CEO Podcasts: CEO Chat Podcast + I AM CEO Podcast Powered by Blue16 Media & CBNation.co

IAM2360 - Entrepreneur and Brand Architect Build Powerful Brands and Partners With Others To Do The Same

Matt Gottesman is an international business strategist, brand architect, and purpose-driven entrepreneur.

 

He shares how his experiences with tech, branding, and consulting helped him transition into working with high-end brands like Louis Vuitton, Moët Hennessy, and Cadillac.

 

Matt emphasizes the importance of energy and authenticity in brand building, explaining that he connects with people and businesses on a deep, energetic level to understand their core motivations.

 

Matt mentions the importance of effectively organizing his time and schedule, using tools like a calendar and a large whiteboard to track goals and tasks.

 

Matt advises young entrepreneurs to focus on the process, particularly the details, and to learn from successful mentors. 

 

He highlights the importance of setting a good example and making decisions with intuition rather than emotion.

 

Website: Matt Gottesman 

LinkedIn: Matt Gottesman LLC

Facebook: Matt Gottesman

Instagram: hdfmagazine

 

Previous Episode: iam218-entrepreneur-and-brand-architect-build-powerful-brands-and-partners-with-others-to-do-the-same

 

Check out our CEO Hack Buzz Newsletter–our premium newsletter with hacks and nuggets to level up your organization. Sign up HERE. 

I AM CEO Handbook Volume 3 is HERE and it's FREE. Get your copy here: http://cbnation.co/iamceo3. Get the 100+ things that you can learn from 1600 business podcasts we recorded. Hear Gresh's story, learn the 16 business pillars from the podcast, find out about CBNation Architects and why you might be one and so much more. Did we mention it was FREE? Download it today!

IAM2359 - Embracing the Franchise Broker Experience

In this special episode, Gresham Harkless reflects on a particularly overwhelming period, both personally and professionally.

 

Gresham describes a hectic pace where he met with around 80 different franchise brands in a short time, likening it to "speed dating" due to the brief 5-minute interactions.

 

Gresham shares an epiphany regarding his approach to the broker business. He plans to lean heavily into content creation as a key part of his strategy, recognizing it as a potential strength for him. 

 

He points out the challenge of having critical business functions reliant on others, reinforcing the idea that businesses should aim for a certain level of independence, even when people are valuable assets.

 

Gresham discusses the importance of maintaining strong ethics, conducting thorough due diligence, knowing your inventory, and understanding potential franchise candidates.

 

He highlights the challenge for less experienced brokers in converting leads into clients and the need for continuous practice to improve his sales and communication skills.

• Blue Star Franchise: http://bluestarfranchise.com
• Browse the Franchise Inventory: https://bluestarfranchise.com/franchise
• Is franchising right for you? Check this out to see: http://bluestarfranchise.com/assessment
• Franchise CEO (A CBNation Site - coming soon) - http://franchiseceo.co

Check out our CEO Hack Buzz Newsletter–our premium newsletter with hacks and nuggets to level up your organization. Sign up HERE. 

I AM CEO Handbook Volume 3 is HERE and it's FREE. Get your copy here: http://cbnation.co/iamceo3. Get the 100+ things that you can learn from 1600 business podcasts we recorded. Hear Gresh's story, learn the 16 business pillars from the podcast, find out about CBNation Architects and why you might be one and so much more. Did we mention it was FREE? Download it today!

IAM2358 - The Cheat Code: Be Part of a Collaborative Franchise Association

In this special episode, Gresham Harkless reflects on his experiences during day 16 of his journey to become a franchise broker.

 

Gresham emphasizes the importance of understanding what makes a good fit between a brand and a potential candidate.

 

He points out the challenge of managing a business while learning the intricacies of franchising.

 

Gresham mentions the value of being part of a collaborative franchise association, which connects him to seasoned professionals and established relationships with brands.

 

He advocates others to look for ways to reduce the burden of managing every aspect of a business on their own.

 

In addition, Gresham highlights the importance of outsourcing tasks and leaning on others to maintain a balance and protect mental health.

 

• Blue Star Franchise: http://bluestarfranchise.com
• Browse the Franchise Inventory: https://bluestarfranchise.com/franchise
• Is franchising right for you? Check this out to see: http://bluestarfranchise.com/assessment
• Franchise CEO (A CBNation Site - coming soon) - http://franchiseceo.co

Check out our CEO Hack Buzz Newsletter–our premium newsletter with hacks and nuggets to level up your organization. Sign up HERE. 

I AM CEO Handbook Volume 3 is HERE and it's FREE. Get your copy here: http://cbnation.co/iamceo3. Get the 100+ things that you can learn from 1600 business podcasts we recorded. Hear Gresh's story, learn the 16 business pillars from the podcast, find out about CBNation Architects and why you might be one and so much more. Did we mention it was FREE? Download it today!

IAM2357 - Celebrate Every Step: The Journey Matters!

In this special episode, Gresham Harkless shares a personal and professional update while reflecting on the importance of celebrating small wins and staying present in the journey.

 

He discusses a recent client interaction in which he didn't close any business but learned the valuable lesson of celebrating the progress made, such as having the first meeting. 

 

Gresham emphasizes that even if things don’t go smoothly, it's important to acknowledge and celebrate each step because those early steps are necessary for future success.

 

Gresham highlights the concept of "planned advances"—setting clear next steps after each interaction, such as scheduling follow-up calls and asking clients to take assessments to gain better insights.

 

• Blue Star Franchise: http://bluestarfranchise.com
• Browse the Franchise Inventory: https://bluestarfranchise.com/franchise
• Is franchising right for you? Check this out to see: http://bluestarfranchise.com/assessment
• Franchise CEO (A CBNation Site - coming soon) - http://franchiseceo.co

Check out our CEO Hack Buzz Newsletter–our premium newsletter with hacks and nuggets to level up your organization. Sign up HERE. 

I AM CEO Handbook Volume 3 is HERE and it's FREE. Get your copy here: http://cbnation.co/iamceo3. Get the 100+ things that you can learn from 1600 business podcasts we recorded. Hear Gresh's story, learn the 16 business pillars from the podcast, find out about CBNation Architects and why you might be one and so much more. Did we mention it was FREE? Download it today!

IAM2356 - Design Strategist Helps Clients Turn Complex Ideas Into Clear, Actionable Business Strategies

Jonah Burlingame is a seasoned design strategist and consultant specializing in turning complex ideas into clear, actionable business strategies.

 

Jonah emphasizes the importance of partnering with senior leaders to understand the company’s strategy, goals, and challenges.

 

He believes that successful project execution requires aligning various teams early and making sure they collaborate toward a common goal.

 

Jonah highlights that strategy is often abstract, and the tactical teams tasked with execution might struggle to interpret and act on those high-level ideas without proper alignment.

 

Jonah shares the concept of "planting yourself where you can bloom," offering powerful advice based on his personal experience of relocating to California for work.

 

Website: Mind-Arc | Strategy By Design 

LinkedIn: Jonah Burlingame

 

Check out our CEO Hack Buzz Newsletter–our premium newsletter with hacks and nuggets to level up your organization. Sign up HERE. 

I AM CEO Handbook Volume 3 is HERE and it's FREE. Get your copy here: http://cbnation.co/iamceo3. Get the 100+ things that you can learn from 1600 business podcasts we recorded. Hear Gresh's story, learn the 16 business pillars from the podcast, find out about CBNation Architects and why you might be one and so much more. Did we mention it was FREE? Download it today!

IAM2355 - President and CEO Helps Consumers Educate About Design, Building, and Remodeling

Gregg Cantor is the President and CEO of Murray Lampert Design Build Remodel, a family business based in San Diego, California.

 

With over 40 years of experience, Gregg leads a four-generation family business celebrating its 50th anniversary in 2025. 

 

Gregg emphasizes that its marketing approach is educational, not sales-driven. It aims to educate consumers on design, remodeling, and building, positioning itself as a partner in the process rather than using high-pressure tactics.

 

Gregg highlights the importance of keeping organized with tools like Apple Notes to track tasks and goals.

 

In addition, he advocates for reading and continuous learning, recommending audiobooks and podcasts as valuable resources for personal and professional growth.

 

Website: Murray Lamper Design, Build, Remodel 

LinkedIn: Gregg Cantor

 

Previous Episode: iam1331-ceo-helps-clients-design-and-build-their-houses

 

Check out our CEO Hack Buzz Newsletter–our premium newsletter with hacks and nuggets to level up your organization. Sign up HERE. 

I AM CEO Handbook Volume 3 is HERE and it's FREE. Get your copy here: http://cbnation.co/iamceo3. Get the 100+ things that you can learn from 1600 business podcasts we recorded. Hear Gresh's story, learn the 16 business pillars from the podcast, find out about CBNation Architects and why you might be one and so much more. Did we mention it was FREE? Download it today!

IAM2354 - Business Coach and Speaker Helps Entrepreneurs Position Themselves To Be Part of The Conversation

Silva Harapetian is a seasoned media consultant, business coach, author, and speaker. Silva's extensive 20-year career as a television journalist for major networks like NBC, ABC, CBS, and Fox has equipped her with unique insights into storytelling and its impact on business growth.

 

She is a television personality and media expert who was featured in online and print magazines as well as television and radio shows internationally and nationally including NBC's The Today Show, the Kathie Lee and Hoda, and syndicated talk show The Nate Berkus Show.

 

Silva emphasizes the importance of human connection in marketing, saying that effective marketing should resonate on an emotional level and not just focus on product features.

 

She advocates entrepreneurs to ensure their marketing has a heartbeat, meaning it should connect on a human level, even in the digital space.

 

She emphasizes the importance of dedicating time each day to something that nurtures creativity and personal well-being.

 

Silva highlights the importance of staying aligned with one's mission which leads to true success and fulfillment in business.

 

Website: Silva Harapetian 

Linkedin: Silva Harapetian 

Instagram: silvaharapetian

 

Check out our CEO Hack Buzz Newsletter–our premium newsletter with hacks and nuggets to level up your organization. Sign up HERE. 

I AM CEO Handbook Volume 3 is HERE and it's FREE. Get your copy here: http://cbnation.co/iamceo3. Get the 100+ things that you can learn from 1600 business podcasts we recorded. Hear Gresh's story, learn the 16 business pillars from the podcast, find out about CBNation Architects and why you might be one and so much more. Did we mention it was FREE? Download it today!

IAM2353 - International Yoga Teacher Helps Clients Destress With Yoga

Sarah Highfield is an International Yoga Teacher based in London, UK and is the founder of Yogagise Yoga.

 

Her journey from a PR career to becoming a renowned yoga instructor offers valuable lessons for anyone looking to build a successful business in the wellness industry.

 

Sarah emphasizes the importance of treating any business seriously from day one, including organizing finances, marketing efforts, and client management.

 

She discusses that it’s not enough to just teach yoga—creating meaningful, long-lasting connections with students is what drives a successful business. 

 

She feels a deep responsibility for providing a service that helps her clients feel better, more confident, and balanced. 

 

Website: Yogagise 

LinkedIn: Sarah Highfield

Facebook: Yogagise

 

Previous Episode: iam214-international-yoga-teacher-helps-clients-destress-with-yoga

 

Check out our CEO Hack Buzz Newsletter–our premium newsletter with hacks and nuggets to level up your organization. Sign up HERE. 

I AM CEO Handbook Volume 3 is HERE and it's FREE. Get your copy here: http://cbnation.co/iamceo3. Get the 100+ things that you can learn from 1600 business podcasts we recorded. Hear Gresh's story, learn the 16 business pillars from the podcast, find out about CBNation Architects and why you might be one and so much more. Did we mention it was FREE? Download it today!

IAM2352 - Unveiling the Franchise Broker Adventure: Embrace the Discomfort

In this special episode, Gresham Harkless discusses the challenges and emotional aspects of starting a new business, comparing the process to the awkward, stumbling stage of a baby giraffe learning to walk.

 

He reflects on the fatigue that goes with juggling multiple responsibilities—personal, volunteer, and business-related—and acknowledges the struggle of managing energy and staying organized, particularly by the end of the week.

 

Gresham emphasizes the importance of understanding and embracing the discomfort that comes with new ventures. 

 

He mentions the idea of "letting go of the previous rung" when climbing to the next level, a concept introduced to him by coach Art Radke.

 

Gresham highlights the importance of protecting one's time and energy, recognizing that being overwhelmed is common in new business ventures.

 

Gresham underscores the necessity of saying "no" without justification as a way of prioritizing and safeguarding one's well-being.

 

• Blue Star Franchise: http://bluestarfranchise.com
• Browse the Franchise Inventory: https://bluestarfranchise.com/franchise
• Is franchising right for you? Check this out to see: http://bluestarfranchise.com/assessment
• Franchise CEO (A CBNation Site - coming soon) - http://franchiseceo.co

Check out our CEO Hack Buzz Newsletter–our premium newsletter with hacks and nuggets to level up your organization. Sign up HERE. 

I AM CEO Handbook Volume 3 is HERE and it's FREE. Get your copy here: http://cbnation.co/iamceo3. Get the 100+ things that you can learn from 1600 business podcasts we recorded. Hear Gresh's story, learn the 16 business pillars from the podcast, find out about CBNation Architects and why you might be one and so much more. Did we mention it was FREE? Download it today!

IAM2351 - The Importance of Taking the Plunge and Embracing the Unexpected Opportunities

In this special episode, Gresham Harkless reflects on how they started their franchise broker business before they felt "ready," which has been a key part of their entrepreneurial journey.

 

Gresham emphasizes that it’s often beneficial to start things even when you're not fully prepared because you’ll make more progress than waiting until everything feels perfect.

 

He shares that they received a potential lead through a Facebook group post from someone looking to sell their franchise.

 

Gresham believes that blocking out time helps them stay disciplined and focused, which is essential for managing multiple business ventures.

 

He also admits that they struggled to find a place to fit the franchise brokering business into their schedule. 

 

In addition, Gresham discusses the importance of discipline and intentionality in balancing all their responsibilities.

• Blue Star Franchise: http://bluestarfranchise.com
• Browse the Franchise Inventory: https://bluestarfranchise.com/franchise
• Is franchising right for you? Check this out to see: http://bluestarfranchise.com/assessment
• Franchise CEO (A CBNation Site - coming soon) - http://franchiseceo.co

Check out our CEO Hack Buzz Newsletter–our premium newsletter with hacks and nuggets to level up your organization. Sign up HERE. 

I AM CEO Handbook Volume 3 is HERE and it's FREE. Get your copy here: http://cbnation.co/iamceo3. Get the 100+ things that you can learn from 1600 business podcasts we recorded. Hear Gresh's story, learn the 16 business pillars from the podcast, find out about CBNation Architects and why you might be one and so much more. Did we mention it was FREE? Download it today!