Shows
Expat InsightsTrailer: Expat Insights Season 2Living abroad is more than a job assignment—it’s a life experience that reshapes identity, relationships, and family dynamics.Expat Insights is a podcast for expats, partners, and global mobility professionals who want to understand what life abroad really looks like—beyond the glossy version and relocation checklists.Hosted by Annegret Bertsch, Certified Solution Focused Coach and long-term expat, Season 2 dives deeper into the realities of international living. Episodes explore culture and leadership abroad, supporting children through school transitions and bullying, relationships and divorce in the expat context in the UAE, and the often-overlooked challenges...
2026-02-1801 min
Expat Insights10. Multicultural Parenting - All You Need is CuriositySummaryIn this conversation, Angela Vitiello shares her insights on raising children in multicultural families, drawing from her extensive experience as an expat. The discussion covers the complexities of navigating different cultures, the importance of curiosity and communication in relationships, and practical advice for building community and supporting children’s identity in a multicultural environment. Angela emphasizes the need for intentionality in parenting and the value of understanding and embracing diverse cultural backgrounds.TakeawaysMulticultural families can have diverse roots and traditions.Curiosity is essential for understanding in mu...
2026-02-0451 minExpat Insights09. Silence or Confrontation - Finding Your Voice as a TCKSummaryIn this conversation, Marie Suazo shares her experiences growing up as a third culture kid, navigating the complexities of her diplomatic upbringing across various countries. She reflects on the cultural expectations imposed by her family, the challenges of communication, and the importance of creating boundaries for personal growth. Marie discusses her teenage years, the significance of community connections, and the journey towards healing and self-acceptance. Ultimately, she emphasizes the hope for a future filled with empathy and understanding, both for herself and for others in similar situations.Takeaways
2026-01-2150 minExpat Insights08. Repatriation - The Unexpected Struggle after Expat LifeSummaryIn this episode, Annegret Bertsch and Andrea Zahrte discuss the complexities of repatriation and reverse culture shock. They explore the emotional challenges faced by individuals returning to their home country after living abroad, including feelings of grief, isolation, and the struggle to readjust. Andrea shares her personal experiences and insights as a coach for repatriates, offering practical advice on navigating the transition, supporting children, and finding a sense of belonging again. The conversation emphasizes the importance of acknowledging grief, maintaining connections, and recognizing the hidden gifts that come from the repatriation experience.
2026-01-0743 minExpat Insights07. From STEM to Success - Navigating Your Career in GermanySummaryIn this episode of Expat Insights, host Annegret Bertsch speaks with career mentor Tina Stavemann about the intricacies of navigating international careers in Germany. Tina shares her journey from working in HR and marketing to mentoring internationals, particularly in the STEM fields. The conversation covers the unique advantages that international talent brings to German companies, the challenges faced by newcomers, and practical advice for finding job opportunities. Tina emphasizes the importance of language skills, networking, and cultural understanding while also addressing the bureaucratic hurdles that internationals must overcome. The episode concludes with encouraging insights and practical...
2025-12-2448 min
FinFactor: Expert Insights for the CFOWho’s Buying and What They’re Really Looking For: Inside Today’s M&A Landscape with Rafael PinhoIn this episode of FinFactor, Blaine Bertsch talks with Rafael Pinho of TD Pine Advisors about the modern M&A landscape and what different types of buyers—private equity, strategic, family offices, and search funds—are really looking for in today’s deals. They dive into the psychology, timelines, and goals that drive acquisitions, explaining how sellers can tailor their exit strategies to match the right buyer and maximize value. You’ll learn how to evaluate buyer fit beyond financials, understand valuation nuances, and spot emerging trends like the rise of search funds and operator-led acquisitions. This conversat...
2025-12-0225 minExpat Insights05. The Power of Language - Finding Your Voice AbroadSummaryIn this episode, Annegret Bertsch and Megan Nicholls explore the multifaceted journey of language learning, emphasizing the importance of confidence, cultural connections, and the mindset required to embrace new languages. They discuss the challenges faced by learners, the role of culture in language acquisition, and practical tips for overcoming obstacles. The conversation highlights the significance of making mistakes, the impact of accents, and how language can reflect different aspects of one's personality. They also touch on the future of language learning in the age of AI, advocating for authentic human connections.
2025-11-2644 min
THE BOLT PodcastThe Spark Behind Great Workplaces: Sam Falletta on Leadership, Change, and CultureSam Falletta went from a four-cubicle call center to president, owner, and leader of a values-driven sale. In this episode, he breaks down how he built an award-winning culture by focusing on what employees truly need: strengths-based leadership, real-life support, meaningful incentives, and coaching that shifts mindsets.We explore why most engagement efforts fall flat, how culture changes in a remote world, and the personal reasons behind his decision to step back and choose presence over pressure.We close with Capiches, his collection of bite-sized life lessons inspired by his dad. This episode is packed...
2025-11-251h 00FinFactor: Expert Insights for the CFOAzat Ospanov | Is the Best ERP the One You Already Have? CFO Insights on Smart Tech DecisionsWhen is the right time to replace your ERP—and when is the smarter move to optimize what you already have? In this episode of FinFactor, Blaine Bertsch (CEO of Dryrun Cash Flow Forecasting Software) sits down with Azat Ospanov, founder of Oscorp, to explore the hidden costs, risks, and realities behind ERP implementation. They discuss why many finance teams outgrow their systems for the wrong reasons, how to evaluate technology decisions through a CFO’s lens, and the pragmatic steps that prevent years of wasted time and budget. If you’re planning an ERP change or rethink...
2025-11-1834 minExpat Insights04. A Dad`s Perspective - Raising Third Culture KidsSummaryIn this episode, Annegret Bertsch and Chris Moyer discuss the experiences of Third Culture Kids (TCKs), exploring the unique challenges and opportunities they face. Chris shares his personal journey as a TCK, the importance of emotional support for children, and practical advice for parents navigating the complexities of raising TCKs. The conversation highlights the significance of being intentional with time, understanding emotional processing, and fostering resilience in children as they adapt to multiple cultures.TakeawaysTCKs grow up in a culture different from...
2025-11-1254 min
Turning Point: Founder Journeys from Grit to GloryJames Oliver of Atlas Bars: From College Startup to Multi-Million Dollar Nutrition BrandIn this episode of Turning Point, Blaine Bertsch talks with James Oliver, founder and CEO of Atlas Bars, about how he turned a college project into a thriving nutrition brand. James shares his journey from selling Cutco knives and mowing lawns to bootstrapping a seven-figure company built on clean ingredients, high protein, and zero sugar. He opens up about limiting risk, learning by doing, and why success comes from relentless execution—not just a good idea.This conversation dives deep into the realities of entrepreneurship: managing cash flow, scaling lean, overcoming false peaks, and the mental resilience ne...
2025-11-0558 min
THE BOLT PodcastThe Curious Leader with Dave Loomis: Lessons from 10,000 ConversationsIn this episode of The BOLT Podcast, Dave Loomis, founder of Loomis Marketing and author of Customer Outsight, shares powerful lessons from conducting over 10,000 customer interviews. Drawing from decades of experience with Fortune 500 companies, Dave explores how curiosity, empathy, and active listening can transform leadership and organizational growth. Together, we unpack what it truly means to lead with outsight—seeing beyond yourself to better understand, connect, and inspire those you serve.What we discuss in this episode:Nonlinear career paths shaping service mindsetValue of executive coaching and accountabilityServant leadership as a growth ad...
2025-11-0558 minExpat Insights03. Spotlight China - Thriving Abroad as a SpouseSummaryIn this episode of Expat Insights, host Annegret and guest Julie M. Marx explore the multifaceted experience of expat life in China, particularly focusing on the unique challenges and opportunities faced by expat spouses. They discuss the rapid pace of life in China, the importance of learning Mandarin, and the emotional complexities of living abroad, including feelings of guilt and homesickness. Julie shares her insights on building community, navigating professional restrictions, and the evolving nature of expat life, emphasizing the need for support and connection in a foreign environment.Takeaways
2025-10-2954 min
THE BOLT PodcastFirst, Next, Only: Trailblazing Leadership with Justin HiltonIn this powerful episode, Leadership Akron President and CEO Justin Hilton joins host Todd Bertsch to explore what it truly means to be a trailblazer. From his journey as the first African-American architect intern under Robert P. Madison to his leadership across higher education, corporate, and nonprofit sectors, Justin shares lessons on courage, context, and curiosity. He opens up about vulnerability, faith, mentorship, and the power of designing not just a career—but a life. A conversation filled with wisdom, humility, and hope for the next generation of leaders. Discussion points from this episode:Peo...
2025-10-211h 02Expat Insights02. Love Abroad - How Expat Life Shapes RelationshipsSummaryThis conversation explores the complexities of relationships for expats, highlighting the hidden stressors that arise from moving abroad, the impact of career changes, and the importance of communication and support systems. Wiebke Anton, a relationship coach, shares insights on how cultural differences and financial dynamics can complicate relationships, while also emphasizing the need for counseling and the normalization of seeking help. The discussion concludes with hopes for the future of expat couples, focusing on the importance of maintaining healthy relationships amidst the challenges of living abroad.TakeawaysExpat life...
2025-10-1558 minTurning Point: Founder Journeys from Grit to GloryStephen Sakach of AI CMO: Building Empathy, Emotion & Purpose Into Modern MarketingIn this episode of Turning Point - Founder Stories, Blaine Bertsch sits down with Stephen Sakach, founder of AI CMO and Zero Company, to explore how empathy-driven marketing and purpose-led storytelling are reshaping the way brands connect with audiences. From his early entrepreneurial roots to building an AI-powered platform that helps businesses create meaningful, emotionally resonant campaigns, Stephen shares a fascinating journey through innovation, resilience, and conscious business leadership.The conversation dives into the evolution of digital marketing—from the wild west days of pay-per-click advertising to today’s AI-driven personalization—and how technology can actually make market...
2025-10-0855 min
THE BOLT PodcastBrain Health as a Leadership Advantage with Eric CollettWhat if what looks like “bad behavior” is really a brain problem, not a character flaw? In this episode, I sit down with Eric Collett, CEO of A Mind For All Seasons, to explore how energy, inflammation, and brain health shape our focus, mood, and leadership performance. We unpack why fixing your “hardware” matters more than adding new “software,” and how small, science-backed shifts—like improving sleep, managing stress, and fueling your brain right—can deliver life-changing results. Eric shares practical strategies anyone can start today, from “exercise snacks” and hormetic stressors to novel learning habits that forge new neural pathways. Whe...
2025-10-081h 09Expat Insights01. Culture Shock and Finding Belonging AbroadSummaryIn this conversation, Annegret and Martyna delve into the complexities of culture shock experienced by expats. They explore the various phases of culture shock, from the initial excitement of the honeymoon phase to the frustrations and doubts that often follow. Martyna shares her personal experiences of living in different countries, highlighting the importance of finding belonging and home in a new environment. They discuss the journey of self-discovery that comes with adapting to a new culture and the challenges of managing expectations from oneself and others. The conversation concludes with practical advice for new expats on...
2025-10-0149 minTurning Point: Founder Journeys from Grit to GloryMark Newman on Founder Resilience & Healthcare Innovation at Nomi HealthIn this episode of Turning Point, Blaine Bertsch sits down with Mark Newman, founder of HireVue and current CEO of Nomi Health, to explore his entrepreneurial journey from creating one of the first video interviewing platforms to tackling the massive challenges of U.S. healthcare. Mark shares candid stories of building HireVue from a college project into a global company, navigating the highs and lows of venture capital, and learning the hard lessons that shaped his leadership.The conversation dives into the emotional realities of startup life, including the identity struggles entrepreneurs face after exiting a company...
2025-09-2556 min
THE BOLT PodcastInspiring the Next Generation of Leaders with Kemp BoydKemp Boyd, executive director, pastor, coach, and community leader, shares how true leadership comes not from what we do, but from who we are. Through powerful stories of resilience, mental health advocacy, and his HOT philosophy (Humble, Open, Transparent), Kemp reveals how authenticity, vulnerability, and mentorship can transform families, teams, and communities. Moving from a "doing" culture to a "being" culture starts with understanding who you are firstTrue vulnerability means being the best version of yourself without concern for the outcomeManaging multiple roles requires intention, communication, and strong support systemsMental Health First Aid training equips leaders to recognize a...
2025-09-241h 07Expat InsightsTrailer Expat InsightsLiving abroad changes you—sometimes in exhilarating ways, other times in deeply challenging ones. I know, because I’ve been there.I’m Annegret Bertsch, an Erickson Certified Coach, and I created Expat Insights to explore the real experiences of life abroad. In Season One, you’ll hear from experts around the globe as we dive into topics such as:Navigating culture shockRaising Third Culture KidsKeeping relationships strong across bordersLeading effectively abroadRepatriation—and the big question: what does home even mean now?This podcas...
2025-09-2402 minFinFactor: Expert Insights for the CFOMastering the 13-Week Cashflow Forecast: CFO Insights with Ken LacroixIn this episode of FinFactor, host Blaine Bertsch sits down with finance leader Ken Lacroix to explore why the 13-week cashflow forecast is one of the most powerful yet overlooked tools in business finance. They discuss the challenges companies face when setting up accurate forecasts, the shift in mindset required to move from profit and loss to true cash management, and the importance of focusing on major inflows and outflows to gain clarity. The conversation also covers how customer behavior impacts collections, why velocity of money is key for managing working capital, and how technology can streamline c...
2025-09-1625 min
THE BOLT PodcastHow to Reclaim Who You’ve Always Been with Natalie SistonTodd and Natalie dive into Positive Intelligence (PQ) as a practical operating system for mental fitness—using the pause to shift from negative reactivity to wise response. Natalie traces her journey from Silicon Valley and the Fortune 100 to entrepreneurship, shares the origin of her bestselling book Let Her Out, and explains how pausing, presence, and rediscovering what you loved as a kid unlock confidence and authentic leadership. The episode closes with a guided two-minute PQ practice that listeners can replay anytime.Insights & takeawaysMental fitness, defined: PQ = your ability to respond to life’s chal...
2025-09-101h 00FinFactor: Expert Insights for the CFOSell-Side M&A Readiness: Clean Financials, Better Valuations: Jarome McKenzieBlaine Bertsch welcomes Jarome McKenzie, fractional CFO and founder of Arrowhead Strategy Group, to break down how clean, investor-ready financials can make or break a sell-side M&A deal. Jarome shares real stories—including a seller who improved EBITDA from $500K to $911K and exited for $5.7M, and another who discovered $750K in taxes paid on phantom profit and later secured refunds (including $42K in sales tax) after fixing systems. You’ll learn how to prep 2–3 years before exit, select meaningful ad backs, accelerate diligence, and present numbers that command higher multiples. They also cover when to move be...
2025-09-0947 minFinFactor: Expert Insights for the CFOUnlocking ESOP Success: Employee Ownership, Business Growth & Legacy PlanningIn this episode of FinFactor, Blaine Bertsch sits down with Matt Middendorp to break down the world of Employee Stock Ownership Plans (ESOPs). They explore how ESOPs impact company valuation, employee engagement, and long-term business legacy, while highlighting both the benefits and challenges of implementation. From feasibility studies and valuation modeling to avoiding common pitfalls, this conversation uncovers the key factors that make ESOPs successful. Real-life success stories illustrate how ESOPs drive financial growth, improve company culture, and align the goals of owners, employees, and the business itself. Whether you’re a business owner exploring succession planning or...
2025-09-0224 minTurning Point: Founder Journeys from Grit to GloryScott Porter of San Diablo Churros on Entrepreneurship, Startup Lessons & ResilienceIn this episode of Turning Point, Blaine Bertsch sits down with Scott Porter, CEO of San Diablo Artisan Churros, to dive into the inspiring highs and lows of his entrepreneurial journey. From co-founding Surf Air, the innovative all-you-can-fly membership airline, to creating unforgettable churro experiences, Scott shares how risk-taking, innovation, and customer obsession have shaped his career.The conversation explores the emotional realities of startup life, from the rollercoaster of funding challenges to the flaws in the entrepreneurial ecosystem that can make or break a founder’s journey. Scott reflects on how resilience, creativity, and adaptability helped hi...
2025-09-0248 min
THE BOLT PodcastThe Go-Giver Way: Leadership, Influence, and Lasting Success with Bob BurgIn this inspiring BOLT Podcast episode, Bob Burg—Hall of Fame speaker and coauthor of the international bestseller The Go-Giver—shares timeless lessons on leadership, influence, and success. From overcoming 24 publisher rejections to building a worldwide movement translated into 30+ languages, Bob emphasizes that sustainable success comes from authenticity, providing immense value, and leading with heart. Drawing wisdom from mentors like Dale Carnegie, Zig Ziglar, and his own father, Bob reveals that giving is not only the key to business growth but also to living a meaningful life. Highlights from the episode:Bob Burg and co-au...
2025-08-2737 min
THE BOLT PodcastLove-Centered Leadership: Transforming Lives & Businesses with Carolyn CooperCarolyn Cooper shares her life-changing journey from young sales professional to love-inspired leadership expert, revealing how bringing authentic love to business transforms organizations and leaders. Her powerful approach integrates decades of wisdom into practical frameworks that help individuals unleash their true potential and lead from the heart.Highlights from this episode:Operating from the highest vibration of love creates flow, ease, and meaningful connectionPerfectionism kills progress—releasing control leads to freedom and deeper alignment with purposeThe Aim High System offers six powerful steps to transform leadership: truth, trust, value, vision, presence, and celebrationOvercoming fear re...
2025-07-281h 01
THE BOLT PodcastFrom Curiosity to Connection: Mastering the Art of Influence with Molly KetchamIn this episode, leadership expert Molly Ketcham explores how curiosity can be a transformative leadership skill, helping leaders build deeper connections and drive meaningful results. Molly shares her journey from corporate success to professional speaking, revealing how asking better questions, rather than having all the answers, can improve leadership effectiveness. She highlights the need for authentic connection, especially in a world where many employees and managers are disengaged. By discussing the distinction between fixed and growth mindsets, Molly provides practical strategies for using curiosity to foster stronger relationships, particularly in remote and hybrid work environments. Through her insights, she...
2025-07-1453 minFinFactor: Expert Insights for the CFOThe Expanding Role of the Modern CFO with Paul Barnhurst | AI, Strategy & Financial LeadershipIn this episode of FinFactor, host Blaine Bertsch sits down with Paul Barnhurst to dive into the rapidly expanding role of the CFO. Once defined by financial analysis, cash flow management, and forecasting, today’s CFO is now a strategic operator, taking on responsibilities that stretch far beyond traditional finance. From overseeing operations and liquidity planning to managing risk, asset allocation, and corporate strategy, the CFO is increasingly stepping into what was once the COO’s territory.Paul and Blaine explore how AI, automation, and advanced financial modeling are transforming the finance function and reshaping the future of f...
2025-07-0924 minFinFactor: Expert Insights for the CFOThe Hidden Costs and Mistakes to Avoid When Choosing an ERP System | FinFactor with Bob LightIn this episode of FinFactor, Blaine Bertsch sits down with Bob Light to uncover the biggest mistakes companies make when selecting and implementing an ERP system. ERP software decisions can make or break a business—yet too often, leaders rush into adoption without fully understanding their internal processes, pain points, and long-term needs. Bob explains why mapping workflows and involving stakeholders early is critical to ensure smoother adoption and stronger ROI.The conversation explores essential ERP strategies, including how to negotiate with vendors, set realistic ERP cost expectations, and evaluate ERP features that truly align with business go...
2025-07-0229 min
THE BOLT PodcastNetworking That Works: Building Real Relationships with Frank AginNetworking isn’t about business cards or small talk; it’s about human connection. In this episode, Frank Agin, founder of AmSpirit Business Connections and host of the NetworkingRx podcast, shares why he left a successful law career to help others build trust-based relationships that fuel success. Drawing on powerful stories, including one from anthropologist Margaret Mead, Frank explains why supporting others, even during their “broken femur” moments, leads to stronger, more resilient communities. He offers practical, heart-centered strategies for making networking feel natural, especially for introverts, and reframes platforms like LinkedIn as places to build relationships, not pitch products...
2025-07-0155 minFinFactor: Expert Insights for the CFOMastering Multi-Entity Accounting and Consolidation | FinFactor with Ben Taylor, CEO of SoftLedgerIn this episode of FinFactor, Blaine Bertsch sits down with Ben Taylor, CEO of SoftLedger, to explore one of the biggest challenges facing finance leaders today—multi-entity accounting. As businesses scale and expand across multiple subsidiaries, divisions, or global operations, outdated accounting systems and manual spreadsheets can’t keep up. The result? Errors in consolidated reporting, inefficiencies in intercompany transactions, and missed opportunities in financial planning and cash flow management.Ben shares how modern cloud accounting platforms, SaaS accounting solutions, and ERP systems are transforming the way finance teams handle complex structures. The discussion covers how finance lead...
2025-06-2423 minTurning Point: Founder Journeys from Grit to GloryScaling eCommerce Success with Sabir Semerkant: Strategies for the Future of Online RetailJoin Blaine Bertsch in this insightful episode of Turning Point with Sabir Semerkant, a leading eCommerce strategist and growth expert, as they dive deep into the future of online retail. Sabir shares proven methods for scaling eCommerce businesses, leveraging AI-powered automation, and optimizing customer journeys to maximize conversions and long-term loyalty. They explore how data-driven decision-making, personalized marketing, and streamlined operations can transform your online store into a high-performing, global retail brand.This episode is perfect for entrepreneurs, startup founders, and eCommerce professionals who want to stay ahead of emerging trends and build resilient digital businesses. Learn...
2025-06-181h 00
THE BOLT PodcastThe Mindset of a Champion: Wrestling, Leadership, and Storytelling with Ben HattaBen Hatta, former wrestler and Emmy-nominated producer, explores the intense rivalry between St. Edward and Walsh Jesuit in his documentary Clash of Dynasties. Growing up in a wrestling family, Ben's journey shaped his storytelling, revealing lessons about leadership and mentorship. A pivotal moment in the rivalry, when St. Edward's coach handed his playbook to rival coach Bill Barger, exemplifies true leadership and respect for opponents. Ben highlights how wrestling’s core principles, like resilience and determination, transfer to life’s challenges, emphasizing the importance of getting back up after setbacks. His mantra, "Energy is equal to desire and purpose," fuel...
2025-06-1850 minFinFactor: Expert Insights for the CFONavigating Data Challenges in Finance with Scott Hollrah | ERP Integration, Automation & Data GovernanceNavigating Data Challenges in Finance with Scott Hollrah | ERP Integration, Automation & Data GovernanceIn this episode of FinFactor, Blaine Bertsch sits down with Scott Hollrah, CEO of Venn Technology, to tackle one of the toughest issues facing finance leaders today: fragmented financial data. As organizations juggle multiple systems—ERP software, CRMs, data warehouses, and cloud accounting platforms—manual processes and disconnected tools create inefficiencies, errors, and major roadblocks for financial analysis and accurate forecasting.Scott shares how automation, system integration, and well-defined business processes are transforming enterprise resource planning and finance operations. By connecting business inte...
2025-06-1627 minTurning Point: Founder Journeys from Grit to GloryBoost Sales Conversions and Business Growth with Kirstin CareyIn this episode of Turning Point, Blaine Bertsch is joined by entrepreneur Kirstin Carey to unpack her dynamic journey across marketing, public speaking, the restaurant industry, and the wellness space. From launching successful gluten-free restaurants to building a transformative wellness program designed to reverse autoimmune conditions, Kirstin shares how passion, purpose, and persistence fueled her growth as a women-owned business leader.The conversation dives deep into the psychology of sales, why understanding customer behavior is critical, and how mastering lead generation, client acquisition, and sales funnels can drastically boost conversions. Kirstin explains the power of closing strategies...
2025-06-1150 minFinFactor: Expert Insights for the CFOThe Power of Clean Financial Data for Smarter Decisions | FinFactor with Greg McDonough of Blackburn CapitalIn this episode of FinFactor, Blaine Bertsch welcomes Greg McDonough, Managing Partner at Blackburn Capital and seasoned financial coach, to discuss why clean, consistent financial data is the cornerstone of smarter business decisions and long-term resilience. Greg highlights how too many entrepreneurs still lean on gut instinct instead of reliable insights, creating weak cash flow management, missed opportunities, and persistent challenges in business finance.The conversation explores how aligning data management, business intelligence tools, and data analytics unlocks actionable insights that drive true data-driven growth. Greg and Blaine dive into financial modeling, budget forecasting, and cash forecasting...
2025-06-0923 minTurning Point: Founder Journeys from Grit to GloryStartup Stress, Burnout, and Resilience with Eli Portnoy of BackEngineIn this episode of Turning Point, Blaine Bertsch sits down with serial entrepreneur Eli Portnoy to explore the untold realities of startup life. From launching his first venture in college to scaling companies like Sense360 and now BackEngine, Eli shares the highs, lows, and critical lessons every founder needs to hear. He reveals how timing, traction, and customer insights shape business success—and why resilience, focus, and mental health are just as important as growth metrics.The conversation goes deep into the darker side of entrepreneurship: startup stress, founder anxiety, and the burnout that so often comes wi...
2025-06-0547 min
THE BOLT PodcastJustice, Leadership, and Legacy: Greta Johnson’s Bold Path in Public ServiceGreta Johnson’s journey through public service is a powerful testament to trusting your gut and embracing life’s unexpected turns. Rooted in blue-collar values and shaped by her parents’ resilience, Greta has followed a “five-minute plan” mindset, focusing on excellence in the moment rather than rigid long-term goals. From prosecuting cases to becoming a state representative while raising twins, and now serving in Summit County administration, she has led with heart, intentionality, and courage. Her hard-earned wisdom around sustainability, “Resting is not quitting,” reminds us that meaningful impact starts with taking care of ourselves and others. Highlights fr...
2025-06-0458 min
THE BOLT PodcastNavigating the Emotional Journey of Selling Your Business with Denise LoganIn this powerful episode, Denise Logan opens up about the emotional complexities of business exits, drawing from her own experience of struggling to leave a thriving practice. A former mental health professional and law firm founder, Denise reveals the raw, unsanitized truth of her journey, including a moment when she contemplated crashing her car to create a crisis that would justify her departure. She frames business transitions as emotional journeys, comparable to empty nesting, and emphasizes that entrepreneurs must address the deeper needs beyond money, such as structure, identity, and belonging, before deciding to exit. Denise's candid story and...
2025-05-161h 00FinFactor: Expert Insights for the CFOModernizing Lease Management and Compliance | FinFactor with Greg Kautz on ASC 842, IFRS 16, and CFO Best PracticesIn this episode of FinFactor, Blaine Bertsch sits down with Greg Kautz, a recognized expert in lease accounting, to break down the complexities of modern lease management and evolving regulatory compliance. With accounting standards like ASC 842 and IFRS 16 reshaping how organizations manage leases, CFOs and finance leaders face new challenges when relying on spreadsheets or outdated accounting systems. Greg explains why accurate lease reporting and efficient property accounting are critical for reducing compliance risks and maintaining transparency.The conversation explores how modern lease administration, digital lease agreements, and automated lease audits can simplify compliance management while improving...
2025-05-0117 minTurning Point: Founder Journeys from Grit to GloryAdam Nathan of Blaze: Startup Funding, AI Marketing Automation & Entrepreneur MindsetIn this episode of Turning Point, Blaine Bertsch sits down with Adam Nathan, CEO of Blaze, to uncover the mindset, strategies, and lessons that shaped his entrepreneurial path. Drawing from his experiences at Apple and in government administration, Adam shares how structured startup strategies, risk management, and an entrepreneurial mindset helped him navigate the challenges of building companies from the ground up.The conversation explores startup funding, product-market fit, and how founders can balance innovation with the realities of founder stress and startup risk. Adam introduces Blaze, an AI-powered platform designed to help small businesses scale with...
2025-05-0154 min
THE BOLT PodcastHR Like a Boss: Transforming Leadership and Empowering People with John BernatoviczJohn Bernanovich, entrepreneur, keynote speaker, author, and HR expert, challenges us to reframe how we talk about our full schedules during this deeply authentic conversation about purposeful living and transformational leadership. Drawing from his 25 years of entrepreneurial experience and his best-selling book "HR Like a Boss," John shares the pivotal mindset shifts that changed his approach to business and life. When he lost both parents in a compressed timeframe, he found himself questioning his purpose and ultimately discovered that true fulfillment comes from pouring into others rather than chasing sales or status. At its core, John's message is beautifully...
2025-04-221h 13FinFactor: Expert Insights for the CFOFX, AI, and the Future of Payments | FinFactor with Adam Katz on Fintech, Blockchain, and CFO StrategyIn this episode of FinFactor, Blaine Bertsch welcomes Adam Katz for an in-depth conversation about the rapidly changing world of foreign exchange (FX), B2B payments, and the fintech revolution. CFOs today face mounting challenges in payment processing, including hidden FX fees, transaction inefficiencies, complex compliance demands, and the pressure to adopt modern financial technology that keeps pace with global business needs. Adam explains how artificial intelligence in finance, automation, and innovative payment solutions are reshaping the financial ecosystem, giving finance leaders greater control, transparency, and efficiency.The discussion explores how trusted FX partnerships and smarter data...
2025-04-2125 min
THE BOLT PodcastShattering Silence: Kat Polsinelli on Breaking Free from Abuse and Finding EmpowermentKat Polsinelli’s journey from darkness to light exemplifies the remarkable human ability to not only survive but thrive after trauma. From childhood performances that built her confidence to surviving a decade-long abusive relationship, single motherhood at 16, and PTSD, Kat’s path is one of resilience and transformation. The conversation explores her pivotal moment of awakening when she saw her son mimicking the harmful behaviors of her abuser, igniting her decision to reclaim her identity. Kat redefines trauma, offering a practical approach to setting boundaries and nurturing self-worth. Through her business, The Lotus Effect, she embodies the belief that whil...
2025-04-1446 min
THE BOLT PodcastBuilding Niche Powerhouses: Leadership, Growth, and Positivity with Scott HubbleScott Hubble is an entrepreneurial leader who has transformed niche RV companies into industry powerhouses through market insight, people-focused leadership, and resilience. With a background in accounting, law, and business, Scott revolutionized the teardrop trailer market by blending European design with Amish craftsmanship, turning a stagnant product into a thriving business at nuCamp . His leadership philosophy centers around the belief that "people matter most," fostering cultures of innovation and care that drive success. Now, with Awaken RV, Scott is applying his approach to disrupt the molded fiberglass trailer market. Despite personal challenges, his "forward-failing" mindset drives his belief that...
2025-04-0855 min
THE BOLT PodcastTurning Pain into Purpose: Leadership, Sobriety, and Mental Health with Dan FlanaganDan Flanagan’s journey from addiction, family mental health struggles, and professional setbacks to one of purpose, service, and joy offers a powerful roadmap for transformation. Starting as a sales rep at Group Management Services, Dan faced personal challenges that eventually led him to re-evaluate his life. It wasn’t until May 2019 that he reached a breaking point with alcoholism. Committing to sobriety, now approaching six years, Dan’s foundation in faith and a "one day at a time" mindset has transformed his life. His family’s ongoing mental health struggles inspired him to co-found the Brain Enrichment Initiative (BEI), wh...
2025-04-021h 04
THE BOLT PodcastUnlocking Transformation: The Power of Self-Development with John GeraghtyJohn Geraghty’s inspiring journey from struggling with alcoholism to becoming an acclaimed optimal performance coach showcases the power of personal transformation. After battling alcohol from a young age, John made a life-changing decision at 29 to rebuild his life through personal development, including reading a book a week for 30 years. His transformative approach is centered around his Prism of Perspective framework, which teaches that our beliefs, energy, and presence shape how we experience life. By consciously reshaping these beliefs, we can unlock profound change. John’s own physical transformation is equally remarkable—having gone from being clinically obese and in chr...
2025-03-2658 min