Shows
The Frustrated CEOGrowing Up Your Business, Part 2 – The Strategic Power of Pausing | Ep. 94Episode 94: Growing Up Your Business, Part 2 – The Strategic Power of PausingIn Part 2 of our Growing Up Your Business series, Patrick and Patsy dive into a bold but often overlooked strategy for growth: pausing on purpose.While the instinct to “push forward at all costs” feels natural in fast-moving companies, it can backfire when your foundation—leadership, structure, clarity, and process—isn’t ready to support scale. This episode reframes the decision to pause growth not as failure, but as a strategic, courageous move that sets the stage for lasting succ...2025-07-1153 min
The Frustrated CEOGrowing Your Business VS. Growing UP Your Business | The Frustrated CEO Ep. #93🎧 Episode 93 – Why Growing Your Business Isn’t the Same as Growing It Up🚨 Are you scaling your business… but still stuck in frustration, poor accountability, or reactive leadership? You might be chasing growth before your organization is truly ready.In this eye-opening episode of The Frustrated CEO Podcast, hosts Patrick Lyons and Patsy Feeman reveal why growing up your business—not just growing it—is the key to long-term success.They kick off a powerful new series focused on organizational maturity, helping CEOs and senior leade...2025-06-1742 min
The Frustrated CEO21 Trends That Will Impact Your Business in 2025 | Ep. 92Q3 2025 INDUSTRY TRENDS GUIDE HERE: http://www.thelyonsgroupconsulting.com/trends⬆️In Episode 92 of The Frustrated CEO, we cut through the noise to help you spot the business trends that actually matter. Learn a simple framework to focus your attention, engage your team, and lead with confidence—plus, get our free guide: 2025 Q3 Trends & Strategies for Family-Run Businesses. Don’t chase trends—use them strategically.----🔔 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell to stay up to date with all the latest episodes of the Frustrated CEO Podcast! ----Follow us on Instagram...2025-06-0336 min
The Frustrated CEODavid Nilssen | The New War For Talent: Why Your Hiring Strategy Is Already Outdated | Ep. #91Episode 91 – The New War for Talent with David Nelson, CEO of Doxa TalentIn today’s episode of The Frustrated CEO Podcast, we’re diving into one of the most critical and ongoing challenges for leaders: the war for talent — and how to win it by building future-proof teams.We’re joined by David Nelson, CEO and co-founder of Doxa Talent, a company that's transforming the way organizations scale by building high-performing, globally distributed, values-aligned teams.With over two decades of entrepreneurial success, including founding Guidant Financial, David brings deep insight into the future of...2025-05-2053 min
The Frustrated CEOThe Battaglia Family | Built on Family, Fueled by Vision: The SSNA Story | Ep. #90In this episode of The Frustrated CEO Podcast, we sit down with Joe Battaglia Sr. and his sons, Joey and Nick, the powerhouse family behind Senior Services of North America (SSNA). From a single postcard that sparked an idea to becoming a national leader in the Medicare insurance space, the Battaglias share their journey of building a business rooted in family values, driven by relentless vision, and powered by innovation. Hear how they navigate growth, technology, and the complexities of working with loved ones—while keeping their mission at the center of it all.Join us in th...2025-04-0151 min
The Frustrated CEOChris Hamilton | Rethinking Employee Healthcare | Episode 89Health insurance costs are rising, and most CEOs feel trapped in a system that seems impossible to control. But what if there was a way to cut costs, improve employee benefits, and take back control?In Part 2 of our conversation with Chris Hamilton, partner at Hotchkiss Insurance, we dive into practical strategies that business owners can use to build a high-performance, cost-saving health plan—without sacrificing quality care.🔹 How CEOs can stop overpaying for healthcare🔹 The truth about insurance pricing and quality🔹 Smart strategies for self-funded and partially self-funded plans🔹 How to use health cap...2025-03-1849 min
The Frustrated CEOChris Hamilton | Taking Control of Healthcare Costs | Episode #88Welcome to the Frustrated CEO Podcast! In this episode, we’re joined by Chris Hamilton, a Partner at Hotchkiss Insurance, as he dives deep into the complexities of healthcare and insurance costs that are draining business profits across America. Chris specializes in employee benefits consulting and has spent over a decade advising clients on how to reduce expenses, improve coverage, and enhance employee health outcomes.Chris breaks down the broken systems in healthcare, revealing how health insurers profit by charging businesses and their employees more, the lack of transparency in the insurance industry, and how big insurers co...2025-03-0445 minThe Frustrated CEO87 - Stop Managing, Start LeadingIn this episode, Mark Williams, CEO of Brokers International, shares his approach to leadership that prioritizes people and culture. From balancing vision and execution to supporting mental health and embracing empathy, Mark dives into strategies for building a thriving workplace. He also reflects on adopting a "no more wasted days" mindset after a health scare and offers practical tips for leading with intention.Website: Frustrated CEOSocial: LinkedIn instagram: @thefrustratedceopodcast tiktok: @thefrustratedceopodcast2024-12-1857 minThe Frustrated CEOBeyond Screens: Remote Culture that Works with Marc ReifenrathWelcome back Mark Reifenrath! This episode features a conversation with Mark Reifenrath, the CEO of Spinutech, a digital marketing agency. Mark discusses the challenges of leading a remote workforce during the pandemic, emphasizing the importance of connecting with employees on a personal level and being vulnerable as a leader. He shares insights on creating a new leadership playbook, the value of in-person team meetings, and measuring and managing employee burnout. Mark also touches on the need for strategic alignment, activating the company's vision, and the potential impact of AI on the future of work. The episode provides p...2024-12-0350 minThe Frustrated CEO85 - Quiet Confidence: Introverts Who LeadThis episode of the Frustrated CEO podcast features an insightful discussion with Sharissa Deppen, CEO of the Leadership Mastery Alliance. The conversation focuses on the unique strengths and challenges of introverted leaders in corporate settings.Sharissa shares her expertise on what it means to be an introvert, debunking myths about introverted CEOs and senior leaders. She explains how introverts often excel in areas like empathy and reflective decision-making - qualities that can make them highly effective in top roles.Website: Frustrated CEOSocial: LinkedIn instagram: @thefrustratedceopodcast tiktok: @thefrustratedceopodcast2024-11-2050 minThe Frustrated CEO84 - Beliefs, Assumptions and Change That LastsLeadership expert Christine Grimm shares her unique approach of "deep work fast" - getting to the core issues quickly to drive sustainable change. Learn how to uncover beliefs and assumptions holding your team back, build high-trust workplaces, and facilitate meaningful transformation, even in uncertain times.Website: Frustrated CEOSocial: LinkedIn instagram: @thefrustratedceopodcast tiktok: @thefrustratedceopodcast2024-11-1349 minThe Frustrated CEO83 - Connecting the Dots: Seeing the Bigger PictureThis episode features Chris Wise, a dynamic entrepreneur, visionary leader, and pioneer in law, technology, and community development. Chris discusses the lessons he learned from his formative experiences in sports and the military that prepared him for his current roles. He shares his approach to innovation and long-term vision, emphasizing the importance of building a team that shares the big picture. Chris also talks about using AI to automate lower-level tasks and evolve the workforce, as well as his intentional focus on work-life balance. He describes the open and creative culture he promotes, including his strategy of hiring overqualified...2024-10-0245 minThe Frustrated CEO82 - Don't Be Afraid of the Big LeapThis episode features an interview with Rick Bettger, the owner of Omaha Car Care, a successful auto repair business. Rick discusses how he has grown the business over the past 23 years, including navigating a major rebranding as well as industry changes. Key topics covered include building a strong company culture focused on customer service, attracting and retaining top talent in a challenging labor market, and the importance of adapting to industry trends. Rick also shares his perspective on the role of businesses in supporting their local communities. Overall, the episode provides valuable insights for business leaders on driving growth...2024-09-1857 minThe Frustrated CEO81 - Creators, Maintainers and Balanced TeamsIn this episode, listeners get an inside look at the family-owned business of Trade School Inc. Founders Lance and Madison Hallberg share their personal journeys and leadership strategies, including: - Balancing "creators" and "maintainers" on their team - The importance of self-awareness and "brutal honesty" as a leader - Tips for integrating new talent into a family business - Insights on cultivating an intentional, service-oriented company culture Whether you're navigating family dynamics or looking to inspire more creativity in your organization, this episode offers valuable wisdom from seasoned entrepreneurs.Website: Frustra...2024-09-0450 minThe Frustrated CEO80 - Positioning Your Business for a Successful ExitIn this episode, serial entrepreneur Mac Lackey shares insights on maximizing business value and preparing for a successful business exit. Lackey emphasizes the importance of strategic value, leadership, and proactive planning, advising entrepreneurs to focus on creating optionality, surrounding themselves with experienced mentors, and designing their businesses for both wealth and personal freedom. Listeners will gain practical strategies for positioning their companies for a lucrative exit, whether selling to a third party or transitioning ownership internally.Website: Frustrated CEOSocial: LinkedIn instagram: @thefrustratedceopodcast tiktok: @thefrustratedceopodcast2024-08-2150 minThe Frustrated CEO79 - Discover Your Leadership SuperpowerThis episode of the Frustrated CEO podcast offers valuable insights for executives and professionals navigating personal and professional transformation in midlife. Our guest, Aneace Haddad includes topics on embracing change, navigating generational differences, finding purpose, and cultivating "superpowers" in the second half of one's career. You'll gain practical strategies to help you thrive in the unique landscape of midlife leadership in this episode.Website: Frustrated CEOSocial: LinkedIn instagram: @thefrustratedceopodcast tiktok: @thefrustratedceopodcast2024-08-0753 minThe Frustrated CEO78 - Leading Amid CrisisIn this episode of the Frustrated CEO podcast, we interviewed Dr. Thom Mayer, a highly respected leader in times of crisis. Listeners will gain valuable insights on effective decision-making, the importance of listening and storytelling, and strategies for avoiding burnout as a leader. Dr. Mayer shares his experiences from high-pressure situations like 9/11 and the NFL, providing practical advice on building trust, embracing failure, and finding joy in leadership. This episode is a must-listen for any CEO or leader looking to improve their skills and lead their team through challenging times.Website: Frustrated CEOSocial: LinkedIn 2024-07-2451 minThe Frustrated CEO77 - Longevity Through ChangeThis episode of the Frustrated CEO podcast features an interview with Charles Read, founder of Get Payroll and author of four books on payroll and small business topics.Charles has over 50 years of experience in financial leadership. The discussion covers Charles' experience in the military and how it impacted his leadership style and business. Charles emphasizes the importance of self-care for longevity in leadership roles. He also discusses how he has adapted his business and leadership approach over the decades to changing technologies, laws, and business environments. Website: Frustrated CEOSocial: LinkedIn i...2024-06-1942 minThe Frustrated CEO76 - Drive Growth From WithinIn this episode, we investigate the crucial topic of organizational readiness for growth. Leveraging our real-world experience, we share practical steps for improving alignment, enhancing leadership development, and cultivating a growth-oriented culture. Drawing from our work with clients, we provide actionable advice and examples to help you prepare your organization for sustainable growth. Packed with insights on leadership development and organizational readiness, this episode is a must-listen for any business professional looking to drive effective growth.Website: Frustrated CEOSocial: LinkedIn instagram: @thefrustratedceopodcast tiktok: @thefrustratedceopodcast2024-06-0527 minThe Frustrated CEO75 - Strategies to Develop Resilience for LeadersThis episode equips CEOs and senior leaders with effective strategies and tools for proactively developing and sustaining resilience. We dive specifically into CEOs' resilience with the expertise of Dr. Marie-Hélène Pelletier, once again! The conversation takes off with challenging common misconceptions CEOs hold about resilience, highlighting that it's not a fixed personality trait but rather requires active management. The discussion moves on to explore the roles of vulnerability and transparency in strengthening resilience. The episode also covers the use of humor in leadership, outlines steps to create a personalized resilience plan, and offers ways for CEOs...2024-05-2230 minThe Frustrated CEO74 - Leader’s Landscape of Today and TomorrowIn part two of Ben Pring's episode, we jump into the impact of artificial intelligence on the workforce's future. Ben discusses young professionals' concerns about job automation and the challenges leaders face in adapting to rapid technological changes. The episode shifts focus to enhancing customer service through human experiences, underscoring the value of personal connections in an AI-driven world. Industries like financial services, insurance, and retail, seen as most vulnerable to AI disruption, are examined. Concluding with practical advice for CEOs, Ben Pring emphasizes visiting AI innovators and blending new technologies with essential human skills to navigate th...2024-05-0848 minThe Frustrated CEO73 - Cultivating Resilient Companies at Every LevelThis episode is aimed at leaders looking to build a more resilient organization. In this episode, we tackle this topic with insights from Dr. Marie-Hélène Pelletier, a workplace mental health expert. The discussion covers what resilience means for organizations, the role of psychological safety and health in building a resilient workforce, and preparing for both predictable and unpredictable challenges. It also touches on managing change, generational differences in resilience, and practical tips for leaders to enhance resilience within their teams. This includes prioritizing open conversations, adopting a growth mindset, and fostering a culture that values diver...2024-04-2447 minThe Frustrated CEOThe Role of Thought Leadership In BrandingIn this episode of the Frustrated CEO podcast, we welcome back marketing and branding expert Mary Ann O'Brien to explore the power of thought leadership in today's digital world. Mary Ann demystifies how to leverage thought leadership to enhance your brand, offering strategies for developing a standout personal brand and setting effective goals. She touches on the impact of trends like artificial intelligence and streaming media, and provides tips for navigating controversial topics while keeping your brand's position strong. Packed with actionable insights, this episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to become an industry thought leader....2024-04-1052 minThe Frustrated CEO71 - 2024 Business Trends You Shouldn’t OverlookIn this episode, Futurist, Ben Pring delves into the transformative effects of technology and AI on the workforce's future. The discussion kicks off with an exploration of hybrid and remote work models, highlighting the ongoing adjustments as businesses strive to meet both corporate and employee goals. Specifically, this episode hots on the difficulties of attracting and retaining young tech talent, addressing the weakened social contract between employers and employees. AI, workforce shifts, trends for the year - this episode has it all. Check it out and stay tuned for Part 2 with this podcast guest!2024-03-2740 minThe Frustrated CEO70 - The Road To CEOIn this episode of the Frustrated CEO podcast, we sit down with Mary Ann O'Brien, the visionary founder and CEO of OBI Creative Advertising Agency. We dive deep into Mary Ann's journey of transforming OBI into a rapidly expanding enterprise and the challenges and triumphs that come with leading such a dynamic organization. Discover her unique "ask and deliver" philosophy, the critical role of nurturing customer relationships, and how her upbringing with an entrepreneurial father shaped her approach to business. Mary Ann also shares her strategies for prioritizing employee well-being and fostering their growth, alongside maintaining a d...2024-03-1349 minThe Frustrated CEO69 - Leading With Action Versus EffortIn this episode of the Frustrated CEO podcast, we're joined by the distinguished Bill Canady, a global business executive with over 30 years of experience and the current CEO of two companies. Canady delves into his strategies for managing multiple firms simultaneously, emphasizing the importance of clear goals, strong leadership, and a vibrant company culture. He offers insights into data-driven decision-making and the balancing act of meeting stakeholder expectations while pacing organizational transformations for enduring success. This is a must-listen for anyone looking to navigate the complexities of leading with integrity in today's fast-paced business world.Website: Frustrated...2024-02-2858 minThe Frustrated CEO68 - Leadership Coaching for Company SuccessIn this Frustrated CEO podcast episode, our hosts, seasoned in leadership development and culture change, explore coaching for strategic alignment. They detail how coaching can unite senior teams around shared goals, using a case study of a family business.This episode emphasizes that coaching isn't about fixing problems but promoting continuous growth and learning. It aids leaders in shifting from tactical to strategic thinking. They advocate for a coaching culture that values learning, retains talent, and adapts to business changes. Both internal and external coaching are crucial for skill-building and gaining new insights. Tune in to this...2024-02-1445 minThe Frustrated CEO67 - Build a Business of RelationshipsThis episode of the Frustrated CEO Podcast features an interview with Ryan Groth of Sales Transformation Group. Join us as Ryan discusses strategies for building a successful sales team and establishing a culture of prospecting and driving CRM adoption. He emphasizes the importance of caring for employees in order to transform company culture. CEOs looking to develop high-performing sales teams through mentorship and cultural change should check out this episode!Website: Frustrated CEOSocial: LinkedIn instagram: @thefrustratedceopodcast tiktok: @thefrustratedceopodcast2024-01-311h 00