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PEOPLE MAKE INNOVATION MATTER | Roopesh Das, Senior VP of Digital Acceleration and Innovation at Wallenius Wilhelmsen, joins host Gregg Garrett to discuss the importance of putting the human in the center of your innovation strategy. Of course, Roopesh shares his Top 3: Ritesh Patel, who helped him to learn to connect; Akiko Marusawa, who helped him recognize the importance of people; and Shireen Das, who is his rock and helps him set a montessori approach to his digital innovation program. And you have to hear what he has to say about being passionate but not emotional. About Roopesh Das   Experienced Digital executive with a track record of organizational transformation by applying cutting edge technology to launch innovative products which address new business models and create value, while leading and inspiring technology teams globally across North America, Europe, and Asia-Pacific.  Through his career spanning more than 20 years, Roopesh has launched technology products and solutions globally across logistics, manufacturing, finance, and telecom   A visionary leader, specializing in strategizing tech and business models, by looking at trends and market a few years out, setting goals for that future and framing strategy to execute in the present.   Most recently he has been, founder of an open Innovation platform in Wallenius Wilhelmsen, partnering with a global ecosystem of 100+ startups, tech & ventures to solve challenges in supply chain & logistics, leading to benefits such as: • 60% increase in productivity with Computer Vision, Robotics and Mixed Reality • 30% improvement in asset utilization with IoT & AI • De-carbonizing supply chain with Data, AI and electric fleets  He oversees strategic vision, product development, partnership creation and venture advisory.   Roopesh holds an engineering degree in Computer Science from Mumbai University, India. He is based in New Jersey, USA   He has lived internationally, likes to travel, meet people, and experience local cuisines and culture. He is always game for sharing, learning, and exchanging thoughts, around tech, society and impactful digital transformation.   SHOW HIGHLIGHTS During this episode: Introduction [0:00] Looking to innovate? Here are two questions to start with answering [0:50] Introduction to Roopesh [4:50] The “Top Three” Ritesh Patel: Helped him learn to connect [8:31] Akiko Marusawa: Helped him recognize the importance of people [13:51] Shireen Das: His rock who helps him set a Montessori approach to his digital innovation program [19:33] One more to mention: Rune Gisvold [27:30] Other Points of Interest: Leading innovation for a 150-year-old company [30:06] Lessons learned from empowering humans [32:54] You have to hear this… Be passionate but not emotional [40:42] ADDITIONAL INFORMATION Contact Roopesh Das: ●        Roopesh’s LinkedIn   Contact Gregg Garrett: ●        Gregg’s LinkedIn ●        Gregg’s Twitter ●        Gregg’s Bio   Contact CGS Advisors: ●        Website ●        LinkedIn ●        Twitter  

MAKING ALUMNI| Join Gregg Garrett, host and CGS Advisors CEO, during this solocast as he discusses how to establish an alumni network from your organization; not always an easy thing to do considering some of your best and brightest employees you never want to leave your firm. But, on the flip side, in order to get the best, brightest, and most driven you often need to get talent who want to spread their wings and sometimes it is at a different speed than the pace of your organization. Make an alumnus and you’re probably going to make some incredible employees and friends for life. ABOUT GREGG GARRETT Greggory R. Garrett is the CEO and Managing Director of CGS Advisors, a boutique strategy and innovation advisory firm that works with senior leaders at public companies and select private organizations. He is a dynamic and experienced international keynote speaker, an adjunct professor of business and engineering, the host of the “You, Me, and Your Top Three” podcast, and author of the best-selling business leadership book, Competing in the Connecting World. Having addressed audiences from 20 to upwards of 1500 people in public and private/corporate events, Gregg is at his best when he can focus on industry shaping & transformational topics. Prior to launching CGS Advisors, Gregg was the Chief Strategy Officer for IT & Innovation at Volkswagen Group of America. Before his time with VW, Gregg led corporate strategy & marketing for a division of Deutsche Telekom and was part of Ernst & Young’s Management Consulting practice. He is a visionary leader who prides himself in recognizing common sense solutions for complex problems and supports “Corporate Bravery” by motivating teams to reach well beyond the typical boundaries to achieve greatness. SHOW HIGHLIGHTS During this episode: Introduction [0:00] Losing the future of your organization [0:59] Bravery and the stages of spreading your wings [2:05] Do you drive a culture of alumni? [4:39] The secret to building great alum [6:52] Advice for letting your best and brightest leave [8:20] ADDITIONAL INFORMATION Contact Gregg Garrett: ●        Gregg’s LinkedIn ●        Gregg’s Twitter ●        Gregg’s Bio   Contact CGS Advisors: ●        Website ●        LinkedIn ●        Twitter  

BUILDING ECOSYTEMS| Chris Lambert, CEO of Life Remodeled, a Detroit non-profit that remodels and revitalizes neighborhoods in an equitable and sustainable way,  joins host Gregg Garrett to discuss how to create and nurture meaningful innovation ecosystems inside of Detroit communities. Of course, Chris speaks about his Top 3: Jesus, who he speaks with and listens to everyday, his friend Dominic Morelli who taught him the value of relationships, Diallo Smith, who can execute on a vision, his wife, who is a lover of all people, and to Dwan Dandridge who is a true visionary.  And you have to hear what he has to say about bold humility.  

PICKING UP THE PACE|Jay Rogers, founder and CEO of haddy- a 3D -printed furniture company,  joins host Gregg Garrett to discuss the lessons he learned by 3D printing autonomous vehicles and how the team is now looking to disrupt the complete supply chain of a less regulated industry with a similar product set. Of course, Jay speaks about his Top 3: God, who is part of his life everyday, his boys who help him to learn and reverse mentor him, and 3-star General Mike Dana who specializes in servant leadership. And you have to hear what he has to say about reading by candlelight. ABOUT JAY ROGERS John “Jay” Rogers is CEO and Co-Founder of haddy inc. – a pioneering digital manufacturing company serving the furniture industry and built on revolutionary technology and IP. Haddy is changing the way furniture is designed, built, delivered, and recycled. It is the world’s first micro-manufacturer of furniture produced through a proprietary method of direct digital manufacturing (“DDM”). Through DDM, haddy enables more rapid technology and material adoption and a superior resilient supply chain.   Jay grew up a lover of woodworking, machines, and a student of industry; his grandfather owned the legendary Indian Motorcycle Company, founded concrete and steel giant Texas Industries, and was the first Cummins Engine Distributor in the United States. Jay’s grandfather is also credited with saving the Public Broadcasting System during the Nixon Administration and founding the Children’s Television Workshop, which is best known for Sesame Street. In combining his family legacy of manufacturing, his military leadership, entrepreneurship, and education, Jay has hand selected a team of co-founders and set forth on a most ambitious plan: Creating, heroic, beautiful, durable furniture for retailers, to their design, built locally in the most resilient and sustainable manner.   He graduated from Princeton University and went to a startup in China and then to Ewing & Partners where he became a Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA). After that, he went on to the US Marine Corps where he served for 9 years in the infantry in the western Pacific and Iraq, to Harvard Business School and to become a consultant for McKinsey & Co. Most recently, he founded and led Local Motors, a next generation vehicle OEM. It was there that Jay discovered the basic technology of DDM, and in 2021 he handed over the reins of Local Motors to a new investor group and left to start haddy full-time. The story of how communities of customers and suppliers can effectively participate in the innovation and creation of leading technology products is a journey Jay shares widely. He has spoken at BIF, PopTech, TedX, Picnic in Amsterdam, Do Conference in Wales, St Gallen Symposium, the White House conference on making, CES, CeBIT, IMTS, Singularity University, and many more conclaves. Additionally, the story of American innovation, co-creation and digital manufacturing has been shared on Discovery, PBS, Fox, CNBC, and Speed Channel. You can find Jay’s impact first in long form narrative as part of many books, starting with MacroWikinomics written by Don Tapscott and Anthony D. Williams and more recently in America’s Moment: Creating Opportunity in the Connected Age by Rework America and Zoe Baird. His work has also been featured in Popular Mechanics, Popular Science, Wired, Top Gear, AutoWeek, Inc., Details, Forbes, and others. In 2020, he was awarded the honor of leading Local Motors to one of the top 10 global innovative transportation companies by Popular Science. Jay is a director of the RBR Foundation, which gives annually to the cause of childhood education and development. He is the father of 4 boys who are growing up in a connected age and whom, he hopes, will take advantage of the incredible opportunity that the internet has given the world.   Visit Jay, haddy and the future of American Manufacturing Innovation in Tampa, FL where the first haddy microfactory is being built, and where he calls headquarters and home. SHOW HIGHLIGHTS During this episode:  Introduction [0:00] What a Time to Be in the Workforce [1:09] Introduction to Jay [3:53] The “Top Three” God who is part of his life everyday  [6:26] General Mike Dana who taught him servant leadership [8:57] His boys who help him learn and reverse teach him [17:00] Other Talking Points: What is haddy? [19:25] Revolutionizing Manufacturing through Micro-Manufacturing [24:00] Dismantling Supply Chain [30:18] Where do you find these people?  [33:30]] Bravery and Courage [38:40] What does Jay fear? [43:00] You have to hear this… Reading by Candlelight [44:30] ADDITIONAL INFORMATION Contact Jay Rogers: Jay’s LinkedIn Jay’s email: jay@haddy.life Haddy.life (website to go live soon!)   Contact Gregg Garrett: Gregg’s LinkedIn Gregg’s Twitter Gregg’s Bio   Contact CGS Advisors: Website LinkedIn Twitter

JAHON HOBBEHEYDAR | Jahon Hobbeheydar, Chief Strategy and Innovation Officer at NSF International, joins host Gregg Garrett to discuss the linkage of strategy and innovation. As someone who lives in the center of these two functions, Jahon leads NSF to the future. Of course, Jahon speaks about his Top 3: his former boss, Thad, who helped him bring out his intellectual best, a persona of colleagues like Sharon, Tom, and Jen who help remove cultural inertia, and his daughter, Sarah, who makes him remember the underlying “why”. And you have to hear what Jahon has to say about shifting from making points to understanding them. 

TAKING RISKS | Gary Shapiro, president and CEO of the Consumer Technology Association, joins host Gregg Garrett to discuss the consumer electronics industry, CTA and the Consumer Electronics Show, and broader societal change. Of course, Gary speaks about his Top 3: his wife, industry advisors and advocates like Robert Ford who help him reflect on how to drive the industry forward, and his entire CTA management team as well as members of the Board. And you have to hear what he has to say about keeping balance in life. ABOUT GARY SHAPIRO Gary Shapiro is an acclaimed author, lobbyist, and president and CEO of the Consumer Technology Association (CTA)® which represents over 1,500 consumer technology companies and owns and produces the Consumer Electronics Show (CES)®  — The Global Stage for Innovation. A Georgetown Law graduate, Shapiro began his career as an associate at the Squire Sanders law firm. After an extended tenure in law, he began working on Capitol Hill as an assistant to a prominent member of the U.S. Congress. Later in his life, Gary would use this combined law and legal experience to be named one of The Hill’s top lobbyists numerous times throughout his career (2015-2021). As his experience in law and politics progressed, he became more aligned with the world of technology, which eventually brought him into the fold of the Consumer Technology Association in 1982.  Taking the role of President and CEO, Shapiro evolved the idea of the workplace over his 40-year long tenure leading the organization. Directing a staff of 150 employees alongside thousands of industry volunteers, he built a forward-thinking successful business focused on the further development and integration of technology in all industries of the world. Under his leadership CTA has won numerous awards for its healthy workplace, family friendly employment practices, and environmentally friendly exhibition practices. In 2019, CTA earned its sixth consecutive selection as a Washington Post Top Workplace.  Shapiro has written New York Times bestsellers including “Ninja Innovation: The Ten Killer Strategies of the World’s Most Successful Businesses” (HarperCollins, 2013) and “The Comeback: How Innovation will Restore the American Dream” (Beaufort, 2011). He also wrote USA Today bestseller “Ninja Future: Secrets to Success in the New World of Innovation” (William Morrow, 2018) Through these books, numerous television appearances, and as a columnist whose more than 1,200 opinion pieces have appeared in publications such as The Wall Street Journal, The New York Times and The Washington Post, Shapiro has helped direct policymakers and business leaders on the importance of innovation and technology in the U.S. economy. Shapiro consistently stays active in policy, thought leadership, government, and community development alongside his position at CTA. He currently serves as a member of the CTA Executive Board, NAM Board of Directors of the Council of Manufacturing Associations, the Board of the Focused Ultrasound Foundation, the Board of Directors of the Northern Virginia Technology Council, and the Trade Show Executive Editorial Board. A subject of regular praise, Shapiro was once called a “mastermind” for his initiative in helping to create the Industry Cooperative for Ozone Layer Protection. His mind for an evolving workplace and consumer while staying environmentally conscious has paved a roadmap for bipartisan law and policy makers to follow in making a more innovative world. Gary Shapiro is happily married and lives in Michigan. SHOW HIGHLIGHTS During this episode:  Introduction [0:00] How the World is Connecting through Consumer Touch [1:05] Introduction to Gary Shapiro [9:27] The “Top Three” Gary’s Wife [13:52] Industry advisors and advocates like Robert Ford who help him reflect on how to drive the industry forward [14:39] His entire CTA management team as well as members of the Board [15:24] The Consumer Technology Industry Learning from a Failure [18:55] Keep Things Simple [21:56] Disruptors to the Industry [23:00] AI Changing the Business Model [26:41] Advice to Business Leaders [31:58] What to Expect from CES in 2023? – World Academy of Arts & Science (WAAS) Partnerships, Awards, and More [36:45] You have to hear this… Balance in Life Hack [43:12] ADDITIONAL INFORMATION Contact Gary Shapiro: Consumer Technology Association CES Website Gary’s LinkedIn Contact Gregg Garrett: Gregg’s email Gregg’s LinkedIn Gregg’s Twitter Gregg’s Bio Contact CGS Advisors: Website LinkedIn Twitter

Paul Arnegard, VP of Creative Services at Tweddle, joins host Gregg Garrett to discuss how his firm has transformed as the mobility industry continues to be disrupted. Of course, Paul speaks about his Top 3, including Dan Owens who helped him pivot to the creative side of the firm, his father who helped him get Earthy Wisdom, and Grandmaster Kim who helped him bring discipline and calmness to his hectic life, and current and former colleagues like Brian Suszek (former podcast guest, episode 113), Alex Awn (former podcast guest, episode 139), and Amy Simonelli who influenced him to build trust, see the good, slow down, and ask diverse questions. And you have to hear what he has to say about taking the time to meditate every day. About Paul Arnegard Paul is the Vice President of Creative Services at Tweddle Group, a pillar company of the CJK Group portfolio. CJK is a global information provider for multiple industries, and Tweddle’s role is to supply one-stop support for OEMs through content development & management, creative services, digital print & distribution, and diagnostic tools.  Paul manages several shared services within the organization, including video production, graphic design, UX/UI, CGI, project management, quality, and marketing. Prior to arriving at Tweddle twenty-two years ago, this University of Michigan alum spent time in several disparate fields, each of which contributed to his business perspective and leadership style. From spraying orange groves to working as a martial arts instructor. From repairing billboards high above the ground to sitting behind a desk to write. From engaging students as an English teacher to engaging opponents as a kickboxer. Each step along the way provided experience and insight that he continues to apply for growth and problem solving in the workplace, though punching and kicking are no longer a part of his solution toolbox. During this episode: Introduction [0:00] Industry Lines are Blurring/Experience Design [1:10] Introduction to Paul [3:23] The “Top Three” Dan Owens, former boss who helped him pivot to the creative side of the firm [6:15] His father who had no formal education but earthly wisdom [9:45] Grandmaster Kim who helped him bring discipline and calmness to his hectic life [15:40] Brian Suszek, former boss who played the biggest role in Paul rising through the ranks [24:55] Alex Awn, creative support and helps make Paul a better leader [29:40] Amy Simenelli, creative video director who tells Paul to slow down [32:17] You have to hear this… Tweddle Background [41:03] Blurred Industries [46:55] Additional Information Contact Paul Arnegard: Paul’s LinkedIn Tweddle Group Website Contact Gregg Garrett: LinkedIn Twitter Bio Contact CGS Advisors: Website LinkedIn Twitter

Erik Walenza, CEO of IoT One and host of The Industrial IoT Spotlight podcast, joins host Gregg Garrett in this special dual podcast to discuss how global and multi-national firms are competing in the Chinese market. Of course, Erik speaks about his Top 3: his wife, his business partners: Chun Liew and Michael Maeder, who taught him how to build relationships and processes, and his community. And you have to hear what he has to say about local for local strategy. About Erik Walenza Erik Walenza has worked in China for 11 years and he is an active member of the Chinese innovation ecosystem. He is passionate about exploring the impact of digitalization in businesses, and through his position as Chair of the Technology and Innovation Committee in China he plays an active role in the exchange of best practices for innovation strategy and tech trends evolution in Asia, but also worldwide. Erik has interviewed over 100 CEOs and venture capitalists while building one of Shanghai’s largest entrepreneur networks. Show Highlights During this episode: Introduction [0:00] Importance of Connecting People [0:55] Introduction to Erik and the dual podcast [3:18] Gregg’s background and the creation of CGS [4:06] Erik’s background and current work [5:20] The similarities and differences of CGS and IoT One [10:30] The “Top Three” His wife [12:30] His work colleagues [15:25] His communities [17:52] You have to hear this… Local for local strategy [20:06] CGS’s IoT Collaboration [26:10] Getting the Right People around the Table [33:40] Operating Leaders [38:50] Put Believers with Believers [43:00] Participating in the I4.0 Orchestration Collaborative [49:00]   Additional Information Contact Erik Walenza: Erik’s email Erik’s LinkedIn IoT One website Contact Gregg Garrett: Gregg’s email Gregg’s LinkedIn Gregg’s Twitter Gregg’s Bio   Contact CGS Advisors: Website LinkedIn Twitter

80% OF THE DAY | Craig Vanderburg, COO of Trion Solutions, joins host Gregg Garrett to discuss the success his firm has had in outsourcing HR for small and mid-sized firms. Of course, Craig speaks about how he spends 80% of his day with his Top 3, including Pathik Mody, Craig Sherman, Don Turowski, and Trion’s operations team. And you have to hear what he has to say about the importance of a routine. ABOUT CRAIG VANDERBURG Craig Vanderburg is among the nation’s most-experienced professionals in the HR-administration industry and is used frequently by local and national media as an expert resource on issues such as workplace policies, compliance issues, health and workers’ compensation insurance, and challenges faced by small to mid-size businesses. He is a former member of the National Association of Professional Employer Organizations (NAPEO) board of directors and a former Chairman of its Accounting Practices Committee. He was a former President and CEO of two HR-administration companies and was formerly a Managing Partner of Affinity Group LL, an M&A and investment-banking firm that was assisting service and growth companies on issues including private equity, senior and sub-debt, and mezzanine and hedge-fund financing. He earned his Bachelor of Finance degree from Wayne State University in Detroit and was an active member of the Young Presidents Organization.  He serves on the Board of Directors of the Troy Chamber of Commerce. He is a popular public speaker and resource to news media on a variety of business issues. SHOW HIGHLIGHTS During this episode:  Introduction [0:00] Do you have your Dream Team? [1:10] Introduction of Craig [4:30] Outsourcing Space [6:20] The “Top Three” Pathik Mody, CTO at Trion [4:12] Craig Sherman, VP of Client Onboarding and Implementation [20:52] Don Turowski, friend turned business partner [32:20] Key Ops Team [38:15] You have to hear this… Routine [50:00] ADDITIONAL INFORMATION Contact Craig Vanderburg: Craig’s LinkedIn Craig’s email Trion Solutions Website   Contact Gregg Garrett: Gregg’s LinkedIn Gregg’s Twitter Gregg’s Bio   Contact CGS Advisors: Website LinkedIn Twitter

BEING AN INNOVATOR | Thierry Klein, President of Bell Labs Solution Research at Nokia Bell Labs, joins host Gregg Garrett to discuss the DNA of being an innovator. Of course, Thierry speaks about his Top 3, including his parents who helped him eliminate his fear of failure, his PhD advisor at MIT who taught him the business of innovation, and the aura of previous Bell Lab Presidents who helped set the bar for what leadership in innovation looks like. And you have to hear what he has to say about trusting your instincts. About thierry klein Thierry Klein is President of Bell Labs Solutions Research at Nokia Bell Labs. His distinguished global multi-disciplinary team conducts fundamental and applied research focused on new value chains, business opportunities and ecosystems beyond Nokia’s current product and solutions portfolio. His team pursues research and innovation into advanced sensing technologies, AI-based knowledge systems and fundamental algorithms, autonomous software and data systems, novel architectures and integrated solutions and experiences. Thierry served as the Founding Vice-Chair of the Board of the 5G Automotive Association, a cross-industry association bringing together the telecommunications and automotive industries, and he served as the Chairman of the Technical Committee of GreenTouch, a global consortium dedicated to improve energy efficiency in networks by a factor 1000x compared to 2010 levels. He was the Founder and CTO of an internal start-up focused on wireless communications for emergency response and disaster recovery situations. Thierry earned an MS in Mechanical Engineering and an MS in Electrical Engineering from the Université de Nantes and the Ecole Centrale de Nantes in Nantes, France.  He received a PhD in Electrical Engineering and Computer Science from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, USA. He is an author on over 35 peer-reviewed conference and journal publications and an inventor on 36 patent applications. In 2010, he was voted “Technologist of the Year” at the Total Telecom World Vendor Awards and received the 2016 Industrial Innovation award from the IEEE Communications Society. Thierry has dual US and Luxembourg citizenship and speaks four languages. He lives in Fanwood, New Jersey with his wife and son. Show Highlights During this episode: Introduction [0:00] DNA of an Innovator - Bravery [1:00] Thierry’s Introduction [7:36] His Definition of Innovation [10:00] The “Top Three” His parents [11:38] His PhD advisor [19:36] Previous Bell Lab Presidents [32:39] You have to hear this… Internal Venture at Nokia Bell Labs [43:20] What He’s Currently Working On [46:45] Be Accessible and Trust Your Instincts [55:42] Additional Information Contact Thierry Klein: Thierry's LinkedIn Nokia Corporation Nokia Bell Labs - Nokia Bell Labs (bell-labs.com) Bell Labs Institute - Nokia Bell Labs (bell-labs.com) Networking on the Moon Project Put Women Back in the History Book of Computing   Contact Gregg Garrett: Gregg’s LinkedIn Gregg’s Twitter Gregg’s Bio   Contact CGS Advisors: Website LinkedIn Twitter

Cascading Leadership | Lindsay Irrer, co-owner of The Barre Code – Metro Detroit, joins host Gregg Garrett to discuss leading a franchise from the franchisee’s perspective. Of course, Lindsay speaks about her Top 3, including her entrepreneurial husband, her parents who balance grit and compassion, and her business partner who entices courage from her. And you have to hear what she has to say about body positivity. About LINDSAY IRRER Lindsay Irrer grew up in Bay City, Michigan, where her many years growing up in a dance studio led to her love of movement and the connections made with people around her while doing so. A Michigan State University alumna, Lindsay earned her degree in Communication and Public Relations while also traveling the country supporting Spartan Athletics as a four-year member of the Michigan State Dance Team. Lindsay left the corporate world in 2013 to follow her dream of owning a business and has since opened The Barre Code studios in Birmingham, Rochester Hills, Royal Oak, and Northville. A full-service women's fitness studio that celebrates a lifestyle in relentless pursuit of personal potential and a one-stop-shop of cardiovascular conditioning, strength training, and restoration - The Barre Code goes beyond the ballet barre to provide an innovative, all-encompassing program that empowers you to push your limits and uncover your strength. Lindsay spends her days as the studio co-owner alongside her partner, Janelle, focused on building studio community through the client experience, online presence, and planning special events and partnerships outside of the studio. Show Highlights During this episode: Cascading Leadership [0:00] Introduction to Lindsay and The Barre Code [4:15] Franchisee Perspective [7:10] The “Top Three” Her husband [9:10] Her parents [13:00] Loyalty within the Community [18:10] Her co-owner, Janelle [20:46] You have to hear this… The differentiator – body positivity [26:30] Social Media Presence [30:47] Brand Value [36:50] Dancing [38:50] Upcoming Events [42:00] Additional Information Contact Lindsay: Lindsay's Personal LinkedIn Lindsay's Personal Instagram The Barre Code's Studio Website The Barre Code - Metro Detroit Instagram Contact Gregg Garrett: Gregg’s LinkedIn Gregg’s Twitter Gregg’s Bio   Contact CGS Advisors: Website LinkedIn Twitter

WHAT A PUNK | Alex Awn, Head of UX for Bosch North America, joins host Gregg Garrett to discuss how curiosity and DIY attitudes are what you need to drive innovation as well as how he brings his punk roots to shape corporate culture. Of course, Alex speaks about his Top 3, including his ex-boss, Paul Amegard, who showed him how to extend trust; Wayne Kauffman, a General Counsel who provided him with personal career advice; Oliver Stening, a boss and “gut” checker; and his creative motivators: his wife and members of his band, Temple of Void. And you have to hear what he has to say about responsibility. About ALEX AWN Alex Awn took the road less traveled on his way to becoming a corporate leader and executive. With a background and immersion in punk and heavy metal, Alex initially channeled his creativity into a Bachelor of Fine Art, with a concentration in graphic design. This was a great jumping-off point for his career, and after many years of honing his craft he attained a Creative Director position at a tier one automotive supplier. However, his journey to that position took him down many alleys of curiosity. It was this curious nature that resulted in Alex’s T-shape approach to professional growth. Alex explored Kaizen, eastern philosophy, and doubled down on improving his innate leadership qualities. At a certain point, Alex decided he was too comfortable and maybe even complacent in his position at this company, so he took a risk and joined a marketing firm that focused on customer-centricity. Since Alex’s interest in Design Thinking, Human-Centered Design, and User Experience were really maturing, this made for a golden opportunity. A couple of years into his growth at this firm and he was ready to springboard to tackle a new challenge. This time a multinational organization was calling. This would prove to be his biggest and most intrinsically rewarding challenge to date. Alex took all that prior team-building experience and used it to great effect in his current role as Director of UX for Bosch, North America. Show Highlights During this episode: Introduction [0:00] Creativity is the Heart of Innovation [0:56] Introduction of Alex – Punk Roots [4:36] The “Top Three” Paul Amegard, ex-boss [21:00] Wayne Kaufmann, General Counsel [28:19] Olive Stening, boss and gut checker [33:51] Wife and members of band [39:09] You have to hear this… Who Is Alex and how is he leaning into disruption? [44:00] Life Hack: Responsibility is the ability to respond [49:36] Additional Information Contact Alex: LinkedIn Temple of Void Band Camp Contact Gregg Garrett: LinkedIn Twitter Bio Contact CGS Advisors: Website LinkedIn Twitter

KEVIN SCHNIEDERS | Kevin Schnieders, CEO of EDSI, joins host Gregg Garrett to discuss success and why your attitude towards success may be the differentiator. Kevin also admits he has been accidentally successful in his career. Of course, Kevin speaks about his Top 3, including his father, who provided the platform for his success; his wife, Wendy, who reminds him of why he wants to be successful; his colleague, Arlene Jones, with who he has grown with; and two important coaches in his life who taught him to surround himself with people who are ahead of you on the journey. And you have to hear what he has to say about coloring your calendar. About kevin schnieders Kevin Schnieders is the CEO and President of EDSI. Striving to be the solution for companies and people in transition, EDSI is a workforce development, customized training and consulting company. The company focuses on providing innovative solutions to close workforce skills gaps around the country. Kevin started with EDSI as a Training Consultant in 1994. He gained additional responsibilities as the firm’s HR Manager and Director of Operations, before serving six years as the Chief Operating Officer. In 2007, he assumed the role of CEO, or as he refers to it, the “Chief Servant Leader,” and the company has quadrupled in revenue and number of locations, added 600 new employees and increased profitability since Kevin made this transition. This success can be attributed to putting others first, listening closely to their insights and needs, and helping them understand their unique strengths. Kevin says, “I had the humility to understand that I had purchased a great company, a tremendous respect for the legacy left by our Founder, and an unwavering desire to help people.”   Outside of EDSI, Kevin mentors a high school student for Building Bridges, a charity that inspires children to believe in themselves by connecting them with caring adults. He serves as Vice President for the Rainbow Connection, an organization that helps dreams come true for Michigan children with life-threatening illnesses and provides support to their families.  Kevin is also the President of the Berkley (MI) Education Foundation.    He has a Master of Science in Learning and Organizational Change from Northwestern University and an undergraduate degree in English and Secondary Education from Albion College.  Show Highlights During this episode: Introduction [0:00] Mindset + Context [1:10] Introduction of Kevin – Accidentally Showing Up [4:46]   The “Top Three” His wife, Wendy [7:10] Arlene Jones [11:44] His father [18:00] Larry Short, his personal coach [25:40] Mike Turner, college golf coach [31:10] You have to hear this… Modernizing the Training Business [39:40] Color Your Calendar [49:00] Additional Information Contact Kevin: Website: EDSI EDSI Facebook EDSI YouTube EDSI Twitter Kevin's LinkedIn Contact Gregg Garrett: Gregg’s LinkedIn Gregg’s Twitter Gregg’s Bio   Contact CGS Advisors: Website LinkedIn Twitter

DR. LARA RAMDIN, Chief Innovation Officer at Dole, joins host Gregg Garrett to discuss the paths to careers in innovation. As a seasoned innovator in multiple industries, Lara also highlights how she has found a passion for tackling innovative solutions to battle food deserts. Of course, Lara speaks about her Top 3, including her former colleagues and bosses who saw things in her that she didn’t recognize herself, a college roommate turned educator that helped her recognize bravery, and a ride-or-die group of women who each instill a different and needed innovation trait. Namely, these women help Lara in Taking Action, Being Pragmatic, and Kicking Glass Ceilings out of the way. And you have to hear what Lara has to say about the relationship between science and innovation. About LARA RAMDIN Dr. Lara Ramdin, Chief Innovation Officer at Dole Sunshine Company, has an extensive global track record in R&D, product development and innovation. Ramdin is a fierce advocate for young women in STEM which she exercises through her mentor roles in both The Girls' Network and 1MMentors organizations and as Sponsorship Director and board member for the not-for-profit organization Irish Film London. Show Highlights During this episode: Teaser [0:00-0:58] What Makes a Great Innovation Member [1:01-4:50] Look at the Edge for Innovators [4:50-6:57] Introduction of Dr. Lara Ramdin [6:57-9:40] The “Top Three” First Mentor, Jueren Kellhosts and His Teaching of Storytelling with Science [10:00-16:55] Former Boss, Kia [17:10-21:10] College Roommate (Mary) & Ride-or-Women (Laurie, Amy, and Sara) [21:10-29:08] Lara, the Chief Innovation Officer [29:08-31:11] Last Boss [31:11-32:00] What they See in Lara: Creativity and Science [32:00-33:15] You have to hear this… Motivational Leadership [33:57-35:17] Link Between Science and Innovation [35:18-40:17] The DOLE Promise [40:17- 43:15] Innovating Against Food Deserts & Tim Specter’s Spoon-Fed [43:24-47:30] The Future of Food: BlockChain, 3D Printing Food, and Personalized Food [47:36-52:30] How to Make innovation work regardless of industry [52:38-54:30] Lara’s Hack to being a Brave Leader [56:20-57:57] Additional Information Contact Lara: LinkedIn Sunshine for All Cities Program Dole Sunshine for All   Contact Gregg Garrett: Gregg’s LinkedIn Gregg’s Twitter Gregg’s Bio   Contact CGS Advisors: Website LinkedIn Twitter

THE MULTIPLIER EFFECT | Steve Pockross, CEO of Verblio, joins host Gregg Garrett to discuss how the multiplier effect has allowed him to scale marketplace businesses. Steve also highlights the intersection between the future of marketing and the future of work. Of course, Steve speaks about his Top 3, including his executive coaches, Mark and Jodi, who help him multiply his efforts, his suite colleagues, Greg and Paul, who model honesty, and his wife, Jen, who helps him through the last 5%. And you have to hear how he hires on traits versus skills. About Steve Pockross Steve Pockross is the CEO of Verblio, a content creation platform that powers modern content marketers and SEO agencies. He brings more than 25 years of startup, Fortune 5000, and nonprofit experience to his role at Verblio. He has a passion for bringing humans and technology together. Steve was part of the early management team at crowdsourcing pioneer, LiveOps, and previously led five SaaS and marketing businesses. Based in Colorado, Steve enjoys ultimate frisbee, telemark skiing, hosting jazz concerts, and spending time with his two boys. Steve hosts Verblio’s own podcast, Yes, and Marketing. Show Highlights During this episode: The Multiplier Effect [1:10] Steve’s Introduction [4:43] The “Top Three” His executive coach, Mark [7:08] His executive coach, Jodi [15:30] His suite partners, Greg and Paul [19:00] His wife, Jen [26:30] You have to hear this… The Future of Marketing and the Future of Work [31:15] The Verblio Way [44:05] Hire based on Energy [49:48] Additional Information Contact Steve: Steve’s LinkedIn Steve’s Twitter (hasn’t posted since 2019) Steve’s Podcast on Apple Podcasts   Contact Gregg Garrett: Gregg’s LinkedIn Gregg’s Twitter Gregg’s Bio   Contact CGS Advisors: Website LinkedIn Twitter  

WHY FEAR FAILURE? | Join Gregg Garrett, host and CGS Advisors CEO, during this solocast as he challenges listeners to question how they view failure and discusses how remaining in the fear of failure can prevent you and your business from innovating. Gregg also highlights how breaking free from fear and being a true leader is at the heart of innovation and transformation. About Gregg Garrett Greggory R. Garrett is the CEO and Managing Director of CGS Advisors, a boutique strategy and innovation advisory firm that works with senior leaders at public companies and select private organizations. He is a dynamic and experienced international keynote speaker, an adjunct professor of business and engineering, the host of the “You, Me, and Your Top Three” podcast, and author of the best-selling business leadership book, Competing in the Connecting World. Having addressed audiences from 20 to upwards of 1500 people in public and private/corporate events, Gregg is at his best when he can focus on industry shaping & transformational topics. Prior to launching CGS Advisors, Gregg was the Chief Strategy Officer for IT & Innovation at Volkswagen Group of America. Before his time with VW, Gregg led corporate strategy & marketing for a division of Deutsche Telekom and was part of Ernst & Young’s Management Consulting practice. He is a visionary leader who prides himself in recognizing commonsense solutions for complex problems and supports “Corporate Bravery” by motivating teams to reach well beyond the typical boundaries to achieve greatness. Show Highlights Failure is Learning [0:36] The Status Quo is even Scarier [3:58] Story Arching [5:17] Your Vision: The Autonomous Car Example [9:10] Don’t Let Fear of Failure Hold You Back [11:39] Additional Information Contact Gregg Garrett: Gregg’s LinkedIn Gregg’s Twitter Gregg’s Bio Contact CGS Advisors: Website LinkedIn Twitter  

PLACING BETS | Chris Ball, a multi-time CEO and serial entrepreneur, joins host Gregg Garrett to discuss how bravery is often enabled by having the right perspective. Of course, Chris speaks about his Top 3, including his competitor turned business partner who helped him to scale, his father who set a platform from a young age, and his COO and life partner who supports and pushes him. And you have to hear what he has to say about comparing his time as a professional poker player to being a business leader. About Chris Ball A Michigan State University graduate, Chris is an eCommerce Retail Aficionado, Serial Entrepreneur, Investor, and Gambler.  Chris has spent the last decade chasing his dreams, taking chances, and seeking life lessons to make himself a better business leader, and more importantly, a better person.  Chris is the owner of Ball Equipment, which has been family-owned and operated since 1944.  Currently, Chris' main focus is BW Retail Solutions, of which he is the Co-Founder and CEO. As a full-service data management, marketing, and logistics provider, BW Retail has quickly become a leader in the Outdoor Power and Powersports Equipment eCommerce industry.  BW specializes in on Omni-Channel solutions for both external and internal brands, while also managing the sale and fulfillment of over 1 Million consumer transactions annually. Show Highlights During this episode: Culture of the Business [1:31] Business Models in the Insurance Industry Example [3:13] Introduction of Guest and Portfolio of Investments [5:00] Chris’s Explanation of His Business Journey [7:45] The “Top Three” His competitor turned business partner [9:26] His COO [22:40] His life partner [29:00] His father [33:50] You have to hear this… Poker Lessons Translated to Business [39:00] Managing the Supply Chain [48:05] NFTs vs. the Physical Product Business [51:40] Additional Information Contact Chris: Chris’s LinkedIn Chris’s Twitter www.bwretail.com www.fixmytoys.com www.8tenparts.com www.nicheparts.com www.ballequip.com Contact Gregg Garrett: Gregg’s LinkedIn Gregg’s Twitter Gregg’s Bio Contact CGS Advisors: Website LinkedIn Twitter

A Floral Disruptor| Kalin Sheick, owner of Sweetwater Floral, joins host Gregg Garrett to discuss the $57B floral industry and how she breaks all the rules of the industry. Kalin highlights how she brings her knowledge from the media and entertainment industry to florals. Of course, Kalin speaks about her Top 3, including her husband, Matt, who has taught her about the long game of transformation, her father, Rick, who has instilled the entrepreneurial spirit in her, and her kids, George and May, who keep her humble as her business continues to expand. And you have to hear what she has to say about the future of the flower industry as part of the gig economy and how brides will one day create their own floral arrangements. About KALIN Sheick Kalin Sheick is a former television reporter turned flower entrepreneur. Owner of Sweetwater Floral, the Michigan based event studio has three locations and flowers for nearly 100 weddings annually. On top of a blooming event side, Kalin focuses a major part of her time in getting people to experience flowers however they are able to. Sweetwater ships DIY flower design kits across the country, hosts in person and virtual workshops & once a year turns into a Wreath Machine, teaching thousands of people how to make holiday wreaths with a variety of offerings. When she's not designing flowers or cooking soup Kalin can be found spending time with her business partner and husband Matt, their kids, dogs & working on building her dream flower studio. Show Highlights During this episode: The emergence of digital type technologies [0:58] The importance of data facilities and machine learning [2:40] Welcoming, Kalin Sheick (link) [7:22] Starting in the Floral Industry [9:45] Transitioning due to Covid-19 Pandemic [12:01] Transforming Business into Pillars [13:24] The “Top Three” Her husband, Matthew, who is a high school athletic director [15:09] Her father, Rick, who taught her about relationship building in entrepreneurship [19:22] Her kids, George and May [24:44]   The Long Game [28:55] The Secret Sauce [31:06] Natural Skills [33:45] Documenting Our Life [35:40] The Disruptor [37:00] My Team [38:05] You have to hear this… The floral industry boom [39:15] The gig economy [44:10] Done is better than perfect [50:15] Stay in touch with Kalin on Instagram Additional Information Contact Kalin and Sweetwater Floral: Sweetwater Floral Instagram Sweetwater Floral website Sweetwater Floral Facebook page Contact Gregg Garrett: Gregg’s LinkedIn Gregg’s Twitter Gregg’s Bio Contact CGS Advisors: Website LinkedIn Twitter