Escape the CEO Doom Loop

A lot of CEOs think they have a growth problem.What they really have is a leadership problem.David Sokol shares what changed in his business when he stopped being the center of everything, invested in senior leadership, and treated culture like operating infrastructure, not soft stuff.A few lines stayed with me.The ceiling was not demand.It was leadership.The risk was not delegation.It was staying in the middle too long.And growth only started to feel healthy when the business stopped depending on one person to shovel the coal.This one is for the CEO who knows the company has outgrown founder led decision making, but has not fully made the shift.If that is where you are, schedule a call.Connect with David Sokol00:10:10 From research to the real work of helping CEOs lead00:12:34 Taking over a business that was already in trouble00:16:09 Fixing what looked unfixable, one step at a time00:19:00 Buying the company when the risk was still high00:20:31 Choosing organic growth over more acquisition noise00:23:00 Building culture through behaviors, not slogans00:27:00 Becoming a trusted advisor by solving people problems00:29:26 Bringing family into the business without creating entitlement00:35:11 Breaking the growth ceiling by investing in leadership00:42:36 Letting go of control so the business can scale00:48:30 Playing the long game instead of protecting short term profit00:52:00 Knowing when the CEO is stretched too thin00:57:33 Shifting from founder energy to a true company01:01:35 What he wishes he had invested in soonerEscape the CEO Doom Loop is for CEOs running companies in the $10–100M range who are tired of feeling like the business runs on them. Send us Fan Mail

Most CEOs think they have a culture problem. Michael Reddington says it's a conversation problem.Michael is a certified forensic interviewer, president of Quaive, and author of The Disciplined Listening Method. He spent a decade with Wicklander-Zulawski and Associates training law enforcement, HR professionals, and investigators in rapport-based interviewing around the world. Today, he works directly with CEOs, sales teams, and HR leaders on something most leadership frameworks ignore — the quality of truth that moves through a business.His core argument is uncomfortable: your title is a barrier. The people around you are editing what they say before they say it. The updates you're getting are polished. The real information lives somewhere below that.This episode is about what it takes to lower that barrier — not by building a better culture deck, but by changing how you lead the conversation.In this episode:Why leaders miss the truth in plain sightFrom teacher to forensic interviewer — and what that taught about pressureThe internal voice that keeps CEOs stuckThe outside voices that reinforce fear and doubtReframing without starting overWhy progress is easier to see from the outsideWhy listening is persuasionWhat people protect when they speak to the CEOThe fraud interview that exposed a bigger problemWhy the best hard conversations feel ordinaryIf you say you don't have time for rapport, you already have a problemWhy an open door policy doesn't remove fearControl, defensiveness, and honesty in leadership conversationsThe simple question that gets people talkingShame as the real blocker to truthWhy leaders should assume people are holding backReframing accusation into loyalty to unlock honestyWhy these principles matter far beyond investigationsConnect with Michael Reddington00:02:37 Why leaders miss the truth in plain sight00:04:27 From teacher to forensic interviewer, and what that taught about pressure00:07:42 The internal voice that keeps CEOs stuck00:11:29 The outside voices that reinforce fear and doubt00:14:47 Reframing without starting over00:17:36 Why progress is easier to see from the outside00:19:18 Why listening is persuasion00:21:55 What people protect when they speak to the CEO00:25:20 The fraud interview that exposed a bigger problem00:35:48 Why the best hard conversations feel ordinary00:39:30 If you say you do not have time for rapport, you already have a problem00:41:00 Why an open door policy does not remove fear00:43:13 Control, defensiveness, and honesty in leadership conversations00:49:24 The simple question that gets people talking00:52:24 Shame as the real blocker to truth00:59:05 Why leaders should assume people are holding back01:01:08 Reframing accusation into loyalty to unlock honesty01:03:54 Why these principles matter far beyond investigationsEscape the CEO Doom Loop is for CEOs running companies in the $10–100M range who are tired of feeling like the business runs on them. Send us Fan Mail

Most CEOs think their CPA only sees the numbers. Pat Fuelling sees the patterns — the warning signs, the blind spots, and the decisions that separate leaders who scale from those who stall.Pat is a partner and executive committee member at Doran Mayhew, one of the top 30 CPA firms in the U.S., and has spent 32 years advising privately held businesses through growth, crisis, and everything in between. In this conversation with Glen Dall and John Ninkovich, he shares what he actually observes from inside the companies he serves.WHAT WE COVER IN THIS EPISODE:Imposter syndrome in the CEO seat — why it doesn’t go away and how it shows upThe physical and behavioral warning signs Pat sees before companies hit a wallReacting vs. responding: the distinction that matters most under pressureGrowth for growth’s sake — a real example of doubling revenue while cutting profitWhat high-performing leadership teams actually look like (and how rare they are)Why the right time to invest in your team is when things are hardestCash flow: the blind spots most CEOs carry longer than they shouldFinancial transparency — what to share, who to share it with, and howPat’s three unconventional CEO Playbook additions: empower your people, learn from the next generation, and teach people how to thinkTIMESTAMPS:0:00 — Introduction and how Pat and John met2:46 — About Doran Mayhew and Pat’s role8:07 — The CEO Doom Loop explained10:46 — Imposter syndrome: does every CEO feel it?12:46 — Recognizing imposter syndrome and finding your way out14:03 — Growing leaders: from sink-or-swim to intentional development19:30 — Clients vs. people: which comes first?22:35 — 360 feedback and giving leaders room to grow23:35 — Financial warning signs and the early signals of a Doom Loop26:14 — Reacting vs. responding under pressure26:37 — Leadership team quality: what Pat actually sees33:29 — Outside advisors and why objectivity matters35:32 — Reinvesting in the business when it’s hard39:00 — Financial acumen for founder-CEOs43:23 — Cash flow: defining terms and building a foundation45:00 — Receivables and the false sense of security48:24 — Financial transparency with the leadership team51:46 — CEO Playbook: Pat’s three pieces of advice57:15 — Why Pat went into accounting (and how he discovered it was actually about people)ABOUT THE GUEST:Pat Fuelling is a partner and executive committee member at Doeren Mayhew, a top-30 CPA firm serving privately held businesses. He’s been in the profession for over 32 years and was one of the early connectors behind the research project that became the CEO Playbook — the foundation of this podcast.ABOUT THE SHOW:Escape the CEO Doom Loop is hosted by Glen Dall and John Ninkovich of Apex North Business Coaching. Every episode is built for CEOs of growing companies who are tired of carrying everything — and ready to lead differently.RESOURCES MENTIONED:Wild at Heart by John EldredgeThe 7 Habits of Highly Effective People by Stephen CoveyThe CEO Playbook — NinkCoach/ Apex North Business CoachingDoeren Mayhew — doranmayhew.com#CEOLeadership #ImpostorSyndrome #BusinessGrowth #CashFlow #CEODoomLoop #ApexNorth #Podcast #TrustedAdvisor #LeadershipDevelopment #PrivatelyHeldBusinessSend us Fan Mail

There is a moment many CEOs remember clearly.Not the first sale.Not the first hire.The moment they realize they are exhausted, isolated, and carrying more than the business should require.In this episode of Escape the CEO Doom Loop, Glen Dall and John Ninkovich sit down with Casey Profita, founder and CEO of Gopher Mods, to unpack a fifteen year journey that started in a college dorm room and grew into a national technology services company supporting schools and businesses across the country.Casey shares the unfiltered reality of building fast without structure.Hiring friends.Avoiding conflict.Confusing effort with leadership.And how ego quietly turned into strategy.This conversation goes beyond success stories.It explores what happens when founders outgrow instinct, when intelligence becomes a bottleneck, and when doing everything yourself starts to cost more than money.If you are a CEO who feels responsible for everything, trusted by no one, and unsure how to step out of the center without losing control, this episode will feel uncomfortably familiar.In this episode, we explore:How the CEO Doom Loop quietly forms over years, not momentsWhy doing the job you already hired someone to do destroys trustThe difference between blind trust and smart trust in leadership teamsWhy clarity and scorecards feel restrictive until they become reliefHow letting go of multiple hats is a leadership decision, not a personality changeThis is not about hustle.It is about evolution.Casey Profita is the Founder and CEO of Gopher Mods, a technology services company that began in a University of Minnesota dorm room and now supports hundreds of school districts and businesses nationwide. Gopher Mods specializes in large scale device repair, lifecycle management, and technology services, completing tens of thousands of repairs each year.Casey’s leadership journey reflects the reality many founders face as their companies outgrow instinct driven leadership. His work today focuses on building strong leadership teams, creating clarity through structure, and evolving from operator to CEO.Chapter Timestamps00:00 – Why the Doom Loop Is Not a Motivation Problem03:45 – From Dorm Room Business to National Scale07:00 – The Cost of Serving Everyone11:40 – When Ego Turns Into Strategy15:30 – The Most Expensive Business Card Ever Printed18:50 – Rock Bottom Moments CEOs Don’t Talk About23:40 – Blind Trust vs Smart Trust28:00 – Why Hiring Friends Breaks Companies33:20 – The Shift from Solopreneur to CEO38:45 – Vulnerability, Trust, and Leadership Teams44:30 – Why Scorecards Create Freedom, Not Control51:00 – Saying No Gets Easier When Vision Is Clear58:40 – Three Principles Every CEO Must MasterIf this conversation resonates, you are not behind.You are at a transition point.If you want to explore what stepping out of the Doom Loop looks like in your business, start with clarity.Learn more about the CEO Playbook or begin a diagnostic conversation at:Send us Fan Mail

Most CEOs don’t fail because they lack effort, intelligence, or ambition.They get stuck because the business outgrows the way they’re leading.In this episode of Escape the CEO Doom Loop, Glen Dall and John Ninkovich sit down with Peter Oxley, a three-time founder, former global CRO, and executive coach, to unpack what really keeps capable CEOs trapped in cycles of overwork, isolation, and stalled leadership.Peter shares his own experience inside the doom loop. Long hours. Hero syndrome. The belief that the CEO must have all the answers. Over time, those patterns don’t just slow growth. They quietly drain energy, trust, and clarity from the entire organization.This conversation isn’t about hustle or motivation. It’s about recognizing the structural patterns that show up at a certain stage of growth and understanding why working harder often makes things worse.You’ll hear how clarity, systems, and outside perspective changed Peter’s leadership, why self-implementing frameworks often fails, and why the most dangerous leadership problems tend to normalize slowly instead of exploding all at once.00:02:35 – Welcome to Escape the CEO Doom Loop00:08:13 – Why the doom loop starts as a “slow boil”00:09:10 – The trap of 80-hour weeks and hero leadership00:10:16 – The loneliness CEOs don’t talk about00:19:38 – When the body forces a leadership reckoning00:22:15 – Why self-implementing systems often fails00:27:37 – Identity, persistence, and staying too long00:35:04 – “Clarity is kindness” and what that really means00:37:48 – When problem-solving replaces leadership00:39:18 – Why leading the second time felt different00:48:24 – Stop being the heroIf you’re a CEO or founder who feels the weight of responsibility but can’t quite name what’s off, this episode will feel uncomfortably familiar in the best way.Send us Fan Mail

Most CEOs are not stuck because they are bad operators.They are stuck because they are chasing bigger instead of better.This conversation is about the moment when growth stops working, and what replaces it.If you are scaling fast but losing people, clarity, or energy, this episode is for you.00:00:00 — When growth starts as excitement and turns into strain00:03:07 — From operator to advisor and why entrepreneurship cuts both ways00:07:02 — Recognizing the doom loop only after you have lived it00:09:05 — Fast growth, ego, and the quiet damage it creates00:11:00 — Why bigger is often a proxy for unresolved leadership decisions00:14:20 — Compounding versus chasing numbers00:16:34 — The 15 15 15 lens for controlled growth00:18:00 — How impatience and lack of discipline fuel the doom loop00:25:00 — Life by design and the real reason CEOs start companies00:28:10 — The four flywheels that replace chaos with momentum00:29:12 — The team doom loop versus building a soulful organization00:41:15 — Customers, offerings, and why focus beats expansion00:49:00 — Financial discipline and avoiding shiny object decisions00:54:12 — Three practices to stay out of the CEO doom loop00:58:12 — Why entrepreneurship does not have to cost you everythingBrad Giles is a serial entrepreneur, leadership coach, and founder of Evolution Partners. He has built and exited fast growth companies and spent more than a decade advising CEOs across Australia and internationally.Brad is the author of Made to Thrive, Onboarded, and Bigger Isn’t Better, Better Is Better. His work focuses on strategy discipline, leadership maturity, and building businesses that compound without destroying quality of life.If this conversation surfaced patterns you recognize in your own role, the CEO Playbook is a practical companion.It outlines how CEOs step out of the doom loop and lead with clarity, structure, and intention, without chasing scale for its own sake.Send us Fan Mail

Growth doesn’t slow because CEOs lose ambition or discipline.It slows because success creates complexity faster than structure can keep up.In this episode of Escape the CEO Doom Loop, hosts Glen Dall and John Ninkovich sit down with Shannon Susko to explore why growth often becomes harder after a company is working.Shannon shares why:Success is often the hidden bottleneck to growthCapable CEOs stay stuck longer than they shouldFounder instinct eventually works against scaleMotivation is rarely the real problemStructure is relief, not restrictionThis episode is not about tactics, hacks, or hustle.It’s about recognizing the moment when leadership must shift, or the CEO Doom Loop tightens.If growth feels slower, decisions feel heavier, and the business depends on you more than it should, this conversation will sound familiar.And that’s the point.00:00 – When Growth Slows After Success03:12 – The Hidden Cost of Founder Instinct07:45 – Why Effort Stops Working for CEOs12:30 – Success as the Real Bottleneck17:10 – The CEO Doom Loop Explained22:40 – Why Capable CEOs Delay Structural Change28:15 – Structure as Relief, Not Restriction33:50 – The Leadership Shift That Unlocks Growth39:20 – Recognizing the Moment You’re In44:10 – Breaking the Growth Ceiling48:30 – Final Reflections with Shannon SuskoAbout the GuestShannon Susko is the founder of Metronomics and a leading authority on scaling growth stage companies. Her work focuses on helping CEOs move beyond founder instinct and install the structure required for sustained, scalable growth.About the ShowEscape the CEO Doom Loop is a podcast for CEOs, owners, founders, and presidents who are already successful but stuck in recurring leadership and growth patterns.The show exists to:Name patterns CEOs recognize immediatelyReduce shame around leadership strainNormalize structure, coaching, and guidanceShorten the path from insight to actionThis is not a podcast for beginners.It’s for leaders carrying real responsibility, who know something has to change.Send us Fan Mail

Most CEOs do not burn out from lack of effort. They burn out from reacting too fast.Dan Hanson is the CEO of Hanson Remodeling, serving homeowners across Minneapolis, St. Paul, and the first ring of suburbs.With a background in business management and philosophy, Dan built the company through hands-on work before shifting his focus to leadership development and long term purpose.Today, his work centers on building a durable culture, developing leaders, and creating a business that lasts beyond the founder.Dan Hanson built a strong company, hit his goals, and still found himself awake at 3 a.m. That was the signal. This conversation is about the shift from gumption to leadership. From solving everything yourself to building people who can.00:00:00 Pain triggers reactivity or curiosity00:01:18 Building a company without a clear end goal00:02:44 Hitting every target and still feeling stuck00:03:29 Realizing the business could not grow past the CEO00:04:45 How the Doom Loop shows up at 3 a.m.00:05:11 When effort becomes the problem00:06:29 Why calm leadership changes everything00:07:25 What got you here will not get you there00:09:16 Develop leaders or replace them00:11:07 Why swooping in kills leadership growth00:12:27 Self care as a leadership discipline00:13:45 Knowing when to put the tools down00:14:18 How to get out of your head at night00:15:19 Living in the gap versus the gain00:17:10 When personal growth creates team chaos00:19:09 Why CEOs need community00:20:00 How philosophy shaped decision making00:21:04 The evolution from money to meaning00:23:00 Why leadership never feels finished00:24:22 When success stops being fulfilling00:27:00 What defines a level five leader00:29:06 Building something that is not hollow00:30:07 Imposter syndrome as a growth signal00:33:20 Doom Loop as regression00:34:10 Why CEO experience matters in coaching00:38:17 Accountability as care00:42:06 Empathy without rescuing00:45:36 Letting pain teach instead of trigger00:48:00 Servant leadership is and not or00:51:16 Letting people go with empathy00:53:04 Developing thick skin as a CEO00:56:53 What belongs in the CEO playbook01:00:07 Pause before you pounceSend us Fan Mail

What happens when a CEO realizes he’s the bottleneck in his own business? In this episode of Escape the CEO Doom Loop, hosts Glen Dall and John Ninkovich sit down with Philip Chabot, CEO of RSC Mechanical, to talk about the uncomfortable truth every leader faces — when old habits hold back new growth.Phil shares his candid story of stepping into a 500-person family business, struggling with the “Doom Loop,” and rebuilding through accountability, structure, and consistency. He explains how RSC turned its Compass — a simple framework of mission, vision, and values — into a living system that drives culture and clarity across 19 states.If you’re a founder, entrepreneur, or executive looking to break free from burnout and lead with focus, this episode delivers the real-world playbook: lean in, write it down, make a plan, and stay consistent.Watch now to learn:How to recognize and escape the CEO Doom LoopCreating accountability systems without emotionBalancing family, business, and leadership growthWhy consistency beats intensity every time00:00 – Intro: Welcome to Escape the CEO Doom Loop  02:24 – Meet Philip Chabot, CEO of RSC Mechanical  03:40 – The Family Legacy and Early Lessons in Leadership  06:25 – The Planned CEO Transition  08:05 – “Want vs Will”: The Real Test of Leadership  11:09 – Balancing Family and CEO Responsibilities  15:10 – Recognizing the Doom Loop  17:08 – Escaping It: A Good Plan Beats No Plan  20:47 – Building Accountability Through “The Compass”  23:57 – Culture Over Convenience in a Family Business  26:40 – Maintaining Standards and Communication  32:37 – What Got Us Here Won’t Get Us There  35:45 – Scaling with Structure and Data  38:30 – Building Culture That Attracts A-Players  40:30 – Using Data as a Leadership Tool  43:33 – Consistency Drives Profitability  45:36 – Phil’s Advice: Write. Plan. Measure.  51:00 – Closing Thoughts: Consistency Wins Every TimeSend us Fan Mail

Carl Saunders was stuck.Four years of flat revenue. Flat profit.Eighty to one hundred hour weeks.Two top performers asking, “Where is the opportunity here?”Most CEOs know that moment.Few know how to climb out.In this episode, Carl shares how he broke the cycle that was burning him out and stalling the company. His story moves from overwork and fear-driven leadership to a system that transformed the business: daily huddles, transparency, servant leadership, real accountability, and a team that delivered without him in the center.Within four years, Vorum doubled revenue, tripled profitability, and sold the company with a six-month earn-out because the team was running the business, not Carl.If you’re a CEO who feels stuck, this is the roadmap.What You’ll Learn• The Doom Loop defined Flat growth, overwork, and top talent questioning their future.• Why founders stay stuck Fear of failure, over-involvement, “hero mode,” and the belief that effort equals value.• The exact tools Carl used to turn it around Daily huddles Radical transparency Servant leadership one-on-ones• Proof of transformation Revenue doubled. Profitability tripled. Earn-out reduced from two years to six months.• What goes into the CEO Playbook Stop wearing 80-hour weeks like a badge. Lean into personal change. Make accountability visible. Coach your leaders, don’t rescue them. Don’t try to do this alone.• A 30-day roadmap to break the Doom Loop Simple steps any CEO can start now.About Carl SaundersFormer CEO of Vorum, a global medical technology innovator in custom orthopedic devices. Now a full-time Metronomics coach helping CEOs escape the patterns he once lived through.Chapters00:00 Cold Open00:45 Introduction02:00 Carl’s Doom Loop Moment08:00 Why CEOs Get Stuck12:00 Tools That Break the Loop22:00 Transformation and Results28:00 Carl’s CEO Playbook33:00 Coachability and Resistance36:00 A CEO’s First 30 Days39:00 Recap and CloseResources and LinksDownload the free CEO Playbook The frameworks Carl used. The same tools we teach.Subscribe to Escape the CEO Doom Loop Real stories, real systems, straight from CEOs who’ve done the work.About the ShowEscape the CEO Doom Loop is for CEOs and leadership teams ready to grow with clarity, momentum, and purpose. Hosted by Glen Dall and John Ninkovich, each episode brings you practical tools and real-world stories from leaders who’ve built strong companies without sacrificing their sanity.Apple Podcasts: https://lnkd.in/gGJHsNT9Spotify: https://lnkd.in/gDywEfucYouTube: https://lnkd.in/gcNmQvA4#EscapeTheCEODoomLoop #CEOLeadership #ExecutiveCoaching #Metronomics #LeadershipSystems #GetUnstuck #CEOPlaybookSend us Fan Mail

In this episode of Escape the CEO Doom Loop, hosts Glen Dall and John Ninkovich sit down with former tech CEO turned coach Matt Dion.Matt shares his unfiltered story of success, burnout, and reinvention through the 2008 financial crisis. He explains how ego and overwork trapped him in a cycle of stress — and how mentorship, structure, and self-awareness helped him escape it.Whether you’re a founder, CEO, or executive looking to lead without losing yourself, this conversation offers real-world wisdom on building teams, embracing conflict, and leading with purpose.Watch now to learn how clarity and courage create freedom.Chapters: 00:00 – Intro & Show Opening 02:17 – Meet Matt Dion: From Tech Startups to CEO 05:10 – The First Rise and Fall 07:11 – Ego and the 2008 Crash 09:50 – Burnout & Hitting Bottom 11:00 – Discovering Coaching and Frameworks 16:47 – Lessons from The Motive 19:02 – Building A-Player Teams 25:18 – From Ego to Purpose 27:19 – Conflict as Data 39:33 – Freedom Through Courage 40:22 – Closing Thoughts & TakeawaysSend us Fan Mail

In this episode of Escape the CEO Doom Loop, Glen Dall and John Ninkovich sit down with Josh Barney, Vice President of JJ Barney Construction. A former attorney who left the courtroom for concrete, Josh shares the story of joining his fourth-generation family business, the challenges of stepping into a future CEO role, and the lessons he’s learned along the way.Josh reflects on transitioning leadership from his father, building a dream team, and why he believes construction is a people business. From honoring his great-grandfather’s legacy to shaping a modern company culture, this conversation explores faith, family, and the real meaning of leadership.Watch now to hear how Josh plans to avoid the CEO Doom Loop and what advice he has for leaders carrying the weight of legacy and growth.Chapters: [00:00:00] Introduction & Setup [00:03:30] Welcome Josh Barney [00:04:14] The History of JJ Barney Construction [00:10:27] Leaving Law for the Family Business [00:17:41] Building Leadership & Structure [00:23:24] Challenges of Delegation and Change [00:40:22] Faith, Family, and Legacy [00:44:01] Fear, Pressure, and Privilege [00:46:18] Three Keys to Avoid the CEO Doom Loop [00:49:25] Closing ThoughtsSend us Fan Mail

At 28 years old, Richard Bryan was thrown into the CEO seat of his family’s 100-year-old car dealership group — a business losing millions and on the brink of collapse. With 400 employees and 16 family shareholders depending on him, survival became the only goal.In this episode of Escape the CEO Doom Loop, Richard shares how he led under immense pressure, the pivotal role his mentor “Frank” played, and the leadership lessons he carries into his work today as a Metronomics coach. From firing C players to building an A-team, Richard’s story is a raw look at what it takes to lead through a crisis.If you’re a CEO, entrepreneur, or leader navigating growth and uncertainty, Richard’s journey will challenge and inspire you. Subscribe for more conversations with leaders escaping the Doom Loop.Chapters:[00:00:00] Intro & Guest Welcome[00:06:01] Becoming CEO at 28[00:07:46] Defining Success as Survival[00:12:00] Six Months of Cash Left[00:13:38] Finding Frank the Mentor[00:18:00] Hard Decisions: Closures & Layoffs[00:29:42] Building an A-Team[00:36:19] From Survival to Growth Vision[00:43:28] Transition to Coaching[00:50:00] Leadership Lessons for CEOsSend us Fan Mail

In this episode of Escape the CEO Doom Loop, hosts Glen Dall and John Ninkovich sit down with Shawn Verlinden, CEO of Auch Construction. Shawn shares his journey from project manager to CEO of a 100+ year-old construction firm, and how building leadership rhythms transformed his company’s culture and growth trajectory.Shawn explains how letting go of daily tasks was the best move he made, how daily huddles created trust and speed across the company, and why coaching and accountability drive momentum. From his first year as CEO, Shawn’s insights are practical, candid, and deeply human — lessons every leader can use.If you’re a CEO struggling with growth challenges, this episode will give you practical strategies to lead with clarity, courage, and discipline. Subscribe for more conversations with real-world CEOs.Chapters: [00:00:00] Intro & Guest Welcome [00:01:00] Shawn’s background in construction [00:03:00] The CEO Doom Loop explained [00:07:00] Building a cohesive leadership team [00:13:00] First year as CEO: lessons learned [00:17:00] Letting go of projects to lead the company [00:20:00] Shifting from operations to strategy [00:27:00] Coaching, huddles, and momentum [00:34:00] Shawn’s leadership philosophy & vision [00:42:40] ClosingSend us Fan Mail

Burnout, Bad Hires & Bulldozing Through the Doom LoopWhat happens when you hit rock bottom in the CEO seat—8 figures in debt, team trust eroding, and no clear way out?In this episode, Glen Dall and John Ninkovich sit down with Anthony Stayman, who shares the brutal truth of trying to do it all—CEO, head of sales, firefighter—and what finally helped him escape the Doom Loop.They unpack:What $8M in debt teaches you about leadershipWhy hiring the “smartest person in the room” can backfireThe hidden cost of bulldozing through burnoutHow coaching helped rebuild momentum without selling the companySubscribe for real stories, not theory.Full episodes:Apple Podcasts: https://lnkd.in/gGJHsNT9Spotify: https://lnkd.in/gDywEfucYouTube: https://lnkd.in/gcNmQvA4#LeadershipPodcast #CEOStories #ExecutiveCoaching #BurnoutRecovery #APlayerTeams #EscapeTheCEODoomLoopSend us Fan Mail

What does it really take to lead a century-old family business into its next era of growth, without losing yourself in the process?In this episode, Glen Dall and John Ninkovich sit down with Matt McDonell, CEO of MJS Packaging, to explore his journey from family member on the sidelines to full-time sales leader and, ultimately, CEO. Matt opens up about the weight of leadership, the discipline of strategic planning, the loneliness that often comes with the role, and the ongoing work of building a culture that retains A-players in a modern world.If you’re leading a growing business, navigating succession, or just trying to find balance in the chaos, this conversation is for you.           Key Topics Covered:The evolution of a 135+ year-old family businessTransitioning into the CEO seat during COVIDBreaking old habits: from "everyone sells everything" to strategic focusBuilding a true leadership team and letting go of firefightingWhat it feels like to live in the CEO Doom Loop—and how Matt gets out of itThe cost of ignoring personal well-being as a leaderBalancing legacy with future growth (including acquisitions)How to retain A-players and build accountability in a family-oriented cultureWhy a CEO coach matters—and what kind of support makes a differenceGuest Bio:Matt McDonell is the CEO of MJS Packaging, a multi-generation family business founded in 1885. With deep roots in sales and a strategic mind for growth, Matt has helped lead the company through industry disruption, leadership transitions, and internal reinvention. He’s known for his direct communication, humble leadership, and commitment to building a business that outlasts him.Timestamps:00:00 – Intro: Who is Matt McDonell?04:00 – Family business legacy + Matt’s path to CEO10:15 – First strategic planning sessions with John15:45 – The decision to reinvest in leadership (vs. distribute profits)20:30 – Growing pains & signs the team needed change26:00 – Becoming the CEO: reality vs. expectation33:40 – Recognizing and escaping the CEO Doom Loop39:25 – Balancing family, health, and mental clarity44:15 – Building a culture that attracts and keeps A-players49:10 – Driving change in a legacy business53:40 – The importance of understanding your core customer59:00 – How Matt's role has evolved + becoming a remote CEO1:06:15 – Vision, legacy, and what comes next1:10:30 – Matt’s CEO Playbook: 3 non-negotiables1:14:00 – Final reflections from Glen & JohnSend us Fan Mail

When your company’s growth slows, the instinct is to work harder, move faster, and push your team harder. But what if that’s exactly what’s keeping you stuck?In this episode, Michael Guthrie, experienced CEO, breaks down why even the most successful leaders can get caught in the CEO doom loop, and how to break free.We unpack:How growth plateaus actually start (and why it’s rarely market conditions).The warning signs your leadership team is out of alignment.Why “do more” often backfires when revenue stalls.The small, deliberate shifts that reignite momentum.How to keep your head clear when the weight of the company feels like it’s all on you.If you’re a CEO, founder, or senior leader, Michael’s insights will give you both the diagnosis and the cure for your company’s slowdown.Inform StudioSend us Fan Mail

In this episode, Glen and John sit down with Bill Costello, CEO of Streeter Custom Builder, for an honest and insightful look at what it really takes to transition from doing the work—to leading the people who do.From running operations to stepping into the CEO seat, Bill’s journey is filled with the tough mindset shifts and real leadership lessons that define a high-performing company. Whether it’s letting go of control, navigating team turnover, or building a leadership rhythm that drives culture and profit—Bill shares how he escaped the Doom Loop and built something stronger.This conversation is packed with truth, strategy, and the kind of wisdom only hard-earned experience can bring.In this episode, Bill shares:What it was like to take over a legacy business—and why vision had to come firstThe hardest transition of all: letting go of operationsWhy accountability scared some people off—and why that’s okayHis framework for coaching senior leaders instead of managing themThe rhythm that built consistency, culture, and over $3M in net profitWhat changed when he stopped being the fixer and started asking better questionsHow “Automate the Ordinary, Elevate the Extraordinary” became a leadership mantraWhy building an A-level team is the CEO’s most important jobTimestamps: 00:00 – Welcome + Meet Bill Costello 02:30 – From COO to CEO: The messy middle 06:45 – Trusting the team to rise 11:10 – Letting go of control and the COO title 15:30 – Building a vision the whole company could believe in 21:15 – When the vision finally clicked—and fear turned into buy-in 26:50 – What accountability really means (and what it cost them) 31:20 – Turning metrics into motivation 36:15 – Bonus structures, performance, and retention 42:30 – When team changes force a reset 47:00 – Coaching through hard decisions 51:45 – Working on the business vs. in the business 55:00 – Ask more questions. Be patient. Stay disciplined.Send us Fan Mail

In this episode, Glen and John sit down with Lauren Carson, President of ARC Abrasives, to unpack her raw and insightful leadership journey. From inheriting operations without a playbook to becoming the type of leader who attracts top talent and drives bottom-line results—Lauren shares what it really takes to lead a legacy manufacturing company into the future.This conversation is packed with real-world lessons, laughter, and leadership truths.In this episode, Lauren shares:How she unexpectedly became president of a 60-year-old manufacturing companyWhat it feels like to fall into the CEO Doom Loop—and how coaching helps her climb outThe hardest people decisions she’s had to make—and why her team trusts her more because of themHer strategies for empowering managers, tracking performance, and growing profitabilityWhy “every day is the Super Bowl” when you’re building a culture that winsHow boundaries, gym routines, and family time keep her grounded and energizedWhat legacy means to her—and why ARC’s name should stand for something more than sandpaperTimestamps:00:00 – Welcome + Lauren’s intro03:45 – From sales exec to president08:55 – A bold vision for manufacturing12:20 – Recognizing the CEO Doom Loop15:45 – Coaching and holding up the mirror18:15 – Building a culture that attracts A-players23:05 – Making the hard people decisions28:30 – Metrics, profit, and empowering the floor33:00 – Shifting from in the business to on the business38:45 – Leadership team evolution44:00 – Boundaries, routines, and energy48:30 – The legacy Lauren wants to leave53:10 – Executive hires and team performanceWatch or listen to the full episode here:Apple PodcastsSpotifyYouTube About the Show:Escape the CEO Doom Loop is for CEOs and leadership teams ready to grow—with clarity, momentum, and purpose. Co-hosted by Glen Dall and John Ninkovich, each episode delivers real-world stories and practical tools to help you lead better and scale smarter.#EscapeTheCEODoomLoop #ManufacturingLeadership #CEOPlaybook #ExecutiveCoaching #GrowthMindset #WomenInLeadershipSend us Fan Mail

Becoming the Coach I Needed: Glen’s Story | Escape the CEO Doom Loop Podcast“I wish I could go back and coach myself when I was CEO.”That’s the core of Glen’s purpose—and in this episode, you’ll hear why. From the weight of lonely decisions to years spent without clarity on strategy or people, Glen unpacks what it really felt like to lead without a coach—and how that fuels the work he does today.Timestamps:00:00 – Intro: Why Glen coaches02:20 – Leading without a guide05:30 – The loneliness of the CEO seat08:45 – What he would do differently today12:00 – Helping others get clear on purpose and team16:40 – Final reflections on coaching, growth, and missionWatch or listen to the full episode here:Apple PodcastsSpotifyYouTubeAbout the Show:Escape the CEO Doom Loop is for CEOs and leadership teams ready to grow—with clarity, momentum, and purpose. Co-hosted by Glen Dall and John Ninkovich, each episode delivers real-world stories and practical tools to help you lead better and scale smarter.#EscapeTheCEODoomLoop #GetUnstuck #ExecutiveCoaching #CEOLeadership #ClarityInChaosSend us Fan Mail

In this powerful second episode of Escape the CEO Doom Loop, co-host John Ninkovich opens up about his personal leadership journey—from working behind the counter of a family business at age nine to running a company, losing it all, and rebuilding with purpose.John sits down with Glen Dall to share the real story behind why he became a CEO coach—and why the most valuable lessons don’t come from the wins, but from the moments you feel like you’ve hit rock bottom.Inside this episode:What it really feels like to go from CEO to employee—and why ego isn’t your enemy, but your teacher.The hard truth behind family business dynamics, loyalty, and painful people decisions.Why coaching your own team is like trying to play quarterback and be the head coach—and why that rarely works.The 3AM sweat: waking up with payroll panic and learning what real responsibility feels like.How the darkest moments often become the foundation for your purpose as a leader.If you’ve ever felt the weight of leading a team, the fear of failure, or the isolation that comes with the title “CEO,” this episode is for you. John’s story is a reminder that real leadership is forged in adversity—and that you’re not alone in the journey.Up next: In Episode 3, Glen shares his CEO story—the rise, the fall, the public-company pressure, and the path to purpose.Send us Fan Mail

Welcome to the inaugural episode of Escape the CEO Doom Loop — hosted by Glen Dall and John Ninkovich, two seasoned CEO and leadership team coaches who've been in the seat and lived to tell about it.In this launch episode, Glen and John get personal. They share what led them to coaching, why they’re launching this podcast now, and why so many successful leaders eventually find themselves in what they call the CEO Doom Loop — a cycle of doubt, fatigue, frustration, and inertia that hits even the most driven business owners.You’ll hear:Why "what got you here won’t get you there" is more than a cliché — and how it can keep you stuck.The hidden danger of record-breaking years (and why they sometimes lead to bankruptcy).Why great businesses falter not because of strategy—but because of people decisions.The real reason it takes three years to meaningfully transform a business.Why vulnerability and imposter syndrome are more common among CEOs than you think.You’ll also get a behind-the-scenes look at what Glen and John are planning for future episodes — including interviews with CEOs, operators, and coaches who’ve broken out of the doom loop and learned how to win on purpose.Whether you're feeling stuck, scaling fast, or just need a fresh perspective — this is the conversation you didn’t know you needed.Your next step? Listen in. Reflect. And ask yourself: Am I in the loop? And am I ready to escape?Send us Fan Mail