Episodes

Thursday Nov 14, 2024
EP82: The Unexpected Impact of a Company Picnic
Thursday Nov 14, 2024
Thursday Nov 14, 2024
Deborah Fell reflects on her powerful conversation with Jeff Ostenso, CEO of Ironmark, and her chance encounter with another second-generation CEO during an extended train delay. These interactions highlight a crucial reality: family-owned businesses form the backbone of the American economy, representing 87% of U.S. businesses and employing 60% of American workers. From Jeff's transparent leadership style to his profound realization at a company picnic that Ironmark supports 500 family members, these insights reveal how second-generation leaders are transforming their family legacies while prioritizing employee growth. Join us for this commentary on Episode 81, where we explore the quiet but mighty impact of family-owned businesses in America.
Listen to the full episode, EP81, with Jeff Ostenso.

Tuesday Nov 05, 2024
EP81: How Teaching the Game of Business Built an Empire
Tuesday Nov 05, 2024
Tuesday Nov 05, 2024
From delivery truck driver at 18 to CEO of an $80M company - Jeff Ostenso shares how he transformed his father's printing business into a modern marketing powerhouse. After 38 years and 16 acquisitions, he reveals the unconventional leadership approach that helped him retain employees and acquire company owners. Learn how sharing P&Ls with every employee and treating the CEO title as secondary to teamwork created a culture of growth and innovation that turned a $700K printing shop into a digital marketing leader.
Jeff Ostenso, CEO of Ironmark, is a second-generation leader who has spent the last three decades transforming the company from a local print shop into a national marketing and communications powerhouse. Jeff's vision centers on simplifying the complex intersection of digital and physical marketing for businesses. His strategic acquisitions and commitment to attracting top talent have fueled Ironmark's impressive growth, culminating in a company that not only delivers results but champions its employees as its greatest asset. Under Jeff's leadership, Ironmark has become a trusted partner for businesses seeking to navigate the ever-evolving marketing landscape.
JEFF OSTENSO:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeff-ostenso/
ABOUT IRONMARK:
In today's complex marketing landscape, businesses struggle to manage multiple channels and partners effectively. Ironmark simplifies the marketing supply chain by integrating end-to-end marketing services, bridging the gap between digital and physical marketing channels. They offer integrated solutions to help clients grow through predictive analytics, direct mail, digital marketing, asset management, print production, creative design, branded merchandise, and large format printing, serving diverse sectors like healthcare, restaurant, retail, and finance. Their SOC 2 Type II compliant processes ensure data security, while their advanced technology integrates services seamlessly. As a nationwide, one-stop shop for integrated communications, Ironmark streamlines marketing efforts, drives consistent messaging, and maximizes ROI across all channels. To explore the possibilities, visit ironmarkusa.com

Tuesday Oct 29, 2024
EP80: The Patient Professional: Clay Spitz on Sustainable Business Development
Tuesday Oct 29, 2024
Tuesday Oct 29, 2024
Last week marked the conclusion of our three-part series featuring Clay Spitz, recently retired Chief Operating Officer and Managing Partner at Chief Outsiders. Over my nine years with the firm, I've had the privilege of watching Clay in action – he's always been a class act, the kind of leader who earns trust naturally. Clay's perspective is particularly valuable because he is willing to share triumphs and setbacks with equal candor. In our final conversation, he opened up about the art of building authentic business relationships, offering insights from years of walking the talk. Our series should end with Clay's thoughts on playing the long game in business development – a philosophy defining his remarkable career.
About Clay Spitz:
Clay Spitz started his career in a family service business, eventually sold into an industry rollup. He has considerable experience as a marketing, sales and operating executive in companies ranging from midsize privately held to Fortune 1,000 corporations. Spitz has been a senior executive at Terminix International, TeleCheck International and Olshan Foundation Solutions and has owned his own business. Clay joined Chief Outsiders in 2010 as one of the very early members of the firm, and rose to Managing Partner and then COO. He is now forming Wise Path Advisory to help other executives achieve their highest potential through coaching, advisory and board service.
Links from this episode:
Clay Spitz on LinkedIn
Deborah Fell on LinkedIn
Chief Outsiders

Tuesday Oct 22, 2024
EP79: The Art of the Long Game: Clay Spitz's Parting Wisdom
Tuesday Oct 22, 2024
Tuesday Oct 22, 2024
At this conclusion of our three-part conversation, we join Clay Spitz and Deborah Fell as they reflect on Clay's remarkable journey with Chief Outsiders and his transition into the next chapter of his career. What begins as a discussion about business lessons learned evolves into a heartfelt exploration of wisdom gained, relationships built, and the lasting impact one leader can have on an organization's culture.
Clay is embarking on a new phase focused on helping others reach their peak performance rather than stepping into traditional retirement. His candid insights about business development, trust-building, and the importance of continuous learning reveal why he's been such a transformative force at Chief Outsiders. The conversation captures the excitement of new beginnings and the bittersweetness of change as Clay prepares to shift from his role while remaining connected to the company he helped shape.
This final segment offers a masterclass in authentic leadership, the power of genuine relationships, and the art of graceful transition. Through their natural rapport and thoughtful exchange, Clay and Deborah demonstrate the principles of trust and communication they discuss, making this farewell conversation instructive and deeply moving.
About Clay Spitz:
Clay Spitz started his career in a family service business which was eventually sold into an industry rollup. He has considerable experience as a marketing, sales and operating executive in companies ranging from midsize privately held to Fortune 1,000 corporations. Spitz has been a senior executive at Terminix International, TeleCheck International and Olshan Foundation Solutions and has owned his own business. Clay joined Chief Outsiders in 2010 as one of the very early members of the firm, and rose to Managing Partner and then COO. He is now forming Wise Path Advisory to help other executives achieve their highest potential through coaching, advisory and board service.
Links from this episode:
Clay Spitz on LinkedIn
Deborah Fell on LinkedIn
Chief Outsiders

Tuesday Oct 15, 2024
Ep78: The Power of Being Intentional - Top 10 Episodes 24Q3
Tuesday Oct 15, 2024
Tuesday Oct 15, 2024
This is a quarterly recap of our top episodes. You'll hear some of the highlights from several guests. From Bob Rhoda, CEO of Hemisonics, a medical device technology company, to Colleen Vassalette, CEO of landscape design firm Intrigue Design, Ryan P. Clark, co-founder and CEO of staffing and recruitment firm PeopleShare, and Will Bowie, founder and CEO of Empower Construction, a utility construction firm in greater Philadelphia, just to name a few.
Will's mother summed up what made every episode this quarter a compounding message of the power of being intentional. She inspired Will and his brother to be intentional about being the best at whatever they did, whomever they became. And Will showed up just like all the other guests this quarter with capability, confidence, and purpose. Take a listen to some of the highlights.
The full list is here.

Tuesday Oct 08, 2024
EP77: The Hidden Rewards of Professional Missteps
Tuesday Oct 08, 2024
Tuesday Oct 08, 2024
This episode delves into the critical career decisions that shaped these business leaders' paths.
Clay candidly shares his experience of leaving Telecheck after 9/11 and buying a business - a decision he calls his "biggest failure" and "most costly mistake." He opens up about the financial devastation and valuable lessons learned from this setback.
Deborah reflects on her bold move to leave Marriott International despite having "the best job, the best people, the best colleagues." She discusses the challenges and rewards of expanding her capabilities beyond corporate roles.
As our discussion unfolds, Clay and Deborah offer honest insights into navigating business disruptions, dealing with failure, and the unexpected turns that led them to their current success at Chief Outsiders.
About Clay Spitz:
Clay Spitz started his career in a family service business which was eventually sold into an industry rollup. He has considerable experience as a marketing, sales and operating executive in companies ranging from midsize privately held to Fortune 1,000 corporations. Spitz has been a senior executive at Terminix International, TeleCheck International and Olshan Foundation Solutions and has owned a business. Clay joined Chief Outsiders in 2010 as one of the very early members of the firm, and rose to Managing Partner and then COO. He is now forming Wise Path Advisory to help other executives achieve their highest potential through coaching, advisory and board service.
Links from this episode:
Clay Spitz on LinkedIn
Deborah Fell on LinkedIn
Chief Outsiders

Wednesday Oct 02, 2024
EP76: Lessons in Adaptability: A Mid-Market CEO's Transformative Journey
Wednesday Oct 02, 2024
Wednesday Oct 02, 2024
In this second part of our interview with Clay Spitz, we reminisce about the pivotal moments that shaped his career. Clay shares a crucial lesson about embracing new opportunities, even when they seem unfamiliar or challenging. We'll explore how this mindset led to his unexpected transition from operations to marketing at Terminix, completely transforming his professional trajectory.
Clay also offers valuable insights on corporate culture, customer retention strategies, and navigating both successes and failures in business. His candid reflections provide a wealth of wisdom for CEOs at any stage of their journey.
Join us as we continue to uncover the story behind Clay Spitz's remarkable career and the lessons that can help shape your own path to success.
About Clay Spitz:
Clay Spitz started his career in a family service business which was eventually sold into an industry rollup. He has considerable experience as a marketing, sales and operating executive in companies ranging from midsize privately held to Fortune 1,000 corporations. Spitz has been a senior executive at Terminix International, TeleCheck International and Olshan Foundation Solutions and has owned a business. Clay joined Chief Outsiders in 2010 as one of the very early members of the firm, and rose to Managing Partner and then COO. He is now forming Wise Path Advisory to help other executives achieve their highest potential through coaching, advisory and board service.
Links from this episode:
Clay Spitz on LinkedIn
Deborah Fell on LinkedIn
Chief Outsiders

Sunday Sep 29, 2024
Sunday Sep 29, 2024
Last week, we had the pleasure of hosting Clay Spitz, Chief Operating Officer and Managing Partner for Chief Outsiders. Clay's been with the company for nearly 15 years, playing a crucial role in shaping its culture and success. Today, I want to reflect on a key takeaway from our conversation with Clay - the importance of being upfront.
Clay's approach to leadership and communication left a lasting impression on me. His words, 'Always be upfront,' resonate deeply, especially in the business world where transparency can be a rare commodity. Clay's journey from growing up in a family pest control business to becoming a pivotal figure at Chief Outsiders is a testament to the power of honesty and directness in building strong, lasting relationships.
Let's listen to a clip from our conversation, where Clay shares some valuable insights from his experiences
Listen to his full episode here.
About Clay Spitz:
Clay Spitz started his career in a family service business which was eventually sold into an industry rollup. He has considerable experience as a marketing, sales and operating executive in companies ranging from midsize privately held to Fortune 1,000 corporations. Spitz has been a senior executive at Terminix International, TeleCheck International and Olshan Foundation Solutions and has owned his own business. Clay joined Chief Outsiders in 2010 as one of the very early members of the firm, and rose to Managing Partner and then COO. He is now forming Wise Path Advisory to help other executives achieve their highest potential through coaching, advisory and board service.
Links from this episode:
Clay Spitz on LinkedIn
Deborah Fell on LinkedIn
Chief Outsiders

Wednesday Sep 18, 2024
EP74 Exterminating Distrust: M&A Successfully Merging Business Cultures
Wednesday Sep 18, 2024
Wednesday Sep 18, 2024
Clay Spitz's journey from his family's pest control business to merging multi-million dollar companies offers a unique perspective on leadership. In this episode, Clay shares how he turned a struggling branch into a success, only to find himself navigating the complexities of corporate acquisitions. His experience integrating 100 companies in just two years provides invaluable insights into the challenges of merging diverse business cultures. Clay's straightforward account of the mistakes made and lessons learned during major transitions will resonate with leaders at any stage of their careers. Join us as we explore the human side of M&As and discover why exterminating distrust is as crucial in the boardroom as it is in pest control.
About Clay Spitz:
Clay Spitz started his career in a family service business which was eventually sold into an industry rollup. He has considerable experience as a marketing, sales and operating executive in companies ranging from midsize privately held to Fortune 1,000 corporations. Spitz has been a senior executive at Terminix International, TeleCheck International and Olshan Foundation Solutions and has owned his own business. Clay joined Chief Outsiders in 2010 as one of the very early members of the firm, and rose to Managing Partner and then COO. He is now forming Wise Path Advisory to help other executives achieve their highest potential through coaching, advisory and board service.
Links from this episode:
Clay Spitz on LinkedIn
Deborah Fell on LinkedIn
Chief Outsiders

Wednesday Sep 11, 2024
EP73: Revolutionizing Entry-Level Recruiting Beyond Job
Wednesday Sep 11, 2024
Wednesday Sep 11, 2024
In today's commentary episode, we're revisiting my conversation with Ryan Clark, co-founder and CEO of PeopleShare, a staffing and recruiting firm focused on light industrial and administrative positions. Ryan's journey offers valuable insights into creating positive work environments, the importance of cultural fit, and the power of perseverance in business.
We'll explore how Ryan's experiences shaped his approach to leadership, his commitment to helping others find their ideal work environment, and the unique ways PeopleShare serves both its clients and candidates. From the challenges of maintaining energy and passion over two decades in business to the importance of adaptability and coachability, Ryan's story is full of lessons for leaders at all levels.
Listen to Ryan Clark's full episode here.
About Deborah's guest:
In 2005, Ryan Clark co-founded PeopleShare, a regional staffing firm dedicated to placing candidates in light industrial and clerical positions. Ryan’s vision was to create a staffing company that allows employees and customers to achieve their goals and enhance their overall success. Having the expertise, industry experience, and resources to recruit the best talent for every opportunity has been a critical factor in PeopleShare’s success. Ryan’s determination, drive, and talent have propelled PeopleShare into the fastest-growing staffing firm in Pennsylvania with 40 locations throughout 8 states.
About PeopleShare:
Need top-notch talent for your team, fast? PeopleShare has you covered. Founded in 2005, they connect businesses with qualified clerical and light industrial staff. PeopleShare stands out with its unique three-step screening process, guaranteeing top-tier candidates. Our extensive database of local talent ensures rapid placement of the perfect match. Additionally, PeopleView pre-recorded interviews allow you to assess candidates before meeting them, saving valuable time.
PeopleShare offers a dedicated local presence, backed by the global power of PROMAN Staffing, ensuring all of your staffing needs are met.
Visit www.peopleshareworks.com to learn more.
Connect with Ryan Clark on LinkedIn.

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.