The Growth Fire

Danielle Paige is the Chief Marketing and Growth Officer at Nixon Peabody LLP, an American Lawyer top-100 law firm with 16 offices worldwide. Danielle leads the firm’s brand strategy, utilizing marketing automation and data-driven insights to enhance client engagement and drive growth. With over 20 years of executive experience in marketing, she has held leadership roles at major communication agencies, like MSLGroup and FleishmanHillard. An award-winning marketing executive, Danielle is a former member of Fast Company Executive Board and an OnCon Icon Awards 2024 Top 10 Marketer. In this episode… Marketing in the legal industry often carries a reputation for being rigid and uninspiring, leaving many marketers questioning how to create meaningful impact in such a highly regulated field. How can marketing leaders in professional services break free from traditional constraints and position their firms for strategic growth while keeping client trust at the forefront? Seasoned marketing executive Danielle Paige maintains that legal marketing is more dynamic than ever. She emphasizes the importance of aligning marketing efforts with a firm’s strategic goals, treating marketing as an investment rather than an expense. She highlights actionable strategies, such as leveraging AI to enhance client engagement, building brand value through thought leadership, and creating tailored client experiences to strengthen relationships — all while maintaining agility and fresh perspectives year-over-year. By breaking industry norms, you can drive growth and innovation in your organization. In this episode of The Growth Fire Podcast, Kevin Hourigan interviews Danielle Paige, Chief Marketing and Growth Officer at Nixon Peabody LLP, about innovative legal marketing strategies. Danielle discusses the shift from traditional marketing to strategic growth initiatives, the power of AI in client engagement, and the importance of aligning marketing spend with business goals. Tune in to learn how legal marketing can drive measurable success and build lasting client relationships.

Bret Blakely is the President and Co-founder of OnCore Golf, a company recognized for its innovative golf ball technology. With a background in marketing and business development, Bret has transformed OnCore from a startup into a leader in golf innovation. Under his guidance, the company has introduced advanced core technologies and embedded sensor capabilities, challenging established industry norms. In this episode… Breaking into a market dominated by billion-dollar brands is a daunting challenge, especially when your product challenges the status quo. Many startups struggle to gain credibility, often facing resistance from industry gatekeepers and skepticism from consumers. How can small businesses push through these barriers to build a loyal customer base? Bret Blakely, an expert in marketing and business development, leveraged innovation, branding, and strategic development to break into a competitive market. Faced with the job market’s collapse in 2008, Bret and his business partners pioneered perimeter-weighted golf balls, which offer higher accuracy and performance, attracting both amateur and professional golfers. Bret emphasizes the importance of innovating while staying true to a brand story that resonates with customers. He recommends humanizing your brand through in-person events, leveraging ambassadors, and strategically balancing tech-forward messaging with relatable, engaging content. In this episode of The Growth Fire Podcast, Kevin Hourigan interviews Bret Blakely, President and Co-founder of OnCore Golf, about breaking into the golf industry with innovative technology. Bret discusses strategies for building a brand that challenges industry giants, how to navigate rapid business growth, and the power of mentorship. He also dives into handling customer perceptions, balancing tech and branding, and preparing for large-scale marketing campaigns.

Michelle Barbeau is the Chief Revenue Officer at eHealth, Inc., which simplifies healthcare enrollment by offering online tools and expert support to help Americans compare insurance plans and affordable coverage. Michelle has led business transformations at eHealth, including helping the company win the Modern Healthcare and Ad Age Healthcare Marketing Impact Award for Integrated Campaign. Michelle's prior roles include shaping marketing strategies at AbleTo, leading member engagement at UnitedHealth Group, and building iconic brands like Yoplait and Pillsbury at General Mills. In this episode… While technological innovations are revolutionizing patient care and management, they are also reshaping the roles and demands of healthcare marketing. With the healthcare marketer's job no longer limited to traditional sales and marketing strategies, how can these professionals leverage customer centricity to help brands reach the right audience at the right time? For customer experience expert Michelle Barbeau, the secret lies in establishing a brand identity that differentiates itself from industry norms. Michelle's cutting-edge healthcare campaigns improved transparency and consumer trust and delivered impressive results that included improved brand awareness, boosting website traffic, and minimizing acquisition costs. By prioritizing customers’ needs and developing an integrated marketing approach, marketers can address the major challenges of healthcare marketing — confusion, cost, and complexity. Michelle’s approach demonstrates how understanding and aligning with consumer needs can boost business growth and industry recognition. In this episode of The Growth Fire Podcast, Kevin Hourigan chats with Michelle Barbeau about strategic innovation and leadership in healthcare marketing. Michelle highlights the importance of consumer empathy in driving business growth, the critical role of mentors in her career journey, and the value of stepping out of your comfort zone. Tune in for insights on brand building, business transformation, and aligning marketing strategies with consumer needs.

Paul Mathews is the Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer at Sunnova, a leading provider of renewable energy solutions and technology. Paul previously served as EVP of Service and Supply Chain, driving significant operational efficiencies and cost reductions. With a 19-year career span, including his previous role as President of Engineering at UPS, he has led companies through strategic growth and technical advancements. In this episode… Strategic career pivots can lead to groundbreaking leadership roles, improving problem-solving and cross-functional experience. How can you strategically navigate opportunities within a large organization to hone a versatile skill set? Operations strategist Paul Mathews reveals how he kickstarted his career. Sharing pivotal moments from his 19-year tenure at UPS and his role in enhancing service and operational capabilities at Sunnova, he highlights strategies for adapting and thriving in various corporate environments. With roots in engineering, Paul emphasizes diversifying your skill set and embracing opportunities. Through his leadership, Sunnova has seen a spectacular reduction in service backlog and improvements in project delivery. Moreover, Paul's approach to team empowerment and his ability to leverage AI in business processes illustrates the importance of innovating at every level of your career. In this episode of The Growth Fire Podcast, Kevin Hourigan hosts Paul Mathews, the Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer at Sunnova, to discuss the nuances of career development and leading operational transformations. Paul shares how he leveraged industrial engineering to spearhead innovations at Sunnova, how to transform career challenges into opportunities, and the inspiration that comes from an engaged and motivated team in corporate leadership.

George Lambropoulos is the Marketing Coordinator at The Police Credit Union Ltd, a nonprofit banking company in Toronto that provides financial solutions to police officers and their families. He has significantly revamped the marketing program at the credit union, utilizing innovative strategies to increase membership and enhance customer engagement. As an advocate for building a strong brand identity through exclusivity, George focuses on creating meaningful connections within the policing community. In this episode… Rebranding and revising marketing strategies can seem daunting, especially when overhauling an established brand. When a solid brand requires a fresh approach, where do you begin, and how do you resonate with a niche audience? As the sole marketing force behind a credit union for police officers, George leverages the exclusivity that defines his customer base. George’s approach to marketing encompasses everything from targeted email campaigns to dominating the digital landscape with robust website aesthetics and content designed to convert. To acquire new memberships, boost customer share, and build a winning brand for a specialized company, he recommends using data to drive marketing decisions and creating a brand that resonates deeply with your audience. His approach underscores the value of adaptability and a ceaseless pursuit of knowledge to stay relevant and impactful in your niche. In this episode of The Growth Fire Podcast, Kevin Hourigan interviews George Lambropoulos, Marketing Coordinator at The Police Credit Union Ltd, about strategic targeting in niche markets. George shares the evolution of the Police Credit Union's marketing, the value of blending traditional and digital marketing tools, and how a closed-bond credit union can flourish through exclusive services and robust community involvement.

David Edelman serves as an Executive Advisor through his company, Edelman Advisory Services, where he helps C-suite executives in large enterprises shape their strategic direction, build their teams, and become digitally agile. A thought leader in marketing and personalization, his career spans over three decades, including serving as CMO at Aetna. Recognized by Forbes as one of the most influential CMOs globally and by Adweek as one of the Top 20 Marketing and Technology Executives, David has gained over 1.1 million followers for his insights on digital marketing and customer strategy. He also co-authored the book Personalized Customer Strategy in the Age of AI, which explores the intersection of AI and customer personalization. In this episode… The buzz around AI has marketers and executives searching for insights to enhance customer experiences, optimize operations, and drive substantial growth. What differentiates leaders from laggards in this fast-paced environment, and how can businesses ensure they are on the winning side of the AI revolution? David Edelman, a renowned marketing expert, merges personalized customer experiences with AI. Drawing on his extensive research, David reveals five key elements companies can harness to deliver authentic customer value. He highlights the importance of leveraging AI to personalize customer experiences, underscoring the financial and strategic benefits of adopting a customer-centric approach. Using AI, organizations can gather transparent customer data to reach them where they are and empower them to take action. They can also leverage case studies of previous customer experiences to enhance personalization and customer decision-making. In this episode of The Growth Fire Podcast, Kevin Hourigan chats with David Edelman, a Senior Lecturer at Harvard Business School, about harnessing AI for personalized customer strategies. David shares tips for overcoming organizational silos to harness AI's full potential, discusses how to foster a culture of innovation and collaboration, and provides insights on achieving sustainable growth and competitive advantage in today's market.

Kevin Hourigan is the President of Spinutech, a full-service website design and digital marketing agency dedicated to developing customized and data-driven digital marketing solutions. Before merging his business with his business partner’s, Kevin founded Bayshore Solutions, which he operated for over two decades, delivering websites and custom web applications to thousands of clients in over 54 countries. When Kevin is not leading his digital agency, he spends his time boating, skiing, golfing, and enjoying other outdoor activities. In this episode… The modern business landscape is dynamic, with success often depending on visionary leaders who can navigate uncertainties and drive innovation. What can you learn from five leaders’ stories of transformation and triumph in business? By harnessing various perspectives, entrepreneurs can learn to lead through innovation and navigate industry evolution. Sales industry trailblazer Lisa Martin explores risk-taking in career decisions, while Steve Wyatt emphasizes the value of building diverse and inclusive marketing campaigns. These leaders also note the complexities of client engagement, with Melissa Massa demystifying building strong relationships and helping clients solve their problems rather than just selling solutions. From the nuances of sales and creating value with Laura Walmsley to the necessity of anticipating market changes with Dywane Allen and lessons from scaling a startup with Ann Hand, business owners gain strategies to stay ahead of the curve. In this episode of The Growth Fire Podcast, Kevin Hourigan revisits key moments and insights from six compelling episodes about valuable business strategies. The speakers share insights on the shift from traditional sales methods to more collaborative approaches, the importance of risk-taking in career decisions, prioritizing diversity and inclusivity in campaigns, and the need for future-focused strategies in the fast-paced world of technology.

Alane Boyd is the Founder of Workday Ninja, which helps companies implement software to manage their operations effectively. A serial entrepreneur with a knack for operational excellence, Alane grew her social media marketing agency to 600 active clients and sold it in 2018. With expertise in operations, sales, marketing, and tech, she has exited two SaaS companies, designating herself as an impact-driven leader. She is also the CEO of Arvo, an AI-powered sales tool, and the Co-founder and President of BGBO Co, which helps businesses leverage technology to simplify workflows. In this episode… The daily grind of managing tasks and operations can be exhausting and unfulfilling. You and your team can’t focus on what you love if you’re mindlessly completing manual tasks each day. How can you automate your operations to streamline your business processes? Having scaled an agency to an impressive 600 active clients before exiting successfully, Alane Boyd is passionate about empowering companies to realize their full potential through technological integration. She delves into the secrets of operational efficiency, maintaining that a project management system that aligns with your company’s goals can centralize tasks and streamline communications. Alane also recommends establishing automations within existing software, like connecting your CRM to your project management system to save time, reduce human error, and allow your team to focus on strategic tasks. In this episode of The Growth Fire Podcast, Kevin Hourigan chats with Alane Boyd, the Founder of Workplace Ninja, about harnessing the power of technology to streamline your company's operations. Alane uncovers the transformative power of operational efficiency, how to maximize the potential of software tools, and secrets to scaling companies and managing growth.

Lisa Shim is the Senior Executive Vice President and Head of Technology and Innovation at BankUnited, a national bank headquartered in Miami Lakes, Florida. Lisa ‘s role encompasses technology, treasury solutions, marketing, operations, and corporate strategy. With an impressive career since joining BankUnited in 2009, she has played a crucial role in the bank's digital transformation journey and M&A strategies. Her background includes experience at Merrill Lynch and the retail bank division of Countrywide Bank. Lisa is recognized for her collaborative leadership style and commitment to continuous learning. In this episode… The shifting landscape of digital marketing and consumer behavior challenges even the most established industries. What does it take to drive innovation in a traditional industry like banking? Can personalization and technology coexist to create customer-centric services? With over 15 years leading strategic corporate growth and digital innovation, Lisa Shim has revolutionized customer service to thrive in a fast-paced digital landscape. She emphasizes the value of curiosity, the courage to challenge the status quo, and a collaborative culture that fosters learning and innovation. Lisa also discusses how keeping pace with digital trends like AI assistants involves creating meaningful interactions and seeking diverse perspectives in the workplace to enrich understanding. Engaging with mentors can provide you with these perspectives and enhance opportunities for growth. In this episode of The Growth Fire Podcast, Kevin Hourigan chats with Lisa Shim, the Senior Executive Vice President and Head of Technology and Innovation at BankUnited. Lisa dives deep into innovation and growth-driven leadership in the evolving digital marketing and consumer behavior landscape. She highlights her role in fostering a relationship-driven business model at BankUnited, her strategic approach to digital marketing, and her keen interest in advanced technologies like generative AI.

Ishan Patel is the CEO and Co-Founder of Audien Hearing, the leading brand for over-the-counter hearing aids. Born and raised in Scottsdale, Arizona, Ishan dropped out of college to pursue his entrepreneurial passion in the health and product service sectors. Through dedication and innovative sales strategies, he turned Audien Hearing into the highest-volume-selling OTC hearing aid brand in the world. With a commitment to affordability and customer needs, Ishan disrupted the hearing aid industry by partnering with Walmart to offer cost-effective solutions. A groundbreaking entrepreneur, he has been nominated for Ernst and Young's Entrepreneur of the Year award. In this episode… What drives a business to evolve from ground zero to a million-dollar company in record time? Some of the most profitable companies revolutionize an entire industry by introducing a groundbreaking innovation that challenges the status quo and drives positive change. What can you learn from their successes? Trailblazing entrepreneur Ishan Patel shares how his background in sales and understanding of customer pain points fueled the development of a groundbreaking hearing aid product. With a deep-rooted passion for helping people regain their hearing, Ishan achieved the seemingly impossible by developing affordable hearing aids that defied the traditionally high costs. Partnering with Walmart, he introduced the $99 Atom Pro 2, leveraging innovative marketing strategies like live stream shopping and influencer marketing for rapid growth. Highlighting the impact of Audien Hearing’s innovative pricing strategy, Ishan emphasizes the value of tapping into undiscovered markets and delivering impactful experiences. In this episode of The Growth Fire Podcast, Kevin Hourigan chats with Ishan Patel, the CEO and Co-founder of Audien Hearing, about founding a health-tech company that transformed the hearing aid industry. Ishan reflects on the grit and strategic precision behind Audien Hearing's success and the lessons he learned throughout his entrepreneurial journey, from early failures to his business' explosive growth. He also touches on the importance of mentorship and the challenges of aligning personal passion with business strategy.

Greg Selkoe is the Co-founder and CEO of XSET, an esports lifestyle gaming brand. Renowned for his pioneering contributions to e-commerce, entertainment, and esports, he previously founded the Boston streetwear company Karmaloop, driving it to over a billion in lifetime revenue. He also served as the President of FaZe Clan, boosting its revenue to $400 million before exiting. An alumnus of Harvard's Kennedy School of Government and Y Combinator, Greg has been honored as Ernst & Young’s Entrepreneur of the Year, one of Goldman Sachs’ 100 Most Intriguing Entrepreneurs, and a Summit Series Top 35 Entrepreneurs under 35. In this episode… What does it take to revolutionize an industry not once but multiple times? How do industry pioneers turn creative concepts into lucrative ventures that resonate across generations? Greg Selkoe, a trailblazing business leader, transformed his passion for lifestyle brands into highly successful entrepreneurial ventures. From his pioneering e-commerce success with Karmaloop to his instrumental leadership at FaZe Clan and the evolution of his new venture XSET, Greg’s story highlights an unrelenting pursuit of innovation. By focusing on content and celebrity partnerships, XSET has grown rapidly, creating a community-centered brand that merges gaming and lifestyle. He emphasizes the value of resilience, pivoting, and mentorship, drawing from experiences with impactful mentors. Through his revolutionary approach, Greg redefines industry boundaries, making significant strides in gaming and fashion. In this episode of the Growth Fire Podcast, Kevin Hourigan welcomes Greg Selkoe, the Co-founder and CEO of XSET, to discuss the art of pivoting in entrepreneurship. Greg shares his remarkable journey, from a creative kid with learning disabilities to a widely recognized fashion industry pioneer. He highlights the role of audience-building in XSET’s development, the power of content in driving business growth, and how philanthropic work fosters a positive company culture.

Rick Torrison is a transformational leader and growth catalyst with over 25 years of experience in personal growth and team building. As a certified Executive Director of The John Maxwell Team, he is qualified to facilitate, speak, train, and coach individuals and groups in leadership development, professional skills, and personal growth. Additionally, Rick specializes in communication and conflict resolution training as a DISC facilitator and trainer. In January 2024, Rick published his first book, Born Limitless, which draws on his experiences of self-discovery and growth, empowering readers to crush limiting beliefs that hold them back. In this episode… Have you ever felt held back by unseen forces within yourself? Many people struggle with beliefs that shape and limit their lives. How can discovering and reframing these views unlock great personal and professional successes? With the belief that leadership is who we are and not what we do, Rick Torrison's self-discovery journey has been instrumental in his growth. As a coach and consultant, Rick emphasizes the importance of challenging limiting beliefs, which significantly impact our behaviors and outcomes. By addressing and overcoming these mental barriers, individuals can propel themselves forward, unlocking their full potential. Rick also advises seeking mentors in your industry to learn from their experiences and challenging the status quo in existing leadership practices to foster innovation. In this episode of The Growth Fire Podcast, Kevin Hourigan welcomes Rick Torrison, a transformational leader and growth catalyst, to discuss the significance of cultivating a growth mindset to achieve personal growth and professional success. Rick shares his journey as a coach and consultant, highlights the significance of overcoming obstacles, and demonstrates how to create a roadmap to success.

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.