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  • Scott Wallace - Co-Founder and CEO of E.C.D. Automotive Design

    Scott Wallace - Co-Founder and CEO of E.C.D. Automotive Design
    2025/02/04
    Welcome to another episode of the Business Leaders of America podcast. In this episode, we dive into the world of luxury automotive restoration with Scott Wallace, Co-Founder and CEO of E.C.D. Automotive Design. Scott’s journey is anything but conventional, starting with his early experiences as a sales and marketing director in the UK, where he played a pivotal role in driving revenue growth, increasing share value by 200%, and leading a £227 million business acquisition in private equity. His deep expertise in marketing, sales, and capital allocation eventually led him to co-found E.C.D., a company that has redefined the restomod industry by seamlessly blending classic automotive design with cutting-edge technology. Scott shares how E.C.D. evolved from a passion project into a dominant player in the luxury automotive space, boasting a 26% compound annual growth rate and a successful Nasdaq listing. We discuss the strategic decisions behind E.C.D.’s rapid expansion, including its move into retail locations across the U.S., and the key lessons in transforming a passion-driven venture into a scalable business. Scott also breaks down the challenges and opportunities of growing a high-end brand while maintaining the craftsmanship and exclusivity that set E.C.D. apart. Beyond the business strategy, Scott gives us an inside look at what it takes to create one-of-a-kind, handcrafted vehicles that cater to the world’s top 1%, delivering not just cars, but immersive, highly personalized experiences. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, automotive enthusiast, or just love hearing about business leaders who are disrupting industries, this conversation is packed with insights on leadership, innovation, and scaling a niche business into a powerhouse brand. Notable Awards and Recognitions • Co-founder and CEO of E.C.D. Automotive Design, a leading company in the luxury custom automotive industry • Successfully took E.C.D. public on the Nasdaq • Achieved a 26% compound annual growth rate for E.C.D. Automotive Design • 200% increase in share value and leading a successful £227 million business acquisition in private equity • Spearheaded a shift in the auto industry by delivering a luxury experience where clients engage in the process of building their dream vehicles, combining classic nostalgia with modern functionality. • Played a pivotal role in the growth and success of ECD, with the company now producing highly sought-after restored and modified Land Rovers, Jaguars, and other classic vehicles How to connect with Scott Wallace • https://E.C.D.autodesign.com/ • https://www.instagram.com/E.C.D.autodesign/?hl=en • https://www.youtube.com/@E.C.D.AutoDesign/featured • https://x.com/E.C.D.autodesign Show Notes [1:33] Brief intro how Scott got to where he is today. [3:03] How Scott’s early experiences shaped his leadership approach. [4:32] Transitioning from the European public sector and venture capital to the automotive restomod industry. [10:43] Key strategies that helped the E.C.D. Automotive Design reach a 26% CAGR and a successful NASDAQ listing. [23:54] Creating a 1-of-1 Luxury vehicle. [33:17] How the cultural diversity of E.C.D.’s leadership team influenced the brand’s identity and success. [34:48] What Scott is most excited about for the future of E.C.D. [36:09] How to engage with Scott and learn more about E.C.D. [37:16] Advice for entrepreneurs who want to turn a passion project, like E.C.D.’s journey from three “gear heads” to a public company, into a scalable business. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    39 分
  • Adriana Pirela - Chief Marketing Officer at Brava

    Adriana Pirela - Chief Marketing Officer at Brava
    2025/01/28
    Welcome to another episode of the Business Leaders of America podcast. In this episode, I had the pleasure of speaking with Adriana Pirela, an accomplished marketing strategist with over 20 years of international experience. Adriana is currently the Chief Marketing Officer at Brava, a company redefining how businesses approach technology through cutting-edge solutions in connectivity, cybersecurity, cloud services, and collaboration. We explored how Adriana’s global career shaped her leadership style, the challenges of crafting marketing strategies for diverse markets, and how the innovative fractional executive model is helping businesses access top-tier leadership without the full-time commitment. Adriana also shared what sets her approach apart in today’s fast-paced digital landscape and offered valuable insights into how Brava is empowering businesses of all sizes to thrive in the digital era. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, marketer, or business leader, you’ll find Adriana’s perspective on leadership, innovation, and creating opportunities for underrepresented groups truly inspiring. Let’s dive in! Notable Awards and Recognitions • Chief Marketing Officer at Brava, driving innovation in ICT and cybersecurity solutions. • Featured in The CIO World Magazine’s article "The Most Influential CMOs to Watch in 2024." • Over 20 years of international experience in marketing and leadership roles. • Worked with global brands like Blackberry, Samsung, and TCL. • Advocates for empowering minority groups, including women and immigrants, in leadership roles within the technology industry. • Successfully navigated and led in global markets, including the US, Canada, the UK, Latin America, the Caribbean, and the Pacific. How to connect with Adriana Pirela • https://www.linkedin.com/in/adripirela/ • https://www.linkedin.com/company/bravasolutions/ Show Notes [1:42] Brief intro how Adriana got to where he is today. [3:45] How the international experience shaped Adriana’s career and leadership style. [6:15] Challenges when learning how to tailor marketing messages to resonate with diverse markets [12:12] What sets her approach apart from others in the industry and how she tries to stay ahead of the curve in today’s fast-paced digital landscape. [32:47] Difference between the Executive Fractional Model and a consultant. [41:43] How to connect with Adriana and learn more about Brava and it’s innovative solutions. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    44 分
  • Thomas Linton - President and CEO of Catapult Solutions

    Thomas Linton - President and CEO of Catapult Solutions
    2025/01/21
    Welcome to another episode of the Business Leaders of America podcast. In this episode, sit down with Thomas Linton, the dynamic President and CEO of Catapult Solutions and a Vistage Chair with Vistage Worldwide. Thomas is a true Business Catalyst and Leadership Champion with decades of experience working with Fortune 500 companies like GE, BP, AT&T, and Bank of America. He’s passionate about helping businesses grow revenue, optimize costs, and create extraordinary experiences for both customers and employees. Throughout our conversation, Thomas shares his journey from corporate leadership to becoming a trusted advisor for CEOs and business owners, and he provides invaluable insights into aligning strategy with vision, fostering innovation, and overcoming common leadership gaps in small and midsize businesses. We also dive into the power of peer advisory groups through Vistage, the opportunities available through the Plan, Scale, Exit group, and practical strategies that can drive real business results. If you’re a business leader looking to scale, optimize, and inspire transformational growth, you won’t want to miss this insightful discussion with Thomas Linton. Let’s dive in! Notable Awards and Recognitions • President and CEO of Catapult Solutions, helping businesses grow revenue, optimize costs, and enhance customer and employee experiences. • Vistage Chair with Vistage Worldwide, facilitating peer advisory groups for CEOs and business owners to drive growth and leadership development. • Decades of leadership experience with Fortune 500 companies including GE, BP, AT&T, Assurant, Bank of America, and First Data. • Active participant in the Plan, Scale, Exit group, providing strategic solutions to businesses seeking growth and efficiency opportunities. • Expert in aligning strategy with vision, optimizing processes, and delivering tangible business results. • Recognized for empowering teams and fostering a culture of innovation and continuous improvement. • Proven track record of helping businesses achieve significant cost reductions through process optimization and tax-saving strategies. • Specializes in strategic marketing, lead generation, and sales pipeline optimization to drive business growth. How to connect with Thomas Linton • https://www.linkedin.com/in/thomaslinton/ • thomas@catapultsolutionsllc.com Show Notes [2:10] Brief intro how Thomas got to where he is today. [3:46] The inspiration that shifted Thomas to become a trusted advisor and “Business Catalyst” for CEOs and organizations. [5:59] Common misalignment in businesses and how he helps leaders address it. [10:08] Leadership gaps in small to midsize businesses. [14:32] How leaders can foster an innovative mindset while balancing cost optimization and operational efficiency. [20:42] Vistage Worldwide [25:41] Plan, Scale, Exit [28:53] How to connect with Thomas, learn more about Catapult Solutions, Vistage Worldwide, as well as Plan, Scale, Exit. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    30 分
  • Steven L. Blue - CEO of Miller Ingenuity

    Steven L. Blue - CEO of Miller Ingenuity
    2025/01/14
    Welcome to another episode of the Business Leaders of America podcast. In this episode, I sit down with Steven L. Blue, the President and CEO of Miller Ingenuity—a trailblazing company that creates high-technology products designed to save lives and protect the environment. Steve is not only an internationally recognized expert on business transformation but also a dynamic keynote speaker who has addressed audiences at Harvard Business School, the United Nations, and even Carnegie Hall. Steve is the best-selling author of five acclaimed books, including Mastering the Art of Success, co-authored with Jack Canfield of Chicken Soup for the Soul fame. Throughout his career, he has become a trusted voice on innovation, leadership, and transforming company cultures to achieve exponential growth. In our conversation, We dive into the importance of clear communication, reskilling your workforce for the future, and fostering a culture where employees feel empowered to share their honest perspectives. If you’ve ever wondered how to unleash the full potential of your team while driving transformative change in your organization, this episode is for you. Stay tuned for actionable strategies and inspiring lessons from one of America’s leading mid-market CEOs! Notable Awards and Recognitions • President and CEO of Miller Ingenuity, a global leader in safety and environmental technology solutions. • Best-selling author of six books, including Unlocking Success and Mastering the Art of Success, co-authored with Jack Canfield. • Renowned keynote speaker, having addressed audiences at Harvard Business School, the United Nations, and Carnegie Hall. • Recipient of the Quilly® Award from the National Academy of Best-Selling Authors®. • Trusted media commentator, featured on platforms like Fox Business, Forbes, and The Huffington Post. How to connect with Steven L. Blue • https://www.linkedin.com/in/stevenblue/ • https://www.stevenlblue.com/ • https://www.amazon.com/Unlocking-Success-Successbooks-Publishing/dp/B0DQRH33X8 • https://www.milleringenuity.com/ Show Notes [1:34] Brief intro how Steven got to where he is today. [3:55] Collaborating with Jack Canfield [5:55] Miller Ingenuity transforming from it’s traditional roots to becoming a cutting-edge innovator. [17:27] How to approach reskilling your workforce to stay competitive. [26:40] Three C’s of Communication [33:39] Steven’s book, “Metamorphosis: From Rust-Belt to High-Tech in a 21st Century World” [39:36] How to connect with Steven, learn more about Miller Ingenuity, as well as pick up his books, including his recent release, “Unlocking Success”. [40:02] Advice for leaders that Steven wishes someone had given him earlier in his career. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    42 分
  • Sergei Kaminskiy - Founder and CEO of Kaminskiy Group

    Sergei Kaminskiy - Founder and CEO of Kaminskiy Group
    2025/01/13
    Welcome to another episode of the Business Leaders of America podcast. In this episode, In this episode, we’re diving into the remarkable entrepreneurial journey of Sergei Kaminskiy, a true visionary who has turned his dreams into reality across multiple industries. Sergei is the founder and CEO of Kaminskiy Design and Remodeling, Kaminskiy Commercial Construction, and Kaminskiy Care and Repair. He’s also made waves in manufacturing, healthcare, and real estate, showcasing his ability to spot opportunities and adapt to new challenges. During our conversation, Sergei shares the inspiring story of how he and his wife, Elena, started their first business from scratch—walking door to door to distribute flyers—eventually building an award-winning remodeling empire in San Diego. We’ll explore the pivotal role Elena has played in their shared success, the lessons Sergei learned during the early days of entrepreneurship, and how he balances his many responsibilities as a business owner, investor, and family man. Sergei also discusses his ventures into diverse sectors, including manufacturing and real estate, and gives us a glimpse into his strategic approach to identifying and seizing new opportunities. If you’re looking for advice on building a legacy, staying resilient through challenges, and finding success in unexpected places, you won’t want to miss this episode. Notable Awards and Recognitions • Founder and CEO of Kaminskiy Design and Remodeling, Kaminskiy Commercial Construction, and Kaminskiy Care and Repair • Active shareholder and contributor to the development of a multi-vitamin manufacturing company • Built Kaminskiy Design and Remodeling into an award-winning San Diego-based remodeling company, recognized as San Diego’s Best Home Remodeler, Kitchen and Bath Remodeler, and Local Design and Remodeling Company by the San Diego Union-Tribune • Began franchising Kaminskiy Care and Repair in November • Strategic investor in commercial real estate with a diversified business portfolio How to connect with Sergei Kaminskiy • https://www.instagram.com/sergei.kaminskiy/ • https://www.linkedin.com/in/sergei-kaminskiy-91b27727/ • https://careandrepair.com/ • https://flawlessfacepillow.com/ Show Notes [1:41] Brief intro how Sergei got to where he is today. [10:02] How Sergei’s vision of success evolved into the remarkable reality he lives today. [12:20] Elena, Sergei's wife, was instrumental in the early stages of their venture and has since successfully transitioned to leading her own thriving business, Flawless Face Pillow. [14:55] Mastering the art of balancing a demanding work life with family commitments, ensuring both his professional success and a strong family life. [18:28] Leveraged social media to broaden the business's global reach, fostering growth and increasing engagement. [22:25] Kaminskiy Care and Repair Franchise Opportunity [24:50] How Sergei has identified opportunities in diverse industries. [31:11] How to connect with Sergei and learn more about his businesses. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    33 分
  • Onyi Odunukwe - CEO of Glo Tanning

    Onyi Odunukwe - CEO of Glo Tanning
    2025/01/03
    Welcome to another episode of the Business Leaders of America podcast. In this episode, in this episode, I had the privilege of speaking with Onyi Odunukwe, a visionary entrepreneur and the CEO of Glo Tanning. Onyi’s journey is nothing short of extraordinary—from launching a single tanning salon in Arkansas in 2010 to growing Glo Tanning into a nationwide franchise with over 100 locations in under five years. But Onyi’s expertise doesn’t stop there. With a 9-figure real estate portfolio and a passion for mentorship, he’s also the founder of The Acquisition Academy, where he helps aspiring entrepreneurs fast-track their success in commercial real estate. Throughout our conversation, we explore how Onyi transformed Glo Tanning into a scalable and innovative franchise model, the qualities he looks for in franchise operators, and how his focus on innovation has redefined the tanning and spa experience. Onyi also shares insights into the power of mentorship, the lessons he’s learned building a nationwide brand, and advice for entrepreneurs looking to disrupt industries and achieve rapid growth. Whether you’re an aspiring entrepreneur, a seasoned business leader, or just curious about what it takes to revolutionize an industry, this episode is packed with valuable takeaways. Notable Awards and Recognitions • Founder and CEO of Glo Tanning, leading its expansion to over 100 locations in under five years. • Built an 9-figure real estate portfolio across multiple states. • Creator of The Acquisition Academy, a mentorship program for aspiring real estate investors and entrepreneurs. • Innovator in customer experience, combining state-of-the-art tanning technology with luxurious spa services. • Spearheaded the development of a seamless franchise model to simplify operations for tanning salon owners. • Committed mentor and advocate for accelerating success through education and strategic guidance. How to connect with Onyi Odunukwe • https://www.linkedin.com/in/onyi-odunukwe-b9a87983/ • https://www.instagram.com/sweatpant_millionaire/ • https://www.onyiodunukwe.com/ • https://www.glotanning.com/ • https://onyiodunukwe.com/programs Show Notes [1:41] Brief intro how Onyi got to where he is today. [2:57] The turning point to begin franchising and how Onyi’s approach to building a scalable franchise model. [5:32] Qualities Onyi looks for in franchise operators and how he ensures they align with the Glo Tanning brand. [7:39] How tech and innovation has shaped Glo Tanning’s customer experience and helped them stay ahead of the competition. [10:15] With his 9-figure real estate portfolio, how Onyi’s real expertise has complimented his work with Glo Tanning and other ventures. [11:55] Managing the demands of thriving businesses while maintaining a balanced personal life. [13:56] Acquisition Academy [18:12] How to connect with Onyi, learn more about Acquisition Academy, and get more information about potentially becoming a franchisee with Glo Tanning [19:36] Where the nickname “Sweatpant Millionaire” originated [21:41] Advice for entrepreneurs looking to disrupt industries and achieve rapid growth. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    24 分
  • Ken Schmidt - Executive Advisor, Transformational Speaker, Brand Visionary, and Leadership Icon

    Ken Schmidt - Executive Advisor, Transformational Speaker, Brand Visionary, and Leadership Icon
    2024/12/24
    Welcome to another episode of the Business Leaders of America podcast. In this episode, I’m thrilled to bring you a conversation with Ken Schmidt, one of the most sought-after executive advisors and keynote speakers in the business world. Ken is best known for his pivotal role in Harley-Davidson’s remarkable turnaround during the 1990s, taking the company from financial struggle to global dominance by shifting its focus from products to creating unforgettable connections with people. During our discussion, Ken dives into the unconventional strategies that drove Harley-Davidson to achieve unparalleled customer loyalty, lessons he’s shared with household-name brands worldwide. We explore topics like breaking free from the commodity trap, creating a culture of memorability, and the three questions every business leader must answer to drive success. Ken also shares insights from his bestselling book, Make Some Noise: The Unconventional Road to Dominance, and provides actionable advice on fostering employee and customer loyalty while standing out in competitive markets. Whether you’re leading a business or looking to differentiate yourself in your career, this episode is packed with wisdom and inspiration from a leader who lives by the mantra: “Never do what’s expected; always make yourself noticeably different, and have a lot more fun than you’re supposed to.” Notable Awards and Recognitions • Played a key role in Harley-Davidson’s turnaround from financial ruin to global dominance during the 1990s. • Delivered more than 1,200 keynote speeches worldwide as a highly sought-after executive advisor and speaker. • Co-founded Torque Sessions Leadership Training to enhance organizational competitiveness and leadership. • Host of the Tailgating with Geniuses podcast, featuring conversations with innovative and successful leaders. • Authored Make Some Noise: The Unconventional Road to Dominance, offering a roadmap for competitiveness, and ghost-authored 100 Years of Harley-Davidson, the best-selling motorsports book of all time. How to connect with Ken Schmidt • https://www.linkedin.com/in/ken-schmidt-5b08115/ • https://kenspeaks.com/ • https://www.amazon.com/s?k=ken+schmidt+make+some+noise&ref=nb_sb_noss Show Notes [1:41] Brief intro how Ken got to where he is today. [3:29] The most critical step in shifting Harley Davidson’s company culture from a product-first mindset to a people-first approach, and how that changed the trajectory of the brand. [7:24] Prioritizing factors beyond price to deliver greater value for businesses [11:14] Changing the reputation of Harley Davidson. [16:50] The role that leadership plays in fostering a culture that not only ignites customer passion but also inspires employee engagement and retention. [29:09] Torque Sessions Leadership Training [39:34] Ken’s book, “Make Some Noise: The Unconventional Road to Dominance” [44:10] How to connect with Ken, learn more about his services, pick up his book, and where to listen to his podcast, “Tailgating with Geniuses”. [44:53] Advice for entrepreneurs looking to craft a personal brand that inspires “tattoo-worthy” loyalty among customer and employees. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    47 分
  • Lior Arussy - Investor, strategy accelerator, and award-winning consultant

    Lior Arussy - Investor, strategy accelerator, and award-winning consultant
    2024/12/17
    Welcome to another episode of the Business Leaders of America podcast. In this episode, I had the pleasure of speaking with Lior Arussy, one of the world’s foremost authorities on customer experience and strategy execution. Lior has not only inspired transformative change at companies like Mercedes-Benz, FedEx, and Johnson & Johnson, but he’s also redefined what it means to lead with purpose and create exceptional experiences for both employees and customers. We explored his career journey—from corporate executive roles to becoming a sought-after thought leader—and his groundbreaking insights on how employee engagement drives customer satisfaction. Lior also shared the core elements of his transformational methodology, how he tailors strategies for different industries, and actionable advice from his latest book, Dare to Author. Whether you’re leading a team, managing a business, or simply looking for ways to embrace change and innovation, this conversation is packed with wisdom you don’t want to miss. Notable Awards and Recognitions • Recognized as a “Top Global Guru in Customer Experience” in 2023 • Helped Mercedes-Benz achieve the #1 position in customer satisfaction • Featured in major media outlets like The Wall Street Journal, The Financial Times, CNBC, and Bloomberg TV • Author of eight books, including Dare to Author! and Next is Now • Investor, strategy accelerator, and award-winning consultant • Speaker and consultant for top brands, including FedEx, SAP, Royal Caribbean, and Johnson & Johnson • Founder of Strativity Group, a global strategy firm specializing in customer experience and business growth. How to connect with Lior Arussy • https://www.linkedin.com/in/liorarussy/ • https://www.amazon.com/Dare-Author-Take-Charge-Narrative/dp/B0D4LGB2PK/ref=sr_1_1?adgrpid=1342506159679867&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.VDhea7RNCNV7ggvl5lsnCw.jZY3qemSOnzquTc0kr-UBFf16XpXHVi3n2Htha_fj9s&dib_tag=se&hvadid=83906905978822&hvbmt=be&hvdev=c&hvlocphy=96003&hvnetw=o&hvqmt=e&hvtargid=kwd-83907738438735%3Aloc-190&hydadcr=22566_13494478&keywords=dare+to+author+lior+arussy&msclkid=34e65b4829fe17279a4d3c2890efe6da&qid=1734392084&sr=8-1 Show Notes [1:27] Brief intro on how Lior got to where they are today [3:26] What sparked the transition to becoming a thought leader in customer experience and strategy execution from the corporate world. [10:26] A common misconception companies have about driving transformational change. [23:05] How to work with employees who are resistant to change and why it’s important to stop using the word “change” and start using “evolution”. [29:11] Why focusing on employee engagement will drive up retention. [32:08] How Lior tailors his strategies to align with the unique challenges of all the different sectors he has worked with. [35:38] How to connect with Lior and pick up his book, “Dare to Author” [36:35] One piece of advice from Lior’s book “Dare to Author”. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    38 分