Episodes

  • Exactly What to Say to Spark Creativity and Bring People Together

    Exactly What to Say to Spark Creativity and Bring People Together
    May 12 2025
    How do purposeful questions facilitate personal growth and transformation?

    Phil M. Jones is a renowned expert in effective communication, celebrated for his best-selling book "Exactly What to Say," which empowers individuals to select the perfect words for any situation, whether in business or personal contexts. With a focus on preparing for known conversational moments and using curiosity as a catalyst, Jones's work has become an essential guide for millions seeking to enhance their conversational skills. He emphasizes the importance of intentionality and anticipation in critical conversations, advocating for thoughtful questioning over "lazy questions" to foster growth and transformation. Through his extensive experience and insights, Jones continues to influence thousands worldwide, encouraging the creation of meaningful exchanges and safe spaces for exploration and diverse viewpoints.

    Key Takeaways
    • Preparing for known moments and using curiosity as the fuel to great conversation is crucial for impactful interactions.
    • Challenging oneself to refrain from giving advice in conversations can lead to more meaningful and insightful communication.
    • Creating frames in conversations helps establish rules of engagement and encourages innovation and change.
    • Asking purposeful questions and actively listening can foster relationships, facilitate growth, and drive transformation.
    • Avoiding lazy questions and being intentional with inquiries can create a more effective and productive communication environment.
    • Identifying critical conversational moments, like the first 15 seconds of returning home from a trip, is key to enhancing success in both personal and business interactions.
    More from Phil M. Jones Phil M. Jones has dedicated his life to transforming the way people understand selling, decision-making, and influence. With a mission to help individuals unlock untapped potential, Phil empowers audiences by teaching the precise words and strategies that drive results while preserving integrity. His international best-seller, Exactly What to Say, has become a go-to guide for mastering persuasive communication, equipping people with the confidence and tools to make their conversations count. With over 2,500 presentations delivered across more than 800 industries in 59 countries, Phil brings unparalleled real-world experience and a reputation as a thought leader whose insights are sought by global brands and leaders alike.

    A born entrepreneur, Phil launched his first business at just 14, quickly scaling it into a thriving venture before leading high-performing sales teams and driving multimillion-dollar growth in industries from real estate to sports sponsorships. Since founding his consulting business in 2008, Phil has helped leaders across sectors—healthcare, finance, SaaS, and beyond—improve critical conversations and achieve lasting impact. Known for his no-nonsense, practical approach, Phil’s passion is clear: helping great people get better and proving that with the right words, anyone can change their world.

    Website: https://philmjones.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/philmjones/ If you are an experienced CEO looking to grow your company, visit https://www.TheCEOProject.com You can also reach Jim by email: Jim@TheCEOProject.com LinkedIn: @theceoproject Instagram: @the_ceoproject Twitter/X: @the_CEO_Project Facebook: @IncCEOproject
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    34 mins
  • Business Process Outsourcing: An On-Shore Solution

    Business Process Outsourcing: An On-Shore Solution
    May 5 2025
    Why is collaborating with local and state governments important for businesses in rural areas? Chuck Ruggiero, a seasoned professional in the outsourcing industry with a background in programming, has been a pivotal figure in bringing jobs back to the United States through rural outsourcing. He believes in harnessing the potential of local talent while maintaining high global standards, a vision he continues to pursue as CEO of Optomi Professional Services. Ruggiero advocates for the value of rural outsourcing in the US, emphasizing its role in cultivating an efficient IT workforce by training local communities, veterans, and professionals to fill the talent gaps often overlooked. His approach, which includes strategic partnerships with local governments and a focus on nearshore services, demonstrates a sustainable model that enhances operational efficiency, reduces costs, and revitalizes rural areas by providing comprehensive consulting solutions. Key Takeaways: Outsourcing involves finding talent that may not be available in-house or seeking lower-cost talentInvesting in rural talent by training them to progress from tier 1 to tier 4 support roles has been a successful strategy.Recruiting veterans from nearby military bases to transition into technical support roles is a key strategyUnderstanding key performance indicators (KPIs) is crucial for providing tailored solutions to clientsThe company offers various services including staff augmentation, professional services, and managed servicesStarting a class A business in rural America can be challenging but offers job opportunitiesCollaboration with local and state governments is crucial for the success and growth of businesses in rural America More from Chuck Ruggiero Chuck Ruggiero is the CEO of Optomi Professional Services, a purpose-driven technology talent provider composed of Optomi and Provalus. With over two decades of executive leadership, Chuck is known for transforming operations and scaling companies into industry leaders. His tenure includes launching Provalus, guiding Optomi’s explosive growth, and driving U.S.-based outsourcing initiatives that rival offshore alternatives. A seasoned strategist and operator, Chuck has led exponential growth across four major firms—one of which went public—and brings blue-chip experience to every initiative he touches. He’s a master of business transformation, operational excellence, and market expansion, with deep expertise in M&A, succession planning, and executive coaching. Chuck’s leadership philosophy blends entrepreneurial spirit with operational rigor. From overseeing global delivery teams to advising C-suites and boards, he has consistently delivered measurable, sustainable results. With a sharp focus on financials and a passion for building world-class cultures, Chuck is as committed to the bottom line as he is to purpose-driven innovation. Outside the boardroom, he's a DIY enthusiast and self-described “closet coder.” A board member of The TGB Foundation and a longtime supporter of initiatives that uplift underserved communities, Chuck channels his success toward creating meaningful, lasting impact across America. Website: https://www.optomi.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/charlesruggiero/ If you are an experienced CEO looking to grow your company, visit https://www.TheCEOProject.com You can also reach Jim by email: Jim@TheCEOProject.com LinkedIn: @theceoproject Instagram: @the_ceoproject Twitter/X: @the_CEO_Project Facebook: @IncCEOproject
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    30 mins
  • Why Deep Business Relationships Will Increase Your Success Rate

    Why Deep Business Relationships Will Increase Your Success Rate
    Apr 28 2025
    How can understanding the user journey lead to more authentic relationships and business growth? Josh Elledge, the founder of Up My Influence, is a pioneering advocate for building relationships through influence and integrity. With a background as a Navy journalist and as the creator of a successful seven-figure business, Josh underscores the importance of being a valuable resource and leading with generosity. He believes that by serving others and providing value without expecting immediate returns, businesses can build trust and naturally attract clients without aggressive marketing tactics. Through his Thoughtful Entrepreneur podcast and numerous interviews with business leaders, Josh promotes a mindset of generosity and noble intent, encouraging professionals to focus on relationship-building and authenticity to foster long-term success. Key Takeaways: Building genuine relationships is key to attracting people to businesses and driving profitable relationships.Honesty, integrity, and deep relationships are essential in today's skeptical environment to differentiate oneself from lazy marketers.Adopting a Go-Giver mindset of generosity and serving others leads to valuable connections and collaboration.Shifting focus from sales to relationship-building and adding value helps establish credibility and expertise in the field.Selective engagement and pre-screening are crucial in attracting the right audience and fostering long-term partnerships.Being empathetic and understanding individuals' user journey is vital in building trust and meaningful connections.Mutual respect, gratitude, and admiration are evident in the positive and collaborative atmosphere of the interaction between Jim and Josh. More from Josh Elledge Josh Elledge is a serial entrepreneur, media personality, and founder of UpMyInfluence (UMI), a purpose-driven agency dedicated to helping high-ticket B2B service providers grow through authority-building, generosity, and strategic media presence. Since launching UMI in 2014, Josh has made it his mission to empower coaches, consultants, and agency owners to scale their businesses without the burdens of traditional marketing costs and contracts. With a deep belief in the moral imperative to help entrepreneurs own their expertise and serve the world, Josh’s work has impacted thousands of leaders looking to amplify their visibility and influence. He is also the founder of SavingsAngel.com, where he earned a national reputation as a top consumer expert. Josh brings unmatched media savvy to the mic, with over 2,500 media appearances and more than 1,800 podcast episodes to his name. As the host of The Thoughtful Entrepreneur and The SavingsAngel Show, he knows what it takes to deliver value-packed content. His dynamic presence—shaped by his background as an improv comedian and syndicated TV and newspaper host—makes him a highly engaging guest who brings both charisma and tactical wisdom. Whether he's sharing high-ticket sales strategies or helping audiences understand how to build authentic authority, Josh shows up prepared, polished, and ready to make every interview your most downloaded episode yet. Website: https://upmyinfluence.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joshelledge/ If you are an experienced CEO looking to grow your company, visit https://www.TheCEOProject.com You can also reach Jim by email: Jim@TheCEOProject.com LinkedIn: @theceoproject Instagram: @the_ceoproject Twitter/X: @the_CEO_Project Facebook: @IncCEOproject
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    36 mins
  • The Surprising Truth: Most CEOs Get Cash Flow Wrong

    The Surprising Truth: Most CEOs Get Cash Flow Wrong
    Apr 21 2025
    What is the significance of understanding the distinction between operating and strategic finance in hiring a CFO? Oana Labes, a seasoned CPA and MBA originally from Romania, has made significant strides in bridging the gap between controllers and CFOs through her innovative company focused on CFO brain technology. With her entrepreneurial spirit and extensive experience as a senior commercial lender in Ontario, Labes observed the frequent disconnect between company goals and financial reporting, prompting her to develop solutions that enable smooth transitions and informed decision-making. Labes emphasizes the distinction between a controller and a CFO, noting that while controllers focus on compliance and reporting, CFOs are tasked with interpretation, forecasting, and engaging with external stakeholders such as lenders and investors. She advises CEOs to carefully differentiate between operating finance, managed by controllers, and strategic finance, handled by CFOs, to ensure they hire the right individual who can truly drive the company's growth and success. Key Takeaways: Financial intelligence is essential for CEOs and executives to make informed decisions and drive growth in businesses.Aligning business strategy with financial strategy, especially in terms of capital planning and sourcing, is crucial to achieve long-term goals and maximize shareholder value creation.The importance of communication and alignment between CEOs and CFOs in driving business decisions and financial strategies forward is crucial.Misaligned objectives between CEOs and CFOs can lead to potential issues in decision-making.Jim Schleckser emphasizes the importance of Economic Value Added (EVA) analysis in assessing wealth creation and aligning incentives with long-term value creation.Understanding the different levels of financial expertise required when hiring a CFO is crucial. More from Oana Labes Oana Labes is a CPA, financial strategist, and founder of Financiario, a groundbreaking platform that delivers CFO-level intelligence to mid-sized businesses through real-time forecasts, automated dashboards, and strategic planning tools. With over 15 years of experience managing hundreds of millions in commercial finance, Oana has helped scale companies from under $1 million to over $20 million in revenue. Her mission is to transform finance from a reactive function into a strategic growth engine—equipping both finance and non-finance professionals with the tools and insights to make confident, value-driven decisions. Through her consulting and work with Financiario, she enables businesses to overcome traditional financial limitations and unlock sustainable, data-powered growth. A global thought leader in strategic finance, Oana is also the creator of the CEO Financial Intelligence Program and The Finance Gem, a bi-weekly newsletter read by over 50,000 subscribers. Her content has reached over 130 million professionals worldwide, with more than 400,000 followers on LinkedIn. She has taught thousands through her best-selling masterclasses on cash flow and financial analysis, empowering leaders to improve performance, optimize capital, and dramatically increase enterprise value. As one of the most prominent finance educators and content creators today, Oana is redefining what it means to be financially intelligent in the modern business world. Website: https://oanalabes.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/oanalabes/ If you are an experienced CEO looking to grow your company, visit https://www.TheCEOProject.com You can also reach Jim by email: Jim@TheCEOProject.com LinkedIn: @theceoproject Instagram: @the_ceoproject Twitter/X: @the_CEO_Project Facebook: @IncCEOproject
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    29 mins
  • Tariffs - How to Respond

    Tariffs - How to Respond
    Apr 14 2025
    How can tariffs affect employees and what support measures can be taken?
    On this special episode of The CEO Project podcast, host Jim Schleckser is joined by co-host Sharon McGuire for an in-depth conversation about the ripple effects of tariffs on business strategy and operations. With nearly half of CEOs expecting to raise prices in response to rising input costs, the discussion dives into how leaders are adapting to an unpredictable global trade environment. Topics include the importance of diversifying supply chains, rethinking pricing strategies, and the limits of absorbing costs as a short-term solution. The episode also explores how CEOs, boards, and investors can work together to stay resilient and responsive amid shifting international trade policies.


    Key Takeaways:
    • Tariffs can have a regressive impact on consumers by causing higher prices in importing countries, affecting individuals based on their financial situation.
    • CEOs are planning to increase pricing to cover higher input costs due to tariffs, impacting current business operations and requiring quick adaptation.
    • Rethinking supply chains by exploring alternative suppliers from countries with lower tariffs can reduce risks and maintain cost efficiency.
    • Price increases due to tariffs may lead to financial stress for employees, prompting potential compensation adjustments and alternative benefit strategies.
    • The removal of subsidies can profoundly impact industries like rice production in India or dairy in the United States, altering the landscape of various industries and global trade dynamics.

    Continue the Conversation
    Join Jim Schleckser for the CEO Roundtable on Thursday, April 17th at 2:00 PM EST. To request an invitation or express your interest in attending, please contact Sharon McGuire at sharonmcguire@theceoproject.com. If you are an experienced CEO looking to grow your company, visit https://www.TheCEOProject.com You can also reach Jim by email: Jim@TheCEOProject.com LinkedIn: @theceoproject Instagram: @the_ceoproject Twitter/X: @the_CEO_Project Facebook: @IncCEOproject
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    25 mins
  • Discover the Winning Tactics for Crafting Successful Software Solutions

    Discover the Winning Tactics for Crafting Successful Software Solutions
    Apr 7 2025
    What is the difference between product solution fit and product market fit?
    David Hirschfeld is a seasoned software development expert with over three decades of experience, having held leadership roles at renowned companies like Computer Associates and Intel. He is known for his critical stance on traditional software development methodologies, which he argues often lead to prolonged development cycles and excessive costs. Advocating for his innovative "launch first method," Hirschfeld focuses on minimizing risk and accelerating success by integrating AI-driven workflow optimization, thereby reducing dependence on investor funding. His approach emphasizes creating realistic prototypes and fostering early customer interactions to validate business models, ensuring that startups can efficiently and accurately meet market demands.

    Key Takeaways:
    • Focus on product solution fit over product market fit is crucial for success in software development.
    • Early sales are important to validate the business model and confirm product-market fit.
    • Prototyping with high-fidelity prototypes helps in assessing customer interest and identifying issues early on.
    • Crafting product demos focused on solving immediate problems helps in achieving product-market fit.
    • Detailed metrics, Kanban methodology, and constant releases are essential for accuracy and efficiency in software development projects.
    • Tracking estimates and actuals, spending time in prototyping, and detailed scope management are key for project success.
    • Maintaining accuracy in estimates and reporting variances is crucial for successful project execution.

    More from David Hirschfeld David Hirschfeld is the Founder and CEO of Tekyz Corp, a software development company dedicated to accelerating startups through expert product development, AI integration, and workflow automation. With nearly two decades of experience leading Tekyz, David created the Launch 1st methodology—an innovative approach that helps software founders achieve product-market fit fast while avoiding the most common and costly startup pitfalls. Under his leadership, Tekyz has become a go-to partner for software recovery projects, rescuing troubled initiatives and transforming them into scalable, successful ventures. David also shares his insights as the host of the Scaling Smarter podcast and serves as a trusted board member and advisor across various industries.

    Throughout his career, David has co-founded several ventures, including the groundbreaking social media startup Kloojj and Anzu LLC, a thriving offshore development hub he continues to lead in Pune, India. His broad expertise spans sectors such as real estate, healthcare, logistics, law enforcement, entertainment, and IoT—bringing a unique, cross-disciplinary perspective to every project. With a passion for solving complex problems and creating beautiful, user-centered systems, David remains deeply committed to helping visionary founders bring bold ideas to life—quickly, intelligently, and with lasting impact.

    Website: https://tekyz.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dhirschfeld/ If you are an experienced CEO looking to grow your company, visit https://www.TheCEOProject.com You can also reach Jim by email: Jim@TheCEOProject.com LinkedIn: @theceoproject Instagram: @the_ceoproject Twitter/X: @the_CEO_Project Facebook: @IncCEOproject
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    34 mins
  • Effective Marketing Strategies Tailored for CEOs of Growing Companies

    Effective Marketing Strategies Tailored for CEOs of Growing Companies
    Mar 31 2025
    What is hand raiser marketing and how does it impact the path to purchase? Erik Huberman, the visionary founder of Hawk Media, is renowned for his innovative, data-driven marketing strategies that are customized to meet the unique needs of each business. With a track record of success working alongside industry leaders like Red Bull and Verizon, Erik emphasizes the importance of curiosity and deep analytical insights in developing effective marketing campaigns. His approach underscores the necessity of understanding not just the quantitative data, but also the reasons behind customer behavior, aligning well with the shift towards "hand raiser" marketing that focuses on building awareness and trust. Through his accessible presence on social media and Hawk Media’s offerings of free marketing audits, Huberman fosters long-term relationships with clients, prioritizing quality content and strategic decision-making to drive business growth. Key Takeaways: Understanding customer behavior through psychology and curiosity is crucial for effective marketing strategies. The shift in marketing strategies towards hand raiser marketing focuses on awareness, nurturing, and trust. Transitioning from push marketing to hand raiser marketing shortens the path to purchase by nurturing relationships with prospects. Content creation for B2B Marketing involves educating and guiding potential clients to establish trust. Facebook and Instagram advertising are more effective for B2B businesses compared to LinkedIn. Identifying events that drive demand for marketing strategies is crucial for the success of B2B and B2C businesses. Quality content and targeted email marketing are crucial in today's digital landscape. More from Erik Huberman Erik Huberman is a distinguished entrepreneur and the Founder and CEO of Hawke Media, widely recognized as the fastest-growing marketing consultancy in the United States. Launched with the conviction that businesses of all sizes deserve access to top-tier marketing expertise without the traditional overhead, Erik's vision has led to an innovative, flexible service model that adapts to the specific needs of each client, fostering growth and scalability. Before Hawke Media, Erik's entrepreneurial journey was marked by the successful creation, expansion, and sale of two e-commerce brands by the age of 26. His hands-on experience with the trials of business growth informs his approach, emphasizing efficiency and transparency in marketing. In addition to leading Hawke Media, Erik's influence extends through Hawke Ventures and Hawke.AI. Hawke Ventures, which he co-founded, invests in promising startups, enhancing the marketing landscape with advanced tools and analytics. Hawke.AI, his pioneering platform, leverages data from thousands of brands to optimize marketing strategies in real time, significantly improving decision-making and performance. Erik is also a bestselling author and a respected voice in the marketing sphere, with his insights featured in major publications and his speaking engagements drawing audiences worldwide. His accolades include Forbes 30 Under 30 and Entrepreneur of the Year by the International Business Awards, underscoring his impact and leadership in the field. Whether mentoring startups or steering his ventures, Erik remains committed to redefining marketing practices for the digital age. Website: https://hawkemedia.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/erikhuberman/ If you are an experienced CEO looking to grow your company, visit https://www.TheCEOProject.com You can also reach Jim by email: Jim@TheCEOProject.com LinkedIn: @theceoproject Instagram: @the_ceoproject Twitter/X: @the_CEO_Project Facebook: @IncCEOproject
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    30 mins
  • The Power of Achieving Goals Thorough Team Alignment

    The Power of Achieving Goals Thorough Team Alignment
    Mar 24 2025
    How do core values influence decision-making processes for success? Dr. John DeMartini's journey is an inspiring narrative of resilience and personal transformation, marked by his triumph over early learning disabilities and a tumultuous youth as a street kid and surfer. Following a pivotal near-death experience at 17, he was motivated to conquer his academic struggles and pursue a path of lifelong learning and teaching. Driven by an unwavering commitment and the support of his family, Dr. DeMartini synthesized knowledge from over 30,000 books into the acclaimed Demartini Method, which he has shared with audiences in more than 100 countries. His unique perspective emphasizes the importance of understanding and aligning with one's intrinsic values, empowering individuals to achieve personal and professional success through thoughtful decision-making and a focus on core missions. Key Takeaways: Overcoming challenges and turning dreams into reality through determination and hard work Developing the Demartini Method and impacting lives globally Evaluating productivity through tracking daily actions and hourly productivity Achieving significant growth and success in business through effective delegation and strategic focus Linking job duties to personal mission for motivation and productivity Filtering reality based on core values and its influence on decision-making processes More from Dr. John Demartini Dr. John Demartini is a world-renowned human behavior specialist, author, researcher, and global educator who has dedicated over four decades to developing and sharing comprehensive solutions for personal and professional empowerment. His extensive work spans a diverse range of fields, including corporate empowerment, financial strategies, personal growth, relationship enhancement, and social transformation. Through his carefully crafted educational programs, Dr. Demartini addresses the core human factors, employing a variety of powerful tools that have stood the test of time. His profound insights are based on his comprehensive study of over 30,000 books across all academic disciplines, distilling the collective wisdom into transformative presentations that he delivers in over 100 countries worldwide. Dr. Demartini’s impact extends beyond the personal, reaching into the corporate world where he has worked with entrepreneurs, CEOs, managers, and teams from various industries. His tailored presentations and workshops focus on critical areas such as leadership development, team building, productivity, conflict resolution, and more, aiming to foster an environment of excellence and growth. Dr. Demartini's commitment to advancing human potential is evident in his engaging keynotes and seminars, which have inspired audiences worldwide, including public and professional groups as large as 11,000 people. Sharing stages with notable figures like Sir Richard Branson and Deepak Chopra, his work resonates across cultural and linguistic barriers, making a lasting impact on individuals and organizations across the globe. Website: https://drdemartini.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drjohndemartini/ If you are an experienced CEO looking to grow your company, visit https://www.TheCEOProject.com You can also reach Jim by email: Jim@TheCEOProject.com LinkedIn: @theceoproject Instagram: @the_ceoproject Twitter/X: @the_CEO_Project Facebook: @IncCEOproject
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    33 mins