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

IAM2592 - Vice President of a Leading Supplier Helps People Change Their Career Trajectory

Linda Taliaferro is the Vice President of Global Quality at Meritor, Inc., a leading global supplier of drivetrain, mobility, braking, and aftermarket solutions for commercial vehicles and industrial markets. 

 

With over 30 years of experience in corporate leadership, Linda is also the founder of The Extra Effort (TEE) — a career advisory firm dedicated to helping professionals get unstuck, build executive presence, and change the trajectory of their careers. 

 

Linda explains how she transformed her long-standing passion for mentorship into a focused business that helps professionals build essential but often overlooked career skills — like self-awareness, confidence, communication under pressure, and professional presence.

 

She discusses her signature offerings, including executive presence coaching, onboarding strategy for the first 90 days in a new role, and targeted support for early- to mid-career professionals. 

 

Linda emphasizes that while hard work is important, it is not enough to get ahead in corporate environments; success also depends on visibility, relationships, and having the "it factor." 

 

In addition, Linda reflects on lessons from her own career, advocates for others not to “keep their heads down,” but instead to own their worth, be intentional about their presence, and seek support when needed. 

 

Website: Linda Taliaferro 

LinkedIn: Linda Taliaferro 

Instagram: theteewithlinda

 

Previous Episode: iam354-vice-president-of-a-leading-supplier-helps-people-change-their-career-trajectory

 

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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!

IAM2591 - Executive and Team Coach Focuses on the Power of Connection

Alan Cohen is a Professional Certified Executive and Team Coach, speaker, and author with over 30 years of experience at the intersection of communication, leadership, and human connection.

 

Spending decades as both a marketing expert and Human Resource consultant, he presided over the successful launch of the Harry Potter series as Scholastic's Director of Marketing, as well as serving as the Director of Communications for the Broadway League, representing the Tony Awards. 

 

He has coached and consulted with major organizations like Bloomberg, NBC, Tiffany & Co., American Express, and MetLife, as well as hundreds of small businesses and solopreneurs. 

 

Alan emphasizes that the foundation of his coaching is built on emotional intelligence, helping teams cultivate trust, empathy, and resilience without relying on superficial activities like trust falls. 

 

He introduces the concept of “Connection Alchemy,” which is the alignment of three vital connections: to self, to team, and to a shared purpose.

 

With a focus on purposeful leadership, Alan supports executives in navigating the complexities of modern business while staying aligned with their values and vision.

 

Website: Alan Samuel Cohen 

LinkedIn: Alan Samuel Cohen

 

Previous Episode: iam353-executive-and-team-coach-focuses-on-the-power-of-connection

 

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!

IAM2590 - Reflecting on Day 244: A Little Life

In this special episode, Gresham Harkless discusses his recent focus on outreach to create more business opportunities, especially with people affected by layoffs. 

 

He expresses some frustration with the lack of engagement within a BNI chapter he’s considering joining, noting that members’ slow responses and minimal one-to-ones raise concerns about whether referrals would be handled with care. 

 

Gresham highlights the significance of staying outside his comfort zone, citing a recent live session that not only pushed his boundaries but also resulted in new opportunities. 

 

He emphasizes his desire to build his franchise brokerage business in a way that aligns with his values rather than simply following conventional models. 

 

In addition, Gresham acknowledges the challenges of going 244 days without closing a deal but remains committed to experimentation, staying mentally strong, and taking it one step at a time, while being mindful not to overextend himself.

 

• 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!

IAM2589 - Understanding Franchising: Your Business Growth Explained

In this special episode, Gresham Harkless reflects on reaching day 244 of his Franchise Broker Journey, recognizes the need to reset and refocus before hitting the one-year mark. 

 

He plans to join a professional chapter for community and accountability, ramp up content creation by producing 30 bite-sized content videos to educate and engage potential clients, and leverage those pieces for broader visibility and value.

 

Also, Gresham mentions expanding his efforts into newsletters and collaborations, while being careful not to stretch himself too thin. 

 

Moreover, he embraces experimentation, sharpening his focus on high-impact activities, and committing to showing up daily with intention, clarity, and patience.

• 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!

IAM2588 - Unlock the Power of Multiple Lead Streams

In this special episode, Gresham Harkless reflects on a powerful morning workout and expresses a desire to build consistency by committing to it at least four times a week, even while managing parenting duties.

 

He acknowledges a key misstep in the early days of his business: jumping directly into cold market outreach without first cultivating referral relationships and tapping into his existing network, which he now realizes should have been the foundation.

 

Gresham emphasizes the power of personal connections, referencing a tool called Decks, which revealed over 13,000 contacts gathered from LinkedIn, Facebook, podcast guests, and more — many of whom he hasn’t yet reached out to systematically. 

 

Additionally, Gresham pointed out that while referrals are vital, relying on various lead sources is critical for sustainable business success.

• 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!

IAM2587 - Unlock Your Productivity: Journey through the 12-Week Year

In this special episode, Gresham Harkless is stepping into day two of this new 12-week year with a completely restructured focus and a deeper understanding of what really matters right now.

 

He’s shifted digital marketing to the top of his priorities, recognizing that with the right infrastructure now in place, it has strong growth potential. 

 

Gresham reflects on the tough transitions he's faced — unexpected challenges that hit hard, echoing the Mike Tyson quote about everyone having a plan until they get punched. 

 

He emphasizes the importance of balancing business with personal life, especially as he manages parenthood and struggles with sleep.

 

Furthermore, Gresham highlights the significance of mental and emotional resilience, recognizing that staying focused and mentally strong during hard times is what will ultimately drive success.

• 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!

IAM2586 - Founder and Coach Shares on How to Overcome Fear in Business

In today’s episode we sit down with Inga Maskun, a Dream‑Builder coach and founder of Living Your Inspired Life, to unpack one of the most stubborn obstacles entrepreneurs face: fear.

Inga shares how fear isn’t a single monster but a shape‑shifting force that often masquerades as delay, destruction, or dissuasion—the subtle excuses that keep great ideas on the back burner. She walks us through a simple, four‑step framework for neutralizing those hidden barriers:

From sky‑diving to silence the fear of heights, to reframing self‑doubt as a signal to explore new possibilities, Inga’s stories illustrate how confronting fear head‑on can unleash creativity, collaboration, and unexpected opportunities.

Website: ingamaskun.com

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!

IAM2585 - Entrepreneur and Best-selling Author Helps Clients Build Successful Brands

Haris Reis is a two-time national award-winning entrepreneur, two-time national best-selling author, keynote speaker, and expert digital marketer. 

 

Haris is best known for co-founding Changing Lanes International—helping authors, speakers, and coaches grow their brands—and for his time as a growth hacker at VaynerMedia, where he helped build Gary Vaynerchuk’s brand.

 

Haris highlights the importance of constant learning, mentorship, and investing in personal growth. 

 

He discusses overcoming imposter syndrome and emphasizes the importance of building his brand and maintaining an “obsessive” hunger for progress. 

 

LinkedIn: Haris Reis 

Instagram: Haris_Reis

 

Previous Episode: https://transcript.lol/dashboard/spaces/67701a0a4053d32612996a85/recordings?folderId=recents

 

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!

IAM2584 - Blogger Shares Tips for Bloggers and Marketers Through Her Website

Janice Wald is an accomplished author, speaker, freelance writer, and the founder of MostlyBlogging.com, a popular blog that provides practical tips and strategies for bloggers, marketers, and online entrepreneurs. 

 

Janice attributes her ability to simplify complex information to her teaching background, making her content especially helpful for beginners.

 

She emphasizes the importance of patience in building an online presence, stating that blogging is a marathon, not a sprint. 

 

Janice also notes her most popular products and services, including one-on-one coaching and a series of e-books on Amazon covering blogging, Instagram, monetization, and SEO. 

 

Website: Mostly Blogging 

LinkedIn: Janice Wald

 

Previous Episode: iam348-blogger-shares-tips-for-bloggers-and-marketers-through-her-website

 

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!

IAM2583 - Staying Strong on Day 239: A Motivational Journey

In this special episode, Gresham Harkless reflects deeply on his resistance to the common business advice of buying leads, expressing a clear desire to grow his business through organic, relationship-based methods rather than transactional lead generation. 

 

He emphasizes the importance of quality over quantity in conversations, stating that he'd rather have a handful of meaningful, high-value interactions than many shallow ones.

 

Gresham acknowledges that the value of BNI is heavily dependent on the culture and engagement of its members, and he's prepared to give it a few months to evaluate whether it aligns with his goals. 

 

In addition, he highlights the flexibility, authenticity, and long-term vision of creating a business driven by purpose and trust rather than quick wins.

• 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!