organizational Culture: The conversation also covers the necessity of fostering a culture that encourages personal growth and development within organizations, a theme central to Dirk's current projects and future events. This episode with Dirk Beveridge truly encapsulates the essence of leadership and growth within the distribution industry. Dirk’s experiences and insights serve as a reminder of the profound impact thoughtful leadership can have on both individual fulfillment and organizational success. His stories from the road highlight the importance of human connections and the potential of embracing challenges as opportunities for growth.

Send us a Text Message. In this episode of Pushing the Envelope, host James Gilman welcomes Joe Noonan, a seasoned professional in sales and leadership coaching from Inside Edge Consulting. Joe brings a wealth of experience, with over 21,000 hours of coaching, and a strong philosophy centered around fearless living, extraordinary value delivery, and the contagious nature of laughter. Key Points from the Episode: Embracing the Challenge: Value Over Volume: Innovative Prospecting: Leadership in Communication: Cultivating Accountability: The episode dives deep into the mechanics of effective leadership and sales strategies, enriched with Joe Noonan's practical insights and anecdotes. Listeners are encouraged to adopt a mindset of constant improvement and proactive communication.

Send us a Text Message. On yesterday's episode of Pushing the Envelope, I had a conversation with Jennifer Guynn, the Founder and Executive Director of Pebble Tossers, Inc. We discuss the atmosphere and operations of Pebble Tossers, a platform dedicated to fostering youth volunteerism and community service. 🔹 Genesis of Pebble Tossers: The inspiration for Pebble Tossers stemmed from a unique approach to birthday celebrations where children would request charitable donations instead of personal gifts. 🔹 More Than Just Helping Hands: Pebble Tossers doesn't just provide volunteer opportunities; it's a crucible for developing leadership, empathy, and life skills in young people. 🔹 Impactful Volunteering Experiences The s'mores distribution initiative for the homeless offers a profound learning opportunity for volunteers, reshaping their views and encouraging authentic interpersonal interactions. 🔹 Sustained Commitment to Community: Pebble Tossers' long-term commitment to maintaining a section of the Atlanta Beltline exemplifies the organization's dedication to sustained community service, instilling a sense of responsibility and pride in young volunteers. 🔹 Accessibility and Inclusivity in Volunteering: The organization ensures that volunteer opportunities are accessible and suitable for all ages, from young children to teenagers, facilitating an inclusive environment where anyone can contribute meaningfully to their community. This episode highlights the profound impact that Pebble Tossers Inc. has had on both the community and the young individuals it engages. By integrating service with personal development, the organization not only addresses immediate community needs but also cultivates a generation of empathetic, skilled, and community-minded individuals. The stories shared by Jennifer underscore the transformative power of volunteering, highlighting its role in building bridges across societal divides and fostering a culture of proactive citizenship.

Send us a Text Message. In the latest episode of "Pushing the Envelope," James Gilman welcomes special guest Louis K. Gump, who shares insights from his book "The Inside Innovator: A Practical Guide to Intrapreneurship. The episode delves into Louis's extensive experience in digital media and intrapreneurship, offering valuable lessons for those looking to innovate within organizations. Here are five takeaways from their discussion: ◽ The Journey of an Intrapreneur: Louis details his career trajectory, from his early days at a shipping company to leadership roles at the Weather Channel and CNN. His journey exemplifies how intrapreneurial thinking can drive innovation within established companies. ◽Defining Intrapreneurship: The episode explores the concept of intrapreneurship, distinguishing it from entrepreneurship. Louis highlights the unique challenges and opportunities intrapreneurs face within larger organizations. ◽Key Characteristics of Successful Intrapreneurs: Discussing traits like curiosity, bridge-building, and action orientation, Louis outlines the qualities that empower intrapreneurs to thrive and drive change within their companies. ◽Impact of Intrapreneurship on Career Growth: Louis emphasizes how engaging in intrapreneurial activities can catalyze career advancement, providing individuals with a platform to demonstrate their capabilities and contribute significantly to their organizations. ◽Resources and Continued Learning: The episode encourages listeners to explore additional resources on intrapreneurship, emphasizing the importance of continuous learning and adaptation in the rapidly evolving business landscape. Through his personal journey and the lessons outlined in his book, Louis sheds light on the transformative power of intrapreneurial thinking, encouraging listeners to embrace change and drive progress within their organizations.

Send us a Text Message. In this episode of Pushing the Envelope, James Gilman had a chat with Melanie L. Flores, an influential leader in the Atlanta business area with a rich background in various careers. Melanie shared her journey, providing insights into her upbringing, career, and the power of STEM in her life. ◽ Diverse Beginnings: Melanie's upbringing in a military family taught her adaptability and resourcefulness from an early age. She learned to thrive in new environments and improvise, which became foundational skills in her personal and professional life. ◽A Passion for STEM: Driven by a love for engineering and a desire to make a significant impact, Melanie delves into her attraction to STEM. She highlights how her grandfather's influence and her own experiences fueled her passion for problem-solving and making a difference on a large scale. ◽Educational Influences Melanie recounts memorable educational experiences, like the inspiring moment of discovering an amoeba in seventh grade and the supportive encouragement of her AP physics teacher, Mr. Dickens, which steered her towards MIT and a career in engineering. ◽Career Evolution From starting up a plant at Corning to exploring different career paths, Melanie shares the lessons learned and the importance of trust and collaboration in challenging environments. ◽Exploring Creativity and Entrepreneurship: Melanie discusses her time as a full-time parent and how it rekindled her love for storytelling and creativity. She also shares the entrepreneurial journey of her son, Sebastian, who created and sold candy dispensers, demonstrating innovation and business acumen. This episode highlights the power of adaptability, passion for STEM, and the importance of nurturing creativity and entrepreneurship. Melanie's journey from a nomadic childhood to influential leadership roles, coupled with her son's entrepreneurial spirit, illustrates how embracing one's passions and adaptability can pave the way for a fulfilling and impactful career.

Send us a Text Message. In this episode of "Pushing the Envelope," host James Gilman engages in an enlightening conversation with special guest Matt Moeck about the evolving electric vehicle (EV) industry. Here's a structured summary based on the episode's highlights: The episode offers an in-depth look at the electric vehicle industry through Matt Moeck's expert lens, discussing current challenges, technological advancements, and future possibilities. It underscores the importance of embracing change and innovation in a rapidly evolving sector.

Send us a Text Message. In the latest episode of Pushing the Envelope, I explored the vast area of AI with Joe Oquist, offering insights and forecasts on its integration and impact. Here's a summary: ◽ AI's Role in Personal and Professional Life: Joe shares how AI has become a seamless part of both personal and professional realms, emphasizing its utility in enhancing daily tasks and decision-making processes, showcasing AI's transformative influence beyond technological boundaries. ◽ Generative AI's Impact: The conversation highlights the transformative power of generative AI, illustrating its vast capabilities, from artistic creation to boosting productivity across various domains. ◽ AI's Evolution and Integration: We explore the evolution of AI and its growing integration into everyday life, predicting a future where digital twins and smart home technologies become commonplace. ◽ Practical Applications of AI: Joe provides tangible examples of AI's applications in various sectors, illustrating how it's improving experiences and operations in industries like travel and business. ◽ Future Outlook on AI: The dialogue concludes with a forward-looking view on AI, emphasizing the importance of embracing and upskilling AI technologies to unlock potential productivity and innovation gains. This conversation bridges the gap between AI's theoretical potential and its practical applications. Whether you're an AI enthusiast or simply curious about the future of technology, this episode offers valuable perspectives and insights that will broaden your understanding and spark your imagination.

Send us a Text Message. In this week's episode of "Pushing the Envelope," James Gilman had an awesome conversation with John Hanger, a seasoned entrepreneur celebrated for his successful business ventures. Their dialogue explores the entrepreneurial journey, offering insights into the necessity of innovation, the courage to take risks, and the adaptability required in the ever-evolving business arena. Here are five key takeaways: ◾ Entrepreneurial Mindset: John emphasizes the importance of embracing innovation and risk-taking to navigate the competitive landscape of entrepreneurship effectively. ◾ Career Evolution: From his beginnings in software development to becoming a serial entrepreneur, John's career journey exemplifies the value of seizing opportunities and the impact of mentorship. ◾ Building and Scaling Businesses: The discussion delves into John's experiences in launching and growing businesses, highlighting critical strategies for success. ◾ The Human Element: We touch upon the significance of building meaningful relationships and fostering a culture that values people over profit. ◾ Giving Back: Transitioning towards the end, John speaks on his latest venture, BiblioNexus, focusing on leveraging technology for social good, particularly in accelerating Bible translations for languages without them. This episode is a must-listen for aspiring entrepreneurs and seasoned business leaders alike, offering wisdom on thriving during challenges and making a significant impact. Don't miss out on this opportunity to gain valuable insights from a seasoned business leader.

Send us a Text Message. Last week on Pushing the Envelope I was joined by Timothy Visconti, founder of PeopleLift. With two decades since our last meeting, we reminisce about our high school days and delve into Tim's journey from law aspirations to entrepreneurship. Tim's career pivot during the 2007-2008 recession led him to staffing and recruiting, where he found his passion for building high-performing teams. Despite challenges, he embraced entrepreneurship, launching PeopleLift. His key lesson? Break big problems into digestible pieces. Reconnecting After Decades:From Law Aspirations to Entrepreneurship:The Power of Values and Trust:Preparation and Authenticity in Career Advancement:Navigating Ups and Downs:Tim encourages listeners not to perceive success as a linear journey but rather as a series of ups and downs. He emphasizes the enduring value of trust, alignment of values, and surrounding oneself with a supportive community.

Send us a Text Message. On Pushing the Envelope this week, James Gilman sat down with Ben Seals, CEO of Thomas Eye Group. Together, they explore Ben's journey within the organization, from starting as operations to becoming CEO, and delve into the strategies and challenges involved in cultivating a culture of innovation and growth. Here's a breakdown of the key points discussed: ▪ Ben's Journey to CEO: Ben shares how he transitioned from an operational role to interim CEO and eventually full-time CEO, emphasizing the importance of seizing opportunities and leaning into discomfort. ▪ Building a Visionary Culture: The discussion revolves around fostering a culture of innovation and pushing the envelope in a traditional industry like healthcare. Ben highlights the significance of aligning vision with execution capacity and creating a safe space for experimentation and learning. ▪ Navigating Growth Challenges: With Thomas Eye Group's remarkable growth from seven to 17 locations, Ben reflects on the challenges of mergers, acquisitions, and scaling operations while maintaining quality care and staff development. ▪ Leadership Insights: Ben shares leadership lessons, including the value of humility, grace, and celebrating failures. He emphasizes the importance of communication, individualized leadership styles, and preparing future leaders for success. ▪ Looking Ahead: The episode concludes with a glimpse into the future of Thomas Eye Group, celebrating its 50th anniversary and its commitment to providing exceptional eye care while continuing to innovate and grow. Ready to gain valuable insights on leadership, innovation, and navigating growth in the healthcare industry?

Send us a Text Message. In this episode of "Pushing the Envelope," James speaks with Monte McDowell, a seasoned HR professional, and business owner, about his career journey and valuable insights into human resources practices. Monte shares the story of his relocation from Illinois to Atlanta, emphasizing the importance of family considerations in career decisions. Introduction:Relocation and Family Considerations:Networking Mindset:HR Challenges and Rewards:Best Practices in HR:Career Progression Mindset:Employee Morale and Efficiency:Connect with Monte:The episode serves as a valuable resource for professionals and business owners navigating HR challenges.