Journey To The Top: A C-Suite Conversation

Whisker CEO Jacob Zuppke has always loved thinking outside the box, crafting marketing plans that are new and creative. His ability to see opportunity in an uncommon space led to the creation of Whisker, a hugely successful cat litter new technology company.

Some CFOs end up in their job over a long winding journey, unexpectedly landing in the C-suite role. Greg DeMars, the CFO of CyberMaxx, took a bit more of a direct route and he has plenty of wisdom to share.

Ben Travis wanted to be a scientist but as his career unfolded he found himself in a leadership role, one he quickly embraced. Then a new challenge emerged: a merger, followed by acquisitions, and suddenly Ben was very much in charge of making many entities one company.

Jasmit Kaur dreamed of being a Bollywood actor growing up and would practice intensely during her childhood. The celebrity life didn't materialize, but after pivoting, Jasmit has built a successful career in business and academia, and is presently serving as the CEO of Culturebie, a company she founded in 2020.

Mohan Kumar had a simple goal - open a neighborhood ice cream shop. What's transpired is a burgeoning empire across multiple states and multiple countries as he has moved from business owner to full-fledged CEO.

Desiree Jennings has spent most of her career in the non-profit space, currently serving as the CEO for The Children's Center, a program that overwhelmingly supports the Detroit community and has been since 1929.

TechTown Detroit CEO Ned Staebler joins the program this week to discuss how he has consistently and intentionally added knowledge and experience to be the best Chief Executive Officer he can be for his current roles and for the future.

Christine Sermak fulfilled her childhood dream of becoming a teacher, eventually rising up to become an athletics director, and then a principal at a high school outside of Lansing, Mich. In this first episode of Journey To The Top, she explains a dramatic career pivot to become the Chief People Officer at Total Security Solutions, and how her role as a teacher, AD and principal has guided her in managing employees and interacting with fellow business leaders.