C-Suite Success with Tricia Benn

Ashley Craig built one of the most decorated careers in corporate finance — from fixed income analysis at Morgan Stanley to managing a $100 million operating budget at The Walt Disney Company — and then did something most executives never do: she walked away from it all to ask harder questions. In this episode of C-Suite Success, Ashley sits down with Tricia Benn for an unfiltered conversation that covers the full arc of a remarkable career — the painful lessons of stepping away to raise her children and being told her skills had gone stale, the moment she realized that accumulating wealth was no longer enough, and why she believes the executives who will define the next decade are the ones paying attention to what's happening to their workforce right now. From the financialization of the American economy to AI, livable wages, and the power of knowing when to say no — Ashley Craig brings three decades of boardroom experience and hard-won clarity to a conversation every c-suite leader needs to hear. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Remember that famous “Napoleon Dynamite” line, “Kip, where’s my chap stick?” Get ready to dive into the fascinating world of Hollywood with Sean Covel, the film’s producer. In this interview, he tells the story of the moment he realized he’d made it in Tinseltown, his unique take on success and the transformative journey he underwent to reevaluate his value system. But that’s not all – his filmmaking triumphs enabled him to give back to his small-town South Dakota community. From crafting a heartwarming children’s book, “Porter the Hoarder,” to creating the ’12 days of pizza’ program to help kids in need during school breaks, Sean’s story is a whirlwind of inspiration. Tune in to discover why he’s the man who “produced something weird that broke science.” Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

D-E-I aren’t just letters. They should be ingrained in every organization’s DNA to make them stronger, more profitable and remain ahead of the competition. In today’s business landscape, we must take advantage of every possible opportunity given to create a bigger impact. Verónica Calderón is the Chief Belonging and University Relations Officer at DeVry University and this interview highlights how she has built a career in creating meaningful impact for others and building strong relationships to elevate leadership.   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

When it comes to success, Mark Victor Hansen has seen and achieved plenty. As the co-author of the hit series “Chicken Soup for the Soul,” Mark has written hundreds of books (and sold over 500 million copies), has spoken all over the world and considers himself a scholar – learning key lessons from such notables as Albert Einstein and Andrew Carnegie. This interview focuses on that immense success after having been rejected 144 times, the three key principles of perseverance, excellence and believing in oneself, and how to use success as a platform to elevate you to a higher level. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Success isn’t a fixed destination -- it’s a journey of reflection, reinvention, and impact. In this episode featuring Dan Caruso, Managing Director of Caruso Ventures, we explore his evolving definition of success, from his drive to write a book as a personal milestone to the humbling lessons learned about networking outside of your circle and relevance. Dan shares candid insights on mentorship, the shifting professional landscape, and the power of engagement in setting future leaders apart. He also dives into his passion for disruptive innovation, from quantum technology to space tech, and why these advancements will shape the next great global transformation. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

As a world-famous rock star, Mark Schulman has shared the stage with notables such as P!nk, Foreigner, Billy Idol, Beyonce, Tina Turner, and more. Whatever success he found on the world stage, has translated to his thought leadership business. An acclaimed keynote speaker and best-selling author of “Conquering Life’s Stage Fright: Three Steps to Top Performance, Mark reveals his most important lesson to achieve success, how to transform your performance, the power of reinvention, and how to be of service. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of C-Suite Success, Tricia Benn sits down with Randall Kenneth Jones, President & Founder of MindZoo, for a candid conversation about what success really means and why the most powerful leaders lead with heart. From a scrappy college moment delivering musical telegrams and surprising Pat Benatar with six dozen balloons, to later interviewing the very icons who once inspired him, Randy shares the defining experiences that shaped his career and mindset. Along the way, he reveals the leadership lessons that changed his life: the transformative power of listening, the courage to grow through discomfort, the wisdom he gained from voices like Suze Orman and Norman Lear, and why authentic storytelling is what people remember long after the strategy is forgotten. It’s a powerful reminder for executives that success isn’t just about titles or outcomes; it’s about purpose, resilience, and the choice to keep showing up as your true self. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Discover the secrets behind the evolution of a 138-year-old brand as Jane Francisco, Editor-in-Chief of “Good Housekeeping” and a driving force at Hearst Lifestyle Group, shares her journey to success. Navigating the challenges of revitalizing an iconic publication requires constant disruption and a willingness to embrace change. Join us in this insightful interview as Jane reflects on her early days as an entrepreneur, comparing the concept of success then to her present perspective. Gain valuable insights into the hard-earned lessons she's gathered along the way and her unwavering enthusiasm for storytelling through the lens of a timeless brand. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode Gerhard Gschwandtner, the founder of Selling Power magazine, shares his multi-decade journey in redefining success and elevating sales professionals worldwide. In this interview, Gerhard discusses the noble purpose of selling, the transformative power of meaningful conversations, and the art of asking the right questions to create value with customers. He also explores overcoming mindset pitfalls and breaking patterns through tools like journaling and gratitude, while emphasizes the timeless impact of ideas that shape a better future and outlast institutions. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This powerful episode of C-Suite Success features John Driscoll — board chair, former healthcare CEO, military officer, and author explores what leadership truly demands in moments of disruption. From his formative lessons at Fort Bragg to scaling and selling CareCentrix, leading major healthcare transformation at Walgreens Health, and boldly doubling entry-level wages while freezing executive salaries, John reveals a consistent throughline: values and performance are inseparable. In a candid, executive-level conversation, he shares why putting people first is not soft leadership but a strategic advantage, how investing in frontline teams reduced turnover and strengthened enterprise value, and why redefining the social contract of success is essential in an AI-driven, economically uncertain world. This episode challenges CEOs, founders, and board leaders to ask themselves: Are we building organizations where people can truly bring their full potential to work — and are our values visible in the way we create value? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of C-Suite Success, Tricia Benn sits down with Stephen Hall -- CEO & Board Member at Robert Hall & Associates -- for a candid conversation that reframes what success truly means for today’s leaders. Moving beyond balance sheets and tax savings, Stephen shares why real success is measured in time -- time with family, time for legacy, and time to live without the constant pressure of deadlines and compliance stress. Drawing from his founder’s perspective and decades of experience, he explores how generational workforce shifts, real-time reporting, AI-driven change, and cybersecurity are transforming tax and accounting at unprecedented speed. From the importance of annual “tax checkups” to understanding how the tax code rewards investors over W-2 earners, Stephen delivers practical, forward-thinking counsel for executives who want to stay nimble, proactive, and positioned for growth. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This episode delves into the artisanal chocolates have captured hearts and taste buds around the world created by Maribel Lieberman, the founder of MarieBelle. From the moment Oprah selected her signature hot chocolate as one of her “favorite things,” Maribel experienced the highs and unexpected challenges of rapid success. She shares invaluable lessons on leadership, listening, and embracing change to keep her brand evolving. More than just making chocolate, Maribel sees her work as creating edible art, blending culture, flavors, and storytelling into every bite. Tune in for an inspiring conversation on innovation, resilience, and the power of staying true to your vision. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of C-Suite Success, Marcia Mintz shares how a pivotal trip to Cuba in the 1990s reshaped her understanding of leadership and success. By listening and learning differently, she discovered the true power of sustainable impact, later choosing to measure success through health outcomes and accessibility rather than traditional benchmarks. Marcia offers an inspiring reminder of what it means to lead with purpose, clarity, and courage — being unapologetic about your mission, authentic about your why, and steadfast even through uncertainty and volatility. Whether navigating tough decisions during COVID or challenging conventional definitions of success, she proves that real leadership demands staying true to your values, even when the path isn't easy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Success isn’t a final destination. It’s a living journey shaped by resilience, vision, and the choices we make along the way. In this thought-provoking conversation, Victor Cho, CEO of Emovid and seasoned digital innovator, reveals how defining moments like the dot-com crash and global pandemic transformed his leadership approach. From building energy-giving relationships to mastering decision-making in times of uncertainty, Victor’s story is a masterclass in clarity, adaptability, and lasting impact. Now, as he turns his focus to the revolutionary power of AI, Victor pushes us to reimagine leadership -- not just for business growth, but for the future we’re collectively creating. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, Dave Sanderson -- renowned speaker and survivor of the Miracle on the Hudson -- delivers powerful insights on what it truly means to succeed. From realizing at just 8 years old that effort drives results to defining success as the fulfillment and happiness found in achieving major goals, Dave’s journey offers lessons for leaders at every level. Drawing from the life-changing events of the Hudson landing, he reveals how the principles of “aviate, navigate, communicate” apply not just to crisis management but to navigating business challenges with clarity and composure. Dave also delves into the privilege of handling pressure, the necessity of learning from failure, and the power of doing the right thing, even under the toughest circumstances. Great leaders, like diamonds, are forged under pressure. This episode is a must-listen for those seeking resilience, purpose, and lasting success. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this episode of C-Suite Success, Jeffrey Meshey, President & CEO of Desert Financial Credit Union, shares how success is about impact, not just income. Leading a not-for-profit financial cooperative, Meshey emphasizes that members, not customers, are at the heart of everything they do. With a mission to "Give & Grow," Desert Financial has built a model of financial success that prioritizes giving back, ensuring strong retained earnings while budgeting annually for philanthropy. From supporting small businesses to funding education and hospital programs, their deep community focus has set them apart from their banking competitors. Meshey reflects on bold decisions, painful lessons, and why always doing the right thing leads to long-term success. Tune in for insights on leading with heart, embracing lifelong learning, and disrupting the status quo for the greater good. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this inspiring episode, Debra McGuire President & CEO of the Private Directors Association, shares her powerful journey from chasing gold on the track -- where her high school goal was to beat none other than a highly-decorated former Olympian -- to redefining success after a devastating injury. She unpacks how learning to pivot, embrace fresh perspectives, and rebuild from the ground up became her greatest life lessons. Now, as a mission-driven leader representing over 3,500 members in the private sector, Debra champions the critical role private companies play in driving economic growth, innovation, and employment. With decades in the nonprofit world and a deep commitment to service, she brings a clear-eyed view on disruption, transformation, and what it truly means to succeed—not just by winning, but by getting back up, evolving, and lifting others along the way. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this powerful C-Suite Success recap, host Tricia Benn brings together the most compelling moments from a year of unforgettable conversations with leaders who are redefining what it means to succeed. From navigating disruption and embracing reinvention to leading with purpose, courage, and conviction, this episode captures the wisdom, vulnerability, and clarity shared by some of today’s most impactful voices. These episodes are hard-earned lessons on resilience, values-driven leadership, and the responsibility that comes with influence. Get ready to reflect, reset, and recommit to the kind of leadership that truly matters and this episode is your starting point. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This episode of C-Suite Success features CJ Davidson, the co-founder & CEO of Proxy Financial, in a powerful conversation about integrity, disruption, and redefining what success really means in the financial industry. CJ shares how his journey -- from swimming upstream in a cutthroat system to founding Proxy -- was born from a simple but radical question: What if we could build careers and lives we actually imagined for ourselves? He opens up about the patience it takes to build “the Proxy Way,” the lessons learned from focusing on purpose over profit, and the deep human connection that drives his mission. With authenticity at the core, CJ reminds us that doing the right thing, leading with integrity, and empowering others isn’t just good business; it’s the only path to lasting success. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this compelling episode of C-Suite Success, Tricia Benn sits down with Erica Payne, Founder and President of Patriotic Millionaires, for a bold, thought-provoking conversation about what success truly means and what it takes to lead with purpose in a noisy, complex world. Erica shares her concept of being “on the beam,” that inner alignment that gives leaders the courage to take bigger risks and build on solid ground, even when external success feels empty. From founding a movement born out of profound purpose to challenging the structural flaws in our economic system, Erica explores leadership at the intersection of business, policy, and humanity. She speaks candidly about patience in public policy, clarity of mission over partisan politics, the realities of entrepreneurship, and the responsibility leaders have to disrupt systems that no longer work. This episode is a must-watch for executives who want to build something sustainable, meaningful, and lasting while having the courage to say the things others won’t. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This episode of "C-Suite Success," dives into the compelling journey of Doug Ladret, a two-time Olympian whose early realization of success came at just 12 years old, winning his first gold medal at the British Columbia Regional Championships. Despite not having a passion for figure skating, Doug's exceptional skills propelled him to excellence. This episode explores the profound lessons of sacrifice and support and the necessity of teamwork within competitive environments. Doug's transition from athlete to coach brought transformative changes to Arizona's skating scene, emphasizing the importance of training, nutrition, and cultivating a competitive mindset. Today, Doug views his role in the people industry, impacting communities by transforming houses into homes, underlining that true success lies in the positive changes we foster in others' lives. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This episode of C-Suite Success shines the spotlight on Jessica Radetsky, Founder and Executive Director of Broadway Hearts, as we explore how she combined her Broadway career into a nationwide nonprofit that brought the healing power of music to children and families in hospitals across the U.S. Jessica shared the journey of scaling a grassroots initiative into an organization with over 100 performers and partnerships in more than 50 hospitals, revealing the leadership lessons, strategic decisions, and mission-driven mindset that fueled its growth. From inspiring stories of impact to practical insights for turning passion into purpose, this conversation is a masterclass for executives and founders in building meaningful, sustainable, highly-impactful organizations. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this exclusive C-Suite Success interview, Keith Ferrazzi, a renowned executive team coach, best-selling author, and one of the world’s most influential voices on leadership, shares how his journey from Pittsburgh’s steel town struggles to the global stage shaped his relentless pursuit of purpose. Keith reveals how scarcity, insecurity, and vulnerability became catalysts for empathy, authenticity, and the revolutionary concept of co-elevation; which reaffirms team commitment to push one another higher and never let each other fail. Drawing on 25 years of research and practice with some of the world’s most notable leaders, Keith unpacks the shifts that transform mediocre teams into high-performing powerhouses, the necessity of candor in service of a shared mission, and why true success comes not from silos, but from collective accountability. This is a candid conversation about leadership, challenge, and purpose—and why the journey is only just beginning. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The word 'No' is often seen as negative, but for David Meerman Scott, it's a source of empowerment and choice. In this insightful interview, we explore David's unique path to redefining success. While he once measured success by traditional standards, David broke new ground as an early advocate of content marketing. He encourages others to openly share their passions and personalities to shape their personal brands, the three distinct stages of his career, his personal definition of success, and reveals the company he calls "the most destructive company on the planet." Join us as David shares wisdom on embracing 'No,' finding true success, and navigating the evolving landscape of personal branding. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this inspiring episode of C-Suite Success, Tricia Benn sits down with George Parente, CEO of DTG Consulting Solutions, to explore what true leadership and success look like in the modern business world. With over 25 years at DTG, rising from CFO to CEO, George shares how he has built a culture that retains talent for decades, navigates disruptions from crises to AI-driven industry changes, and continually invests in lifelong learning. From his Amazon bestseller In Their Shoes to his hands-on approach in shaping people and processes, George reveals the strategies, mindset, and values that define sustainable success, both for himself and the teams he leads. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Success isn’t a fixed destination -- it’s a journey defined by impact, adaptability, and knowing when to disrupt and when to refine. On this episode, Elaine Eisenman, Managing Director at Saeje Advisors, shares her perspective on why success is less about chasing titles and more about solving real challenges. From her wake-up moment as an EVP, to finding your voice to her belief that not all disruption is necessary, Elaine challenges conventional wisdom on leadership, perseverance, and strategic growth. We’ll explore the balance between opportunism and preparation, the overlooked role of "non-sexy" industries in driving economic growth, and why AI should be a tool, not a replacement, for human decision-making. Get ready for a thought-provoking conversation that redefines what it means to lead with intention and impact. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This episode of C-Suite Success features CJ Davidson, the co-founder & CEO of Proxy Financial, in a powerful conversation about integrity, disruption, and redefining what success really means in the financial industry. CJ shares how his journey --from swimming upstream in a cutthroat system to founding Proxy -- was born from a simple but radical question: What if we could build careers and lives we actually imagined for ourselves? He opens up about the patience it takes to build “the Proxy Way,” the lessons learned from focusing on purpose over profit, and the deep human connection that drives his mission. With authenticity at the core, CJ reminds us that doing the right thing, leading with integrity, and empowering others isn’t just good business; it’s the only path to lasting success. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this inspiring episode, Debra McGuire President & CEO of the Private Directors Association, shares her powerful journey from chasing gold on the track -- where her high school goal was to beat none other than a highly-decorated former Olympian -- to redefining success after a devastating injury. She unpacks how learning to pivot, embrace fresh perspectives, and rebuild from the ground up became her greatest life lessons. Now, as a mission-driven leader representing over 3,500 members in the private sector, Debra champions the critical role private companies play in driving economic growth, innovation, and employment. With decades in the nonprofit world and a deep commitment to service, she brings a clear-eyed view on disruption, transformation, and what it truly means to succeed—not just by winning, but by getting back up, evolving, and lifting others along the way. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Success isn’t a final destination. It’s a living journey shaped by resilience, vision, and the choices we make along the way. In this thought-provoking conversation, Victor Cho, CEO of Emovid and seasoned digital innovator, reveals how defining moments like the dot-com crash and global pandemic transformed his leadership approach. From building energy-giving relationships to mastering decision-making in times of uncertainty, Victor’s story is a masterclass in clarity, adaptability, and lasting impact. Now, as he turns his focus to the revolutionary power of AI, Victor pushes us to reimagine leadership—not just for business growth, but for the future we’re collectively creating. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this exclusive C-Suite Success interview, Keith Ferrazzi, a renowned executive team coach, best-selling author, and one of the world’s most influential voices on leadership, shares how his journey from Pittsburgh’s steel town struggles to the global stage shaped his relentless pursuit of purpose. Keith reveals how scarcity, insecurity, and vulnerability became catalysts for empathy, authenticity, and the revolutionary concept of co-elevation; which reaffirms team commitment to push one another higher and never let each other fail. Drawing on 25 years of research and practice with some of the world’s most notable leaders, Keith unpacks the shifts that transform mediocre teams into high-performing powerhouses, the necessity of candor in service of a shared mission, and why true success comes not from silos, but from collective accountability. This is a candid conversation about leadership, challenge, and purpose—and why the journey is only just beginning. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ever wondered about the compelling story behind a label? Bonnie Harvey and Michael Houlihan, the founders of Barefoot Wine, tell the story that led to the label’s unparalleled success. From humble beginnings, they navigated the challenges of starting with no capital, industry expertise, or the luxury of paid advertising, and defied the odds emerging as trailblazers in the wine industry. This interview delves into the transformation of Barefoot Wine as one of the most widely recognized brands worldwide, the highs and lows of their four-year success journey, valuable lessons learned, the complexities of building a brand from the ground up, and the most expensive lessons any business can learn. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Larry Pendleton, known as The Investor’s CPA, is redefining wealth-building by merging financial strategy, real estate investing, and community impact. As a senior partner at PC Financial Services and a seasoned investor himself, Larry has guided thousands toward financial abundance through proactive tax planning and passive income strategies. But his mission goes beyond numbers. He’s pioneering innovative models of affordable homeownership for teachers, first responders, and veterans, ensuring those who serve our communities can also thrive within them. In this conversation, Larry shares how disrupting outdated systems, embracing collaboration over competition, and weaving personal and professional purpose together can unlock both financial freedom and generational wealth. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Success isn’t a fixed destination -- it’s a journey of reflection, reinvention, and impact. In this episode featuring Dan Caruso, Managing Director of Caruso Ventures, we explore his evolving definition of success, from his drive to write a book as a personal milestone to the humbling lessons learned about networking outside of your circle and relevance. Dan shares candid insights on mentorship, the shifting professional landscape, and the power of engagement in setting future leaders apart. He also dives into his passion for disruptive innovation, from quantum technology to space tech, and why these advancements will shape the next great global transformation. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Anne Kennedy is a trailblazer in the digital marketing and SEO space, and her career journey is truly inspiring. She has shown that success is rarely a straight path, but a journey shaped by both triumphs and tough lessons. In 2008, the economic downturn forced her to confront significant challenges, including making difficult decisions that underscored the importance of having sufficient funding to navigate uncertain times. Guided by her uncle’s sage advice to “always allocate a third for the current business, a third for profits, and a third for the future,” she emerged stronger and wiser. As a passionate advocate for women entrepreneurs, Kennedy is transforming traditional funding models to bridge the gap for women-led businesses, demonstrating that supporting these ventures isn’t just the right thing to do -- it’s smart business. Her story is a powerful testament to resilience, innovation, and the profound impact of paying it forward. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This episode of C-Suite Success, features Sarah Young, the CEO, co-founder, and financial strategist extraordinaire whose entrepreneurial journey spans accounting, tax strategy, real estate, and utility companies. Sarah reveals how her definition of success evolved from relentless hustle to empowering her team, clients, and community to thrive. She shares hard-earned lessons on trusting your gut, letting go of wrong-fit relationships, and embracing outsourcing as a strategic advantage. Packed with insights on balancing financial precision with people-first leadership, this conversation is a masterclass in building not just a profitable business, but a lasting legacy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of C-Suite Success, C. Lee Smith, CEO of SalesFuel, shares his unique insights into leadership, vision, and building trust within a team. He discusses his structured approach to goal setting and reflects on his entrepreneurial journey fueled by a passion for creating solutions and leading with transparency. Smith emphasizes the importance of trust as the foundation of great leadership, communication, and fostering promotable leaders. He also unveils his vision to elevate the reputation of the sales profession and the lessons he’s learned about overcoming setbacks, such as the impact of toxic hires. Tune in for actionable advice on hiring for excellence, thinking differently, and making a lasting impact in business. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Mark L. Madrid is a leader whose journey began in the humble fields of the Texas Panhandle taking him all the way to the halls of Washington, D.C. His journey is a masterclass in grit, resilience, and purpose-driven leadership. From selling books door-to-door to serving as a Presidential Appointee at the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA), Mark shares the real lessons of overcoming adversity, supporting millions of small businesses, and building a career grounded in service and tenacity. Tune in to discover how his mantras, mindset, and mission can fuel your own success and why hope, clarity, and action are the ultimate drivers of leadership. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

How can we forge connections and collaborate with those who hold different views? Our guest, Amy Bohn, addresses this in her ongoing advocacy for parental and children’s rights. From an early age, she learned that achieving success means completing what you start and persevering, even when challenges seem insurmountable. As the president and co-founder of PERK (Protection of the Educational Rights of Kids), a bipartisan, non-profit organization, Amy’s advocacy journey has shown her that finding common ground and motivating others to act are what drives success. Whether you’re managing a non-profit or a for-profit business, this interview will inspire you to push boundaries and strive for successful results. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Bishop Warner H. Brown, Jr. shares a lifetime of wisdom on what it truly means to lead with purpose, presence, and compassion. From standing at the Lincoln Memorial during the March on Washington with his dad, to guiding communities through disaster and transformation, Bishop Brown reflects on how character, vulnerability, and a commitment to lifting others define real success. He explores how leaders can disrupt the status quo by embracing their authenticity, creating space for honest dialogue, and building teams grounded in trust and shared purpose. This conversation is a masterclass for anyone seeking to lead with greater clarity, courage, and impact. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Discover the leadership insights of Bob Pizzini, CEO of iFly Virginia Beach, known for his unwavering commitment to core values and organizational culture. In this candid interview, Pizzini emphasizes the pivotal role of core values as the guiding light for any organization. Delve into discussions on navigating the balance between company and individual goals, the significance of experimentation and calculated risks in driving innovation. Tune in for actionable strategies to tackle toxicity, harness the power of defining moments, and gain indispensable advice for entrepreneurs and business leaders alike. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Building a successful company is about more than making money; it’s about nurturing the people that drive the company forward. Michael Brinker is the CEO of Twinvay Products Inc, a company that operates in the medical equipment & supplies industry. During the pandemic, Michael worked tirelessly to provide PPP equipment to facilities across the globe guided by his ‘north star:’ intrinsic values. Throughout this interview, we discuss the bedrock of these values, the best way to share the company’s vision with employees, and how to successfully adapt to different working styles – all while working to deliver on the mission at hand. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In the dynamic world of event planning, there are so many moving parts and variables that contribute to the overall success of the project; and, at times, it can feel like a difficult puzzle to put together. Our guest is Sheila Rondeau, CEO of MOGXP and whether on the battleground or the boardroom, this military vet always delivers on the mission at hand. Throughout the interview, Sheila discusses how to create certainty out of uncertainty, why we should never be afraid to throw down the gauntlet, how to create balance, and highlights what she describes as “the biggest suck.” Tune in to find out what that is and the pieces needed to elevate your marketing and event strategy to new heights! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this powerful episode of C-Suite Success, Jonathan Lowy, Founder and President of Global Action on Gun Violence, shares his extraordinary 28-year journey disrupting one of the most protected industries in the world. As a pioneering attorney who has represented survivors, challenged negligent gun manufacturers, and created legal precedents with global impact, Jonathan discusses how litigation became a tool for change when politics failed to deliver solutions. He opens up about the importance of resilience, humility, and finding common ground—even with those holding opposing views. From reshaping gun policies in the U.S. to advocating for international human rights protections, Jonathan's mission is clear: to uphold the right to live, and to lead with integrity in the face of daunting odds. This is a conversation every purpose-driven executive needs to hear. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Join us for an insightful episode of "C-Suite Success with Tricia Benn," featuring Tom Schmidt, President of Thomas A. Schmidt & Associates, as he shares his wisdom on achieving success through genuine care and service to others. According to Tom, success isn't just about money or status; it's about touching lives and making a real difference. His motto, "Success has always been about how many people have I served today and how long do I get to serve them?" reflects his dedication to treating everyone with equal importance because everybody matters. Throughout the interview, Tom stresses the importance of staying humble and open to new ideas, and the power of listening intently – something crucial for making a meaningful impact. He also stresses the importance of leading with character and compassion can lead to both personal fulfillment and professional success. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Miles Nadal defied the odds by transforming a mere $500 loan into a remarkable $3 billion holding company. During this interview, he shares profound insights, emphasizing the importance of stressing the importance of seizing every opportunity, creating lasting value, and leaving a legacy by trying to make the world a better place. Reflecting on pivotal moments, Nadal reveals the transformative power of giving back by investing in children’s welfare, education, and healthcare initiatives. He underscores the significance of nurturing relationships, attracting top talent, and embracing the unpredictable nature of luck. His journey is a testament to resilience, generosity, and the endless possibilities that await those with the courage to dream big. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Will AI replace humans? The short answer is no. This episode of C-Suite Success, features Sol Rashidi, Head of Technology for Startups, North America, Amazon Web Services, as we explore her journey from being one of the early tech pioneers, to shaping the future of AI and innovation. Sol shares her evolution from a hands-on tech practitioner to an executive leader, where she discovered the importance of EQ and building trust over pushing agendas. Reflecting on her transition out of the enterprise world, Sol discusses the freedom of choosing purpose-driven collaborators and the fulfillment of empowering small businesses to thrive with AI. Her candid insights reveal that meaningful change requires commitment beyond aspiration, and AI should enhance, not replace, human critical thinking and common sense. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, Chuck Chakrapani shares his journey from a conventional definition of success to a transformative realization inspired by his grandmother’s words. He discusses how understanding that real success comes from within changed his world, emphasizing that success should chase you, not the other way around. He highlights the importance of being free from others' opinions, a hard but uniquely liberating lesson, and admits to having a “grasshopper mind,” constantly asking, “What needs doing here?” Delving into the philosophy of Stoicism, he describes it as a profound understanding of controlling only what we can and not worrying about what we can’t, teaching him to enjoy the present moment. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

James W. Keyes, the former CEO of 7-Eleven and Blockbuster, joins Tricia Benn for a conversation that cuts to the core of what it means to lead through disruption. From navigating two of the most turbulent financial eras in modern history to championing innovation across industries like energy, healthcare, cybersecurity, and new space, Keyes shares hard-won insights on resilience, reinvention, and the true meaning of success. With stories from the cockpit, the boardroom, and beyond, this episode challenges today’s executives to rethink their definition of leadership, embrace change as opportunity, and recommit to lifelong learning as the path to lasting impact. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

People are the most valuable asset of any business. As a result, creating workplaces that cultivate a deep sense of value, pride, and accomplishment among employees has become imperative. Throughout this insightful interview, Sue Bingham, Founder & Principal at HPWP Group, explores a way for workers to transform how they perceive their roles, how to shake off the ‘Monday Blues’ and infusing new energy into the workplace. Sue candidly shares her experiences in the Human Resources arena, advocates for dismantling silos built on negative assumptions and championing the notion that perfection should never be a pre-requisite for progress. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What does a former MMA fighter know about being a 16-year-old girl? At first, nothing. But learning to shift perspective became a game-changer for Eliot Marshall, former UFC fighter, bestselling author, entrepreneur, and coach. In this powerful conversation with Tricia Benn, Eliot reveals how his mindset evolved as he learned to train and relate to someone completely different from his own six-foot-two frame. He unpacks how martial arts taught him discipline, how his definition of success has transformed over time, and why helping yourself first isn’t selfish—it’s essential. From managing anxiety to using confidence and belief as the ultimate performance enhancers, Eliot shares insights that resonate far beyond the ring. Whether you're leading a business or just trying to lead a better life, this episode delivers practical wisdom and inspiration. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices