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

IAM2516 - Founder Helps Businesses on Cost-Saving Solutions and Optimize their Services

Dennis Schooley is the Founder and co-CEO of Schooley Mitchell, North America’s largest independent cost reduction consulting firm. 

 

With a background as a Chartered Accountant, Dennis has over 25 years of experience helping businesses reduce expenses and improve profitability.

 

Schooley Mitchell has grown into a powerful franchise network of over 320 offices, serving more than 32,000 clients and saving businesses over $1 billion.

 

Dennis explains that franchisees don’t need to be experts in cost analysis, as Schooley Mitchell provides centralized support through a large team of specialized analysts.

 

He emphasizes the importance of lifelong learning, reading regularly, and leading with both passion and compassion.

 

Dennis also discusses their growing sustainability efforts, including planting thousands of trees for every new client and franchisee.

 

Additionally, he reflects on the meaningful impact of empowering business owners and creating opportunities for long-term success.

 

Website: Schooley Mitchell 

LinkedIn: Dennis Schooley

 

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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!

IAM2515 - Business Leader Helps Clients Build Wealth, Social and Mental Health

Chandler Walker is a visionary business leader with high emotional intelligence and a rare mix of strategic and technology, marketing, sales, and expertise, combined with a true talent for devising and applying new ideas and innovation to propel companies to build competitive advantages.

 

Chandler shares his entrepreneurial journey and the mission behind his two impactful ventures: Stone Age Fuel and Culture of Care.

 

Chandler realized the importance of customer connection and business autonomy, but also discovered he didn’t want a career rooted in hard labor.

 

Chandler emphasizes the importance of his "Five Pillars of Optimal Wellness", mental health, social health, nutrition/gut health, fitness, and sleep, as a framework for true, sustainable well-being.

 

Website: Culture of Care 

LinkedIn: Chandler Walker 

Facebook: Chandler – Culture of Care

 

Previous Episode: https://iamceo.co/iam310-business-leader-helps-clients-build-wealth-social-and-mental-health/

 

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!

IAM2514 - CEO Revolutionizes The Packaging Industry by Providing Reusable Shipping Packaging

Mike Newman is the CEO of Returnity Innovations, the pioneer in the elimination of single-use shipping packaging.

 

With over 20 years of experience at the intersection of sustainability and supply chain, Mike brings a deep understanding of how to drive real-world impact through practical, scalable innovation.

 

After directing the Sierras Club's political operations in 20 states, he received his MBA from the Ross School of Business at the University of Michigan.

 

As Sales and Marketing Executive Vice President for ReCellular, he built e-waste programs for Verizon, AT&T, Walmart, Best Buy, and more, saving millions of used cell phones from landfills.

 

Mike has been featured on the Today Show, The New York Times, NPR, and many more, including the I AM CEO podcast.

 

He explains that true innovation means making reusable packaging just as practical and cost-effective as traditional materials, so companies and consumers can adopt it with minimal disruption.

 

Mike also discusses the importance of transparency, not only in company performance but in leadership style, as he balances entrepreneurship with family life.

 

Moreover, he shares lessons learned, especially around how early decisions around team, funding, and strategy can significantly shape the direction of a startup.

 

Website: Returnity Innovations 

LinkedIn: Mike Newman

 

Previous Episode: iam309-ceo-revolutionizes-the-packaging-industry-by-providing-reusable-shipping-packaging

 

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!

IAM2513 - Why Going Right is the Ultimate Game Changer

Gresham Harkless discusses the value of doing things differently, such as moving in the opposite direction of the crowd, to uncover unique opportunities. 

 

Gresham shares his realization that relying solely on methods like Google Ads may not be the most effective strategy, and he aims to explore alternative approaches that align more closely with his strengths. 

 

Additionally, Gresham highlights the significance of self-awareness, encouraging entrepreneurs to recognize and embrace their unique abilities to achieve 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!

IAM2512 - Finding Your Conversation Spark

Gresham Harkless expresses his emotional and mental fatigue as he navigates the long ramp-up period, now around day 185, without yet closing his first candidate.

 

He discusses the importance of timing and financing in matching candidates with business opportunities, noting that even when there's interest, external factors can delay progress.

 

Gresham emphasizes his belief in "moving before you're ready," acknowledging that this mindset has propelled him forward, even without tangible results yet.

 

Despite challenges, including a rainy day disrupting his routine and emotional exhaustion from the process, Gresham remains hopeful and committed, recognizing that persistence and preparation will pay off once the first deal is finalized.

• 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!

IAM2511 - Is Progress Really Happening?

In this special episode, Gresham Harkless explores into the challenges of franchise brokerage, particularly the extended sales cycles and the emotional aspects of entrepreneurship. 

 

He emphasizes that while immediate feedback is scarce, signs like presentations, brand communications, and candidate interactions indicate movement. 

 

Gresham also highlights the importance of recognizing small victories and staying persistent, even when outcomes are not immediately clear. 

 

Through his experiences, Gresham has recognized that his strengths lie in lead generation and content creation, rather than managing the full sales cycle.

 

• 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!

IAM2510 - Conquering Daily Surprises: Be Unstoppable!

Gresham Harkless shares the challenges he faces in maintaining focus as increasing daily distractions and obligations make it more difficult to keep moving toward his goals.

 

He highlights the exhaustion that comes from constantly juggling priorities — family, business, leadership, and how that often leads people to choose more stable paths like traditional jobs.

 

Gresham reflects on the difficulty of committing to new opportunities, especially when results aren’t guaranteed, and how it requires a leap of faith. 

 

Gresham emphasizes the value of getting just 1% better each day and embracing the long game, recognizing that real success comes through steady effort, adaptation, and an honest acknowledgment of life’s challenges.

• 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!

IAM2509 - Culture Strategist Helps Organizations Build and Enhance their Organizational Cultures

Chuck Salvo is the Chief Happiness Architect and culture strategist behind the R.A.V.E. movement —  "Respect and Value Everyone." 

 

With over 30 years of leadership experience, including 15 years at Disney Institute, Chuck has dedicated his career to helping organizations design intentional cultures that drive employee engagement, customer loyalty, and sustainable growth. 

 

He advocates for moving beyond generic slogans, urging leaders to embed respect, connection, and purpose into their company's DNA. Chuck's approach involves conducting in-depth cultural assessments through candid conversations with employees and customers, rather than relying solely on surveys.

 

He emphasizes the significance of aligning employee experience (EX) with customer experience (CX) to create a cohesive organizational culture.

 

Chuck believes in blending various organizational elements, such as HR, employee engagement, and customer service, to create a harmonious and effective workplace.

 

Furthermore, Chuck recommends that leaders be intentional in managing touchpoints throughout the employee and customer journeys.

 

Website:  Salvo Innovative Solutions, LLC. 

LinkedIn: Chuck Salvo 

 

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!

IAM2508 - President Guides Company to Create Memorable Experiences for Consumers

John Piester is the President of Red Peg Marketing, a leading experiential marketing agency known for creating dynamic, consumer-driven brand experiences. 

 

With over 20 years of experience in operations and management across industries like sports, entertainment, and brand marketing, John has worked with some of the world’s most iconic companies, including Nike, ESPN, Coca-Cola, and Harley-Davidson. 

 

Before joining Red Peg, he held senior leadership roles at Momentum Worldwide and Ignition Incorporated, and played a key role in the 2002 Salt Lake City Winter Olympics as an operations manager.

 

John highlights the importance of staying connected to employees, listening before leading, and building a culture that reflects both the agency’s values and its clients’ identities.

 

He emphasizes that success in a fast-moving industry depends on staying ahead of trends, like RedPeg’s early move into gaming and eSports, and constantly evolving the company's unique approach.

 

With the company’s recent expansion into Dubai, John continues to prioritize sustainable growth while staying true to the core values and culture that have shaped Red Peg’s identity.

 

Website: RedPeg 

LinkedIn: John Piester

 

Previous Episode: iam304-therapist-finds-passion-in-improving-clinicians-and-professionals-lives

 

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!

IAM2507 - CEO Helps Small Business Owners Looking to Grow to The Next Level

Rob Braiman is the founder and CEO of Cogent Analytics, a business management consulting firm dedicated to helping small and mid-sized businesses achieve sustainable growth and profitability.

 

With over 20 years of experience, Rob has personally engaged with more than 1,700 businesses across the United States, providing tailored strategies to enhance operations, leadership, and financial performance.

 

Under Rob's leadership, Cogent Analytics has grown from a team of six in 2014 to over 220 employees, serving businesses in 32 states. The company has been recognized on the Inc. 5000 list of fastest-growing companies and named among the Financial Times' Fastest Growing Companies in the Americas.

 

Rob emphasizes the importance of assembling the right team, noting that the collective efforts of dedicated individuals have been instrumental in the company's success. 

 

He points out the importance of ongoing education within the organization, encouraging leaders to engage in learning that directly benefits their teams. 

 

Rob recommends focusing on foundational business principles and surrounding oneself with a committed team. 

 

Website: Cogent Analytics 

LinkedIn: Rob Braiman

 

Previous Episode: iam306-ceo-helps-small-business-owners-looking-to-grow-to-the-next-level

 

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!