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

IAM2582 - Revamping Life: Day 238's New Plan

In this special episode, Gresham Harkless recognizes a major gap in the franchising space: a lack of education-driven systems that help potential franchisees truly understand the process and opportunities. 

 

He’s now focused on creating targeted content for three groups: laid-off professionals, people unhappy in their jobs, and business owners looking to expand.

 

Gresham plans to educate these audiences through content creation, live podcasting, and leveraging his media mindset to establish himself as a thought leader. 

 

He's also exploring joining a BNI chapter to deepen his network and foster referral relationships. 

 

Moreover, Gresham embraces the “marathon, not sprint” mindset, committing to consistent outreach, value-driven content, and positioning himself not just as a broker but as a trusted advisor and connector in the franchising space.

• 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!

IAM2581 - Turning Loss into Celebration!

In this special episode, Gresham Harkless shares an update on his 231-day journey as a broker, describing the emotional ups and downs of working with candidates who show initial interest, then back out, only to sometimes return unexpectedly. 

 

He emphasizes the unpredictability of the process and how gut instincts, while not always definitive, often reveal early red flags in a candidate’s engagement. 

 

Gresham noted that while some candidates are not fully committed, offering small, low-risk projects or educational resources can serve as meaningful touchpoints to keep prospects engaged and gradually increase buy-in. 

 

He sees opportunity in creating more educational content to pre-qualify leads and support prospects while preserving his energy and time. 

 

Gresham maintains a practical and evolving mindset, recognizing the value in lessons learned and choosing to celebrate clarity—even when it comes from a lost opportunity.

 

• 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!

IAM2580 - Stand Out and Embrace Your Uniqueness

In this special episode, Gresham Harkless is in a season of deep self-awareness and transition, navigating the balance between learning a new industry and staying true to who he is. 

 

Gresham recalls a pivotal moment from his time with the Evolutionary Business Council, where he was reminded that he wasn’t meant to conform but to lead with distinction.

 

As he builds his presence in the franchise brokerage world, he’s realizing that some of the tools and systems he initially adopted, like an expensive all-in-one CRM, aren’t helping him thrive.

 

Gresham considers transitioning everything back to Pipedrive, a system he’s familiar with and can customize to better support his goals. 

 

He aims to be part of the high-performing 20% by building his process, trusting his instincts, and staying adaptable.

 

• 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!

IAM2579 - Founder and CEO Transforms Complex Business Challenges into Scalable Solutions

Charles Howard is the founder and CEO of OpenWacca, a Salesforce consultancy that transforms complex business challenges into elegant and scalable solutions. 

 

With over 20 years of experience building Salesforce systems, Charles brings deep expertise in structured design and user-centered development to every engagement.

 

He's passionate about building high-performance teams and untangling broken implementations with clarity and precision. 

 

Charles offers a system-level perspective grounded in real-world experience, and his work empowers organizations to operate smarter, scale faster, and lead with intention.

 

He emphasizes the importance of investing time upfront to understand clients' needs before diving into development, a practice that builds trust and ensures projects are truly worth pursuing. 

 

Charles shares insights on leadership, the power of delegation, and the importance of building a team-friendly work culture. 

 

Website: OpenWacca

LinkedIn: Charles Howard

 

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!

IAM2578 - Entrepreneur Builds Relationships Through Mobile Dating App

Lori Cheek is an architect-turned-entrepreneur, founder and CEO of Cheekd, a mobile dating app that makes misconnections obsolete. 

 

Lori is a Shark Tank veteran, was recently listed as “The Digital Dating Disruptor” in one of the Top 10 CEOs to Watch. 

 

A University of Kentucky architectural graduate, Lori is no longer building structures; she's now building relationships.

 

Lori’s relentless determination, resilience, and refusal to give up—despite early naysayers and numerous challenges—are central to her success. 

 

She emphasizes the importance of surrounding yourself with positive, supportive people and seeking out mentors.

 

Website: Lori Cheek 

LinkedIn: Lori Cheek

 

Previous Episode: iam347-entrepreneur-builds-relationships-through-mobile-dating-app

 

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!

IAM2577 - Student Improves Access to Science Education to Find World’s Long-term Problems

Rithvik Musuku, a driven young leader and the founder of Advancing Science Worldwide, a nonprofit organization committed to making science education accessible to underserved communities around the globe. 

 

Based in Gilbert, Arizona, Rithvik is a student with a passion for astronomy and a deep belief that science holds the key to solving some of humanity’s most pressing challenges—from climate change to antibiotic resistance. 

 

Rithvik pointed out that ASW’s uniqueness lies in its grassroots approach, igniting scientific curiosity in youth instead of concentrating efforts solely on advanced academic research.

 

He continues to champion early STEM education as a foundation for building a more scientifically literate and solution-oriented global community.

 

Website: Advancing Science Worldwide 

LinkedIn: Rithvik Musuku

 

Previous Episode: iam346-student-improves-access-to-science-education-to-find-worlds-long-term-problems/

 

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!

IAM2576 - Navigating the Unknown: Day 229 Reflections

In this special episode, Gresham Harkless reflects deeply on his current position in his Franchise Broker journey, now 229 steps in, while balancing fatherhood—symbolized by feeding his son during this very moment of contemplation.

 

He expects to be further along by now, ready to move into the next big thing, but instead, he finds himself pausing, questioning, and reassessing. 

 

Gresham is drawn to the idea of contributing without being consumed, valuing flexibility, win-win collaboration, and authentic relationships over rigid structure or ego-driven competition. 

 

He's encouraged by the openness of potential collaborators and sees this as a chance to build a more organic, impactful presence, possibly even stepping into leadership or influence roles like MemCom.

 

Moreover, he’s taking steps forward with cautious optimism, ready to explore how the right culture and strategic positioning can unlock meaningful growth and contribution.

 

• 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!

IAM2575 - Embrace Failure: Steps to Transform It

In this special episode, Gresham Harless reflects deeply on the emotional and mental toll of his ongoing journey as a Franchise Broker, currently around day 228. 

 

He expresses the internal conflict of feeling like a failure due to a lack of closed deals, despite understanding that business growth often takes time. 

 

Gresham highlights the challenge of staying mentally strong amid slow progress and uncertainty, referencing past wins as a reminder that success is possible. 

 

He emphasizes the importance of leaning into the process, even when it’s slow and frustrating, and recognizes that while a franchise provides a playbook, execution is still complex.

• 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!

IAM2574 - Master Your Final Week of Transformation

In this special episode, Gresham Harkless acknowledges that his last 12-week year fell short of expectations, largely due to a lack of focus and consistency, despite putting in considerable time and effort. 

 

Looking ahead, he plans to make sales his top priority—specifically aiming for 12 total sales: four CEO clients, two Franchise Sales, and six CEO Hacks.

 

He recognizes the strength of his brand and how clients are increasingly informed and influenced, which makes his existing reputation a key asset. 

 

Gresham expresses renewed motivation and clarity, emphasizing that consistent sales are the game-changer that will allow him to scale, build his team, and create sustainable momentum.

 

• 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!

IAM2573 - A Day 226 Adventure: Light Jogging for a Bright Highlight

In this special episode, Gresham Harkless shares a powerful insight into the importance of pacing and sustainability in both physical fitness and his journey as a franchise broker.

 

After going for a jog on Father’s Day, he recognizes that while he could have pushed himself to go farther, stopping at 2.5 miles was the smarter, more sustainable choice. 

 

He reflects on how, at the beginning, he tried to go all in—chasing quick wins and putting in intense effort, but that approach left him teetering on burnout. 

 

Now, he's learning to value the small, consistent steps—the equivalent of simply lacing up his shoes, as the true markers of progress. 

 

Additionally, Gresham emphasizes that respecting the journey, knowing his limits, and investing in long-term momentum is what will allow him to thrive over the next 5, 10, or more years, just as he has done in his digital marketing career.

 

• 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!