The SCLA Presents: CEO Unscripted

In this episode of SCLA’s CEO Unscripted Speaker Series, we sit down with Trey Vick, CEO of V3 Capital Group, Classic Home Health Services, and Strive Senior Living. With a background in commercial real estate, banking, and private equity, Trey brings a unique perspective on leadership, growth, and navigating an unconventional career path.Hosted by Caden Vittorini, this conversation explores what students and young professionals should understand before entering the workforce—and the lessons Trey wishes he knew in college.Trey shares his journey from playing college baseball and starting in pre-med to joining the United States Air Force, and ultimately becoming a CEO leading multiple organizations. He breaks down how resilience, adaptability, and a people-first mindset have shaped his success.In this episode, we cover:• Why you don’t need to have everything figured out in college• The career decision that changed Trey’s trajectory• How military experience built real-world leadership skills• Balancing ambition, family, and long-term success• Why starting before you feel ready gives you an advantage• The difference between being a boss and a true leaderKey takeaway:“Work hard, do what you love, stay focused—and take other people on the journey with you.”This episode is packed with practical insights for anyone navigating college, early career decisions, or leadership growth.Subscribe for more conversations with today’s CEOs and founders.Instagram: @the_SCLAWebsite: www.thescla.org

In Episode 18 of the SCLA CEO Unscripted Speaker Series, we sit down with Larry Sands, seasoned broadcast executive, entrepreneur, and leadership coach, to explore the realities of building a successful career and the lessons that only come from real-world experience.With more than 25 years of leadership across major media markets, Larry shares the journey that took him from selling radio advertising in a small North Carolina town to leading major operations at Univision, including serving as President of Univision Puerto Rico and General Manager in Chicago and Sacramento. Today, he is the President of Creative Bone Consulting and Management, where he works with organizations across industries to help leaders grow with intention and build stronger teams.Throughout the conversation, Larry reflects on the myths he believed as a college student—including the idea that strong grades alone would lead to immediate career success. Instead, he emphasizes the importance of gaining real-world experience, learning from setbacks, and staying open to opportunities that may push you outside of your comfort zone.Larry also dives into one of the most overlooked leadership skills in today’s workforce: communication. He explains why the ability to listen, build relationships, and communicate clearly can set emerging leaders apart in a rapidly evolving professional environment.From navigating generational shifts in the workplace to building habits that lead to long-term success, Larry offers grounded insights for students and young professionals looking to grow with purpose.In this episode, Larry shares:🔹 Why early career experience often matters more than GPA🔹 The career decision that completely changed his leadership path🔹 Why communication and listening are essential leadership skills🔹 How curiosity and hard work can accelerate career growth🔹 Advice for students entering today’s evolving workforceThis episode is packed with practical insights for students, emerging professionals, and future leaders who want to build meaningful careers, strengthen their leadership skills, and grow through experience.#CEOUnscripted #SCLA #LeadershipDevelopment #StudentLeadership #CareerAdvice #ProfessionalGrowth #CommunicationSkills #BroadcastLeadership #FutureLeaders #Entrepreneurship

In Episode 17 of the SCLA CEO Unscripted Speaker Series, we sit down with Jyot Singh, serial entrepreneur, technologist, and CEO of RTS Labs, to explore leadership in the age of AI and what it truly takes to turn innovation into meaningful impact.As a leader focused on transforming artificial intelligence into real ROI, Jyot shares his journey from engineering student to building multiple companies centered on AI adoption, data strategy, and digital transformation. He reflects on the myths he once believed in college, why relationships matter more than grades alone, and how curiosity and adaptability shape long-term success.Throughout the conversation, Jyot offers grounded insight into navigating today’s fast-paced world filled with constant information and pressure. He discusses overcoming self-doubt, learning to filter noise from real opportunities, and why developing resilience and learning how to say no are essential skills for emerging leaders. He also challenges traditional views on education, emphasizing that the art of learning and critical thinking matter more than memorization in an AI-driven future.In this episode, Jyot shares:🔹 Why building strong relationships is one of the most valuable investments students can make🔹 The leadership habits that helped him overcome self-belief challenges🔹 How AI is changing the way we learn, work, and lead🔹 Practical productivity strategies, including the power of a “not-to-do” list🔹 Advice for students looking to grow into confident, adaptable leadersThis episode is packed with practical insight for students, innovators, and future leaders who want to grow with purpose, stay curious, and lead confidently in a rapidly evolving digital landscape.#CEOUnscripted #SCLA #ArtificialIntelligence #LeadershipDevelopment #StudentLeadership #CareerGrowth #DigitalTransformation #RTSLabs #FutureOfWork #Entrepreneurship

In Episode 16 of the SCLA CEO Unscripted Speaker Series, we sit down with Dusty Holcomb, CEO & Founder of Arcqus Group, to talk about leadership, resilience, and what it really takes to grow from student to executive leader.With nearly three decades of experience in corporate leadership, CEO, and president roles, Dusty shares how early mentorship shaped his philosophy that leadership is about service, not ego. From starting his first business at eleven to leading large teams at a young age, his journey highlights the importance of courage, humility, and continuous learning.Throughout the conversation, Dusty challenges common myths about success, including the idea that leaders need to be liked to be effective. He opens up about imposter syndrome, standing firm in difficult conversations, and why focusing on long-term growth matters more than chasing short-term validation. He also discusses the biggest challenges students face today, from instant-gratification culture to overcoming bias around age and experience.In this episode, Dusty shares:🔹 The biggest leadership myth he had to unlearn🔹 How mentorship shaped his career path🔹 Why resilience and adaptability matter more than perfect preparation🔹 Practical habits that keep leaders grounded🔹 Advice for students navigating leadership and career growthThis episode delivers honest insight for students and emerging leaders looking to build confidence, strengthen communication skills, and lead with purpose in a changing world.#CEOUnscripted #SCLA #LeadershipDevelopment #StudentLeadership #CareerGrowth #ExecutiveLeadership #FutureLeaders #ArcqusGroup #PersonalGrowth #Mentorship

In Episode 15 of the SCLA CEO Unscripted Speaker Series, we sit down with Kyle Wilson, Founder of Thrive Modal and Yellow Diamond Logistics, to explore what leadership, sales, and entrepreneurship look like in a truly global workforce.Kyle’s path from student to CEO was anything but traditional. After graduating from Emory University with an economics degree during the aftermath of the recession, he entered the logistics industry through cold calling and commission sales. What followed was a decade of persistence, relationship-building, and firsthand exposure to how businesses scale, fail, and evolve. That experience ultimately led him to entrepreneurship, where he now helps companies optimize operations, rethink cost structures, and leverage global talent to grow sustainably.Throughout the conversation, Kyle challenges common myths about grades, career security, and success after college. He shares why sales and people skills remain irreplaceable, how risk tolerance and confidence shaped his leadership journey, and why today’s students are entering a workforce that is no longer local, but global.In this episode, Kyle shares:🔹 A major myth about college success and how real-world experience changed his perspective🔹 How cold calling and sales built the foundation for his leadership career🔹 The unexpected moment that pushed him into entrepreneurship🔹 Why confidence and risk tolerance are essential for CEOs🔹 How global staffing can reshape company culture and growth🔹 Why people skills matter more as technology and AI continue to evolve🔹 The advice he wants students to remember: you are competing in a global workforceThis episode offers direct, unfiltered insight for students and emerging leaders navigating career uncertainty, entrepreneurship, sales, and leadership in an increasingly connected world.#CEOUnscripted #SCLA #LeadershipDevelopment #Entrepreneurship #SalesSkills #GlobalWorkforce #StudentSuccess #CareerGrowth #BusinessLeadership #FutureLeaders

In Episode 14 of the SCLA CEO Unscripted Speaker Series, we sit down with Alan McLaren, Cofounder of STRATA Originals, a leadership and storytelling consultancy helping founders and executives step into their story, lead with authenticity, and leave a meaningful legacy.With more than 30 years at the intersection of technology, brand building, and storytelling, Alan’s career spans commission sales, executive leadership, entrepreneurship, and advising founders and Fortune 500 leaders. His journey is rooted in resilience, work ethic, and a deep belief that leadership is not about titles or perfection, but about action, service, and consistency.Throughout the conversation, Alan reflects on how early experiences in sports and sales shaped his mindset, why discomfort builds resilience, and how leading with empathy strengthens teams and organizations over time.In this episode, Alan shares:🔹 Why work ethic matters more than raw talent or perfect grades🔹 A myth about success he believed in college and how experience reshaped it🔹 The pivotal career decision that required cutting his salary in half and trusting long-term growth🔹 Why sales is one of the most underrated skills students can learn🔹 What it truly means to lead with empathy while still making hard decisions🔹 Why servant leadership is the foundation of lasting impact🔹 The message he wants students to remember: action speaks louder than wordsThis episode offers thoughtful guidance for students and emerging leaders navigating uncertainty, early career decisions, and the pressure to have everything figured out. Reminding us that leadership is built through resilience, service, and showing up consistently.#CEOUnscripted #SCLA #ServantLeadership #AuthenticLeadership #LeadershipDevelopment #StudentSuccess #CareerGrowth #Entrepreneurship #Resilience #WorkEthic #SalesSkills #LeadWithHeart #FutureLeaders

In Episode 13 of the SCLA CEO Unscripted Speaker Series, we sit down with Alan Camilleri, Founder and Managing Director of CT Charge, Malta’s leading provider of EV charging products and services for both commercial and residential use.Alan’s path to leadership was anything but traditional. Trained as a psychologist specializing in addiction therapy, he began his career in public service before moving into consultancy and eventually founding his own company later in life. His journey spans decades across public service, private enterprise, and entrepreneurship, shaped by curiosity, adaptability, and the courage to step into unexpected opportunities.Throughout the conversation, Alan reflects on how his understanding of success evolved over time and why leadership is less about accumulating credentials and more about integrity, humility, and people.In this episode, Alan shares:🔹 A myth about success he believed in college and what experience later taught him🔹 Why curiosity matters more than simply being knowledgeable🔹 How opportunity and timing shaped his career path🔹 The importance of adaptability in a rapidly changing world🔹 Why humility and strong teams are essential to lasting leadership🔹 What he would tell his college self if he could go backThis episode offers thoughtful, grounded insight for students and emerging leaders navigating uncertainty, questioning traditional career paths, and learning how to lead with curiosity, humility, and resilience.#CEOUnscripted #SCLA #AlanCamilleri #CTCharge #LeadershipJourney #StudentSuccess #CuriousLeadership #AdaptiveLeadership #FutureLeaders

In Episode 12 of the SCLA CEO Unscripted Speaker Series, we sit down with Shawn Seipler, founder and CEO of Clean the World, a global leader in sustainability and hygiene innovation. What started as a simple question during a hotel stay grew into an international movement that has distributed over 88 million bars of recycled soap across 127 countries and diverted more than 25 million pounds of waste from landfills.Before building a global social enterprise, Shawn’s path was far from traditional, moving through multiple universities, discovering his entrepreneurial drive early, and eventually launching Clean the World out of a garage with his family. His story is shaped by curiosity, reinvention, and the determination to create meaningful impact.In this episode, Shawn reflects on:🔹 A myth about success he believed in college🔹 Why students shouldn’t pressure themselves to have everything figured out🔹 What he learned from early financial and leadership challenges🔹 How hard work and disciplined planning became the foundation of his career🔹 Why service, culture, and purpose are at the heart of great leadershipThis candid conversation offers grounded, practical insight for students and emerging leaders who want to build careers rooted in service, adaptability, and purpose.#CEOUnscripted #SCLA #ShawnSeipler #CleanTheWorld #LeadershipJourney #SocialInnovation #Entrepreneurship #CareerGrowth #PurposeDrivenLeadership

In Episode 11 of the SCLA CEO Unscripted Speaker Series, we sit down with Steven Galanis, the American entrepreneur and cofounder/CEO of Cameo, the groundbreaking marketplace where fans can book personalized video shoutouts from their favorite people.Named a Hollywood Reporter Top Innovator, a Crain’s Chicago Business 40 Under 40 leader, and twice one of Goldman Sachs’ 100 Most Intriguing Entrepreneurs, Steven has become one of the most recognizable founders shaping the future of entertainment and creator-driven commerce.Before building Cameo into a globally known brand, Steven’s journey included:• Running one of Duke University’s largest student event networks• Learning early lessons about social influence, virality, and community building• Navigating a shrinking trading industry in the aftermath of the financial crisis• Pivoting into tech at LinkedIn, where he discovered the power of growth mindset and culture• Building a leadership philosophy rooted in curiosity, connection, and developing high-ceiling talentIn this episode, Steven shares insights on:🔹 Why foundational skills (Excel, pitch decks, communication) matter — even for entrepreneurs🔹 What he wishes he knew in college about career paths and early experience🔹 Why AI will transform the job market — and why learning these tools is non-negotiable🔹 The biggest obstacle he faced early on and what finally pushed him to pivot industries🔹 The leadership mistake he made repeatedly — and how it reshaped the way he hires🔹 Why curiosity and relationship-building have been his unfair advantage as a CEO🔹 The concept of “ikigai” and how aligning strengths, passion, impact, and value creates unstoppable leadership energyThis candid conversation offers inspiration and practical takeaways for students, founders, and emerging leaders who want to build careers rooted in authenticity, adaptability, and lifelong learning.#CEOUnscripted #SCLA #StevenGalanis #Cameo #LeadershipJourney #Entrepreneurship #StudentSuccess #CareerGrowth #AIandTheFutureofWork #LifelongLearning #PurposeDrivenLeadership

🎙️ In Episode 10 of the SCLA CEO Unscripted Speaker Series, we sit down with George Saad, a multidisciplinary executive, entrepreneur, and attorney whose career spans global leadership in finance, education, law, and family enterprise.As Founder & Managing Partner of PLATZ Capital and PLATZ Juris, George brings decades of experience leading international operations, launching new ventures, and navigating complex markets with resilience and clarity.Before founding his firms, George oversaw U.S., Latin American, and European operations for SEBIS Educational Systems, a 138-year-old family business founded by his great-grandfather. His journey from surviving civil war to becoming a global executive is a powerful testament to grit, humility, and purpose-driven growth.In this episode, George shares insights on:Why curiosity is the real engine of successSurviving instability and how early adversity shaped his mindsetThe biggest myth about success he believed in college — and the realityWhat a year of isolation taught him about leadership, purpose, and self-awarenessThe pivotal moment that pushed him to leave the family business and build his own pathThe biggest challenge students face today: noise, distraction, and filtering what truly mattersWhy empathy is his workplace superpowerWhy students should pursue skills, not titles or statusThis conversation is filled with wisdom for students, emerging leaders, and anyone looking to carve their own path with intention, courage, and gratitude.#CEOUnscripted #SCLA #GeorgeSaad #LeadershipJourney #Entrepreneurship #StudentSuccess #ResilientLeadership #CareerGrowth #Curiosity #FamilyBusiness #LifelongLearning #PurposeDrivenLeadership

🎙️ In Episode 9 of the SCLA CEO Unscripted Speaker Series, we sit down with Karim Abouelnaga, Founder and CEO of Practice, an education company dedicated to closing the opportunity gap for low-income students through high-dosage tutoring, responsive curricula, and technology.A first-generation American and Forbes 30 Under 30 honoree, Karim founded Practice from his Cornell dorm room at just 18 years old and has since helped nearly 200,000 students nationwide.In this episode, Karim shares insights on:Why true success isn’t about money — it’s about purposeHow fear, risk-taking, and asking for help shaped his journeyTurning down Wall Street offers to build a mission-driven companyLessons in resilience, gratitude, and leadership from his early careerHow AI is reshaping opportunity for today’s studentsThis conversation is packed with inspiration for students and young professionals seeking meaning, impact, and courage in their careers.#CEOUnscripted #SCLA #KarimAboulnaga #LeadershipJourney #PurposeDrivenLeadership #Entrepreneurship #Forbes30Under30 #StudentSuccess #ResilientLeadership #GrowthMindset #AIInnovation

🎙️ In Episode 8 of the SCLA CEO Unscripted Speaker Series, we sit down with Pedro Barboglio — CEO of Remote Team Solutions, board member of Como Foods, and contributor to Forbes Business Council and Entrepreneur Leadership Network.With a career spanning IT, staffing, and food manufacturing, Pedro shares insights on:Why working long hours isn’t the secret to success — and what truly mattersThe biggest lesson he wishes he learned in college: start investing earlyHow he rebuilt after a factory fire that destroyed 70% of operationsWhy taking ownership of your time and future is the key to becoming a leaderThis conversation is packed with wisdom for students and emerging leaders ready to invest in themselves, embrace resilience, and take control of their career journey.#CEOUnscripted #SCLA #PedroBarboglio #LeadershipJourney #FutureLeaders #ResilientLeadership #InvestInYourself

🎙️ In Episode 7 of the SCLA CEO Unscripted Speaker Series, we sit down with Debra Fine — Managing Director at Pursant, former CEO of three companies including Small World Kids, and founder of the Fine Line Foundation.With a career spanning Fortune 500 marketing, Disney Online, global consumer brands, and nonprofit leadership, Debra shares insights on:How a chance encounter launched her career at just 22 years oldThe myth of success she believed in college, and the reality she discoveredWhy EQ, creativity, and authenticity matter more than ever in an AI-driven worldThe importance of persistence, gratitude, and playing the long gameThis conversation is filled with lessons for students and emerging leaders who want to thrive in their careers while staying true to themselves.#CEOUnscripted #SCLA #DebraFine #LeadershipJourney #FutureLeaders #WomenInLeadership #ResilientLeadership

🎙️ In Episode 6 of the SCLA CEO Unscripted Speaker Series, we sit down with T Paul Thomas — CEO of the Northern Arizona Leadership Alliance, Director of the Northern Arizona Center for Nonprofit Entrepreneurship, and author of Lessons from the Climb.With more than 30 years leading companies across industries and continents, Paul shares insights on:Why success isn’t about speed or money, but the impact you createHow to turn college into a journey of experiences and growthThe role of mentors in navigating challenges and opportunitiesWhat it takes to lead with care, humility, and visionThis conversation is packed with lessons for students and young leaders preparing to bridge the gap between campus and career.#CEOUnscripted #SCLA #TPaulThomas #LessonsFromTheClimb #FutureLeaders

🎙️ CEO Unscripted, presented by the Society for Collegiate Leadership & Achievement (SCLA)In this episode, we sit down with Bryan Brenner, Managing Director at NFP and Founder of FirstPerson, to explore his journey from first-generation college student to entrepreneur and respected business leader.From navigating uncertainty as a student, to launching his own consulting firm, to advising organizations nationwide, Bryan shares powerful lessons on risk-taking, mentorship, and the importance of finding your own leadership voice.💡 Whether you’re a student, young professional, or aspiring entrepreneur, Bryan’s story is a reminder that you don’t need a perfect plan to succeed — what matters most is curiosity, hard work, and leading with kindness and authenticity.✨ Bold. Practical. Unscripted.🔗 Learn more about how SCLA empowers future leaders at ⁠www.theSCLA.org⁠#CEOUnscripted #BryanBrenner #NFP #FirstPerson #SCLA #LeadershipJourney #AuthenticLeadership #StudentLeadership #CareerGrowth #Entrepreneurship #MentorshipMatters #FromStudentToCEO #FutureLeaders #ProfessionalDevelopment #LeadershipPodcast #InspiringVoices

🎙️ CEO Unscripted, presented by the Society for Collegiate Leadership & Achievement (SCLA)In this episode, we sit down with Molly North, CEO of Merus, to uncover the lessons she’s learned on her journey from student to CEO — and why embracing change and taking risks are essential to growth.From navigating early career setbacks to leading Merus through its transition to 100% employee ownership, Molly shares powerful insights on resilience, adaptability, and what it means to truly “take the reins” as a leader.💡 Whether you’re a student, young professional, or aspiring executive, Molly’s story is a reminder that you don’t have to have it all figured out — what matters most is staying organized, trusting your gut, and seizing opportunities with confidence.✨ Bold. Practical. Unscripted.🔗 Learn more about how SCLA empowers future leaders at ⁠www.theSCLA.org⁠#CEOUnscripted #MollyNorth #Merus #SCLA #LeadershipJourney #ResilientLeadership #AuthenticLeadership #StudentLeadership #CareerGrowth #GrowthMindset #OwnershipCulture #FromStudentToCEO #FutureLeaders #ProfessionalDevelopment #LeadershipPodcast #InspiringVoices

🎙️ CEO Unscripted, presented by the Society for Collegiate Leadership & Achievement (SCLA)In this episode, we sit down with Daniel Koffler, Founder of New Frontiers, to explore what it really means to succeed — and why staying true to yourself matters more than following the crowd.From defining success on your own terms, to cutting through distractions and focusing on what’s real, Daniel shares the leadership lessons, daily habits, and personal philosophies that helped him go from student to CEO.💡 Whether you’re a student, young professional, or aspiring leader, Daniel’s insights are a reminder that authentic leadership starts with self-awareness — and that time is the most valuable currency you have.✨ Honest. Practical. Unscripted.🔗 Learn more about how SCLA empowers future leaders at www.theSCLA.org#CEOUnscripted #DanielKoffler #NewFrontiers #SCLA #LeadershipTips #SuccessMindset #DefineSuccess #AuthenticLeadership #StudentLeadership #CareerGrowth #LeadershipHabits #FromStudentToCEO #PurposeDrivenLeadership #FutureLeaders #ProfessionalDevelopment #LeadershipPodcast #SuccessHabits #InspiringVoices

🎙️ CEO Unscripted: Lauren Imparato — Redefining Success with Halsey NeckPresented by the Society for Collegiate Leadership & Achievement (The SCLA)In this dynamic episode of CEO Unscripted, we sit down with Lauren Imparato, founder of Halsey Neck and former Wall Street executive turned entrepreneur and author. Lauren opens up about walking away from a traditional path to build something radically her own — a company rooted in boldness, intention, and unapologetic authenticity.From confronting fear to embracing risk, Lauren shares how she forged a new definition of success and what it truly means to lead with your values. This conversation is a deep dive into grit, self-trust, and staying grounded while building something extraordinary.✨ Raw. Empowering. Unscripted.🔗 Learn more about how SCLA empowers future leaders at ⁠www.theSCLA.org⁠#CEOUnscripted #LaurenImparato #HalseyNeck #SCLA #StudentLeadership #WomenInBusiness #FromWallStreetToFounder #AuthenticLeadership #PurposeDrivenBusiness #EntrepreneurJourney #BoldMoves #GenZLeaders #FutureCEOs #CollegeToCareer #VisionaryLeadership #NextGenExecutives #RealTalkWithCEOs #LeadershipEvolution #StartupFounder

🎙️ CEO Unscripted: Damola Adamolekun — Leading the Comeback at Red LobsterPresented by the Society for Collegiate Leadership & Achievement (The SCLA)In this powerful episode of CEO Unscripted, we sit down with Damola Adamolekun, the current CEO of Red Lobster. As one of the youngest executives to lead a major national restaurant brand, Damola shares his bold vision for revitalizing Red Lobster, lessons learned through high-stakes leadership, and his personal journey from student to CEO.With a focus on impact, purpose, and resilience, this conversation offers a rare, behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to lead through change—and how today’s students can prepare to shape tomorrow’s boardrooms.✨ Authentic. Insightful. Unscripted.🔗 Learn more about how SCLA empowers future leaders at www.theSCLA.org#CEOUnscripted #DamolaAdamolekun #RedLobsterCEO #SCLA #StudentLeadership #BlackExcellence #YoungCEOs #CareerJourney #LeadershipDevelopment #FromStudentToCEO #PurposeDrivenLeadership #FutureExecutives #GenZLeaders #CollegeToCareer #RealTalkWithCEOs #BusinessTurnaround #ExecutiveInsights #NextGenLeaders