• The Future Focused CXOs Podcast | Episode 21 | Gulya Mukhambet Kyzy
    Aug 13 2024

    Welcome to "Future Focused CXOs," a brand-new podcast that examines the most recent developments and insights for executives looking to the future.


    Stay Tuned!


    Visit our website: https://bolt.today


    HIGHLIGHTS:

    Gulya's Career Path: Gulya started at Cydeo as a startup employee and gradually took on more responsibility, progressing from junior positions to Director, VP, and ultimately CFO. She emphasized the importance of continually enhancing technical skills and taking on new responsibilities as key factors in her career growth. Building a Strong Culture: Gulya highlighted the significance of fostering a trusting and supportive work culture. A strong culture, in her opinion, begins with the leadership team and should be reflected in the company's core values and hiring processes. Decision-Making in a Hyper-Growth Phase: As Cydeo experienced hyper-growth, decision-making evolved to accommodate larger teams, global teamwork, and the implementation of new technologies. Gulya emphasized the importance of seeking external experts' guidance in managing rapid organizational changes. Embracing AI in Education: As an EdTech company, Cydeo is integrating AI into its educational platform to enhance learning experiences and career opportunities for its students. Gulya mentioned the positive impact of AI in improving productivity and providing valuable support while recognizing the need for privacy policies and addressing potential biases in AI-generated content. Leadership Development and Teaching AI: Cydeo has embedded AI teaching into its curriculum to ensure students are equipped with up-to-date skills and knowledge. The company is also leveraging AI to support its career development initiatives and assist its alumni in upskilling and staying competitive in the evolving job market. Advice for Aspiring CXOs in the Tech Industry: Gulya emphasized the importance of building a roadmap to attain a CXO role, seeking mentorship and coaching, and willingly taking on responsibilities. She also highlighted the significance of continually adapting and serving the business and the teams as a CXO


    Show more Show less
    24 mins
  • The Future Focused CXOs Podcast | Episode 20 | Naseer Chanda, CEO Paymerang
    Jul 23 2024

    Welcome to "Future Focused CXOs," a brand-new podcast that examines the most recent developments and insights for executives looking to the future.

    Stay Tuned!

    Visit our website: https://bolt.today


    HIGHLIGHTS:

    Company Overview: Paymerang, a finance automation solution, aims to automate accounts payable processes, offering software and processes to help CFOs save time, be more efficient, and create new revenue streams. The company has experienced significant growth, now with 300 employees and serving midmarket corporations across various industries.

    Career Journey: Nasser's career journey began in investment banking, followed by a corporate development role at Brink’s, where he led the startup and launch of their payments business. His transition from a consultant to a corporate role was driven by a desire to build and create value rather than merely advise.

    Leadership Style and Values: Nasser highlighted the importance of serving others and cultivating a values-driven organization. He emphasized creating a culture where employees feel safe, connected to the company’s mission, and have growth opportunities. He draws inspiration from "Good to Great" and focuses on embodying humility and competitiveness as a leader.

    Adopting AI and Technology: Nasser stressed the significance of focusing on specific tasks that can be improved using AI, advocating for an iterative and deliberate approach rather than broad AI implementation. He also highlighted the importance of the human element in integrating AI, acknowledging potential risks and biases.

    Maintaining Company Culture: Nasser emphasized the necessity of being deliberate about company culture and being proactive in maintaining it during periods of rapid growth and mergers. He emphasized the importance of open communication, regular feedback, and being willing to make necessary cultural adjustments.

    Navigating Economic Challenges in Fintech: As a seasoned finance executive, Nasser shared insights into navigating economic challenges within the fintech industry, emphasizing the need to balance efficiency, operational scaling, and remaining adaptable in a changing market.

    Personal Journey: Nasser shared a deeply personal narrative of his upbringing, highlighting the struggles his family faced after immigrating, and how these experiences shaped his work ethic and values. He underscored the importance of hard work and humility.

    Mentorship and Relationships: Nasser stressed the importance of mentors in his life, emphasizing the value of being open to feedback and embracing challenges. He also provided insights into leveraging the mentor-mentee relationship for personal and professional growth.


    Show more Show less
    29 mins
  • The Future Focused CXOs Podcast | Episode 19 | Angila Chapman, CFO & VP of the Alumni Association of the University of Michigan
    May 24 2024

    Welcome to "Future Focused CXOs," a brand-new podcast that examines the most recent developments and insights for executives looking to the future.


    Stay Tuned!

    Visit our website: https://bolt.today

    HIGHLIGHTS: 1. Career Journey: Angila's career journey from accounting to finance IT to her current role as Chief Financial Officer at the University of Michigan Alumni Association highlights the importance of adaptability and seizing growth opportunities. 2. Digital Transformation: The discussion around a successful Salesforce transformation project underscored the challenges and rewards of digital transformation. Angila highlighted the importance of addressing both technological and organizational aspects, as well as the significance of change management. 3. AI Strategy and Data Analytics: Angila shared insights into the alumni association's evolving AI strategy and the use of data analytics to enhance engagement with a large alumni base. This demonstrates the increasing importance of leveraging technology to personalize engagement and drive outcomes. 4. Networking and Mentorship: Angila emphasized the value of networking and mentorship in her career development, highlighting the impact of supportive supervisors and the importance of mentorship in both personal and professional growth. 5. Employee Development: Angila discussed the importance of employee development and the organization's focus on professional growth through regular check-ins, dedicated time for career development, and a culture that encourages learning and improvement. 6. Adapting to Change: The conversation also touched upon the organization's adaptation to change, particularly during the pandemic, where a shift to virtual engagement highlighted the importance of agility and leveraging technology to maintain connections with alumni.


    Show more Show less
    19 mins
  • The Future Focused CXOs Podcast | Episode 18 | Jered Pruitt, the Chief Operating Officer at CASL
    May 6 2024

    Welcome to "Future Focused CXOs," a brand-new podcast that examines the most recent developments and insights for executives who are looking to the future.
    We'll introduce our knowledgeable hosts and explore the knowledge of global trade, logistics, and supply chain, customer experience, and more.

    Subscribe to our channel to not miss any updates!
    Stay Tuned!

    Visit our website: https://bolt.today


    Highlights:

    1. Comprehensive Social Services: CASL offers a wide range of programs covering citizenship and immigration assistance, early childhood education, elder care, employment services, legal aid, and behavioral health.

    2. Jered's Journey to COO: Jered transitioned from a consultant role to become CASL's Chief Operating Officer, bringing a background in clinical psychology, philanthropy, and leadership to oversee daily operations and strategic initiatives.

    3. Impactful Homebuyer Education: CASL supports approximately 110 families annually in purchasing homes through education and guidance, resulting in significant knowledge gain and improved credit scores, with a 75% success rate in home purchases.

    4. Data-Driven Decision Making: CASL utilizes technology, including Salesforce CRM, to collect and analyze data on social drivers of health, enabling tailored services and effective advocacy for policy changes.

    5. Human-Centered Technology: While recognizing AI's potential, Jered emphasizes maintaining a human-centered approach, stating that AI can assist with data analysis but cannot replace the empathetic human connection essential in social services.

    6. Culture Over Technology: Successful technology adoption in nonprofits requires prioritizing workplace culture. CASL's high Salesforce utilization rate (98%) is attributed to building ambassadors, fostering user engagement, and integrating technology into the organization's culture.

    7. Board Buy-In and Strategic Vision: Jered highlights the critical role of board support and strategic vision in driving technology initiatives, emphasizing the importance of articulating the future direction of philanthropy and involving the board early in decision-making.


    Show more Show less
    33 mins
  • The Future Focused CXOs Podcast | Episode 17 | Will Urban, Part of R7 and Companion Venture Capitals
    Apr 5 2024

    Welcome to "Future Focused CXOs," a brand-new podcast that examines the most recent developments and insights for executives who are looking to the future. We'll introduce our knowledgeable hosts and explore the knowledge of global trade, logistics, and supply chain, customer experience, and more. Subscribe to our channel to not miss any updates! Stay Tuned! Visit our website: https://bolt.today Highlights:

    1. Career Transition and Entrepreneurship:

    Jay and Will explore Will's journey from a high-stress corporate job to entrepreneurship, discussing the impact on family life and personal well-being.

    2. Venture Capital and Investment Evaluation:

    Will shares insights into his role in venture capital, emphasizing the importance of subject matter expertise, leadership assessment, and due diligence in investment decisions.

    3. Leadership Qualities and Traits:

    The discussion revolves around leadership traits, focusing on adaptive leadership, openness to feedback, transparency, and the leader's role in fostering team success.

    4. Cultural Due Diligence and Financial Stewardship:

    Jay and Will touch on the significance of cultural due diligence in companies and the responsible management of financial resources, balancing frugality and investment.

    5. Go-to-Market Strategy and Articulation:

    The conversation addresses the importance of effective go-to-market strategy, emphasizing a leader's ability to articulate product value and strategy for successful growth.

    6. Balancing Family and Career Advice:

    The interview concludes with advice for mid-career professionals, highlighting the importance of finding a supportive partner, stepping out of comfort zones, and maintaining an organized approach to balancing family and career.

    Show more Show less
    28 mins
  • Heading: The Future Focused CXOs Podcast | Episode 16 |Carie Buchanan, CCO, Pluralsight
    Mar 12 2024

    Welcome to "Future Focused CXOs," a brand-new podcast that examines the most recent developments and insights for executives who are looking to the future. We'll introduce our knowledgeable hosts and explore the knowledge of leadership, technology, digital transformation, customer experience, and more. Subscribe to our channel to not miss any updates! Stay Tuned! Visit our website: https://bolt.today Highlights: 1. Jay asks Carie about the importance of transparency and open communication during challenging periods. This highlights the significance of clear and honest communication when dealing with difficult situations. 2. Jay inquiries about Carie's experience in managing challenging customers and how strong relationships with them can lead to breakthroughs. This underscores the value of building strong and diverse relationships with clients, even those who may initially seem difficult. 3. Carie discusses the importance of understanding customer needs beyond sales and the role of customer success in achieving this. This emphasizes the need to be customer-centric and focused on ensuring the success of clients. 4. Jay asks Carie about effective account management strategies, including communication frameworks and steering committee meetings. This highlights the need for structured approaches in managing large customer accounts. 5. Carie talks about the significance of celebrating successes regularly instead of waiting for periodic reviews. This emphasizes the importance of continuous communication of achievements to keep customers engaged and informed. 6. Jay inquiries about Carie's experience in managing global teams and customers, highlighting the importance of cultural sensitivity and adaptability when dealing with international clients. 7. Carie discusses the value of customer escalations as opportunities for improvement rather than problems. This highlights the importance of responding to escalations with empathy and a problem-solving mindset. 8. Jay asks Carie about the misconception that customer success is solely the responsibility of customer success management functions. This emphasizes the idea that customer success should be a company-wide value. 9. Carie talks about adopting a consultative approach to customer success, including providing strategic guidance, solving problems, and demonstrating value. This underscores the need to go beyond generic best practices and tailor recommendations to individual customer needs. 10. Jay asks Carie for advice to aspiring CXOs (Chief Customer Officers), focusing on the importance of stepping out of one's comfort zone, embracing change and uncertainty, and staying open to learning and growth. This highlights key attributes and attitudes for career advancement in customer success leadership roles.


    For more updates, visit: ⁠bolt.today

    Show more Show less
    35 mins
  • The Future Focused CXOs Podcast | Episode 15 |Chris McConnachie, CFO, National Grid, New York
    Mar 12 2024

    Discover the winning strategies used by top CXOs to drive growth in their companies, even in the toughest of times! Join us on this must-listen podcast as we learn from the best in the business world. Highlights: 1. Introduction: Chris McConnachie introduces himself as the CFO of National Grid, a utility company in New York that serves around 4 million electric and gas customers. Chris discusses his finance background, including his career in financial markets and his experience at PricewaterhouseCoopers before joining National Grid in 2008. 2. Storm Preparedness: Jay asks Chris how National Grid plans for extreme weather conditions and natural disasters, emphasizing the importance of reliable utilities during such events. 3. Balancing Sustainability and Grid Modernization: Steve inquires about how Chris, as a CFO, manages the challenge of balancing sustainability, responsiveness, and grid modernization while ensuring affordability. 4. Challenges and Opportunities in Renewable Energy: Steve asks Chris to share his insights on the key challenges and opportunities in the renewable energy space, focusing on achieving net-zero goals and building a capable workforce. 5. Technology's Impact on Customer Experience: Chris talked about the impact of technology on the customer experience and how it's changing customers' perspectives, particularly in making environmentally conscious choices. 6. Career Advice: Steve asks Chris to provide advice to individuals aspiring to leadership roles, especially in finance and the energy sector, highlighting the importance of exploring, learning, networking, and building depth.

    Show more Show less
    25 mins
  • The Future Focused CXOs Podcast | Episode 14 |Allan Rayson, Chief Information Officer, Encore
    Feb 22 2024

    Discover the winning strategies top CXOs use to drive growth in their companies, even in the toughest of times! Join us on this must-listen podcast as we learn from the best in the business world. Highlights: 1. Introduction: Allan Rayson, the Chief Information Officer of Encore Bank, discussed his role in technology and innovation for the bank based in the Southeastern part of the United States. Encore Bank is a rapidly growing commercial bank. 2. Building a Personal Brand: Allan emphasized the importance of building a personal brand. He shared that it's not easy, and it requires hard work, strategies, and authenticity. He has used his personal brand to explore interests in music, film production, and content creation. 3. Balancing Security and User Experience: The interview delved into the challenge of balancing data security with a good user experience in the banking industry. Allan highlighted the difficulty in achieving this balance and the need for robust safeguards, even if they may disrupt user experience to some extent. 4. Future of Fintech: Allan discussed the future of fintech and how technology adoption and customer expectations are shaping the industry. He emphasized the importance of staying relevant and focusing on innovation to meet evolving customer needs. 5. Career Challenge and Risk-Taking: Allan shared a pivotal career moment when he left a high-paying job to launch a startup, taking significant personal and financial risks. He encouraged taking risks and learning from both successes and failures. 6. Diversity in Revenues: Allan drew a parallel between his approach to personal risk-taking and lending principles, highlighting the importance of diversity in revenue streams and avoiding over-concentration. 7. Advice for Aspiring Professionals: Allan's advice for aspiring professionals was to remain humble, recognizing that they don't know everything. He stressed the importance of learning from both successes and mistakes and trusting one's instincts.

    Show more Show less
    26 mins