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

IAM2555 - Is Franchising Right for You?

Gresham Harkless shares a powerful reflection on his journey through entrepreneurship, using an early sales training lesson — "I'm not a onesie," as a metaphor to emphasize that entrepreneurship is not one-size-fits-all. 

 

He points out that while some individuals thrive by building businesses from scratch, others are better suited for structured, proven systems such as franchising.

 

Gresham explains that franchising is ideal for people who are coachable, system-oriented, and ready to take action, with opportunities available across nearly every industry. 

 

Gresham wraps it all up with a powerful reminder: the path to success begins with self-awareness and alignment, because when you run your race, you can’t lose.

• 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!

IAM2554 - Embracing the Franchise Journey: Day 213 Insights

In this special episode, Gresham Harkless emphasizes the importance of embracing the full journey, specifically the difficult and uncomfortable parts that often signal real growth. 

 

He acknowledges that while many people begin a new venture hoping for quick success, true development often doesn't start until the challenges arise — what he refers to as the "failure reps," moments where things get hard and self-doubt creeps in. 

 

Gresham recommends that these painful, questioning moments shouldn’t be seen as signs of failure or misdirection, but rather as powerful indicators that you're on the right path and being stretched toward growth.

 

Moreover, Gresham frames struggle not as something to avoid but as a key part of the process, where resilience is built, purpose is tested, and deeper breakthroughs are unlocked.

• 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!

IAM2553 - Franchise Broker Journey: Life on the Run

In this special episode, Gresham Harkless reflects on the symbolism of the number 212 — the temperature at which water boils, to illustrate a key truth about progress and transformation. 

 

He emphasizes that transformation doesn’t occur because of a single moment, but rather due to the consistent build-up of actions and discipline leading up to it, much like how water only begins to boil after being gradually heated.

 

Gresham expresses a mix of frustration and clarity, acknowledging that while progress can feel slow or invisible at times, it's often right before a breakthrough that challenges intensify. 

 

In addition, he discusses the value of maintaining consistent, purposeful actions, confident that these ongoing efforts will eventually produce tangible, meaningful results — the moment when things truly start to shift.

• 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!

IAM2552 - Simplify Your Life: Refresh and Recharge

In this special episode, Gresham Harkless is re-evaluating his direction after realizing that his current goals, including his 12-week plan, may not align with what truly needs his attention. 

 

He feels that he has a large network of relationships and leads that he hasn’t fully leveraged and now sees the importance of focusing on cultivating those existing connections. 

 

Gresham points out that operationally, things have improved with a stronger team and better systems in place, which allows him to focus more deeply on core growth efforts.

 

He also reflects on the disappointment of the Blue Star franchise not scaling as planned, but he sees this year as foundational—an opportunity to simplify, experiment, and rebuild. 

 

Gresham is transitioning into a phase of clarity and intention, centered around rebuilding through focused growth, meaningful connections, and a streamlined approach to strategy.

 

• 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!

IAM2551 - Data Consultancy CEO Helps Equity Firms with Data-Driven Insights and Solutions

Anush Newman is the CEO and co-founder of JMAN Group, a leading data consultancy that specializes in empowering private equity firms and their portfolio companies with data-driven insights and solutions.

 

Founded in 2010, JMAN Group now serves over 88 private equity funds and 152 portfolio companies across 38 countries, with a team of more than 300 consultants.

 

Anush emphasizes the firm's unique ability to integrate disparate data sources into unified, actionable systems, setting a strong foundation for advanced analytics and AI tools. 

 

He shares that success comes not just from strategic decisions but also from being financially aware, clear on what sets your business apart, and emotionally anchored through family and balance.

 

Website: JMAN Group 

LinkedIn: Anush Newman

 

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!

IAM2550 - Podcaster and Co-owner Helps Businesses Grow Their Customer Base and Increase Sales

Hadeel Ghaida is a dynamic entrepreneur, podcast host, and co-owner of Spotlight Revenue, a marketing agency dedicated to helping businesses grow through results-driven lead generation. 

 

Hadeel is the host of The Warriorz Podcast, a show inspired by her training in Krav Maga, which has shaped her understanding of what it means to be a true warrior—resilient, courageous, and driven by purpose. 

 

Hadeel discusses deep self-awareness and constant self-reflection, which she cultivates through journaling, gratitude practices, and poetry inspired by artists like Tupac. 

 

She recommends that entrepreneurs take their time, follow their instincts, and build a business around what truly matters to them, not what’s trending.

 

Website: Spotlight Revenue 

LinkedIn: Hadeel Ghaida

 

Previous Episode: iam335-podcaster-and-co-owner-helps-businesses-grow-their-customer-base-and-increase-sales

 

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!

IAM2549 - Music School Founder Helps Individual Tap Into Their Creative Side Through Art

For 20 years, Matt was an executive in the radio industry before becoming an investor and the founding CEO of the School of Rock.

 

In five years, Matt grew the franchise from five locations to 55 schools, the largest of music schools in the world.

 

In 2012, he opened the first One River School of Art and Design in Englewood, New Jersey, and he franchised the concept in 2017, with 12 locations, with up to five more expected to open this year.

 

Matt believes that creativity is essential—not just for artists, but as a foundation for problem-solving, innovation, and emotional well-being. 

 

He focuses on empowering and mentoring his team, prioritizing personal development and strong culture over rigid efficiency. 

 

Over time, Matt has come to deeply value self-awareness and patience. He now shares these lessons with others and recommends using tools like Clifton Strengths and Born to Build to uncover personal strengths and build more cohesive, capable teams.

 

Website: One River School 

LinkedIn: Matt Ross 

Instagram: mattross_oneriverschool

 

Previous Episode: iam334-music-school-founder-helps-individual-tap-into-their-creative-side-through-art

 

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!

IAM2548 - Shifting Paradigms: Why Change is Necessary

Gresham Harkless shares a powerful personal experience about sleep training his son, using it as a metaphor for change, growth, and the value of small adjustments. 

 

He discusses trying a new method where the baby is placed down drowsy and picked up when crying, then laid back down once soothed—ultimately teaching the baby to self-soothe.

 

Gresham realizes that success came not from a massive change but from a subtle shift in approach, and connects this experience to broader life and business insights, especially for people considering entrepreneurship or franchising. 

 

Gresham emphasizes that meaningful change doesn’t always require a complete overhaul; often, we’re closer to success than we think and may already be doing parts of what’s needed without realizing it. 

 

In addition, he advocates for others to reflect on what they can control and change in their own lives, reinforcing the idea that lasting change often starts with us.

 

• 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!

IAM2547 - Unveiling the Human Side of Business

In this special episode, Gresham emphasizes the importance of staying connected to the human side of business, especially in roles like consulting or coaching, where the focus can often become overly process-driven. 

 

He shares personal context about managing the demands of work, life, and fatherhood, and uses this as a lens to empathize with the emotional and mental challenges that candidates may also be facing. 

 

Gresham recounts a recent experience with a highly engaged candidate who became unresponsive, only to later reveal he was dealing with significant personal issues. 

 

He also reflects on the broader increase in emotional and mental stress he senses in people today and encourages fellow consultants to create safe, empathetic spaces for their clients.

 

• 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!

IAM2546 - Discover The Power of Flotation Therapy

In this special episode, Gresham Harkless reflects on the transformative impact of a recent float therapy session, describing it as a powerful and possibly spiritual experience that helped him release internal pressure and emotional weight.

 

Gresham notices a lingering sense of lightness and freedom from the constant need to have all the answers or carry every responsibility—a feeling he’s now motivated to integrate into his daily life. 

 

He recognizes the compounded difficulty of building a business while managing personal responsibilities and emotional burdens, emphasizing that entrepreneurship is never isolated from the rest of life. 

 

Gresham aims to carry that sense of ease and release into both his personal life and his approach to starting a new business, with a desire to operate from a place of presence rather than pressure.

 

• 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!