172: Saving Lives with Fortress w/ Karen Vilas

Podcast Show Notes – Episode 172 | 04.16.2024 Episode Title:  Saving Lives with Fortress w/ Karen Vilas   Episode summary introduction: In this episode, Sean Barnes chats with Karen Vilas about transitioning from consultancy to a product-based company, the importance of diversity in teams, and the value of MBAs. They discuss the science behind gas explosions, updates to building protection practices, and talent acquisition strategies. The conversation concludes with insights on effective leadership development, executive coaching, and the significance of a strong team.   Key Moments 0:00 Introduction and discussion about Fortress, its mission, and operations 4:06 Transitioning from a consultancy to a product-based company and challenges faced 8:21 The importance of diversity in teams and women in leadership 14:24 Value of MBAs and the importance of choosing the right program 26:50 The science behind gas explosions and Baker Risk's work with catastrophic events 41:46 Updates to API recommended practices for building protection and talent acquisition at Baker Risk 44:38 The importance of a strong culture in an organization and talent retention 49:23 Sean Barnes shares his leadership journey and the importance of vulnerability 57:05 Selecting effective executive coaching and the role of leadership development in organizations 1:07:07 Training for leadership positions and the significance of a strong team 1:14:29 Closing remarks and encouragement to follow guest's pages and website   Guest: Karen Vilas LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karen-vilas/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/fortress-protective-buildings/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/bakerrisk/   Host: Sean Barnes Website: https://www.wsssolutions.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/seanbarnes/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/wsssolutions/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/thewayofthewolf/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheWayoftheWolf Twitter: https://twitter.com/the_seanbarnes Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_seanbarnes https://www.instagram.com/the_wayofthewolf TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@the_seanbarnes Email: [email protected] Audible: https://www.audible.com/pd/The-Way-of-the-Wolf-Podcast/B08JJNXJ6C Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2BTGdO25Vop3GTpGCY8Y8E?si=ea91c1ef6dd14f15