The Growth Fire

Sharon Toerek is the Owner and Founder of Toerek Law, where she dedicates her practice to advising independent marketing and creative services agencies on protecting and monetizing their intellectual capital. A marketing law attorney with extensive experience in copyright, trademark, and content protection, Sharon offers strategic counsel on licensing, brand protection, social media, and advertising compliance. She is a sought-after speaker at top industry events, including INBOUND, Content Marketing World, and MAGNET Global Agency Network, empowering professionals to recognize legal risks and uphold their rights. Recognized for her contributions, Sharon was inducted into The American Advertising Federation (AAF) Cleveland Hall of Fame in 2019, cementing her legacy as a trailblazer in legal advocacy and community leadership. In this episode… The rise of AI-generated content has sparked numerous legal and ethical concerns, prompting industry leaders to advocate for a nuanced understanding of ownership, liability, and legal implications. Although AI streamlines processes and enhances content quality, how can marketing and advertising agencies ensure brand protection? With years of experience in intellectual property protection, Sharon Toerek has witnessed firsthand the challenges of recognizing legal issues and safeguarding creative assets. She underscores the need for agencies to grasp the legal landscape surrounding AI implementation, emphasizing its gradual evolution and the importance of regulations to safeguard brands. One of the central concerns revolves around determining ownership and copyright protection for AI-generated content. As agencies navigate this complex terrain, recognizing and appraising intellectual property, combined with a vast knowledge of industry dynamics, emerge as vital pillars for fostering growth, innovation, and legal compliance within the ever-evolving landscape of AI-driven creativity. In this episode of the Growth Fire Podcast, Kevin Hourigan welcomes Sharon Toerek, the Owner and Founder of Toerek Law, to discuss AI-generated content ownership, liability, and legal implications. Sharon provides insights into copyright protection for AI-generated content, highlights the importance of human oversight in AI, and explores the potential for agencies to monetize their intellectual property.

Julia Fitzgerald is a seasoned marketing executive, board advisor, and author with over 20 years of experience in branding, digital transformation, and marketing strategies. Her expertise has consistently driven growth across various sectors, having served as the CMO of Build-A-Bear Workshop, the American Lung Association, and The AZEK Company, and as the Chief Digital Engagement Officer at Sears Holdings. A renowned public speaker on marketing and leadership, Julia is the author of Midsize, which shares success stories and strategies for marketing midsize firms. In this episode… Leadership and marketing are intertwined disciplines that play crucial roles in shaping the success of organizations. Can resilient leadership, fueled by a commitment to lifelong learning, drive impactful marketing initiatives and propel organizations toward success in an ever-evolving landscape? Marketing executive Julia Fitzgerald sheds light on the essence of effective leadership and its intersection with marketing strategies. With over 20 years of experience leading marketing initiatives, Julia believes effective leadership requires a blend of creativity, strategic vision, and a willingness to embrace change. As AI emerges as a game-changer in marketing, Julia emphasizes the importance of discerning genuine innovations from mere trends. By staying abreast of industry shifts and leveraging emerging technologies, leaders can steer their organizations toward sustainable growth and relevance in a dynamic marketplace. In this episode of the Growth Fire Podcast, Kevin Hourigan chats with Julia Fitzgerald, a seasoned marketing executive, about the intersection of leadership and marketing. They delve into Julia’s career trajectory, how industry leaders and mentors shaped her perception of the industry, marketing strategies for midsize companies, and leveraging emerging technologies efficiently.

Scott Maroney is the President and Co-owner of Crazy Shirts, a t-shirt and clothing brand founded in Hawaii. In his role, Scott drives retail sales and profitability across the United States through creativity, exceptional customer service, and innovation. His 25-year journey in the retail industry includes experience at outlet shopping malls with Phillips-Van Heusen and operating 14 Champs Sports stores owned by Foot Locker. Scott specializes in retail management, training and development, visual merchandising, marketing, direct-to-consumer, ecommerce growth strategies, and running brick-and-mortar stores. In addition to his corporate responsibilities, he served as the Chairman and board member of Retail Merchants of Hawaii from 2016 to 2018, was recognized as one of PBNs 40 under 40, and was named Retailer of the Year in 2019. In this episode… In addition to fostering a sense of shared responsibility and accountability, resilient cultures inspire confidence among team members, preparing them to deal with crises. What can you learn from a company that’s leveraging resilience and impactful leadership for growth? For retail executive Scott Maroney, the hallmark of resilient leaders lies in their capability to create feelings of belonging in the workplace. He credits Crazy Shirts’ success to instilling loyalty and prioritizing employees during challenges and crises. Reflecting on the company’s response during fire outbreaks and the pandemic, he cites examples of team leaders who demonstrated remarkable resilience and adaptability, going above and beyond to support employees and find new ways to retain them. Additionally, he highlights the importance of coming together and supporting each other during difficult times. Beyond the internal support system, Scott describes how the Young Presidents’ Organization (YPO) has supported Crazy Shirts during crises, providing a platform for members to share updates and encourage each other. In this latest installment of the Growth Fire Podcast, Marc Reifenrath welcomes Scott Maroney, the President and Co-owner of Crazy Shirts. Together, they discuss the importance of leadership, culture, and resilience in a retail business. Scott shares insights on retail management, training, and vertical company operations and his experience with YPO.

Laura Walmsley is the Chief Commercial Officer of Personify Health, the industry’s first personalized health platform delivering health plan administration, wellbeing solutions, and comprehensive health navigation. In this position, Laura spearheads the company’s commercial go-to-market strategy, with responsibility for all client-facing teams. With 20 years of experience in sales, marketing, and account management, Laura has held executive roles at Fortune 500 and mid-market companies, deploying game-changing solutions. She thrives on growth and is passionate about empowering others. In this episode… For forward-thinking brands, providing value to customers is central to delivering quality products and services. It requires an in-depth knowledge of your audience’s pain points and creating meaningful experiences for them. How can you leverage consumer-centric marketing to build a strong brand community and scale? Having navigated the health services industry for over two decades, sales expert Laura Walmsley maintains the value of strategic creativity in conveying your product’s value to potential customers. She has discovered that business growth occurs when you understand a buyer’s needs and match solutions to them rather than trying to sell a product or service. Additionally, Laura prioritizes nurturing relationships with existing clients through data insights and recommendations, an approach that increased her company’s sales by 40% in a year. A winning marketing strategy entails balancing client needs with market trends and developing solutions that position your brand as a long-term partner. In this episode of The Growth Fire Podcast, Kevin Hourigan hosts Laura Walmsley, the Chief Commercial Officer of Personify Health, to discuss value-added marketing, leadership, and mentorship. Laura emphasizes creating diverse experiences for buyers, developing solutions for existing customers, and adapting creative marketing strategies to generate leads. She also shares her versatile career arc, the power of mentorship, and how she built her leadership skills.

Lisa Martin is the Chief Revenue Officer at 8x8, a company that unifies customer engagement and communications across organizations with a single, all-in-one platform. In this role, Lisa drives and maximizes revenue growth, oversees sales strategies, and manages a global team. With a robust sales background in the technology and communication sectors, she has consistently delivered double-digit year-over-year growth by leading global teams effectively. Lisa's tenure as VP of Flex North America, Willow, and Genesys showcases her ability to navigate complex market landscapes and drive impactful results. In this episode… Effective sales strategies are the lifeblood of successful businesses, offering a roadmap for engaging customers, driving revenue, and fostering growth. With a keen understanding of market dynamics and consumer behavior, businesses can tailor their approaches to meet evolving needs and preferences. How can you leverage these insights and solutions to elevate your sales strategies and achieve success? After transitioning from a sales engineer to a representative, sales leader Lisa Martin discovered she needed to develop soft skills to communicate with customers. She notes that consumers are often wary of salespeople trying to upsell or deceive them, so you must identify your customers’ needs and provide solutions to help them achieve business outcomes and solve problems. Becoming acquainted with your prospects on a personal and professional level fosters connection and trust, making them feel at ease with the interaction. You can also leverage visual technology and automation tools to streamline and enhance the experience. In this episode of The Growth Fire Podcast, Kevin Hourigan hosts Lisa Martin, the Chief Revenue Officer at 8x8, to talk about sales strategies, insights, and innovations. Lisa discusses 8x8’s target audience, their go-to-market strategy, and how to propose your solution to prospects effectively.

Jason Mandel is the Founder and CEO of Mandel Family Office, a firm dedicated to providing comprehensive financial services to high-net-worth individuals and families. As a Wall Street insider and private financial advisor, he has held senior positions at the LeFrak Organization, D.E. Shaw, and Cantor Fitzgerald. Jason has over 25 years of entrepreneurial experience in financial services and risk management. Additionally, he is the President of Caretrust Financial and the author of DEMAND TRANSPARENCY: Stop Wall Street Greed and Rising Taxes From Destroying Your Wealth. In this episode… As the wealth management industry undergoes a significant evolution, traditional Wall Street ideologies are being challenged by a paradigm shift toward transparency and accountability. Jason Mandel, a seasoned practitioner in this field, sheds light on this transformation through his book, DEMAND TRANSPARENCY. With a background steeped in the industry's evolution, Jason endorses the increasing demand for clarity and accountability that was once concealed in obscurity. Central to Jason's philosophy is his unwavering commitment to his clients' best interests. Going beyond conventional norms, he advocates for transparency and integrity, forging lasting relationships built on trust and mutual understanding. In the newest episode of The Growth Fire Podcast, Kevin Hourigan hosts Jason Mandel, Founder and CEO of Mandel Family Office. Jason delves into his passion for wealth building and unveils the motivation behind his book, DEMAND TRANSPARENCY. He also shares insights on cultivating client loyalty and provides a comprehensive breakdown of the wealth management industry.

Dean Mavrikos is the Channel Growth Manager at Kentico, a fully integrated digital experience platform (DXP). He started at the company as a Business Development Representative before becoming the Director of Business Development for North America, where he led hiring and training initiatives for a team of business development representatives. In 2023, Dean assumed the role of Channel Growth Manager, where he supports a diverse range of implementation partners throughout North America. Alongside his role at Kentico, Dean is actively involved in various industry initiatives and endeavors. In this episode… In competitive sales, success hinges on resilience, adaptability, and an unrelenting dedication to excellence. However, beyond performance pressures, how do personal and professional growth contribute to a fulfilling and successful career? Sales and business development leader Dean Mavrikos acknowledges the significance of upholding a healthy lifestyle and mindset, even in the face of rejection. Prioritizing self-care and well-being enables him to stay focused and energized when confronting challenges. Rather than letting setbacks deter him, Dean views them as opportunities to refine his sales skills and enhance his approach. Through consistent refinement and adaptation, he has transformed rejection into resilience, emerging from each setback stronger and more determined than before. In this recent episode of The Growth Fire Podcast with Kevin Hourigan, Dean Mavrikos, Channel Growth Manager at Kentico, shares insights on the intersection of personal and professional growth in leadership. Dean discusses his journey into sales, strategies for overcoming rejection, and the importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle and mindset for success.

Sofyan Almoayed is the CEO of Almoayed Investments, a versatile family business focused on real estate, travel technology, contracting, transportation, and F&B sectors. Additionally, he will assume the role of Global Chairman for 2024 and 2025. Almoayed Investments has been a beacon of success, consistently delivering value through its commitment to growth and diversification. Sofyan's leadership has propelled the company to thrive in MENA and North American markets, solidifying its position as a prominent player in various industries. In this episode… Many YPO members view their membership as a strategic decision. Beyond expanding networks and enhancing business acumen, what additional benefits does joining this global leadership institution offer? Through YPO forums, incoming YPO Global Chairman Sofyan Almoayed admits he’s gained valuable perspectives from fellow business leaders, enabling him to navigate challenges and capitalize on opportunities effectively. He attributes much of his leadership growth to forum interactions and discussions. One of Sofyan’s key takeaways has been the universal lessons he’s learned from these diverse perspectives. Regardless of your industry or geography, he emphasizes the importance of adaptability, resilience, and innovative thinking in today's rapidly evolving business landscape. On the latest episode of The Growth Fire Podcast, Marc Reifenrath hosts Sofyan Almoayed, CEO of Almoayed Investments, to explore the advantages of YPO membership. Sofyan shares insights on his motivation for joining YPO, its impact on his business acumen, and offers valuable leadership advice for C-suite executives.

Christine Guilfoyle is the President of SEEHER, a platform committed to enhancing the representation of women and girls in the global marketing and media ecosystem. With a focus on achieving gender equality and fostering business growth, Christine leads initiatives to ensure accurate portrayals of women in media, promoting diversity and inclusion. With experience in leadership roles at prominent media brands, Christine has been recognized by leading publications, including Folio magazine, which named her one of the top women in media. Before joining SEEHER, she served as Senior Advisor to the CEO of CoveyClub.com, a community empowering women to learn, share, and grow together. In this episode… As the emerging female economy — or "she economy" — continues to gain momentum, sustaining its growth amid competition remains paramount. With shifting consumer trends and evolving market dynamics, businesses must adapt to meet the changing needs of female consumers. How can companies navigate this landscape successfully? Powerhouse business leader Christine Guilfoyle explains that platforms like SEEHER catalyze change, empower women, transform industries, and drive progress toward an equitable future. When businesses embrace the principles of inclusivity and representation, they contribute to societal advancement and unlock the full potential of the "she economy" for sustainable growth and prosperity. By championing the interests of women and advocating for gender equality, these organizations create an environment for businesses to thrive. Through educational initiatives and industry partnerships, SEEHER equips businesses with the tools and knowledge to engage effectively with female consumers. By aligning with SEEHER's mission, businesses can unlock new opportunities for growth and innovation in the "she economy." In the latest episode of The Growth Fire Podcast, Christine Guilfoyle, President of SEEHER, engages in a thought-provoking discussion with host Kevin Hourigan. Christine delves into SEEHER’s mission and how it empowers women, shares her journey to the company, and explores strategies for sustaining the "she economy" amid evolving competition and progress.

Ann Hand is the Chairman and CEO of Super League Gaming, a NASDAQ publicly traded company and global leader in the gaming metaverse on platforms like Roblox and Minecraft. Before joining Super League, Ann was the CEO of Project Frog, a company specializing in wholesale building materials to streamline design and construction processes. Ann has garnered many accolades, including the Forbes 50 Over 50 Award and being named Ad Age Leading Women of 2022, 100 Most Intriguing Entrepreneurs by Goldman Sachs, and the 10 Most Powerful Women Entrepreneurs by Fortune magazine. In this episode… The metaverse is a collaborative, immersive virtual world with the potential to revolutionize how we work, learn, and socialize. People can use this space for entertainment, playing games, shopping, and attending virtual events. Is this the next innovator in big brand marketing? It’s a common myth that gaming is an unhealthy pastime appealing only to introverted young people. According to seasoned marketing executive Ann Hand, the metaverse shifts the video game landscape through eSports, activities rooted in STEM learning that offer fair, safe, and inclusive environments. Ann elaborates that companies can save money and reach new audiences by promoting their brands through the metaverse, much like advertising during the Super Bowl. Additionally, companies can conduct real-time focus groups using digital products produced in less time instead of navigating excess inventory and complex supply chain operations. On today’s episode of The Growth Fire Podcast with Kevin Hourigan, Ann Hand, Chairman and CEO of Super League Gaming, discusses how the company innovates large brand marketing. Ann talks about her career progression, how transitioning from global corporations to a small startup groomed her for her current role, and leveraging the metaverse as a marketing tool and focus group.

Raymond Watt is the Global Chairman of YPO, an American-based global leadership community, and the Chairman at RIMAR Capital, a tech-driven investment firm. He is also the Co-founder and CEO of Omnislash, a platform that helps gamers capture media and stats while playing their favorite games. With 25 years of experience in software development and enterprise systems, Raymond was a three-time CEO for various companies in South Africa. Beyond his leadership duties, Raymond is a voting member of the Television Academy and a member of the Producers Guild of America. In this episode… Clear communication and language are integral to attracting and retaining talented employees, improving team morale, and boosting productivity. Creating a culture aligned with company values starts with using language strategically. Your company language is a powerful tool that can shape your organization's culture. Executive leader Raymond Watt affirms that using company-specific vocabulary and creating new words can influence how your employees think, act, and feel. Establishing your company culture on the first day of onboarding is essential for clarifying team expectations. You can accomplish this by creating a behavior code, holding regular meetings to discuss company values, and providing training on using the company language effectively. In this episode of The Growth Fire Podcast, Marc Reifenrath welcomes Raymond Watt, Global Chairman of YPO, to discuss language's impact on company culture. Raymond shares his inspiration for joining YPO, how the organization impacted his views on company culture and core values, and the responsibilities of an effective CEO.

Dana Karzan is the Chief Marketing Officer at VyStar Credit Union, a member-owned cooperative providing financial products and services such as investments, insurance, retirement planning, and financial counseling. At VyStar, Dana leads branding, marketing, advertising, social media, and community engagement. She has 20-plus years of experience in banking and fintech, with rich expertise in marketing, product management, and brand strategy. Before Vystar, Dana held leadership roles at Facebook, Citibank, Wells Fargo, GE, Lloyds TSB, and US Bank. Her ingenuity in leadership earned her the 2022 OnCon Icon Top 50 Marketer Award, which recognizes top marketers worldwide. In addition to her work in the corporate world, Dana is an active board member at Groundworks JAX and the Jacksonville Symphony. In this episode… Financial institutions can easily engender fear or anxiety in customers when it comes to service provision. Credit unions offer an alternative solution when it comes to financial services. They strive to make the customer experience as stress-free as possible while supporting local communities in various ways. Marketing professional Dana Karzan explains that cooperatives like Vystar seek to live up to their mission of improving their members’ lives by providing better financial services and being a force of change in their communities. Beyond opening accounts and lending money, Vystar provides members with educational resources to learn how to save, grow equity, and consolidate debt. Credit unions help people achieve dreams such as buying a home, getting a college education, and taking once-in-a-lifetime vacations while revitalizing neighborhoods through supporting local businesses and serving on organization boards. In this episode of The Growth Fire Podcast, Kevin Hourigan sits down with Dana Karzan, Chief Marketing Officer at VyStar Credit Union, for a riveting conversation about marketing in the financial space. Dana shares VyStar’s mission and the benefits it provides, how to evoke emotion in marketing, and how to leverage community service to drive business growth.

Scott K. Edinger is the Founder of Edinger Consulting, where he helps worldwide Fortune 50 CEOs and executive leaders develop leadership strategies to drive top and bottom-line results. Scott is also a published author, having penned over 100 articles for prominent publications like Forbes and the Harvard Business Review. He’s written three books, including The Growth Leader: Strategies to Drive the Top and Bottom Lines, set to be released in October 2023, and in 2015, he co-authored the best-selling book The Hidden Leader: Discover and Develop Greatness Within Your Company. In this episode… For many businesses, the ability to sell solutions is the missing link in their sales strategy. In some organizations, companies need competent leadership to train their salespeople effectively. How can executives bridge the gap between sales and strategy? Entrepreneur and growth leadership expert Scott K. Edinger offers a resolution in his upcoming book The Growth Leader. Senior executives can generate healthy profits by merging strategy, leadership, and sales tactics. Once leaders realize that growth strategy must align across all company levels, a company can reap a viable competitive advantage. Scott also argues that sales and strategy shouldn’t be separate functions. Instead, they should integrate the two into a cohesive whole to achieve their goals. In this episode of The Growth Fire Podcast with Kevin Hourigan, Scott K. Edinger, Founder of Edinger Consulting, discusses leadership and sales. Scott explains the differences between management and leadership, how leaders can drive results, and how to differentiate the sales experience for customers. Plus, Scott discusses his latest book, The Growth Leader: Strategies to Drive the Top and Bottom Lines.

Joel Swanson is the VP of Marketing at Affinity Plus Federal Credit Union, a Minnesota-based financial cooperative offering full-service personal and business banking products. At Affinity Plus, Joel leads all marketing, public relations, and community initiatives. During his five-year tenure, he and his team have implemented a brand refresh responsible for the credit union’s record growth. Before joining Affinity Plus, Joel offered his leadership talents at UnitedHealth Group, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Minnesota, Bethel University, and Education Minnesota. In this episode… Differentiation is critical to company success because it helps focus on a market niche. Initiating a brand refresh is necessary when an organization no longer appeals to its target audience. What are essential strategies to concentrate on when rebranding? Marketing expert Joel Swanson explains the first step is to analyze the problem and target audience you want to serve. Once those areas are determined, establish a clear brand identity and story. Joel offers that customer surveys aid in this process by asking critical questions. Using the data correctly adds authenticity when creating campaigns using digital marketing. Joel advises avoiding the use of stock photos to tell a story. Instead, create bright images using real customers and employees that resonate with your core demographic. On this episode of The Growth Fire Podcast, Kevin Hourigan welcomes Joel Swanson, VP of Marketing at Affinity Plus Federal Credit Union, to discuss rebranding strategies. Joel shares how customers benefit from rebranding, why digital marketing is critical to company branding, and how to build and motivate a team.

Thayer Smith is the CEO of YPO, a global leadership community connecting elite chief executives and cultivating extraordinary leaders to improve lives and businesses worldwide. Before joining the C-suite at YPO, Thayer led Bayshore Capital as an Operating Partner. Thayer has lent his expertise in complex manufacturing, financial management, strategic planning, and leadership development. He’s also been a YPO member since 2007, serving as the Chapter Forum Officer for the Florida Chapter and Regional Chair for the Southeast US and Caribbean Region. From 2019 to 2023, he served multiple roles for the Global Board of Directors before accepting his position as CEO. In this episode… A company is only as good as its leaders, who are often tasked with making difficult decisions. Where can executives in power go to sharpen their leadership skills and gain support? Seasoned business leader Thayer Smith recommends joining YPO, which brings together top-tier company heads to brainstorm challenges. Thayer believes that the essence of YPO is the forum itself, the relationships that members build, and the exposure to new ideas. He also recommends that members attend network and chapter events to reap the most benefit from their YPO membership. In this episode of The Growth Fire Podcast with Marc Reifenrath, Thayer Smith, CEO of YPO, discusses the benefits of being a YPO member. Thayer explains the value of YPO and its influence on members, how the organization helps leaders navigate change and challenges, and shares memorable YPO experiences.

June Archer is known as the Puzzle Maker because of her ability to analyze and solve complex business problems across various industries. She is a former C-suite leader and business builder of global brands, including the Walt Disney Company, Sesame Workshop, Godiva Chocolatier, and NEST Fragrances. In her spare time, June lends her talents to organizations such as the American Marketing Association, the New Jersey Performing Arts Center, and the Princeton University Alumni Network. June is also the Chairman of the Board of Trustees for the Princeton University Store. June Archer is known as the Puzzle Maker because of her ability to analyze and solve complex business problems across various industries. She is a former C-suite leader and business builder of global brands, including the Walt Disney Company, Sesame Workshop, Godiva Chocolatier, and NEST Fragrances. In her spare time, June lends her talents to organizations such as the American Marketing Association, the New Jersey Performing Arts Center, and the Princeton University Alumni Network. June is also the Chairman of the Board of Trustees for the Princeton University Store. In this episode… Leading an organization is a complex endeavor encompassing company goals, values, communication, and attitudes. How does an effective leader control the culture of an organization? Executive leader June Archer explains managing teams means understanding the needs of the business and the needs of the people in various roles — and can be accomplished when aligning company goals and objectives with the skills and abilities of each team member. Creating a fair and equitable work environment where everyone feels valued and respected is also critical. Communication is vital to help employees accelerate their careers and develop specialized skills. The culmination of these criteria indicates your investment in their success and willingness to help them reach their full potential. In this episode of The Growth Fire Podcast with Kevin Hourigan, June Archer, former C-Suite and P&L Leader, discusses how to balance company culture while establishing goals. June shares her professional experience to educate others on the value of adapting to a new environment, the effects of including team members in cultivating company culture, and hiring with a focus on cultural fit.

Ross Gibbs is a Coach, Expert Implementer, and Speaker at EOS Worldwide, where he creates simplified processes to help organizations improve their business models to achieve success. His business coaching career launched after a successful profession in sales and marketing. Ross is a serial entrepreneur who has successfully owned and exited four companies, including a consulting firm and a boxing gym. Beyond his leadership efforts, Ross enjoys staying physically active. In this episode… If your business has plateaued and you’re struggling to find motivation, programs and resources are available to help you take your business to the next level. However, it can be challenging to know where to start. Business coach Ross Gibbs recommends employing the help of an Entrepreneurial Operating System (EOS) Implementer. EOS is a proven system that helps organize, focus, and align business processes and provides a framework for casting vision and executing goals. By following the process — vision, traction, health — companies can identify and solve problems, improve communication, and increase profitability. In today’s episode of The Growth Fire Podcast with Kevin Hourigan, Ross Gibbs, Coach, Expert Implementer, and Speaker at EOS Worldwide, discusses finding your calling and the Entrepreneurial Operating System (EOS). Ross shares his past entrepreneurial failures, how EOS has impacted his life, and sales and marketing strategies for generating business.

Jon Morris is the Founder and CEO of Ramsay Innovations, helping businesses quickly scale through financial education and strategic funds allocations. Before joining Ramsay Innovations, Jon founded Rise Interactive, a full-service internet marketing agency — growing it from a $10,000 bootstrap business to one of the largest independent digital agencies. Beyond his leadership responsibilities, Jon is an Advisor for Fiscal Advocate and was an Advisory Board Member at Pixability for nearly five years. In this episode… Failure is inevitable when growing a business. What distinguishes successful business owners is their ability to learn from previous mistakes. Jon Morris, a serial entrepreneur, turned a loss into a learning opportunity when he bootstrapped his second entrepreneurial venture and grew it into one of the most prominent digital marketing agencies. As a marketing principal, it’s crucial to understand your niche and keep up with industry trends to pivot when necessary. Have a clear vision, including understanding the types of employees needed to propel your business. To ensure you hire high-performing talent, consider designing a meticulous interview process and an assessment with a desired passing rate. Through reflection, entrepreneurs can identify business strategies in need of improvement. In this episode of The Growth Fire Podcast, Jon Morris, Founder and CEO of Ramsay Innovations, joins Kevin Hourigan to share his growth journey as an entrepreneur. Jon discusses using failures as learning lessons, rigorous acquisitions for hiring elite talent, and sales strategies for generating new business.

Cynthia Cleveland is a Partner at CEO Coaching International, the leading coaching firm for growth-focused CEOs and entrepreneurs. Cynthia is a five-time CEO and president who led companies generating over $4 billion in worldwide sales in consumer products, entertainment, and retail industries. In her 30-plus-year career, she has overseen popular brands, including Universal Studios, Teleflora, Mattel Toys, and Carnation Foods. Cynthia has been an active member of YPO for over three decades and is the former Chair of the Women’s International Network. In 2015, Real Leaders Magazine named her one of the Top 100 Visionary Leaders. In this episode… Workplace culture is the culmination of shared values, beliefs, and behaviors that characterize a company or organization. It’s a doctrine influenced by the company's mission, vision, and values, but how can it be adequately assimilated to create a positive work environment? As an accomplished company head who guided numerous teams for major corporations, including a Fortune 500, Cynthia Cleveland explains viable workplace culture is only possible with the ideal people. When leadership recognizes employees who negatively impact team dynamics, they’re responsible for placing them in a different department or part ways. Being a leader sometimes includes making difficult decisions — and in these situations, they must learn to trust their instincts. Leaders also create a culture conducive to employee success by establishing boundaries, setting expectations, respecting employees’ opinions, and giving workers autonomy. In this episode of The Growth Fire Podcast, Marc Reifenrath welcomes Cynthia Cleveland, a Partner at CEO Coaching International, to discuss how leaders create workplace culture. Cynthia shares her insight on company culture and core values, why leaders need to trust their instincts, and why it’s beneficial to respect employees’ personal lives.

Jon Tsourakis is the Co-owner, President, and Chief Revenue Officer at Oyova, an agency offering integrated digital solutions such as app development, web design, and marketing to create efficient processes for company growth. Jon is a serial entrepreneur and marketing strategist whose continual study of brand identity, business communications, buyer behavior, sales conversion, and various digital marketing techniques, keeps him astute to industry standards. His resume includes executive positions with digital agencies, including Innersight dZine Studio, REVOLT, and the Digital Mastermind Group, and his sales and leadership expertise led him to roles as Marketing Director and President for Astrum and CentralComp, respectively. In this episode… Adversity catalyzes change, forcing people to step outside their comfort zones and try something new, which leads to personal and professional development. Learning new skills lends itself to growth, enriching our life experiences and is attained as a result of learning from our mistakes — and can work in our favor to build successful businesses. Jon Tsourakis, an agency principal and business owner, is a prime example. He stumbled into the marketing industry after a friend invited him to work for his father's agency. Jon quickly discovered his talents and put his expertise to work by launching his own marketing business. Starting any business is intimidating, but without risks, there are no rewards. Jon’s experience with launching his company is a testament to how we can leverage mistakes to build a successful company. In this episode of The Growth Fire podcast, Kevin Hourigan talks to Jon Tsourakis, Co-owner, President, and Chief Revenue Officer of Oyova, about his career journey in the marketing industry and the lessons it taught him. Jon shares marketing strategies, why he partnered with another agency to create Oyova, and the motivation behind going into business for himself.