Episodes
![EP67: Cultivating Success: Insights on Team Building, Innovation, and Customer Focus](https://pbcdn1.podbean.com/imglogo/ep-logo/pbblog15768703/SBTS-ep59-recapq2_300x300.jpg)
4 days ago
4 days ago
What a magnificent top 10 list! From Joe Leo on birthing a company to Joe Grace, who births audiences for companies, we've got Torey Carter-Conneen on inspiring unity and focus by simplifying complexity. And then, of course, there's James Hyman, who's made a successful career as a serial turnaround CEO. He balances accountability and empowerment within his teams to make progress. Topping it off is Kyle Buckett, a retired U.S. Navy SEAL who has lived up to the importance of culture improvement and fit in creating elite teams. This is the stuff not from people who write books, although several have written books, but from people who have created or transformed and ultimately lifted teams and companies to new levels. I'll warn you, they don't make it sound easy, but they do share what drove them. Pick an episode on a relevant topic and listen in as they dive in. Several common themes emerge across these episodes of Success Beneath the Surface:
Leadership and Team Building: Many of the guests, including James Hyman, Joe Leo, Kyle Buckett, and Torey Carter-Conneen, discuss strategies for effective leadership and building high-performing teams. This includes balancing accountability with empowerment, understanding individual team members, and creating a culture of excellence.
Adapting to Change and Complexity: Several episodes touch on navigating complex business environments, whether it's James Hyman's approach to restructuring companies, Joe Leo's entrepreneurial journey, or Torey Carter-Conneen's efforts to unite diverse constituents in a trade association.
Customer Focus and Understanding: Joe Grace's insights on direct-to-consumer marketing and Deborah Fell's experience with the trampoline park client highlight the importance of deeply understanding customer needs and tailoring experiences accordingly.
Authenticity and Storytelling: Joe Grace emphasizes the power of authentic storytelling in marketing, while other guests touch on the importance of aligning personal values with organizational missions.
Continuous Learning and Skill Development: Many guests, including James Hyman and Joe Leo, stress the importance of broadening skill sets and learning from experiences to drive success.
Innovation and Adaptability: From leveraging AI in business to adapting marketing strategies, the episodes highlight the need for leaders to stay innovative and adaptable in changing business landscapes.
Creating a Supportive Culture: Multiple episodes touch on the importance of fostering a supportive environment where team members can grow, take risks, and reach their full potential.
These themes collectively emphasize the multifaceted nature of leadership and success in various business contexts, from startups to large organizations, across different industries. You can find the full playlist here >
![EP66 Everyday Alchemy: Turning Daily Grind into CEO Gold](https://pbcdn1.podbean.com/imglogo/ep-logo/pbblog15768703/sbts-ep66-roda-commentary_300x300.jpg)
Tuesday Jul 16, 2024
EP66 Everyday Alchemy: Turning Daily Grind into CEO Gold
Tuesday Jul 16, 2024
Tuesday Jul 16, 2024
CEOs are often laser-focused on destinations—quarterly targets, market share goals, and exit strategies. But what if the true measure of leadership lies in valuing the journey as much as the endpoint? This insight comes from a recent conversation with Bob Rhoda, CEO of Hemasonics, who emphasizes the fulfillment of embracing daily experiences. As someone who regularly engages with CEOs, I've observed a common fixation on end results. However, reflecting on my own career and those of successful leaders, it's clear that real value often emerges from the collective moments of triumph, failure, and growth along the way. This commentary explores the power of balancing destination-driven goals with an appreciation for the journey, offering a fresh perspective on leadership and organizational success that resonates in today's dynamic business landscape.
About our guest:
Robert A. Roda (Bob) joined HemoSonics in February 2020 as the company’s President and CEO, bringing more than 25 years of global experience developing and commercializing innovative diagnostic and medical device products and services.Most recently, Bob Roda served as President and CEO of Menarini Silicon Biosystems, Inc., a diagnostic and biotech company focused on the use of liquid biopsy and predictive diagnostic tests for the treatment of cancer patients. Prior to that position, he was Vice President and General Manager at Becton Dickinson, where he led the medical and procedural solutions business in the US. From 1998-2012, Bob held positions of increasing responsibility at Johnson & Johnson in both the medical device and diagnostic sectors, with his last role being worldwide VP Marketing in Immunohematology, Donor Screening, and Clinical Laboratories at Ortho Clinical Diagnostics, a J&J company. Bob earned a Bachelor of Arts in Economics from the University of Rhode Island and completed postgraduate coursework at Kellogg Graduate School of Management.
Links from this episode:
HemoSonics website
HemoSonics YouTube channel:
X @HemoSonics
HemoSonics on LinkedIn
Deborah Fell on LinkedIn
Chief Outsiders
![EP65: Balancing the Blood Ledger - HemoSonics CEO on Innovation and Patient Care](https://pbcdn1.podbean.com/imglogo/ep-logo/pbblog15768703/sbts-ep65-roda-hemosonics_300x300.jpg)
Tuesday Jul 02, 2024
EP65: Balancing the Blood Ledger - HemoSonics CEO on Innovation and Patient Care
Tuesday Jul 02, 2024
Tuesday Jul 02, 2024
In this episode, Deborah welcomes Bob Roda, President and CEO of HemoSonics, about purpose-driven leadership in healthcare. Bob shares his journey from an economics major to a passionate advocate for improving patient care. He offers candid insights from his career at Johnson & Johnson to his current role in medical technology innovation.
Bob's story emphasizes continuous learning and embracing both successes and failures. He provides a fresh take on leadership, stressing the importance of the journey as much as the destination. Bob's commitment to making a meaningful impact in healthcare is evident throughout the conversation.
Join us for this engaging discussion on mentorship, the value of experience, and the challenges of driving change in clinical practice. Bob's insights offer valuable perspective for those at any stage of their career in, “Balancing the Blood Ledger: HemoSonics CEO on Innovation and Patient Care.”
About our guest:
Robert A. Roda (Bob) joined HemoSonics in February 2020 as the company’s President and CEO, bringing more than 25 years of global experience developing and commercializing innovative diagnostic and medical device products and services.Most recently, Bob Roda served as President and CEO of Menarini Silicon Biosystems, Inc., a diagnostic and biotech company focused on the use of liquid biopsy and predictive diagnostic tests for the treatment of cancer patients. Prior to that position, he was Vice President and General Manager at Becton Dickinson, where he led the medical and procedural solutions business in the US. From 1998-2012, Bob held positions of increasing responsibility at Johnson & Johnson in both the medical device and diagnostic sectors, with his last role being worldwide VP Marketing in Immunohematology, Donor Screening, and Clinical Laboratories at Ortho Clinical Diagnostics, a J&J company. Bob earned a Bachelor of Arts in Economics from the University of Rhode Island and completed postgraduate coursework at Kellogg Graduate School of Management.
Links from this episode:
HemoSonics website
HemoSonics YouTube channel:
X @HemoSonics
HemoSonics on LinkedIn
Deborah Fell on LinkedIn
Chief Outsiders
![EP64: Leading Leaders - Balancing Accountability and Empowerment](https://pbcdn1.podbean.com/imglogo/ep-logo/pbblog15768703/sbts-ep64-hyman-commentary-square_300x300.jpg)
Wednesday Jun 26, 2024
EP64: Leading Leaders - Balancing Accountability and Empowerment
Wednesday Jun 26, 2024
Wednesday Jun 26, 2024
Deborah Fell reflects on her recent conversation with James Hyman, a seasoned turnaround CEO and board member. Deborah discusses the key insights from their full episode, focusing on themes of leadership, accountability, and empowering teams. She shares her experience leading a diverse and accomplished team of sales and marketing executives from various industries, highlighting the challenges and rewards of being a "leader of leaders." Deborah emphasizes the importance of inspiring confidence, showing compassion, and knowing when to compromise.
About James Hyman:
James Hyman brings 25+ years of experience in international business leadership as CEO and Independent Director, driving demonstrated performance improvement. James has had responsibilities for operations, finance, M&A, and restructuring businesses across multiple US and European industries, as well as at leading companies such as GE Capital, McKinsey, JPMorgan & Starwood Hotels. He has delivered shareholder value as CEO of six companies, as a Board member of public & private companies, as an advisor to start-up/venture-backed companies, and as a Senior Advisor to Stifel’s Investment bank. He is a Partner with Marketing Strategies, LLC, which provides consulting and M&A advice to private equity firms and portfolio companies.
As a Board member of 11 companies (currently Watterson Solutions), James works to focus the organization on business building and creating shareholder value within a structure of strong governance. As a Board member, he works with management on critical-path strategy issues, leadership development, and risk management. He has served on multiple committees: Audit (Chair), Compensation, Governance (Chair), and Transaction/Special Committees (Chair).
As CEO, James is a leader who delivers shareholder value with large and sustained improvements in operating and financial performance - currently as CEO of PE-owned United Site Services, and previously of Corizon Health, Citizens Parking, CEC, and TestAmerica as well as Chairman & CEO of NYSE-traded Cornell Companies. For underperforming B2B services and industrial businesses, he brings strong process improvement and lean sigma skills to bear, emphasizing growth, top-grading, margin expansion, and return on capital.
![EP63: A CEO’s Competitve Edge - Mastering the Art of Corporate Turnarounds](https://pbcdn1.podbean.com/imglogo/ep-logo/pbblog15768703/sbts-ep63-hyman-square_300x300.jpg)
Wednesday Jun 19, 2024
EP63: A CEO’s Competitve Edge - Mastering the Art of Corporate Turnarounds
Wednesday Jun 19, 2024
Wednesday Jun 19, 2024
In this episode of Success Beneath the Surface, James Hyman, a seasoned CEO and board member, shares his methodology for helping companies navigate complex restructuring processes. With a background spanning diverse industries and a track record of successful transformations, James offers invaluable insights for CEOs and business transformation leaders facing the daunting task of overhauling large to enterprise-sized organizations.
James emphasizes the importance of broadening one's skill set, knowing what "good" looks like in various business functions, and leveraging the expertise of others to drive change. He also touches on the evolving role of AI in business and how leaders can prepare to harness its potential.
Whether you're a CEO grappling with organizational challenges or a transformational leader seeking fresh perspectives, this episode provides a roadmap for those looking to steer their companies toward a more successful future.
About James Hyman:
James Hyman brings 25+ years of experience in international business leadership as CEO and Independent Director, driving demonstrated performance improvement. James has had responsibilities for operations, finance, M&A, and restructuring businesses across multiple US and European industries, as well as at leading companies such as GE Capital, McKinsey, JPMorgan & Starwood Hotels. He has delivered shareholder value as CEO of six companies, as a Board member of public & private companies, as an advisor to start-up/venture-backed companies, and as a Senior Advisor to Stifel’s Investment bank. He is a Partner with Marketing Strategies, LLC, which provides consulting and M&A advice to private equity firms and portfolio companies.
As a Board member of 11 companies (currently Watterson Solutions), James works to focus the organization on business building and creating shareholder value within a structure of strong governance. As a Board member, he works with management on critical-path strategy issues, leadership development, and risk management. He has served on multiple committees: Audit (Chair), Compensation, Governance (Chair), and Transaction/Special Committees (Chair).
As CEO, James is a leader who delivers shareholder value with large and sustained improvements in operating and financial performance - currently as CEO of PE-owned United Site Services, and previously of Corizon Health, Citizens Parking, CEC, and TestAmerica as well as Chairman & CEO of NYSE-traded Cornell Companies. For underperforming B2B services and industrial businesses, he brings strong process improvement and lean sigma skills to bear, emphasizing growth, top-grading, margin expansion, and return on capital.
![EP62: Marrying Data Silos for the Complete Picture](https://pbcdn1.podbean.com/imglogo/ep-logo/pbblog15768703/sbts-ep62-leo_300x300.jpg)
Wednesday Jun 12, 2024
EP62: Marrying Data Silos for the Complete Picture
Wednesday Jun 12, 2024
Wednesday Jun 12, 2024
In today's commentary, we revisit my conversation with Joe Leo, CEO and founder of Def Method, from episode 61. Joe's company focuses on breaking down data silos to help businesses connect the dots and gain valuable insights. When data is stuck in silos, it can lead to people and mindset silos as well, causing friction and draining energy. However, by bringing data together, a shared understanding emerges, allowing diversity of thought to invigorate the organization. Joe shares how his company evolved to focus on the high-risk data engineering projects many businesses need and how they've been able to templatize and orchestrate solutions. He also discusses the impact of AI on their work. To hear more, let's dive into the key parts of our discussion in this episode, “Marrying Data Silos for the Complete Picture.”
Links from this episode:
Joe Leo on LinkedInDef Method's website
Deborah Fell on LinkedInChief Outsiders
About Def Method:
Def Method is a boutique consultancy with deep expertise in data science, data engineering, and custom software development. They are often brought in for executives' toughest data challenges.
Their clients include giants like Citigroup, Dick's Sporting Goods, and the Museum of Modern Art down to smaller start-ups still getting their name on the map. They empower businesses of all sizes—from startups to major enterprises—to navigate the complexities of modern software development and achieve digital transformation.
Their standout product, Def Method Powerhouse, helps companies harness their data with powerful tools and knowledgeable support. Powerhouse makes it easy for non-technical business users to glean insights from their data and communicate these insights to others.
![EP61: Misinterpreting Dad's Advice: The Birth of a Successful SAAS Company](https://pbcdn1.podbean.com/imglogo/ep-logo/pbblog15768703/sbts-ep61-leo_300x300.jpg)
Wednesday May 29, 2024
EP61: Misinterpreting Dad's Advice: The Birth of a Successful SAAS Company
Wednesday May 29, 2024
Wednesday May 29, 2024
Deborah Fell welcomes Joe Leo, the CEO and Founder of Def Method, a data science and custom software development consultancy. Joe's entrepreneurial journey started with a humorous misinterpretation of his father's advice, leading him to strike out on his own. As he navigated leadership challenges, Joe learned to focus on the right people and clients and deliver value. His detail-oriented approach and ability to learn from mistakes have been crucial in shaping Def Method's enduring company culture and success. From managing data silos to leveraging AI in revolutionary ways, Joe's experiences will resonate with seasoned SAAS entrepreneurs who have faced their own set of challenges.
Key Points from this episode:
Embrace a growth mindset: Be open to learning from mistakes and adapt to the challenges that come with leading a company. Continuously work on developing your skills in various areas, such as hiring, operations, and articulating your vision.
Focus on hiring the right people: Implement a structured hiring process that includes quantifiable metrics and a focus on cultural fit. Measure candidate performance in code tests, technical interviews, and non-technical interviews to ensure you build a strong, cohesive team.
Foster an enduring company culture: Prioritize creating a work environment that encourages long-term employee retention. Offer competitive compensation, maintain a healthy work-life balance, and communicate your vision clearly to keep your team engaged and motivated.
Be selective with clients: Choose clients that align with your company's values and work culture. Don't hesitate to turn down clients who demand unrealistic deadlines or expect unsustainable work hours from your team.
Avoid employee burnout: Recognize that consistently working long hours has diminishing returns and can lead to burnout. Make overtime work a rare exception rather than the norm to maintain a healthy and productive team.
Continuously refine your product: Stay focused on your core offering and iterate based on client feedback and market demands. Identify opportunities to streamline and templatize your solutions to deliver more value to your customers.
Adapt your leadership style: As your company grows, be prepared to take on various leadership roles beyond your initial area of expertise. Develop your skills in finance, engineering, HR, and other critical areas to effectively manage your growing organization.
Learn from mistakes: Embrace the fact that mistakes are inevitable and use them as opportunities to learn and grow. Foster a culture that encourages learning from failures and celebrates the lessons gained from those experiences.
Links from this episode:
Joe Leo on LinkedInDef Method's website
Deborah Fell on LinkedInChief Outsiders
About Def Method:
Def Method is a boutique consultancy with deep expertise in data science, data engineering, and custom software development. They are often brought in for executives' toughest data challenges.
Their clients include giants like Citigroup, Dick's Sporting Goods, and the Museum of Modern Art down to smaller start-ups still getting their name on the map. They empower businesses of all sizes—from startups to major enterprises—to navigate the complexities of modern software development and achieve digital transformation.
Their standout product, Def Method Powerhouse, helps companies harness their data with powerful tools and knowledgeable support. Powerhouse makes it easy for non-technical business users to glean insights from their data and communicate these insights to others.
![EP60: Ask your team "Am I micromanaging you?"](https://pbcdn1.podbean.com/imglogo/ep-logo/pbblog15768703/SBTS-ep60-commentary_300x300.jpg)
Tuesday May 07, 2024
EP60: Ask your team "Am I micromanaging you?"
Tuesday May 07, 2024
Tuesday May 07, 2024
In this episode of "Success Beneath the Surface," Deborah Fell shares a story sparked by her recent conversation with Susan Finch about understanding and nurturing individual team members. Deborah emphasizes the importance of recognizing each person's unique experiences and skills, and providing opportunities for growth and development. She highlights the value of creating a supportive environment where team members feel comfortable stepping out of their comfort zones, learning from their experiences, and receiving encouragement along the way. Deborah's insights offer valuable guidance for team leaders, including CSOs, HR professionals, and CEOs, who aim to unlock the full potential of their teams by embracing individuality and fostering a culture of trust, rather than micromanaging because you just want to be involved.
Links from this episode:
Deborah Fell on LinkedInChief Outsiders
Susan Finch on LinkedInFunnel Media Group, LLC
![EP59: Adapting Leadership Styles to Different Teams](https://pbcdn1.podbean.com/imglogo/ep-logo/pbblog15768703/SBTS-ep59-adapting-leadership_300x300.jpg)
Wednesday May 01, 2024
EP59: Adapting Leadership Styles to Different Teams
Wednesday May 01, 2024
Wednesday May 01, 2024
Are you a business leader, HR professional, or entrepreneur looking to enhance your team's performance and harmony? In this special episode of "Success Beneath the Surface," host Susan Finch turns the tables on regular host Deborah Fell to uncover key insights on adaptive leadership. Drawing from her diverse experiences leading teams at Chief Outsiders, Marriott, and beyond, Deborah shares strategies for understanding individual team members, building trust quickly, and skillfully guiding conversations to defuse tensions and facilitate solutions. Whether you're taking over an existing team or working with a diverse, cross-functional group, you'll learn how to tailor your approach to different dynamics and generations. Tune in for valuable advice on effective communication, collaboration, and personal growth that extends beyond the business realm. Don't miss this unique opportunity to hear from Deborah and Susan as they explore the art of leadership in today's complex team environments.
Who is this episode for:
Business leaders and managers: The insights shared by Deborah and Susan are highly relevant for those in leadership positions who want to improve their ability to understand, adapt to, and guide their teams effectively.
HR professionals and team builders: The discussion around understanding individual team members, building trust, and facilitating productive conversations would interest those involved in human resources, team building, and organizational development.
Entrepreneurs and small business owners: As they often wear multiple hats, including that of a team leader, entrepreneurs can benefit from the experiences and advice shared in this episode.
Professionals working in diverse or cross-functional teams: The insights around adapting to different team dynamics, generations, and individual needs would be valuable for those working in diverse team environments.
Anyone interested in personal and professional development: The themes of self-awareness, empathy, communication, and leadership are applicable beyond just a business context and can appeal to a broader audience looking to grow in these areas.
![EP58: The CEO's Role in Creating Elite Teams](https://pbcdn1.podbean.com/imglogo/ep-logo/pbblog15768703/SBTS-ep58-buckett-commentary_300x300.jpg)
Tuesday Apr 23, 2024
EP58: The CEO's Role in Creating Elite Teams
Tuesday Apr 23, 2024
Tuesday Apr 23, 2024
In our last episode, Deborah interviewed Kyle Buckett, a retired member of the elite US Navy SEALs. Today, she focuses on one specific segment from that conversation where Kyle shares his insights on building high-performing teams and the parallels between military leadership and the business world.
As a CEO, your role is to define a clear mission and assemble a team of leaders who can work together to achieve the impossible. Kyle's unique perspective, drawing from his experiences in both military and civilian settings, offers valuable lessons for anyone looking to create a culture of excellence in their organization.
Listen to the full interview here:
EP57: Lessons from a SEAL - Culture Improvement with Culture Fit to Build Your Elite Team
Links from this episode:
Kyle Buckett's book
Culture Force
Kyle Buckett on LinkedIn
Deborah Fell on LinkedIn
Chief Outsiders
About Kyle Buckett:
Kyle Buckett is an unshakable idealist who believes in a bright future and our ability to build it together through developing strong cultures.
Kyle’s WHY is to refine and create positive cultures that attract great people. He believes great people working together make elite teams. Elite teams make organizations elite. And when you have elite organizations striving for excellence in their missions, the world is a much better place!
With a vision to change the way businesses think, act, and operate, Kyle and his team work with leaders and organizations in nearly every industry to help transform company culture and create a better working world.
As a retired Navy SEAL leader, board member, and former COO and CHRO of a publicly traded company, Kyle has discovered remarkable patterns in how some of the greatest movements in history were led by self-lead teams. He is fascinated by the people and organizations that make the greatest, lasting impact on the world. He has devoted his life to sharing his thinking, and leading movements to inspire people to do the things that inspire them.
![Image](https://mcdn.podbean.com/mf/web/2b4rv2/podbean-footer2.jpg)
Providing insights specifically for CEOs to help them unlock growth to increase the value their business.
With so many voices offering “hot tips” and “how to’s” for growing your business and team, it’s hard to know what’s worth listening to. Deborah brings simple, immediately actionable strategies and growth hacks through inspirational stories and real-world experiences that can help design enduring profit into any business plan.