We interview CEOs, business leaders, and thought leaders to get their perspectives on strategy, leadership, management, and other trends that can support your career and help you run a ”best-in-class” business or non-profit. Be sure to subscribe and tell us what you’re taking away from each episode. About SME Strategy We facilitate strategic planning offsite meetings and support the accountability of the plans and the leadership teams who lead them. Learn more at: https://www.smestrategy.net ...
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Sme Strategy Consulting Inc Podcasts

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John D. Marvin's Leadership at Texas State Optical
21:20
21:20
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21:20In this captivating episode of the Strategy and Leadership Podcast, host Anthony welcomes John D. Marvin, the esteemed CEO and President of Texas State Optical (TSO). Together, they delve into the fascinating history of TSO, a pioneering optometry practice founded in 1936 by the Rogers brothers, and its evolution into a respected brand across multi…
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From Military to Tulip Farming: Andrew Miller's Unconventional Journey
19:52
19:52
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19:52Andrew Miller, the president and CEO of United Way of Skagit County and the co-founder and CEO of Tulip Valley Farms. Discover how Andrew transitioned from a career in Air Force intelligence to embracing life as a tulip farmer, bringing fresh perspectives and innovative approaches to both farming and community work. Andrew shares his unique strateg…
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Navigating Turbulence: The Evolution of Leadership with Blair LaCorte
20:35
20:35
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20:35Anthony Taylor interviews Blair LaCorte, a seasoned CEO with extensive experience in private equity and aviation. They discuss Blair's journey, particularly his time at XOJet, where he transformed a struggling airline into a successful business through innovative strategies and a focus on customer needs. The conversation delves into the importance …
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McKinsey Partner Tim Koller on Mastering Business Valuation
25:17
25:17
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25:17Anthony Taylor and Tim Koller discuss the critical aspects of business valuation, emphasizing the importance of balancing revenue growth and profitability. They explore strategic decision-making in large organizations, the role of the CEO in resource allocation, and the necessity of understanding financial drivers to create value. Tim shares insigh…
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Infinite Possibilities: Lessons from Space with Dr. Bernard Harris
17:18
17:18
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17:18Dr. Bernard Harris, the first black astronaut to walk in space, shares his incredible journey from childhood dreams of space exploration to becoming a physician, venture capitalist, and author. He discusses the importance of mentorship, visualization, and embracing infinite possibilities in achieving one's highest potential. Dr. Harris emphasizes t…
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The Future Of Work with AI: AI For Business Strategy and Leadership in 2025 with Kevin Surace
21:41
21:41
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21:41This SME Strategy Podcast episode features technology and leadership innovator Kevin Surace, offering expert guidance on leveraging generative AI to enhance content creation and drive strategic growth and strategic planning. Learn how to make better decisions, improve your customer experience, and cultivate a culture of joy in work that supports yo…
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Servant Leadership and Exit Strategies in 2025: Business Strategy with Cameron Bishop
22:52
22:52
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22:52This episode of the SME Strategy & Leadership podcast focusses on navigating hyper-growth, the power of servant leadership, and crucial exit strategies relevant for 2025. Cameron Bishop of Raincatcher shares his extensive experience in leading companies through significant transformations, emphasizing effective communication, employee engagement, a…
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Strategic Leadership in the Age of AI in 2025 with Faisal Hoque
24:53
24:53
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24:53On this episode of the SME Strategy Podcast, global management thought leader Faisal Hoque serves up essential guidance on the evolving landscape of AI and technology in 2025. He underscores the vital role of purpose-driven leadership in navigating today's market uncertainty. Faisal introduces the CARE framework as a fundamental structure for AI go…
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The New Rules of Talent Retention with Global Talent Advisor Steve Cadigan
29:20
29:20
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29:20🚨 Talent retention strategies are failing. Businesses need to fundamentally shift operations to continue to thrive. 🚨 In this powerful episode of the SME Strategy Podcast, we sit down with Steve Cadigan, LinkedIn's first CHRO and a global talent advisor, to uncover the harsh realities of today's talent marketplace and reveal what you need to consid…
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Goodfood's Vision for Strategic Growth: A Conversation with CEO Jonathan Ferrari
24:30
24:30
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24:30Join Anthony Taylor, a seasoned strategic planning facilitator and the host of the SME Strategy Podcast, as he sits down with Jonathan Ferrari, the visionary founder, CEO, and chairman of Goodfood. Discover how Jonathan transformed a simple idea (fresh meal kits) into a national Canadian brand, delivering over 15 million meals annually and employin…
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OKRs & Performance Culture: Interview with Ben Lamorte of OKRS.com
20:59
20:59
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20:59In this episode of the Strategy and Leadership Podcast, Anthony Taylor chats with Ben Lamorte, an OKR expert, to break down how to actually make progress and drive measurable outcomes. Think OKRS explained without pretense. Ben, who's been helping teams nail their goals for years, reveals a major pitfall: treating OKRs as mere to-do lists. He'll sh…
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Conflict As An Opportunity: A Conversation with Dana Caspersen on Conflict Management In The Workplace
21:05
21:05
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21:05In this episode we are joined by Dana Caspersen, TedX speaker and author of "Conflict is an Opportunity," who reveals how to: Shift from blame to collaborative solutions. Cultivate curiosity and active listening. Make requests, not demands, for buy-in. Avoid the high cost of conflict avoidance. Build strategic capacity through conscious decision-ma…
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The Power Of The Chief of Staff Role: Interview with Maggie Olson of Nova Chief of Staff
18:19
18:19
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18:19In this episode, Anthony Taylor talks with Maggie Olson, a former T-Mobile Chief of Staff, about what that job really means. They cover how it's a strategic role, not just admin, how it differs from other leadership roles, and what skills are needed. Maggie explains how to become a Chief of Staff and why leaders should consider hiring one to boost …
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Growth Strategy in Volatile Times: Interview with Rebecca Homkes
17:58
17:58
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17:58In this episode, Rebecca Homkes, author of "Survive, Reset, Thrive," discusses practical strategies for building a growth strategy in volatile times with host Anthony C. Taylor. The discussion explores proactive survival strategies, the "loop mentality" in strategic planning, building competitive advantages, and the significance of acting on belief…
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The Art of Innovation: Lessons from Microsoft -JoAnn Garbin
28:37
28:37
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28:37JoAnn Garbin, author of the Insider's Guide to Innovation at Microsoft. She explores the concept of regenerative data centers, the creative journey of innovation, the importance of diverse perspectives, and the challenges faced in the innovation process. Joanne shares her personal experiences, including her battle with cancer and how it has shaped …
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Nicholas Lalla, founder of Tulsa Innovation Labs
19:00
19:00
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19:00In this episode of C-suite Conversations, host Anthony Taylor speaks with Nicholas Lalla, founder of Tulsa Innovation Labs. They discuss the journey of establishing an innovation economy in Tulsa, Oklahoma, the importance of strategic focus and stakeholder engagement, and the challenges of change management in urban development. Nicholas emphasizes…
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The DNA of Organizational Success: Lean Insights from the Flow Consortium
25:59
25:59
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25:59The Strategy and Leadership podcast, host Anthony Taylor welcomes Nigel Thurlow, CEO of the Flow Consortium, to delve into the nuances of lean thinking and continuous improvement. Nigel shares his extensive experience from Toyota and beyond, offering insights into how Lean principles can apply to various organizational contexts, emphasizing the sig…
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The 5-Year Exit Strategy: How to Maximize Your Company's Value
27:54
27:54
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27:54Episode Summary: Cindy Anderson, CEO of Think Strategy, shares her expert insights into the world of business transitions and strategic acquisitions. Cindy stresses the importance of preparing an exit strategy well in advance, highlighting a five-year timeline to ensure the business is poised for a successful transition. She delves into crucial con…
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The Wild West of AI, IP, and the Future of Innovation with Thomas Dunlap
25:06
25:06
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25:06Thomas Dunlap is the managing partner at Dunlap Bennett & Ludwig, an established law firm with around 80 lawyers. His extensive expertise lies in intellectual property law, supported by a diverse professional background as a former CEO of a biotech company, and an army officer with military training. He shares his knowledge by teaching an class on …
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Thriving Leadership: Insights from Renee Moorefield, PhD
24:52
24:52
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24:52About the Guest(s): Renee Moorfield, PhD Renee Moorfield is the CEO of WisdomWorks Group, a company committed to making thriving a standard of success within organizations. Over her 30-year career, Renee has worked closely with well-known brands such as Coca-Cola, Nike, and AT&T, providing leadership development and cultural transformation insights…
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Mastering Strategic Planning: Lessons from Dawn Reese's Leadership at The Wooden Floor
22:34
22:34
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22:34About the Guest: Dawn Reese is the CEO of The Wooden Floor, a creative youth development organization that empowers young people through the transformative power of dance and access to higher education. With over 15 years at The Wooden Floor, Dawn has driven significant organizational growth, guided by her expertise in strategy, business developmen…
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Mastering Talent Acquisition: Insights from Fletcher Wimbush
21:59
21:59
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21:59Fletcher Wimbush is the CEO of Discovered, a leader in talent acquisition and assessment. With a rich background in entrepreneurship and leadership, Fletcher has spent years perfecting the process of matching the right talent with the right roles. His journey in talent acquisition began at a young age, and he has since built on that foundation with…
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From Four Loko to Koya: Chris Hunter's Unconventional Journey in the Beverage Industry
23:57
23:57
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23:57Chris Hunter is a renowned entrepreneur in the beverage industry, known for co-founding both Four Loko and Koya. With a rich history in business development and brand-building, Chris spearheaded the growth of the iconic Four Loko brand, infamous for its initial high-energy concoction and its prominence in the alcohol market. Transitioning to a focu…
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Rhythm and the Game of Life: Leadership Lessons from Ping Pong w/ Justin Bookey
24:10
24:10
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24:10Justin Bookey is the founder and CEO of Pongfit, a nonprofit organization that promotes the sport of ping pong for mental and physical fitness. He has a diverse professional background with experience in law, communications management, consulting, content strategy, and brand strategy. As a US Open medalist in table tennis, Justin channels his passi…
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Disrupt or Be Disrupted: The Ecosystem of Personalized Experiences with David Edelman
33:42
33:42
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33:42David Edelman is the co-author of "Personalized: The Customer Strategy in the Age of AI." Throughout the conversation, David shares the transformative power of personalization in today’s tech-driven landscape, sharing critical insights derived from his book and extensive professional experience. Their discussion covers how personalization extends b…
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