Shows
Business Growth SpotlightEp. 159 Unshakable Leadership How Strong Leaders Build Strong Businesses with Berkshire Group's FounderShow Notes:In this episode of Business Growth Spotlight, host Heidi Schalk sits down with leadership expert and founder of Berkshire Group, Janet Kendall White, for a powerful and deeply honest conversation about what it really takes to build strong leaders, resilient teams, and sustainable businesses.Janet shares her journey from corporate leadership into entrepreneurship at a young age, including the mindset shifts required to fully commit to building a business without a back door. With more than 30 years of experience developing leaders across industries, she explains why leadership success always starts with intentionality, emotional...
2026-02-0438 minBusiness Growth SpotlightEp. 158 Food as Medicine How AI Is Reshaping Nutrition and Longevity with EdamamShow Notes:In this episode of Business Growth Spotlight, host Heidi Schalk sits down with Victor Penev, founder and CEO of Edamam, to explore the powerful intersection of food, data, AI, and longevity.Victor shares his journey as a serial entrepreneur with over three decades of experience and explains how Edamam was built at the crossroads of two passions: nutrition and technology. The conversation dives deep into how structured food and nutrition data powers some of the world’s most recognizable platforms including Amazon Alexa, Food Network, Noom, Microsoft, Nestlé, and The New York Times Coo...
2026-02-0224 minBusiness Growth SpotlightEp. 150 Becoming Limitless: Leadership, Resilience, and Scaling With IntentionShow Notes:In this episode of Business Growth Spotlight, host Heidi Schalk sits down with Valeria Torres for a powerful, wide-ranging conversation on leadership, resilience, branding, and the psychology behind sustainable business growth.Valeria shares her journey from immigrating to the U.S. at a young age to building a career in the legal industry and ultimately pioneering a niche at the intersection of executive leadership and industrial organizational psychology. As a Director of Operations at 8 Figure Firm Consulting, Valeria helps law firms scale into true businesses, while her personal brand, ValeriaTorres.io, supports executives...
2026-01-1449 minBusiness Growth SpotlightEp. 147 The Future of Adult Learning: AI, Skills Gaps, and Scalable Learning Design with Lisa DoehnertShow Notes:In this episode of Business Growth Spotlight, host Heidi Schalk sits down with Lisa Doehnert of Ease Learning to explore how organizations can scale adult learning programs without sacrificing quality, learner engagement, or integrity.With over 20 years of experience in EdTech and adult learning, Lisa shares deep insights into instructional design, skills-based learning, workforce development, and the evolving role of AI in education. The conversation also highlights Ease Learning’s mission-driven approach, including its Freedom Talent Network that empowers military spouses and transitioning veterans through meaningful remote work opportunities.This episode is...
2026-01-0731 minBusiness Growth SpotlightEp. 146 Lean Startup Strategies Every Founder Should Use Before Spending MoneyShow Notes:In this episode of Business Growth Spotlight, host Heidi Schalk, Co-Founder of HLH Growth Solutions, sits down with Maura Mitchell, Managing Director of Entrepreneurial Services at the Women’s Business Development Center (WBDC). As we step into 2026, the conversation explores what it truly takes to start and scale a business without burning out, overspending, or going it alone.Maura shares how the WBDC has supported entrepreneurs for nearly 40 years by providing access to capital, contracts, and connections. She breaks down why traditional business plans often fail early-stage founders and explains how the Lean St...
2026-01-0539 minBusiness Growth SpotlightEp. 145 Scaling Mental Health Care Through Integrated Hospital and Outpatient ModelsShow Notes:In this episode of Business Growth Spotlight, host Heidi Schalk sits down with Clayton Swalstad, President of Integrated Psych Solutions, to explore how purpose-driven leadership and operational strategy can transform mental health care delivery at scale.Clayton shares his unconventional journey from high school dropout to Air Force veteran, healthcare executive, and mental health advocate. He explains how Integrated Psych Solutions evolved from a small inpatient psychology service into a multi-state organization providing acute, outpatient, tele-mental health, school-based services, and correctional facility support across Georgia and Florida.The conversation dives deep...
2026-01-0231 minBusiness Growth SpotlightEp. 144 The Business of Senior Living: How Doing the Right Thing Drives GrowthShow Notes:In this episode of Business Growth Spotlight, host Heidi Schalk, co-founder of HLH Growth Solutions, sits down with Chris Brown, owner of Abbey Senior Health, to explore what truly drives excellence in senior care while building a sustainable, mission-driven business.Chris shares his 35-year journey in healthcare, from rehabilitating struggling nursing homes to leading a person-centered senior living organization rooted in dignity, purpose, and community. Drawing on his background in healthcare administration and ministry, Chris explains why senior living must focus on the whole person by addressing mental, emotional, spiritual, and social well-being...
2025-12-3139 minBusiness Growth SpotlightEp. 143 Subscription Fatigue Bundling and the New Streaming Business Models with Ben GoodfriendIn this episode of Business Growth Spotlight, host Heidi Schalk sits down with Ben Goodfriend, an advertising executive in the sports streaming and media technology space, to unpack how streaming, live sports, and evolving consumer behavior are reshaping the future of media and business growth.Ben shares his career journey from documentary filmmaking to media production, talent agencies, FAST channels, and now Fanserv, where he works at the intersection of sports, ad tech, and programmatic advertising. With firsthand experience across legacy media and modern streaming platforms, Ben offers a clear, insider perspective on where the industry is...
2025-12-2930 minBusiness Growth SpotlightEp.142 The Future of Outsourcing How People and AI Work Together at CertainlyCXShow Notes:In this episode of the Business Growth Spotlight, host Heidi Schalk welcomes Cindy Terapak, Co Founder and Chief People Officer of CertainlyCX, for a powerful conversation on building a people first, global customer experience organization.Cindy shares her journey from retail and human resources into launching CertainlyCX, a BPO designed to support both employees and clients with flexibility, care, and intention. With more than 150 team members across 10 countries, she explains how consistent communication, lived values, and active listening help create strong culture and low attrition in a fully remote environment.The...
2025-12-2627 minBusiness Growth SpotlightEp. 141 Scaling Senior Care With AI While Keeping Care Personal with Matthew YaariShow Notes:In this episode of Business Growth Spotlight, host Heidi Schalk sits down with Matt Yaari, Founder of My Family Home Care, to explore what it truly takes to build a purpose driven service business while scaling operations responsibly.Matt shares his journey of launching a senior home care company during the uncertainty of 2020 and how his background in caregiving, psychology, and human behavior shaped his leadership approach. He explains why personalized care, family level trust, and founder involvement have been core to My Family Home Care’s growth.The conversation dives in...
2025-12-2421 minBusiness Growth SpotlightEp. 140 The Science of Self-Awareness: Rethinking Leadership Assessments with Pam BoneyShow Notes:In this episode of Business Growth Spotlight, host Heidi Schalk speaks with Pam Boney, Founder of Tilt 365, about why effective leadership development goes far beyond personality labels. Pam shares how true growth comes from understanding character, self awareness, and the ability to adapt behavior based on context.Pam reflects on her transition from senior leadership at Hilton to building a global assessment and certification company that serves coaches and organizations worldwide. The conversation explores how Tilt 365 helps individuals and teams develop trust, psychological safety, and agility using science backed insights rather than opinion...
2025-12-2228 minBusiness Growth SpotlightEp. 139 The Power of Emotional Intelligence in High-Stakes Conversations with Janine KleinShow Notes:In this episode of Business Growth Spotlight, host Heidi Schalk sits down with Janine Klein, Founder of the Emotional Intelligence Institute (EII), to explore one of the most unconventional and impactful intersections of business, technology, and human connection.Janine shares her remarkable journey from professional actress to CEO, revealing how storytelling, improvisation, and emotional intelligence became the foundation of a powerful training platform used by the U.S. military and Department of Defense. By blending live actors, CGI avatars, and immersive role play, EII helps leaders and service members rehearse the hardest conversations...
2025-12-1925 minBusiness Growth SpotlightEp. 138 From Mentorship to AI: How Solvery Is Redefining Employee Growth with Anton VolkovShow Notes:In this episode of Business Growth Spotlight, host Heidi Schalk sits down with Anton Volkov, Co-Founder of Solvery, to unpack his entrepreneurial journey, from launching an unconventional tech school for kids to building a B2B HR-tech platform serving banks and enterprise organizations. Anton shares hard-earned lessons on mentorship, B2B sales, market education, focus, and how Solvery is expanding its platform with AI to future-proof employee development and learning systems.This conversation is a masterclass in building trust-based B2B growth, leveraging networks, and evolving alongside your customers.Bio*
2025-12-1742 minBusiness Growth SpotlightEp. 137 From Customer to CEO: Competing With Billion-Dollar Companies by Solving Real ProblemsShow Notes:In this episode of Business Growth Spotlight, host Heidi Schalk sits down with Sean Lee, CEO of OpenDrives, to explore what it really takes to scale a technology company by leading with service, trust, and deep customer understanding.Sean shares his unique journey from OpenDrives customer to CEO, detailing how his background in media and entertainment technology shaped his people-first leadership style. Drawing from over 20 years in Hollywood and a decade inside OpenDrives, he explains why the company is not just a data storage provider, but a workflow enablement partner focused on helping...
2025-12-1531 minBusiness Growth SpotlightEp. 136 How Continuous Improvement Drives Scalable Growth in Modern Companies with Ron PereiraShow Notes:In this episode of the Business Growth Spotlight, Heidi Schalk sits down with Ron Pereira, co-founder of Gemba Academy, to explore the journey behind one of the most respected continuous improvement training platforms in the world. Ron shares how a simple idea between three Lean and Six Sigma practitioners grew into a global subscription based learning platform with thousands of videos and customers worldwide.Listeners will hear how Gemba Academy began with a spare bedroom studio, a green screen, a budget camera, and a willingness to experiment. Ron discusses his transition from corporate...
2025-12-1233 minBusiness Growth SpotlightEp. 135 The Future of Business Networking: Inside Alignable’s AI-Powered PlatformShow Notes:In this episode of Business Growth Spotlight, Heidi Schalk sits down with Don Martelli, VP of Integrated Marketing & Communications at Alignable, the largest referral network for small businesses with nearly 10 million members. Don shares how Alignable is transforming networking by unlocking the second degree, the power of who your network knows, and why word-of-mouth is still the most effective growth engine for small businesses.This episode dives into smarter networking, relationship-driven growth, and the new tools Alignable is rolling out to help business owners scale with clarity and connection.
2025-12-1023 minBusiness Growth SpotlightEp. 134 How DocsInk is Redefining Personalized Care with Wearables and AIShow Notes:In this episode of Business Growth Spotlight, host Heidi Schalk, Co-Founder of HLH Growth Solutions, sits down with Clay Malloy, President of DocsInk, for a powerful conversation on the evolution of healthcare technology, whole-person health, and the future of remote patient monitoring (RPM).Clay shares his deeply personal and unexpected journey from sports marketing to healthcare — a path shaped by the loss of his mother, a passion for improving patient care, and an ambition to fix systemic issues from the outside in. His story sets the foundation for an open discussion about the sh...
2025-12-0837 minBusiness Growth SpotlightEp. 133 Fixing Social Media: How Aglow Is Rebuilding Human Connection in a Digital WorldShow Notes:In today’s episode, host Heidi Schalk, Co-Founder of HLH Growth Solutions, sits down with David Lipscomb (CEO & Co-Founder) and Stefan Martin (CTO & Co-Founder) of Aglow, a rapidly growing social platform designed to bring authenticity, locality, and real human connection back into the digital experience.Aglow is challenging everything we know about traditional social media — the comparison culture, the AI-generated content flood, the pressure to perform, and the lack of genuine community. Instead, they’re building a platform that prioritizes real people, real videos, local discovery, audio-based engagement, and AI used responsibly to connec...
2025-12-0537 minBusiness Growth SpotlightEp. 132 AI in Legal Tech: A Deep Dive with Skribe Co-Founder Tom IrbyShow Notes:In this episode of Business Growth Spotlight, host Heidi Schalk, Co-Founder of HLH Growth Solutions, sits down with Tom Irby, Co-Founder of Skribe AI, to discuss how technology is reshaping one of the oldest processes in the legal world: depositions.Tom shares his 40-year entrepreneurial journey in Texas, how owning a court-reporting firm led to the idea behind Skribe, and why virtual proceedings and AI have fundamentally changed how testimony is captured, analyzed, and used.He explains how Skribe is modernizing the deposition experience by removing outdated, high-cost processes and replacing...
2025-12-0345 minBusiness Growth SpotlightEp.131 The Hidden Leadership Trap Slowing Down Company Performance with Hein KnaapenShow Notes:In this episode of Business Growth Spotlight, host Heidi Schalk sits down with Hein Knaapen, Managing Partner at CEO Works, for a powerful conversation on leadership focus, value creation, and why most CEOs unknowingly derail performance by taking on too much. With over 40 years of global HR leadership experience, including serving as Chief HR Officer across multiple industries, Hein brings a rare mix of strategic clarity and practical wisdom.He shares how CEO Works helps CEOs accelerate value creation by simplifying talent decisions, reducing priorities, and identifying the handful of roles that drive...
2025-12-0137 minBusiness Growth SpotlightEp. 130 Joe Gagnon on Culture, Curiosity & Building High-Performance Teams With AIShow Notes:In this episode of Business Growth Spotlight, host Heidi Schalk, Co-Founder of HLH Growth Solutions, sits down with Joe Gagnon, CEO and Co-Founder of Raynmaker AI, a company transforming sales for small businesses through AI-driven workflows. Joe brings more than 25 years of tech and business transformation experience and shares how AI is reshaping sales, operations, and growth for home-service businesses across the U.S.Joe breaks down the major challenges small business owners face: overspending on low-quality leads, offering the wrong pricing, inconsistent follow-up, and fear of being “salesy.” He explains how Raynmaker’s AI h...
2025-11-2634 minBusiness Growth SpotlightEp. 129 How Virtual Assistants Help Founders Scale Faster and Less Stress with WorkergenixShow Notes:In this episode of Business Growth Spotlight, host Heidi Schalk sits down with Harley Green, co-founder of Workergenix, to explore how founders, solopreneurs, and growing teams can scale smarter by leveraging virtual assistants, systems, and AI. Harley, a full-time digital nomad who runs multiple businesses while traveling the world with his family, shares exactly how he built a lifestyle of freedom, powered by virtual assistants, efficient systems, and the right hiring strategy.Harley dives into the origin story behind Workergenix, born from the overwhelm of running multiple side hustles while working full-time jobs...
2025-11-2429 minBusiness Growth SpotlightEp. 128 How The Grit Game Scaled to 30 Employees in Under 3 Years: Real Growth Strategies That WorkShow Notes:In this high-energy episode of Business Growth Spotlight, host Heidi Schalk sits down with Laci Davis: entrepreneur, operations expert, and co-founder of The Grit Game, one of the fastest-scaling rep firms in the swimming pool and spa industry.In less than three years, Laci and her husband built a two-person operation into a 30-member national sales team representing 20+ manufacturers across the U.S. and Canada. Their secret? Creativity, radical visibility, authentic storytelling, and a relentless commitment to grit.Laci dives into what it actually takes to scale quickly, stand out in...
2025-11-2147 minBusiness Growth SpotlightEp. 127 Avoiding Spam Jail: The Do’s and Don’ts of Cold Email Campaigns with Aurora AlvaradoShow Notes:In this episode of Business Growth Spotlight, host Heidi Schalk talks with Aurora Alvarado, executive and operations leader at Senders, a fast-growing company that focuses on cold email deliverability, outbound strategy, and growth systems for B2B organizations.Aurora opens up about what it really looks like to operate inside a startup while balancing executive support, operations, analytics, hiring decisions, and the daily systems that keep a business growing in a sustainable way. She explains the biggest cold email mistakes companies are making, why messaging can become ineffective almost overnight, and how Senders...
2025-11-1933 minBusiness Growth SpotlightEp. 126 Belief, Evidence & Entrepreneurship: Gloria’s Path to Creating a New Industry with Gloria DeGaetanoShow Notes:In this episode of Business Growth Spotlight, host Heidi Schalk, sits down with Gloria DeGaetano founder of the Parent Coaching Institute (PCI) and pioneer of the parent-coaching movement.Gloria shares how she built an international company around a concept the world had never heard of — and the mindset, passion, and evidence-based methodology that made PCI the global leader it is today.🔥 What You’ll DiscoverHow Gloria created the parent coaching industry before coaching was mainstreamWhy believing in your vision (with evidence to back it up) is the foundation for inn...
2025-11-1739 minBusiness Growth SpotlightEp. 125 Why Language Learning Is the Next Big Competitive Edge for Growing CompaniesShow Notes:In this episode of The Business Growth Spotlight, host Heidi Schalk, Co-Founder of HLH Growth Solutions, sits down with Stacy Richter, CEO of Live Lingua, a global online language school serving students in 80+ countries. What starts as a conversation about business growth quickly evolves into an inspiring deep dive into Stacy’s 20-year entrepreneurial journey: from corporate collections, to a kitchen-table startup, to launching multiple businesses, to ultimately becoming the CEO of an international company.Together they explore:Why language learning has become a competitive advantage for teams doing business cross-culturallyThe min...
2025-11-1446 minBusiness Growth SpotlightEp. 124 From Simulation to Success: Why Gamified Learning Builds Better Leaders with Matthew ConferShow Notes:In this episode of The Business Growth Spotlight, host Heidi Schalk sits down with Matthew Confer, Head of Strategy at Abilitie, an experiential learning company transforming leadership development through simulation-based, gamified learning experiences.Matthew shares how Abilitie is redefining leadership training—moving beyond traditional lectures and workshops to create immersive, simulated environments that challenge leaders to make real-time decisions, manage teams, and build business acumen.From their innovative use of AI-driven roleplay to their rapid global expansion across 50 countries, Matthew reveals how Abilitie helps companies build stronger leaders, retain top talent, an...
2025-11-1221 minBusiness Growth SpotlightEp.123 Scaling Smart in EdTech: Inside Bibliu’s 8-Year Growth JourneyShow Notes:In this episode of The Business Growth Spotlight, host Heidi Schalk, Co-Founder of HLH Growth Solutions, sits down with Alex McPherson, VP of Digital Operations at BibliU, to explore how innovative leadership, technology, and AI are reshaping the education technology landscape.Alex shares his incredible journey from intern to VP, growing alongside BibliU from just 8 employees to over 250, and what it’s really taken to scale a startup into a global EdTech leader.Together, Heidi and Alex dive into:Scaling Smart: How BibliU managed rapid growth while staying customer-focused. AI in...
2025-11-1025 minBusiness Growth SpotlightEp. 122 Human-to-Human Leadership: Building Trust in a Data-Driven World with Wayland LumShow Notes:In this episode of Business Growth Spotlight, host Heidi Schalk sits down with Wayland Lum, Founder and CEO of Copperbox Leadership Advisory, for a deep conversation on what it really means to lead with purpose in today’s fast-changing world.Wayland shares how Copperbox helps leaders in middle-market private equity firms unlock their potential — not just to drive company performance, but to grow as individuals who impact their teams, families, and communities. From the Eight Principles of Modern Leadership to the evolving role of AI in leadership development, this episode explores the intersection betw...
2025-11-0753 minBusiness Growth SpotlightEp. 121 Selling Without Pressure: How Aslan’s “Other-Centered” Approach Transforms Sales TeamsShow Notes:In this episode of Business Growth Spotlight, host Heidi Schalk sits down with Jesse Rome, VP of Training and Solutions at Aslan Sales, to explore what it truly means to sell by serving, not by pushing. Together, they dive into the moral foundation of Aslan’s “Other-Centered” sales methodology, how AI is transforming sales training, and why the most effective salespeople today act as trusted partners, not product experts.From building global training programs to leading with empathy, Jesse shares how Aslan helps Fortune 500 companies and small teams alike develop sales cultures that priori...
2025-11-0536 minBusiness Growth SpotlightEp. 120 Inside the Economic Recovery Center: Funding, AI, and Resilience for Small BusinessesShow Notes:In this insightful episode of Business Growth Spotlight, host Heidi Schalk sits down with Chase Henderson, President of the Economic Recovery Center, to explore how small businesses can recover and thrive after natural disasters.Chase shares the powerful story behind founding the center and how his team has turned compassion into action—helping business owners access the right funding, rebuild operations, and regain stability when the unexpected strikes.Heidi and Chase also discuss how AI-driven tools are reshaping disaster response, improving speed and accuracy in funding applications, and simplifying complex processes fo...
2025-11-0339 minBusiness Growth SpotlightEp. 119 Scrappy and Scaling: How Sturdy AI Turns Customer Conversations into Churn Prevention GoldShow Notes:In this episode of Business Growth Spotlight, host Heidi Schalk sits down with Alex Atkins, VP of Growth and Operations at Sturdy, the world’s first business intelligence platform powered by customer conversations.Alex shares how Sturdy is revolutionizing the way companies understand and retain customers—by transforming billions of unstructured data points (emails, chats, tickets, and more) into clear, actionable insights.🔍 What You’ll Learn:How Sturdy’s AI works: The difference between generative AI and synthesis (multimodal) AI—and why the latter is the future of business i...
2025-10-3143 minBusiness Growth SpotlightEp. 118 The Future of Cloud Infrastructure: Performance-Driven Growth with HarperShow Notes:In this episode of The Business Growth Spotlight, host Heidi Schalk sits down with Drew Chambers, EVP of Marketing at Harper, a next-generation cloud application platform built for speed, scalability, and developer performance.Drew shares how Harper’s innovative fused-stack architecture is transforming how enterprise-level teams build and deploy high-performance applications—especially in the fast-moving world of AI and real-time data.From overcoming the limitations of traditional web architecture to simplifying onboarding for legacy systems, Drew offers insight into how Harper helps teams eliminate latency, streamline workflows, and scale glob...
2025-10-2931 minBusiness Growth SpotlightEp. 117 Leading with Heart: How Compassionate Leaders Empower Others to LeadShow Notes:In this episode of The Business Growth Spotlight, host Heidi Schalk welcomes Laurel Donnellan, founder and CEO of Compassionate Leaders Circle, a media and learning solutions company with a 26-year legacy in helping individuals and organizations create meaningful, purpose-driven work.Laurel shares her journey from selling soft pretzels in her mother’s kitchen to building a hospitality career and eventually transitioning into human development and leadership training. Today, her organization works with professionals, corporations, universities, and now K-12 schools, helping people discover their “soul work” and develop compassionate leadership skills that empower others.S...
2025-10-2726 minBusiness Growth SpotlightEp. 116 The Future of Software Development: AI, No-Code, and the Rise of “Vibe Coding”Show Notes:In this episode of The Business Growth Spotlight, host Heidi Schalk, Co-Founder of HLH Growth Solutions, sits down with Maksym (Max) Petruk, CEO and Co-Founder of WeSoftYou, a custom software development company with over 100 team members and a growing focus on AI and education technology.Max shares the story behind WeSoftYou’s impressive growth in a competitive B2B software market — and the pivotal moments that shaped their success. From building strong client relationships to navigating the fast-paced world of artificial intelligence, this conversation dives deep into what it takes to scale sustainably, buil...
2025-10-2430 minBusiness Growth SpotlightEp. 115 Faith, Fun & HR Tech: How Tammy and Santiago Castro Built a Purpose-Driven BusinessShow Notes:In this heartfelt and fun episode of The Business Growth Spotlight, host Heidi Schalk sits down with the dynamic husband-and-wife duo Tammy and Santiago Castro, co-founders of I AM HCM Consulting. Together, they share how faith, authenticity, and a people-first approach have shaped their business and marriage over the past 20 years.Tammy reveals the inspiration behind her new book, “Shiny Objects: How Technology is Outshining the Human in HR (and What to Do About It)”, and explains how organizations can cut through the noise of 20,000+ HR tech products to find clarity, connection, and succ...
2025-10-2243 minBusiness Growth SpotlightEp. 114 Transforming Supply Chain Tech and Building a Venture-Backed StartupShow Notes:Host Heidi Schalk welcomes Kathleen Chan, Founder and CEO of Calico, for an in-depth discussion on entrepreneurship, innovation, and resilience. Kathleen shares her journey from building successful DTC brands to tackling the complexities of global sourcing through technology. She opens up about her experience fundraising as a female founder, the effects of geopolitical shifts on supply chains, and the importance of adaptability in a rapidly changing market. This episode offers valuable insights on visibility, strategic partnerships, and what it takes for underestimated founders to succeed in the venture-backed ecosystem.Bio*Kathleen...
2025-10-2020 minBusiness Growth SpotlightEp.113 Reimagining Startup Investing: Inside Systematic Ventures’ Global Strategy with Max WolffShow Notes:In this episode, Heidi Schalk sits down with Max Wolf, Managing Partner at Systematic Ventures, to explore how his firm is transforming the venture capital landscape through data-driven strategies and global insight. Max shares how Systematic Ventures leverages analytics to identify promising startups, support founders, and guide investors toward smarter, more strategic decisions.The conversation dives into the challenges startups face in gaining visibility, the evolving role of marketing in the investment ecosystem, and how emerging industries are shaping the next wave of innovation. Max also discusses the firm’s long-term vi...
2025-10-1733 minBusiness Growth SpotlightEp. 112 The Power of Intelligent Data: How Ocean IO Helps Businesses Connect Smarter Show Notes:In this episode of the Business Growth Spotlight, host Heidi Schalk sits down with Michael Heiberg, founder of Ocean IO, to explore how intelligent data and AI are reshaping the way businesses connect with their ideal customers.Michael shares how Ocean IO helps companies streamline targeting and engagement through data-driven micro-targeting and AI-powered insights. He dives into the evolving relationship between sales and marketing in today’s AI-driven landscape, offering practical strategies for startups navigating growth challenges.The conversation also touches on the power of influencer marketing, the importance of...
2025-10-1543 minBusiness Growth SpotlightEp. 111 Building Smarter: How Sunman Engineering Stays Ahead in a Rigid MarketShow Notes:In this episode of the Business Growth Spotlight, host Heidi Schalk sits down with Allen Nejah, founder of SunMan Engineering, to explore how his company is transforming the engineering landscape through innovation and adaptability. Allen shares his perspective on staying agile in rigid markets, securing the right funding for technology development, and aligning with shifting investor priorities. He also dives into the growing impact of AI and emerging technologies in engineering and how Sunman Engineering leverages marketing strategies to boost visibility and drive future growth.Bio*With over 30 years...
2025-10-1319 minBusiness Growth SpotlightEp. 110 Inside Qrvey: How All-in-One Analytics Platforms Empower SaaS GrowthShow Notes:In this episode, host Heidi Schalk sits down with Arman Eshraghi, Founding CEO of Qrvey, to explore how embedded analytics is transforming the SaaS landscape. Arman shares the story behind building Qrvey’s all-in-one analytics platform and the key lessons learned while scaling a fast-growing tech company. He dives into the power of specialized marketing strategies, the need for adaptability to customer demands, and how strategic partnerships play a crucial role in driving long-term growth and innovation.Bio:I’m a serial entrepreneur presently serving as Founder and CEO at Qrvey. My p...
2025-10-1026 minBusiness Growth SpotlightEp.109 The Human Side of AI: How Aecho AI Is Redefining Recruitment Through Voice TechnologyShow Notes:In this episode of Business Growth Spotlight, host Heidi Schalk sits down with Adam Hocek, founder of Aecho AI, to explore how artificial intelligence is reshaping the future of recruitment. Adam dives into the growing importance of soft skills assessment, the role of emotional intelligence in hiring, and how Aecho AI’s voice technology brings a human touch to digital recruiting.He shares how understanding tone, emotion, and personality through voice data helps companies make better hiring decisions and how this innovation gives Echo AI a competitive edge in the HR tech space. Th...
2025-10-0833 minBusiness Growth SpotlightEp. 108 How AI Agents Will Transform Business: Shashank Sripada on Gaia’s VisionShow Notes:In this episode of Business Growth Spotlight, host Heidi Schalk sits down with Shashank Sripada, co-founder and COO of Gaia, a decentralized AI network transforming how businesses and communities connect.Shashank shares his entrepreneurial journey in the tech industry, highlighting the challenges of building Gaia and the pivotal role of decentralized AI in reshaping business operations. The conversation explores:The future of AI agents and their potential to streamline decision-making and business growthHow Gaia is pioneering decentralized coordination to enhance scalability and trust in AI systemsKey marketing strategies for tech startups and...
2025-10-0629 minBusiness Growth SpotlightEp. 107 Scaling Startups and the Rise of Go-to-Market Engineers with Evolve AIShow Notes:In this episode of Business Growth Spotlight, host Heidi Schalk sits down with Megan Wells, VP of Marketing at Evolve AI, to explore the future of marketing leadership in an AI-driven world. Megan shares her perspective on the rise of go-to-market engineers, the growing role of automation and prompt engineering, and what it takes to scale effectively within a fast-paced startup environment.She also dives into the evolving expectations for marketing leaders, emphasizing the need for clear communication, sharp prioritization, and alignment across teams. With a forward-looking lens, Megan highlights how AI is...
2025-10-0328 minBusiness Growth SpotlightEp. 106 How Civic is Shaping the Future of Authentication and AI InnovationShow Notes:In this episode of Business Growth Spotlight, host Heidi Schalk sits down with Titus Capilnean, VP Go to Market at Civic Technologies, to explore how technology and especially artificial intelligence (AI), is transforming the way businesses grow and scale.Titus shares his perspective on using AI as a practical business tool instead of just another buzzword, and how small teams with limited budgets can still create significant impact. He highlights the role of community engagement, audience definition, and smart resource allocation in building long-term success.The conversation also covers Civic’s fut...
2025-10-0134 minBusiness Growth SpotlightEp. 105 The Power of Direct Mail + Digital Integration for Business GrowthShow Notes:In this episode of Business Growth Spotlight, host Heidi Schalk interviews Dennis Kelly, CEO of Postalytics, a leading platform that is revolutionizing direct mail automation. Dennis shares his journey in the startup world, the inspiration behind Postalytics, and how integrating direct mail with digital marketing strategies is delivering powerful results for businesses of all sizes.Heidi and Dennis dive into the industries seeing the greatest success with direct mail campaigns, surprising ROI statistics, and the common misconceptions that hold companies back from leveraging this proven channel. Dennis also opens up about the challenges...
2025-09-2934 minBusiness Growth SpotlightEp. 104 Linda Albright on AI Misconceptions, Business Growth, and Women in LeadershipShow Notes:In this episode of Business Growth Spotlight, host Heidi Schalk sits down with Linda Albright, founder of Albright AI, to explore how entrepreneurs can harness the power of artificial intelligence in business strategy.Linda shares her personal journey as an entrepreneur and the inspiration behind launching her AI consulting firm, offering insights into how leaders can adopt agile leadership practices in today’s rapidly evolving AI landscape. She clears up common misconceptions about AI, breaks down the real opportunities it presents, and explains why businesses that fail to adapt risk being left behind....
2025-09-2719 minBusiness Growth SpotlightEp. 102 Sales Enablement Reinvented: Inside Zoomifier’s Approach to GrowthShow Notes: In this episode of Business Growth Spotlight, host Heidi Schalk sits down with Chetan Saiyo, CEO of Zoomifier, to explore the transformation of B2B sales in today’s digital-first world. Chetan breaks down how video and AI are reshaping sales performance, and why understanding digital body language is now essential for connecting with modern buyers, especially in a post-COVID marketplace.He shares how Zoomifier empowers sales teams with video-rich content and AI-driven analytics to boost engagement and close more deals. Chetan also reflects on his entrepreneurial journey, the critical role of customer exp...
2025-09-2237 minBusiness Growth SpotlightEp. 101 Efficiency Meets Empathy: The Tilt Approach to Leave ManagementShow Notes:In this episode of Business Growth Spotlight, host Heidi Schalk sits down with Jen Henderson, founder and CEO of Tilt, the HR tech company transforming how organizations handle leave management.Jen opens up about her personal journey that led to Tilt’s creation, the hurdles she faced as a female founder, and how her team is reshaping a critical yet often overlooked part of the employee experience.The conversation dives into:Why leave management is a powerful lever for DEI in the workplaceHow automation and technology streamline complex HR processesThe st...
2025-09-1918 minBusiness Growth SpotlightEp. 100 Navigating ERP Growth Challenges: Insights from WM Synergy’s CEOShow Notes: In the 100th episode of Business Growth Spotlight, host Heidi Schalk sits down with Paul Tedford, CEO of WM Synergy, to dive into the critical factors manufacturers and distributors must consider when choosing the right ERP system.Paul outlines the 3 P’s of ERP success, Product, Partner, and Platform, and why overlooking any of them can derail long-term growth. He also shares insights on key trends shaping the ERP landscape, including the rapid migration to cloud solutions and the growing role of AI in streamlining operations.Drawing from his own experience lead...
2025-09-1721 minBusiness Growth SpotlightEp. 99 The Future of Global Food Systems: Insights from Alex Karzag and Producers Trust.Show Notes:In this episode of Business Growth Spotlight, host Heidi Schalk sits down with Alex Karzag, the VP of PMO at Producers Trust, to explore how mission-driven leadership and strategic partnerships are shaping the future of global food systems.Alex shares his unique journey from startup roles to leading operations at Producers Trust, emphasizing the importance of aligning mission and values within teams. He dives into the realities of remote work, the power of diverse roles in startup environments, and why strong partnerships are essential for scaling impact.The discussion also highlights...
2025-09-1537 minBusiness Growth SpotlightEp. 98 The Future of AI in Business: Insights from Hatchworks AI’s CEOShow Notes:In this episode of Business Growth Spotlight, host Heidi Schalk sits down with Brandon Powell, Founder and CEO of Hatchworks AI, to explore how artificial intelligence is reshaping the way companies operate and scale.Brandon shares valuable insights on:The role of AI in transforming business operations and driving efficiency.Adapting to changing market needs to stay competitive.Overcoming growth challenges while building a scalable foundation.Understanding client needs to create lasting value and strong partnerships.Fostering a collaborative culture across borders in a global business environment.Achieving product-market fit and navigating...
2025-09-1229 minBusiness Growth SpotlightEp. 97 How to Scale in a Crowded SaaS MarketShow Notes:In this episode of Business Growth Spotlight, host Heidi Schalk sits down with Akash Mukherjee, Head of Product Management at Chartmetric, to explore the shifting landscape of the B2B SaaS industry.Akash shares his unique perspective on how SaaS companies can stand out in a highly competitive market, the growing impact of AI in software development, and why differentiation and trust-building are critical for long-term success. Drawing from his extensive journey in tech, he highlights the importance of storytelling in customer engagement, strategies for overcoming growth challenges, and the marketing approaches that...
2025-09-1026 minBusiness Growth SpotlightEp. 96 Inside NileBits: Lessons in Trust, Growth & Global ImpactShow Notes:In this episode of Business Growth Spotlight, host Heidi Schalk sits down with Amr Saafan, founder of NileBits, a leading software development company based in Egypt.Amr shares his journey in the tech industry, highlighting the importance of building trust with clients across different cultures, and the unique challenges of scaling a business while preserving company culture. The conversation explores:Effective marketing strategies for tech companiesThe impact of AI on software development and business growthWhy specialization and consistency are critical to successHow to nurture long-term client partnerships for sustainable growthAmr...
2025-09-0819 minBusiness Growth SpotlightEp. 95 How Commander AI is Revolutionizing Sales in Waste ManagementShow Notes:In this episode of the Business Growth Spotlight, host Heidi Schalk sits down with David Berg, Founder and CEO of Commander AI, to explore how he built a niche sales platform tailored to the waste management industry.David shares his perspective on what it really means to define success as a founder, the balance between AI-driven outreach and maintaining a personal human touch, and how his spiritual practices help him stay grounded through the ups and downs of entrepreneurship.The conversation dives into the importance of purpose-driven leadership, the unique challenges...
2025-09-0522 minBusiness Growth SpotlightEp.94 Dog Training, Business Growth, and Franchising with Ryan Wimpey and Tip Top K9Show Notes:In this episode of the Business Growth Spotlight, host Heidi Schalk chats with Ryan Wimpey, founder of Tip Top K9 Dog Training, about building a thriving business in the dog training industry. Ryan shares his journey from starting out to creating a proven franchise model, tackling challenges in marketing, lead generation, and scaling along the way. He also highlights the importance of documenting processes, the emotional rewards of dog training, and the strong support system offered to franchisees. Whether you’re an entrepreneur or a dog lover, this episode is full of inspiration an...
2025-09-0323 minBusiness Growth SpotlightEp. 93 The Evolution of Customer Success in the Age of AI with Katie MineckShow Notes:In this episode of the Business Growth Spotlight, host Heidi Schalk sits down with Katie Mineck, VP of Customer Success at DigitalOwl, to dive into the future of AI, leadership, and customer success.Katie shares how DigitalOwl is leveraging AI to transform medical record summarization: not to replace people, but to empower them. She explains why companies hesitant about AI should start small, experiment with accessible tools, and focus on enablement rather than replacement.The conversation also explores:The biggest shifts in customer success priorities over the past decade
2025-09-0123 minBusiness Growth SpotlightEp. 90 Scaling Without Stumbling: Avoiding Common Pitfalls in AI Integration with IKAShow Notes:In this episode of the Business Growth Spotlight, host Heidi Schalk interviews Carlos Mats, the founder of IKA, a company focused on leveraging AI to enhance customer relationships and automate business processes. Carlos shares his journey from being an artist and technologist to creating a pioneering AI platform that aims to revolutionize user interaction with technology. The conversation covers the unique features of IKA, the importance of balancing automation with personalization, common mistakes companies make when integrating AI, and the challenges of growth and skepticism in the tech industry. Carlos also discusses his...
2025-08-2532 minBusiness Growth SpotlightEp. 89 How Tailwind Scaled: Customer Feedback, AI in Marketing, and Startup Growth InsightsShow Notes:In this episode of Business Growth Spotlight, host, Heidi Schalk, interviews Danny Maloney, CEO of Tailwind, to explore the realities of entrepreneurship, business growth, and marketing innovation. Danny shares how Tailwind has evolved through strategic pivots, the critical role of customer feedback in shaping product development, and why transparency is essential for strong leadership.The conversation dives into the future of AI in marketing, how businesses can adapt to changing market demands, and the importance of building trust with customers. Danny also reveals Tailwind’s long-term goals and the metrics his team uses to...
2025-08-2241 minBusiness Growth SpotlightEp. 88 The Future of Healthcare Outsourcing: Culture, AI, and Startup Success with Lilit AzatyanShow Notes:In this episode, Heidi Schalk sits down with Lilit Azatyan, co-founder of Pogos, takes us inside her entrepreneurial journey in the tech and healthcare outsourcing industry. She opens up about the real challenges of leadership—building trust, learning to delegate effectively, and navigating the fast-changing world of healthcare technology.Lilit shares how Pogos partners with startups as a strategic outsourcing solution, helping them scale operations, strengthen client relationships, and leverage cutting-edge innovations like artificial intelligence (AI). She also emphasizes why staying ahead of industry trends is essential for long-term growth....
2025-08-2019 minBusiness Growth SpotlightEp. 87 From Startup to Scale: Streamlining Communication for Impact with David DaneshgarShow Notes: In this episode of Business Growth Spotlight, host Heidi Schalk sits down with David Daneshgar, founder of Whippy AI, to explore the highs and lows of entrepreneurship and what it takes to scale a business effectively. David shares lessons learned from his startup journey, emphasizing the critical role of sales processes, strong documentation, and strategic hiring.The conversation covers funding insights, the evolving future of AI, and how to market effectively in today’s fast-moving environment. David also teases the upcoming launch of Whippy’s new VoIP platform and underlines the importance of build...
2025-08-1820 minBusiness Growth SpotlightEp. 85 The Evolving Game of E-Commerce: Adapt or Fall Behind with Jonathan SilversteinShow Notes:In this episode of Business Growth Spotlight, host Heidi Schalk speaks with Jonathan Silverstein, founder of Mobile1st, about the critical role of website optimization and data analytics in accelerating business growth. Jonathan delves into the challenges businesses face in today’s fast-changing digital marketing environment, offering practical insights on how to effectively engage decision-makers and increase revenue per visitor.The discussion explores the importance of continuous optimization in e-commerce, the need for data-driven decision-making, and strategies for staying competitive by aligning with evolving customer expectations. The episode underscores that success in...
2025-08-1346 minBusiness Growth SpotlightEp. 86 From Paperwork to Precision: Modernizing Insurance with AIShow Notes:In this episode of Business Growth Spotlight, host Heidi Schalk speaks with Hari Srinivasan, founder and CEO of iCover, about how technology is reshaping the life insurance landscape. They explore the innovative use of AI and predictive analytics to simplify underwriting and improve the overall buying experience.Hari shares key insights on marketing strategies, the value of referrals in a trust-based industry, and the challenges of balancing automation with a personal touch. The conversation also looks ahead to iCover’s future plans, including product expansion and deeper consumer engagement, all while navigating the co...
2025-08-1323 minBusiness Growth SpotlightEp. 84 Embracing AI: The Key to Business Growth and Innovation with Raghu BalaShow Notes:In this episode of Business Growth Spotlight, host Heidi Schalk speaks with Raghu Bala, co-founder of Synergetics, about how businesses can harness the power of AI to drive growth and innovation. Drawing from decades of experience in the software industry, Raghu explores the transformative potential of AI in corporate training and beyond.The conversation addresses common misconceptions around AI, the shift toward personalized learning experiences, and how businesses can better engage customers by adapting their marketing strategies for diverse audiences. He also underscores the importance of embracing evolving technology to stay...
2025-08-1132 minBusiness Growth SpotlightEp.82 Empowering Creatives Through Community and Technology with Christina Hawatmeh Show Notes:In this episode of Business Growth Spotlight, host Heidi Schalk speaks with Christina Hawatmeh, founder of Scopio, a platform designed to bridge the gap between global creatives and major brands. Christina shares the vision behind Scopio, detailing her entrepreneurial journey and the challenges she faced as a woman navigating the tech space.The discussion highlights the power of visual storytelling, the evolving relationship between AI and human creativity, and the critical role confidence plays in the success of creatives. Christina also offers a glimpse into her upcoming book, which explores what t...
2025-08-0633 minBusiness Growth SpotlightEp. 81 Innovating Across Borders: Leading Through Global Complexity with Daniel Peña Show Notes:In this episode of Business Growth Spotlight, host Heidi Schalk sits down with Daniel Peña, co-founder and CEO of DevSavant, a specialized software development firm. Daniel shares his unexpected path from the legal world to the tech industry, offering a behind-the-scenes look at the founding of DevSavant and the principles that guide its success.The discussion explores how the company stands out in a saturated market, emphasizing the importance of a growth mindset when building high-performing teams. Daniel also delves into the integration of AI in software development, overcoming cultural an...
2025-08-0422 minBusiness Growth SpotlightEp. 80 Collective Entrepreneurship: Leveraging AI and Equity with Anthony BayShow Notes:In this episode of Business Growth Spotlight, host Heidi Schalk speaks with Anthony Bay, founder of Techquity, who brings decades of experience in technology and media to his latest venture. Anthony shares the story behind Techquity’s creation—a partner-driven collective dedicated to helping businesses harness technology for both growth and positive social impact.The conversation explores the strategic use of AI to streamline operations and drive innovation, as well as the unique business structure that emphasizes collaboration over hierarchy. Anthony also reflects on key lessons from his entrepreneurial journey, the challenges that come...
2025-08-0131 minBusiness Growth SpotlightEp. 79 The New Era of Financial Intelligence for Growing Companies with Trevor Greenway and interValShow Notes:In this episode of Business Growth Spotlight, host Heidi Schalk sits down with Trevor Greenway, co-founder and CEO of interVal, to explore how AI is transforming the way business owners and financial advisors understand and act on business valuation. Trevor shares the story behind interVal’s development and how the platform empowers users with real-time, data-driven insights that support smarter financial decisions.The conversation highlights the importance of demystifying business valuation, the strategic role AI plays in driving meaningful outcomes, and the ongoing challenges of scaling a tech company. Trevor also discusses effective ma...
2025-07-3023 minBusiness Growth SpotlightEp. 78 More Than a Product: Building a Brand That Inspires a Lifestyle with Jennifer McknightIn this episode of the Business Growth Spotlight podcast, host Heidi Schalk speaks with Jennifer McKnight of Cobb International, who shares her unique transition from the world of luxury brands to leading an outdoor cooking company with a global vision. Jennifer discusses how aligning internal team values with a brand’s mission can drive long-term success and create a loyal customer base.The conversation covers how to effectively communicate premium value in a competitive market, the power of clear marketing strategies, and the real-world challenges faced in scaling a business. Jennifer also emphasizes the importance of deeply un...
2025-07-2845 minBusiness Growth SpotlightEp. 77 The New HR Playbook: Culture, Strategy, and Remote Teams with Jenny MoreheadShow Notes:In this episode of Business Growth Spotlight, host Heidi Schalk speaks with Jenny Morehead, CEO of Flex HR, who shares her unique journey from a background in sales and marketing to leading a human resources company. Jenny discusses how HR, often seen as an administrative function, can actually serve as a strategic engine for business growth when properly aligned with company goals.The conversation dives into common HR missteps businesses make, offers practical advice for aspiring business buyers, and outlines the growth strategies that have fueled Flex HR’s success. Jenny also highlights th...
2025-07-2550 minBusiness Growth SpotlightEp. 76 Authenticity Sells: Building Brands Through Story and Connection with John BrubakerShow Notes: In this episode of Business Growth Spotlight, host Heidi Schalk chats with John Brubaker, founder of Hats by Bru, who shares his unconventional journey from being a speaker and author to launching a hat business. John reflects on the power of storytelling, the role of vulnerability in building meaningful relationships, and how authentic connection fuels business success.The conversation explores how to navigate career pivots with confidence, the value of word-of-mouth marketing, and the often-overlooked importance of fun and personality in entrepreneurship. John also touches on the challenges of starting a brand from s...
2025-07-2342 minBusiness Growth SpotlightEp. 74 Mission Reimagined: Navigating the Shift from Military to Civilian WorkShow Notes:In this episode of Business Growth Spotlight, host Heidi Schalk speaks with Anthony Garcia, a combat veteran turned entrepreneur, who shares his powerful journey from military service to founding Purepost—a company committed to helping veterans successfully transition into civilian careers. Anthony discusses the often-overlooked challenges veterans face when translating military experience into marketable skills and how his platform works to close that gap through innovative, skills-based solutions.The conversation also explores key drivers of business growth, including the role of communication, the value of feedback, and the importance of bu...
2025-07-1846 minBusiness Growth SpotlightEp. 73 Authenticity in Automation: SMS Marketing That Connects with Phil PortmanShow Notes:In this episode of Business Growth Spotlight, host Heidi Schalk sits down with Phil Portman, serial entrepreneur and founder of Textdrip, to explore the power of SMS marketing and the evolving role of automation in business communication. Phil shares his entrepreneurial journey, offering insights into the highs and lows of building and scaling companies in a competitive digital landscape.The conversation dives into best practices for running impactful SMS campaigns, how to effectively integrate AI without sacrificing authenticity, and why continuous learning is essential for long-term success. Phil also discusses...
2025-07-1646 minBusiness Growth SpotlightEp. 72 How Mythica is Revolutionizing Game Development with AIShow Notes:In this episode of Business Growth Spotlight, host Heidi Schalk speaks with Slater Victoroff, co-founder of Mythica, a company on a mission to transform video game asset production through AI and open-source collaboration. Slater shares his entrepreneurial journey, offering a candid look at the challenges of the gaming industry and how Mythica is creating tools that empower developers to bring their creative visions to life faster and more affordably.The conversation explores the role of community in driving innovation, the delicate balance between scalability and creativity, and the unique opportunities AI presents for...
2025-07-1436 minBusiness Growth SpotlightEp. 70 Culture as Catalyst: Building Impactful Businesses with HeartShow Notes:In this episode of Business Growth Spotlight, host Heidi Schalk welcomes Carolin Zeitler, founder of the Impact Collective, for a conversation about “leading with love” in business. Carolin explores how a values-driven company culture fuels growth and why purpose-driven entrepreneurs face their own set of challenges. She delves into the power of self-reflection for effective leadership and underscores the importance of collaboration over competition and highlights the inner work required to achieve outward success.Bio:Carolin has spent the last 15 years coaching purpose-driven entrepreneurs and startup founders, helping them build sustainable lead...
2025-07-0921 minBusiness Growth SpotlightEp. 81 Innovating Across Borders: Leading Through Global ComplexityShow Notes:In this episode of Business Growth Spotlight, host Heidi Schalk sits down with Daniel Peña, co-founder and CEO of DevSavant, a specialized software development firm. Daniel shares his unexpected path from the legal world to the tech industry, offering a behind-the-scenes look at the founding of DevSavant and the principles that guide its success.The discussion explores how the company stands out in a saturated market, emphasizing the importance of a growth mindset when building high-performing teams. Daniel also delves into the integration of AI in software development, overcoming cultural and political h...
2025-07-0422 minBusiness Growth SpotlightEp.68 Tech for Troops: How One Nonprofit Is Changing Veterans’ LivesShow Notes:In this episode of Business Growth Spotlight, host Heidi Schalk sits down with Mark Casper, President and CEO of Tech for Troops, to explore how his organization is bridging the digital divide for veterans.Mark shares the powerful mission behind Tech for Troops—providing refurbished technology, digital skills training, and career support to help veterans successfully transition to civilian life.The conversation dives into the real-world challenges veterans face in today’s tech-driven economy, and how strategic partnerships and community involvement are key to scaling impact. Mark also outlines the organization’s grow...
2025-07-0440 minBusiness Growth SpotlightEp.67 Scaling Smarter: Leveraging Outsourced Medical Billing with Peg KindaShow Notes:In this episode of Business Growth Spotlight, host Heidi Schalk speaks with Peg Kinda, founder of Reliable Billing, about the critical role of effective billing in the healthcare industry. Peg shares how she got started in medical billing and discusses the major challenges healthcare providers face when managing revenue cycles and claims. She explains how Reliable Billing helps improve cash flow, reduce claim denials, and support providers through a streamlined, outsourced solution.The conversation dives into the pros and cons of in-house billing versus outsourcing, the growing influence of AI in the medical...
2025-07-0227 minBusiness Growth SpotlightEp.66 Reimagining E-Commerce: Innovation, AI, and the Road Ahead with CEO of Launchcart, Greg WriterShow Notes:In this episode of Business Growth Spotlight, host Heidi Schalk sits down with Greg Writer, CEO and founder of Launch Cart, to explore the future of e-commerce and the tools transforming how businesses scale online.With decades of entrepreneurial experience, Greg shares why Launch Cart is emerging as a high-impact alternative to platforms like Shopify. He unpacks the platform’s unique advantages, including how it empowers businesses to launch, grow, and optimize their online stores faster and more affordably.The conversation also dives into the growing influence of AI in the e...
2025-06-3042 minBusiness Growth SpotlightEp. 65 From Data to Decisions: Optimizing Business Operations for Impact with OutsetShow Notes:In this episode of Business Growth Spotlight, host Heidi Schalk talks with Daren Lauda, CEO of Outset, about his journey as an entrepreneur and the realities of scaling SaaS companies in a fast-paced, tech-driven world. Daren discusses the critical role operational efficiency plays in growth, along with how AI and automation are reshaping business processes.He shares his perspective on data-driven decision-making, the importance of balancing technology with human interaction, and the strategies he uses to set up efficient operations, acquire clients, and build meaningful partnerships. Daren also outlines his vision for the...
2025-06-2727 minBusiness Growth SpotlightEp. 64 Legacy in Motion: Planning the Future of Family Businesses with The Beringer GroupShow Notes:In this episode of Business Growth Spotlight, host Heidi Schalk sits down with Ted Beringer, founder of The Beringer Group, to explore the often-complex world of family business transitions. With decades of experience in investment banking and consulting, Ted shares his deep insights on how legacy businesses can successfully navigate leadership shifts, whether transitioning to the next generation or preparing for an outside sale.Ted dives into the importance of early planning, the emotional and financial dynamics of family leadership handoffs, and why running regular “fire drills” is essential for long-term success. He also...
2025-06-2446 minBusiness Growth SpotlightEp. 63 Eliminating Friction: Smart Strategies for Seamless Service With Bill PriceShow Notes:In this episode of Business Growth Spotlight, host Heidi Schalk sits down with Bill Price, founder of DRIVA Solutions and former Amazon executive, to explore the pivotal role of customer service and loyalty in driving sustainable business growth. Bill shares insights from his journey starting at Amazon and evolving into launching his own consulting firm and highlighting the importance of embedding customer service into every level of an organization.Their conversation covers practical strategies for removing pain points in the customer experience, using AI to predict and meet customer needs, and the power...
2025-06-2338 minBusiness Growth SpotlightEp.61 Scaling with Strategy: Leadership, Data, and Digital GrowthShow Notes:In this episode of Business Growth Spotlight, host Heidi Schalk chats with Asmir (Seb) Muminovic, founder of WebConvert, a Shopify-focused conversion rate optimization (CRO) agency. Seb unpacks the critical role CRO plays in boosting e-commerce performance and navigating the increasingly competitive digital landscape. The conversation explores effective marketing tactics, how AI is reshaping customer engagement, and the importance of data-driven decision-making.Seb also reflects on his journey in the e-commerce world, offering practical insights on building strong client relationships, leveraging analytics for growth, and the realities of scaling a team...
2025-06-1832 minBusiness Growth SpotlightEp. 60. Toxic No More: Cultivating Healthy Mindsets for SuccessShow Notes:In this episode of Business Growth Spotlight, host Heidi Schalk speaks with Elizabeth Louis, a high-performance consultant dedicated to helping leaders and teams break free from toxic mindsets and reach their full potential. Elizabeth dives into the mental traps that often hold high achievers back, such as perfectionism and fear, and explains how these patterns can undermine both leadership and personal growth.The conversation explores what sets high-performing teams apart, the value of a service-driven business approach, and why accountability is essential for effective leadership. Elizabeth also emphasizes the power of personal development...
2025-06-1636 minBusiness Growth SpotlightEp.59 From Smiling and Dialing to Digital PR with Marika FlattIn this episode of Business Growth Spotlight, host Heidi Schalk welcomes Marika Flatt, co-founder of PR by the Book, for a deep dive into the changing world of public relations. Marika unpacks how PR has transformed in the digital era, common pitfalls companies fall into, and why compelling storytelling remains at the heart of every successful campaign. She offers practical tips for seizing media opportunities, navigating the growing influence of AI on PR practices, and winning new clients. Heidi and Marika stress the importance of industry relationships and adapting strategies to an ever-evolving landscape. Marika also opens up about h...
2025-06-1349 minBusiness Growth SpotlightEp. 58 Family, Finance, and the Future: How One Wealth Advisors Is Redefining Wealth ManagementShow Notes:In this episode of Business Growth Spotlight, host Heidi Schalk sits down with brothers, David and Jonathan Steele to discuss the journey of One Wealth Advisors, a family-run financial planning firm. They explore the challenges and triumphs of entrepreneurship, the importance of creativity and agency in business, and the transition from income-focused thinking to long-term wealth creation. The conversation also touches on the role of AI in wealth management and the unique investment strategies tailored for entrepreneurs. Throughout the discussion, the brothers share personal insights and experiences that shaped their approach to financial p...
2025-06-1146 minBusiness Growth SpotlightEp.57 The Power of Connections: Building Trust Through Human-Centered Leadership with Carole Robins of Leaders In TechShow Notes:In this episode of Business Growth Spotlight, host Heidi Schalk sits down with Carole Robin, co-founder of Leaders in Tech and widely regarded as the “queen of touchy-feely,” about the crucial role of interpersonal skills in effective leadership. Drawing from her acclaimed curriculum at Stanford, Carole explains how emotional connection and honest feedback are key to building trust and strong relationships within organizations.The conversation dives into the challenges leaders face when trying to foster a culture of openness and trust, and how Leaders in Tech has evolved to address these needs among star...
2025-06-1141 minBusiness Growth SpotlightEp. 56 Fueling Innovation: How AI and Community Shape Startups with Nick HoneggerShow Notes:In this episode, Heidi Schalk sits down with Nick Honegger to explore the challenges early-stage startups face and how Geekdom plays a vital role in offering support and fostering community. Nick highlights the value of collaboration, mentorship, and being receptive to feedback as essential components of startup success. They delve into navigating funding, the impact of technology, especially AI, on the startup ecosystem, and key elements that contribute to long-term growth.Nick also shares his thoughts on the importance of personalizing content in an AI-driven world, the marketing and growth hurdles startups encounter...
2025-06-0642 minBusiness Growth SpotlightEp. 54 The Pink Tax and Beyond: Why Financial Systems Fail WomenShow Notes:In this episode of the Business Growth Spotlight podcast, host Heidi Schalk is joined by Dr. Barbara Provost, founder of Purse Strings, for a powerful conversation on financial empowerment for women.They explore the unique financial challenges women face, the societal narratives that contribute to money-related stress, and the mindset shifts needed to build lasting confidence and wealth. Dr. Provost sheds light on common financial missteps, the value of professional guidance, and why so many women feel underserved by traditional financial services.You’ll also hear about the mission be...
2025-06-0229 minBusiness Growth SpotlightEp. 53 The Heart and Hustle of Nonprofit Leadership with Christy HamiltonIn this episode, Heidi Schalk sits down with Christy Hamilton to unpack the unique challenges of leadership in the nonprofit sector, especially when private equity enters the picture.They explore how nonprofit leaders must navigate competing priorities—balancing stakeholder expectations while staying true to their organization’s mission. Christy draws from her experience as a COO to highlight the importance of adaptability, clear communication, and understanding team dynamics.The conversation also touches on common hurdles like securing funding, managing growth, and maintaining work-life balance in high-demand leadership roles. Christy emphasizes the critical role of trust and...
2025-05-3034 minBusiness Growth SpotlightEp. 52 The Future of Learning: Skills VR's ApproachIn this episode, Heidi Schalk sits down with James Coddington to explore how SkillsVR is transforming corporate training and leadership development through immersive technology.They discuss the limitations of traditional training methods and explain how virtual reality (VR) is improving knowledge retention, employee engagement, and overall performance. James shares how VR training is already being used successfully in major organizations such as Walmart, and why it is particularly effective for developing leadership and coaching skills with the support of AI.The conversation also covers the importance of effective change management when introducing new technologies. James...
2025-05-2839 minBusiness Growth SpotlightEp. 47 Yes, And: What Improv Can Teach Us About Business GrowthIn this episode of the Business Growth Spotlight, host Heidi Schalk sits down with Kelly Leonard, Vice President of Creative Strategy at the legendary comedy institution, The Second City.Together, they dive into the surprising but powerful connection between improv and business—revealing how improvisational techniques can unlock creativity, build trust, and elevate team communication.Kelly shares behind-the-scenes insights into The Second City's rich legacy, how embracing discomfort fuels growth, and why listening is a leadership superpower.They also explore cutting-edge projects, the ongoing challenge of staying relevant in a changing world, and wh...
2025-05-1637 minBusiness Growth SpotlightEp. 45 How Coaching and Operations Leadership Drive Business SuccessIn this episode of Business Growth Spotlight, host Heidi Schalk sits down with Jay Hurt, COO of the Academy of Creative Coaching, for an insightful conversation about what it really takes to grow and lead a successful business today.Jay opens up about the power of creative coaching, not just as a personal development tool, but as a smart business strategy that drives innovation and growth. He and Heidi talk about the important role of the International Coaching Federation (ICF) in shaping the coaching industry and how strong operations leadership supports long-term success in small businesses.
2025-05-1241 minBusiness Growth SpotlightEp. 40 Revolutionizing Education: The Exodexa Approach with Dr. Leah HanesIn this podcast episode, host Heidi Schalk interviews Dr. Leah Hanes, discussing her journey in education and the innovative approaches of her company, Exodexa. They explore the importance of gamification in learning, the challenges of traditional education systems, and the need for individualized learning experiences. Dr. Leah shares insights on how to engage students effectively and the future of education, emphasizing the importance of adapting to the needs of today's learners. In this conversation, Dr. Leah discusses the importance of understanding different learning styles and how engagement can be enhanced through movement and project-based learning. The role of AI...
2025-04-3041 minBusiness Growth SpotlightEp 37 The Future of Healthcare Education and Partnerships with Dani MarksIn this episode, host Heidi Schalk interviews Dani Marks from Neil Asher Education. They discuss Dani's journey from being a soccer player to his role in healthcare education, focusing on manual therapy and the importance of patient advocacy. The conversation highlights the challenges in healthcare education, the significance of alternative healing methods, and the need for individuals to take charge of their health. Dani shares insights on how Neil Asher Education aims to empower healthcare professionals and patients alike through innovative educational resources. Dani talks about the unique approach of Neil Asher Education in manual therapy, emphasizing the importance...
2025-04-2344 minBusiness Growth SpotlightEp. 23 Banish Bad Work Days Forever: Insider Tips from Career Coach Cara HeilmannIn this episode, Host Heidi Schalk interviews Cara Heilmann, a career coach dedicated to helping first and second-generation Americans secure executive positions. The conversation explores Cara's journey from corporate executive to career coach, the importance of visibility strategies for coaches, and the evolving role of AI in the coaching industry. Listeners gain insights into effective marketing strategies, the coaching process, and the significance of mindset in overcoming career challenges. In this conversation, the speakers delve into the importance of outsourcing for confidence, the visibility challenges faced in the career coaching industry, and the balance between organic and paid marketing...
2025-03-2145 minBusiness Growth SpotlightEp. 22: Unlocking Leadership Potential with Susan DeWoodyIn this episode of the Business Growth Spotlight podcast, host Heidi Schalk speaks with Susan DeWoody, president of Strata Leadership. They discuss Susan's journey from academia to leadership development, the importance of character in coaching, and how Strata tailors its programs to meet diverse organizational needs. The conversation also explores the significance of trust in building high-performing teams, the role of authenticity in leadership, and the integration of AI in leadership development. Susan shares insights on visibility challenges in the coaching industry and future trends in leadership development, emphasizing the need for continuous learning and adaptation.Dr. Susan DeWoody...
2025-03-1935 min
Be S.H.E.Ep. 66 Embracing Your Sexual Femininity : A Valentine's Day Special with Belle DeLorenzoIn this episode, Heidi Schalk interviews Bel Di Lorenzo, a women's sexual health advocate and the author of the best-selling book "The Gohddess Method.." Bel shares her personal journey and the inspiration behind her work, which focuses on helping women master vaginal gymnastics to enhance their sexual pleasure and amplify orgasms. Tune in to learn how Bel is empowering women to feel confident and fulfilled in their intimate lives.Bel Di Lorenzo is a women’s sexual health advocate, and the author of the bestselling book, The Gohddess Method. Her science-based approach is designed to hel...
2025-02-1436 minBusiness Growth SpotlightEp. 7 Revolutionizing Experiential Learning: Jordan Levy on CapSource's Innovative ApproachIn this episode, Heidi Schalk interviews Jordan Levy. Jordan shares his journey from a confused college student to an innovator in the education space, and discusses the importance of aligning education with industry needs. He also talks about the challenges of scaling an edtech business, the role of AI in education, and the future of work. Tune in to learn how CapSource is bridging the gap between academia and the professional world.Jordan is an education technology entrepreneur.His passion is building EdTech companies that help students transition from education to work. His method is...
2025-02-1246 minBe S.H.E.Welcome to the Be S.H.E Podcast!Are you ready to Be S.H.E.? That's Be Seen, Be Heard, and Be Empowered! I'm Heidi Schalk, Business Strategy Coach, welcome to the Be S.H.E. podcast. Each week, I'll be sharing tips and strategies to help you increase your visibility, amplify your voice, and take control of your life and business. We'll cover everything from personal branding to marketing, networking, public speaking and leadership. I'll also be interviewing successful women who have made their mark in their respective fields and are on a mission to make a positive difference in the world, so y...
2023-02-1601 min