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In this episode, Deb Coviello sits down with Hall of Fame speaker, award-winning author, and business strategist Meridith Elliot Powell to explore one of the biggest challenges facing C-Suite leaders today: uncertainty. Meridith shares her research-backed, three-step formula for surviving disruption and leveraging it as a competitive advantage. From adapting your perspective to listening deeply to your customers and committing to process, this conversation is packed with actionable strategies for any leader navigating a turbulent marketplace.   Episode Highlights: 2:44 — Meridith shares her origin story and why she became obsessed with uncertainty: how 2016 sparked her research into companies that thrived through the Great Depression, World Wars, and other disruptions — and the three-step formula she developed from that work. 9:03 — The three-step formula revealed: (1) Adapt your perspective so uncertainty leads to opportunity, (2) Focus on people by mastering the skill of listening to your team, customers, and network, and (3) Commit to process by leading your team for tomorrow, not just today. 20:02 — Meridith's powerful "seeds, weeds, and needs" quarterly review tool: a simple three-question exercise to help leaders identify what's working, what's wasting time, and what's missing — so they can focus energy on what truly moves the needle.   Meridith Elliot Powell is a Hall of Fame and million-dollar speaker, award-winning author, and former C-Suite executive with more than 25 years of business leadership experience across manufacturing, finance, healthcare, and travel and tourism. After studying organizations that grew through history's greatest economic disruptions — from the Great Depression to the 2008 financial crisis — she developed a proven formula to help leaders and organizations turn uncertainty into opportunity.   Connect with Meridith: https://www.facebook.com/MeridithElliotPowell/https://www.youtube.com/user/meridithepowellhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/meridithelliottpowellhttps://www.instagram.com/powellmeridithelliott/https://x.com/meridithpowell For more information about my services or if you just want to connect and have a chat, reach out at: https://dropinceo.com/contact/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of the Drop in CEO podcast, host Deb Coviello welcomes Joe Bockerstette, Managing Partner at Business Enterprise Mapping. Joe shares his journey from engineering to consulting, angel investing, and leading transformative workflow improvements for organizations. Together, they discuss the realities of process management, the challenges of change leadership, and practical advice for business leaders seeking sustainable growth and peace of mind.   Episode Highlights: [1:00] Joe Barker’s career journey: from engineering to consulting and angel investing [9:00] The realities and risks of angel investing for entrepreneurs and investors [17:00] Mapping business processes: identifying “red clouds” and driving organizational change [24:30] Real-world example: Transforming a marketing firm’s operations and achieving peace of mind   Joe Bockerstette is the Managing Partner of Business Enterprise Mapping in Phoenix AZ., a professional services firm delivering transformative workflow improvement. He has more than 30 years’ experience as a CEO, business consultant, and private equity/angel investor. Joe was previously a Consulting Partner with PwC, co-founded a private equity firm, Equity Management Group and was the first Managing Partner of the Main Street Venture Fund, an angel pledge fund in Indiana. Joe holds a BS degree in Engineering from the University of Cincinnati, and an MBA from Xavier University. He has served as a director on a variety of public, private, and non-profit boards and has co-authored three books, Attracting an Angel, How to Get Money from Business Angels and Why Most Entrepreneurs Don't, Time Based Manufacturing and Red Cloud Road, How Strategic Process Management Drives Competitive Advantage.   Company Website: www.businessmapping.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joe-bockerstette-86875a17   For more information about my services or if you just want to connect and have a chat, reach out at: https://dropinceo.com/contact/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of the Drop in CEO podcast, host Deb Coviello welcomes Terry Blachek, an accomplished entrepreneur and franchise leader with over 35 years of experience in the health, fitness, and consumer lifestyle sectors. Terry shares his journey from humble beginnings to scaling major fitness brands like Orange Theory Fitness, discusses the importance of clarity, business models, and mindset, and offers actionable advice for leaders looking to grow and sustain their businesses.   Episode Highlights: 2:22 — Terry’s entrepreneurial roots and early career in fitness and business 6:18 — The founding and explosive growth of Orange Theory Fitness 10:25 — The power of clarity, communication, and solving the right problem in business 19:36 — Mindset, overcoming adversity, and building a personal advisory board   Terry Blachek is an accomplished entrepreneur, speaker, and franchise leader with over 35 years in health, fitness, and lifestyle industries. As Managing Director at Franvest Capital Partners, he scales high-growth brands, including The Dog Stop. A founding partner of Orangetheory Fitness, he built Austin Fitness Group into 130+ studios and earned induction into the Orangetheory Hall of Fame. A recognized industry voice, he’s spoken at IHRSA, Disney Institute, and hosts the Tuesday with Terry podcast. Formerly an executive at Crunch, Lifestyle Family Fitness, and The Fitness Company, Terry continues to inspire leaders with his proven expertise in growth, culture, and performance.   Company Website: https://franvest.ca/our-team/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/terry_blachek/  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/terry-blachek-78431a174/   For more information about my services or if you just want to connect and have a chat, reach out at: https://dropinceo.com/contact/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of the Drop in CEO podcast, Deb Coviello welcomes back Todd Wilkowski, a seasoned fractional general counsel and trusted advisor to family-owned and closely held businesses. Together, they explore the evolution of the fractional executive model, the importance of building relationships over transactions, and how proactive legal and business strategies can empower small and medium-sized businesses. Todd shares personal stories, the VROOM framework, and insights on collaboration, risk, and the future of work in the age of AI.   Episode Highlights: 02:00 – Todd shares his unique background, from Air Force officer to trusted legal advisor, and the value of diverse experiences. 21:00 – The rise of the fractional executive model: why relationships, not transactions, are the future for business advisors. 33:00 – Introducing the VROOM framework: Value, Relationship, Resources, Responsiveness, Relevancy, and Measurability for client success. 45:30 – Embracing AI and collaboration: how technology and human connection are shaping the next era of business leadership.   Todd is a trusted advisor and outside general counsel for private, closely held, and family-owned businesses. A former Air Force officer and experienced construction law attorney, he brings a unique perspective to risk management, compliance, and strategy. Before joining Frost Brown Todd, he spent seven years as General Counsel for Baker Concrete Construction, overseeing all legal and enterprise risk functions. Todd provides practical, strategic counsel on contracts, disputes, HR, and governance, helping companies strengthen operations and seize growth opportunities. His proactive, business-minded approach helps clients manage risk, plan for succession, and position their organizations for long-term success.   Company Website: https://frostbrowntodd.com/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/todd-wilkowski-8802286/   For more information about my services or if you just want to connect and have a chat, reach out at: https://dropinceo.com/contact/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of the Drop in CEO podcast, Deb Coviello explores the pitfalls of short-term thinking among CEOs and introduces the concept of fractional leadership as a solution for sustainable success. Deb shares personal stories, client experiences, and practical questions to help leaders move from crisis management to strategic, balanced leadership.   Episode Highlights: [0:24] Introduction: The CEO Trap – Why Chasing Results Isn’t Sustainable [3:14] The Power of Fractional Leadership and Coaching [6:44] Key Questions for Leaders: Moving from Reactivity to Strategy [15:10] Resources and Next Steps: Mini Courses and Coaching Offers   For more information about my services or if you just want to connect and have a chat, reach out at: https://dropinceo.com/contact/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of the Drop in CEO podcast, host Deb Coviello welcomes serial entrepreneur and author Elle George. Together, they explore the critical lessons of business partnerships, the importance of alignment, and how to recover and thrive after setbacks. Elle shares insights from her new book, "Before You Shake Hands," offering practical advice for leaders navigating complex relationships.   Episode Highlights: [1:05] Elle George introduces herself, her entrepreneurial journey in Bali, and the inspiration behind her book. [4:40] Elle discusses overcoming a failed partnership, rebuilding confidence, and launching multiple businesses. [17:00] The importance of alignment, red flags in business relationships, and the critical questions to ask before partnering. [32:40] Strategies for handling toxic partnerships, keeping records, and maintaining personal equilibrium as a leader. Elle George is a serial entrepreneur, investor, and disruptor based in Bali, Indonesia. With over 15 years of experience, Elle has founded and operated multiple businesses across nutrition, hospitality, manufacturing, and wellness. Her latest book, "Before You Shake Hands," is a practical toolkit for navigating business partnerships, drawing on her own hard-earned lessons in alignment, resilience, and leadership.   For more information about my services or if you just want to connect and have a chat, reach out at: https://dropinceo.com/contact/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of the Drop in CEO Podcast, Deb Coviello explores what it truly means to be a CEO, emphasizing that leadership is about value and impact, not just titles. Through personal stories and actionable advice, Deb encourages listeners to recognize their own gifts, shift their mindset, and take steps toward leaving a legacy in their organizations.   Episode Highlights: 01:00 — Introduction: What does it mean to be a CEO? 01:39 — Personal story: Learning from failure and embracing outcomes 03:20 — The real value of leadership beyond titles 12:11 — Actionable steps: Vision, values, and your 30-60-90 day plan   For more information about my services or if you just want to connect and have a chat, reach out at: https://dropinceo.com/contact/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of the Drop In CEO Podcast, Deb Coviello explores the power of fractional leadership for businesses facing crisis or transformation. She shares practical strategies for leveraging outside expertise, discusses the value of upskilling through curated audio mini-courses, and offers actionable steps for leaders to assess and fill skill gaps within their teams.   Episode Highlights Introduction to Fractional Leadership [2:00] Deb introduces the concept of fractional leaders as a secret weapon for navigating business crises and explains her role as the Drop In CEO. Why Leaders Wait Too Long to Ask for Help [2:18]Discussion on the pitfalls of pride, the importance of timely support, and how fractional leaders can fill critical gaps. Real-World Success Story [7:29] Deb shares a client case study on using fractional leadership to achieve food safety certification and organizational growth. Actionable Steps for Leaders [11:13]Step-by-step guide for assessing team skills, identifying gaps, and deciding when to bring in fractional expertise. For more information about my services or if you just want to connect and have a chat, reach out at: https://dropinceo.com/contact/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of the Drop In CEO Podcast, host Deb Coviello explores how C-Suite leaders can successfully navigate constant change. Deb shares actionable strategies, real client stories, and a practical playbook to help leaders adapt, communicate, and sustain change in their organizations.   Episode Highlights: 00:00 — Introduction: The importance of adapting to change as a leader 02:13 — The four pillars of managing change: What, Why, Who, and How 08:54 — Real client story: Building high-performance teams through effective change management 15:41 — Actionable playbook: How to practice and sustain change in your organization   For more information about my services or if you just want to connect and have a chat, reach out at: https://dropinceo.com/contact/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This episode of The Drop-In CEO features a conversation with Kerim Kfuri, President and CEO of the Atlas Network, who shares his journey from a global upbringing to leading innovation in supply chain management. Kerim and host Deb Coviello discuss the complexities of modern supply chains, the impact of tariffs, the importance of agility and risk management, and how technology and mindset shape business resilience. Episode Highlights Kerim’s Global Upbringing and Entrepreneurial Journey [12:13]Kerim shares how his multicultural background and early entrepreneurial spirit shaped his approach to business and supply chain leadership. The Five Ways to Navigate Tariffs [31:15]Kerim breaks down five strategies for managing tariffs, including absorption, deferral, terms and conditions, cost re-engineering, and alternative supply chains. The Importance of Agility and Risk Management in Supply Chains [41:08]Discussion on how leaders can stress-test their supply chains, prepare for disruptions, and the value of contingency planning. Global Interconnectedness and Resilience [45:28]Kerim emphasizes the need for communication, cultural respect, and adaptability in a global economy, and how to become “disruption proof.”   About Kerim: Kerim Antoine Kfuri is a leader in global supply chain innovation and media. As co-host of the Supply & Demand podcast, he brings together industry professionals to discuss trends, challenges, and opportunities shaping the future of supply chain management. With a focus on fostering dialogue and community, Kerim shares insights that drive progress and transformation. He is also the founder of The Atlas Network, a trusted partner for businesses worldwide, offering consulting, logistics, and risk mitigation services. Kerim’s visionary leadership reflects his commitment to excellence, resilience, and creating value in an ever-evolving marketplace.   Connect with Kerim: Company Website: https://kerimkfuri.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kerimkfuri/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Kerim-Kfuri   For more information about my services or if you just want to connect and have a chat, reach out at: https://dropinceo.com/contact/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of the Drop-in CEO podcast, Deb Coviello shares personal stories and professional insights to help C-Suite leaders navigate challenges with confidence. Deb discusses the importance of investing in personal time, challenges the narrative of imposter syndrome, and emphasizes the value of surrounding yourself with people who recognize your gifts. Listeners will gain practical advice on regaining confidence and leading with purpose.   Episode Highlights [0:00] – Introduction: Deb welcomes listeners and sets the stage for helping C-Suite leaders navigate challenges. [2:07] – Personal Reflections: Deb shares recent experiences enjoying life in Cincinnati and the importance of investing in personal time. [5:96] – Main Topic: Deb challenges the concept of imposter syndrome and encourages listeners to focus on their unique gifts. [7:19] – Practical Advice: Deb explains how she helps leaders regain confidence by reframing their value and gifts. For more information about my services or if you just want to connect and have a chat, reach out at: https://dropinceo.com/contact/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this solo episode of the Drop-in CEO podcast, host Deb Coviello shares personal updates and dives deep into the art of navigating challenging conversations with confidence. Deb introduces a practical framework for handling difficult discussions, explores why these conversations are often so tough, and emphasizes the importance of language and empathy. Through relatable stories from both family and business, Deb equips listeners with actionable strategies to improve their communication and leadership skills.   Episode Highlights The Framework for Challenging Conversations [10:39]Deb outlines a step-by-step framework for approaching difficult conversations, focusing on establishing common ground, identifying gaps, and taking mutual action. Why Challenging Conversations Are Difficult [7:30]An exploration of the emotional and systemic reasons that make tough conversations so challenging, and why most organizations don’t teach these essential skills. The Power of Language in Difficult Conversations [13:27]Deb discusses the importance of word choice, empathy, and respect in maintaining relationships and moving through workplace challenges. Personal Connection and Icebreaker [2:00]Deb opens the episode with personal stories and updates, setting a relatable and engaging tone for the discussion.   For more information about my services or if you just want to connect and have a chat, reach out at: https://dropinceo.com/contact/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this heartfelt episode of the Drop-in CEO podcast, Deb Coviello explores the journey of reinventing oneself as a leader. Deb shares personal stories of rediscovering her creativity, overcoming the constraints of corporate life, and embracing the childlike wonder that fuels authentic leadership. Listeners are encouraged to reflect on their own paths, reconnect with their passions, and find joy in both personal and professional growth. Deb offers practical support, inspiration, and a special gift to help C-Suite leaders navigate challenges with confidence.   Episode Highlights: Deb’s personal story of reinvention and returning to her creative roots. The importance of embracing your authentic self and childlike wonder as a leader. Overcoming corporate and societal expectations to rediscover joy and fulfillment. Practical advice and resources for building a strong support system and navigating leadership challenges.   For more information about my services or if you just want to connect and have a chat, reach out at: https://dropinceo.com/contact/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this solo episode, Deb Coviello, the Drop-in CEO, shares a heartfelt reflection on the importance of pausing and reassessing your leadership journey. Deb opens up about her own experiences, the challenges leaders face, and the critical need to invest in yourself, stick to your strategy, and avoid burnout. Tune in for actionable insights and stories that will help you lead with intention and leave a lasting legacy.   Episode Highlights 6:30 - Defining Planetary LeadershipDeb introduces the concept of planetary leadership and explains the risks of waiting for the "planets to align" before taking action. 11:20 - Real-World Example: Delayed Risk MitigationA story from Deb’s career highlights the consequences of delayed decision-making and the importance of addressing risks early. 15:40 - Building a Culture of Proactive LeadershipDeb offers actionable advice for leaders to foster environments where risk identification is celebrated and team input is valued.   For more information about my services or if you just want to connect and have a chat, reach out at: https://dropinceo.com/contact/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this solo episode, Deb Coviello, the Drop-in CEO, shares a heartfelt reflection on the importance of pausing and reassessing your leadership journey. Deb opens up about her own experiences, the challenges leaders face, and the critical need to invest in yourself, stick to your strategy, and avoid burnout. Tune in for actionable insights and stories that will help you lead with intention and leave a lasting legacy.   Episode Highlights: [3:00] - The Power of Pausing and Reflecting: Why Deb is changing the podcast format and the importance of slowing down as a leader. [7:30] - Five Leadership Traps: Burnout, tactical overload, lack of self-investment, losing discipline, and feeling lost. [17:50] - Real Stories and Solutions: Deb shares personal and client stories illustrating each leadership trap and how to overcome them. [21:10] - Building Your Legacy: The importance of discipline, self-care, and finding your unique leadership path.   For more information about my services or if you just want to connect and have a chat, reach out at: https://dropinceo.com/contact/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.