Episodes
40 minutes ago
40 minutes ago
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
3 days ago
3 days ago
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.
Tuesday Sep 03, 2024
EP72: Building a Culture of Urgency 20 Seconds at a Time
Tuesday Sep 03, 2024
Tuesday Sep 03, 2024
Today's conversation takes us into staffing and leadership with Ryan Clark, co-founder and CEO of PeopleShare. Since 2005, Ryan has been on a mission to revolutionize the staffing industry, growing PeopleShare into a powerhouse with 40 locations across eight states.
Ryan's approach to business is as refreshing as it is effective. He says, "We're helping the people that need the most help." His commitment to creating opportunities for entry-level workers and fostering a culture of urgency and teamwork has set PeopleShare apart in a competitive industry.
In our conversation, Ryan shares invaluable insights on building a purpose-driven company, the importance of company culture, and how a healthy dose of "paranoia" keeps him motivated. Whether you're a seasoned CEO or an aspiring entrepreneur, you won't want to miss Ryan's unique perspective on leadership and success.
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.
Wednesday Aug 28, 2024
EP71: From Sweeping Popcorn to CEO - Leadership Without Limits
Wednesday Aug 28, 2024
Wednesday Aug 28, 2024
In our original discussion, William Bowie, President and CEO Empower Construction, shared powerful insights about leadership, purpose, and the profound impact his mother's advice had on shaping his life philosophy.
Today, we'll revisit some key moments from that conversation, exploring how William's commitment to excellence has driven his success as a business leader and community advocate. We'll examine how his mother's words - "Whatever you're going to be, be the best at it" - became a guiding principle in both his personal and professional life.
We'll also delve into William's approach to mentorship, his passion for empowering youth, and how he's built a company culture focused on helping individuals become the best versions of themselves.
Join me as we reflect on these valuable leadership lessons and consider how we can apply William's inspiring outlook to our own lives and careers.
Listen to the full episode here.
About William Bowie:
William Bowie is the President & CEO of Empower Construction, a Utility Construction Contractor based locally in the Greater Philadelphia area focusing on the utility infrastructure. With over 20 years of experience in the utility construction industry, he provides inspired leadership company-wide and steers the company’s vision and goals for strategic growth and success. Alongside Empower, William strives to promote the importance of mentoring the youth by equipping them with the tools they need to be successful in the workforce today and in the future. William currently serves as a Board Member for many organizations to further his leadership and foster the growth of Diversity, Equity & Inclusion, and Workforce Development in the Greater Philadelphia area.
Links from this episode:
William Bowie on LinkedIn
Empower Construction website
Deborah Fell on LinkedIn
Chief Outsiders
Tuesday Aug 20, 2024
EP70: The Intentional Leader - Creating Generational Wealth and Opportunity
Tuesday Aug 20, 2024
Tuesday Aug 20, 2024
Deborah sits down with William Bowie, President and CEO of Empower Construction, a utility construction contractor making waves in the greater Philadelphia area.
William's story is one of grit, determination, and purposeful living. William's path to success has been inspiring and instructive from his early days when he was inspired by a strong mother and navigated a 20-year journey in the utility construction industry.
Get ready for a masterclass in leadership. William's up at 4 AM, not just working on his business, but on himself. He's intentional about everything - from the boards he sits on to the culture he's creating at Empower Construction.
William will show us how to build a company that's not just profitable but purposeful. He'll share insights on mentoring, diversity and inclusion, and creating generational wealth for his employees and community. He lives by the mantra, "Find your purpose and live on purpose."
About William Bowie:
William Bowie is the President & CEO of Empower Construction, a Utility Construction Contractor based locally in the Greater Philadelphia area focusing on the utility infrastructure. With over 20 years of experience in the utility construction industry, he provides inspired leadership company-wide and steers the company’s vision and goals for strategic growth and success. Alongside Empower, William strives to promote the importance of mentoring the youth by equipping them with the tools they need to be successful in the workforce today and in the future. William currently serves as a Board Member for many organizations to further his leadership and foster the growth of Diversity, Equity & Inclusion, and Workforce Development in the Greater Philadelphia area.
Links from this episode:
William Bowie on LinkedIn
Empower Construction website
Deborah Fell on LinkedIn
Chief Outsiders
Wednesday Aug 07, 2024
EP69: Cultivating Comfort, Courting Discomfort As a Path to Business Success
Wednesday Aug 07, 2024
Wednesday Aug 07, 2024
Creating a workplace that feels like home while embracing discomfort for growth - these seemingly contradictory ideas form the core of today's commentary.
In this episode, we're revisiting my conversation with Colleen Vacelet, founder of Intreegue Designs and CEO of Order Green Supply. Colleen shared her unique approach to building company culture, emphasizing the importance of creating an environment where employees genuinely want to spend their 40 hours each week.
But Colleen didn't stop there. She also highlighted the value of "living in uncomfortability" as a driving force for personal and professional growth. From taking leaps in her career to navigating the challenges of acquiring new businesses, Colleen's experiences underscore how stepping out of our comfort zones can lead to remarkable progress.
As you listen, consider how you might apply Colleen's insights to your own leadership style. How can you create a welcoming workplace while also pushing yourself and your team to embrace the discomfort that often precedes growth?
About our Guest:
Colleen Vacelet is a prominent figure in women's entrepreneurship, known for founding Intreegue Design and acquiring Order Green Supply. With a diverse background in landscape architecture and business, she holds licenses and certifications in multiple states. Colleen's commitment to education is evident through her role as an Adjunct Professor at the University of Maryland. She is actively involved in professional organizations, has held leadership positions, and has received numerous awards for her contributions. Colleen's dedication to excellence and mentorship has earned her recognition, including the prestigious BBJ’s 2024 Mentor of the Year Award. Her work extends to supporting women in construction, showcasing her commitment to the field and community.
Listen to the full episode here >
Links from the Episode:
Colleen Vacelet on LinkedIn
Deborah Fell on LinkedIn
Chief Outsiders
More about Intreegue Designs:
Are you looking for a landscape architecture firm that can bring your outdoor space to life? Look no further than Intreegue! Standing tall in the field of landscape architecture, they are making a profound impact with every design. With years of experience and a passion for thoughtful design, they offer a unique blend of creativity and environmental sensitivity in every project. Their expertise tackles urban design to botanical garden design, residential to commercial retail, and even social impact projects. Let them create an outdoor space that will intrigue your senses and leave a lasting impression.
Wednesday Jul 31, 2024
EP68 Rooted in Risk: A Landscape Architect's Path to Multi-Company Success
Wednesday Jul 31, 2024
Wednesday Jul 31, 2024
Colleen Vacelet, the founder of Intreegue Design and CEO of Order Green Supply, shares her journey from landscape architect to multi-company entrepreneur. In this episode, she discusses:
Building a company culture that feels like "home" to employees
Navigating the challenges of acquiring and integrating new businesses
The value of mentorship and continuous learning in entrepreneurship
Embracing discomfort as a catalyst for growth
Colleen offers practical insights for CEOs looking to expand their companies, new leaders finding their footing, and entrepreneurs who've recently acquired existing businesses. Her approach to thoughtful risk-taking and creating a nurturing work environment provides valuable lessons for leaders at all stages. Join Deborah and Colleen for this episode: “Rooted in Risk: A Landscape Architect's Path to Multi-Company Success.”
About our Guest:
Colleen Vacelet is a prominent figure in women's entrepreneurship, known for founding Intreegue Design and acquiring Order Green Supply. With a diverse background in landscape architecture and business, she holds licenses and certifications in multiple states. Colleen's commitment to education is evident through her role as an Adjunct Professor at the University of Maryland. She is actively involved in professional organizations, has held leadership positions, and has received numerous awards for her contributions. Colleen's dedication to excellence and mentorship has earned her recognition, including the prestigious BBJ’s 2024 Mentor of the Year Award. Her work extends to supporting women in construction, showcasing her commitment to the field and community.
Links from the Episode:
Colleen Vacelet on LinkedIn
Deborah Fell on LinkedIn
Chief Outsiders
More about Intreegue Designs:
Are you looking for a landscape architecture firm that can bring your outdoor space to life? Look no further than Intreegue! Standing tall in the field of landscape architecture, they are making a profound impact with every design. With years of experience and a passion for thoughtful design, they offer a unique blend of creativity and environmental sensitivity in every project. Their expertise tackles urban design to botanical garden design, residential to commercial retail, and even social impact projects. Let them create an outdoor space that will intrigue your senses and leave a lasting impression.
Tuesday Jul 23, 2024
Tuesday Jul 23, 2024
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 >
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.