With a distinguished career that spanned two decades in cybersecurity, marked by leadership roles in major financial institutions and most recently at Microsoft, Laurie Kenley's professional path at first seemed linear and predictable. Yet beneath the surface, Laurie recognized a profound internal shift—one familiar to many high achievers in demanding sectors. Her work, though once exhilarating and meaningful in combating financial crimes and orchestrating complex systems, began to feel burdensome rather than inspiring. Rather than pushing through the motions, Laurie resolved to reconnect with her core motivators: joy, passion, and self-discovery.

At the core of Aurora Winter's success lies her passion for solving problems. As she puts it, entrepreneurs solve problems at a profit. This mindset has driven her to tackle various challenges throughout her career, always with an eye towards creating systems that can benefit others. Aurora's diverse career path, spanning from yacht sales to grief counseling, demonstrates the value of adaptability and a willingness to explore new horizons.

Ariana Smetana has dedicated herself to learning and building AI technology to solve business problems and enable companies to grow exponentially. Her approach is refreshingly pragmatic, focusing on how AI can augment human work rather than replace it entirely. As AI continues to evolve and reshape the business landscape, leaders like Ariana will play a crucial role in guiding organizations toward a future where human potential is enhanced, not overshadowed, by artificial intelligence.

From tech industry professional to construction CEO, and now to a voice of experience for other leaders, Mark Oden exemplifies the dynamic and often unpredictable nature of entrepreneurial success. As the market shifted post-COVID, increased international competition and contractual limitations due to union agreements began to impact his business. Mark's experience underscores the importance of continuous learning, adaptability, and maintaining a strong ethical compass, even in the face of significant business challenges.

Fred Schonenberg's journey from aspiring athlete to innovation catalyst underscores the value of embracing unexpected opportunities and continuously adapting to new challenges. His success with VentureFuel demonstrates the power of bridging different worlds – in this case, the established corporate sphere and the dynamic startup ecosystem. By fostering these connections and encouraging creative problem-solving, Fred and his team are shaping the future of business innovation.

In this episode of Cake on Tuesday: The Leadership Blueprint, host Elizabeth Bieniek interviews Alex Blinov, Chief Product Officer at Zendrop, about his 16-year journey in product management. Alex shares insights on leadership, the evolving role of product managers, and the importance of communication and discovery in building successful products. He discusses fostering team autonomy, the impact of AI, and his guiding mantra, “Dare to build.” The conversation highlights the value of empowering teams, celebrating achievements, and continuously learning to drive innovation and create products that make a meaningful difference.Check out Alex's work at Zendrop HERE. Connect with Alex on LinkedIn.Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply HERE.

In this episode of Cake on Tuesday: The Leadership Blueprint, Elizabeth Bieniek interviews the CEO and Chairman at Nav Technologies, Levi King. Levi shares his journey from small business owner to fintech entrepreneur, highlighting the importance of business credit and financial management for small businesses. He discusses the challenges entrepreneurs face, Nav Technologies’ mission to simplify business financing, and the company’s focus on trade credit and supplier relationships. Levi also reflects on company culture, the role of luck in success, and his evolving definition of achievement.Check out Levi's work HERE. Connect with Levi on LinkedIn.Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply HERE.

In this episode of Cake on Tuesday: The Leadership Blueprint, Elizabeth Bieniek interviews the Founder at DarkHorse Security, Grant McCracken. Grant shares his journey from cybersecurity expert to entrepreneur, discusses common misconceptions, and highlights the importance of simplifying security for smaller businesses. He explains how DarkHorse leverages crowdsourced expertise and explores future trends like AI-driven penetration testing. Grant also offers practical advice for founders on how to avoid burnout and challenge assumptions.Check out Grant's work HERE. Connect with Grant on LinkedIn.Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply HERE.

In this episode of Cake on Tuesday: The Leadership Blueprint, Elizabeth Bieniek interviews the Owner at Ral West Livin’ The Dream, Ral West. Ral shares her journey from hands-on business owner to successful mentor. Drawing on four decades of experience, Ral discusses building and selling businesses—including a major sale to Alaska Airlines—and the mindset shifts needed to transition from operator to owner. She emphasizes freedom as the ultimate measure of success and now guides entrepreneurs through her "Ral West Livin’ The Dream" Mastermind, helping them create scalable businesses and fulfilling lives.Check out Ral's work HERE. Connect with Ral on LinkedIn.Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply HERE.

In this episode of Cake on Tuesday: The Leadership Blueprint, Elizabeth Bieniek interviews the VP of Product at Mozilla, Raj Singh. Raj shares insights on navigating startup and corporate cultures, the impact of generative AI on productivity, and the evolving definition of success. He discusses the emotional challenges founders face post-acquisition, leadership communication in fast-paced environments, and creative growth strategies—like his cooking app’s global holiday recipe campaign. Raj also reflects on balancing professional ambition with family life, offering valuable advice for founders and tech professionals adapting to today’s rapidly changing landscape.Check out Raj's work HERE. Connect with Raj on LinkedIn.Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply HERE.

In this episode of Cake on Tuesday: The Leadership Blueprint, Elizabeth Bieniek interviews the Owner of the Phineas Wright House, Wendy Harrop. Wendy shares her journey from wedding planner to creating curated experiences on her New England flower farm, including workshops, retreats, and culinary trips for solo female travelers. She discusses her meticulous “Wedding Wendy precision,” the evolution of her definition of success, and the importance of crafting memorable, welcoming events. Wendy also reveals her plans to restore a historic barn to expand her offerings and encourages listeners to embrace new experiences with a positive mindset.Check out Wendy's work HERE. Connect with Wendy on LinkedIn.Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply HERE.

In this episode of Cake on Tuesday: The Leadership Blueprint, Elizabeth Bieniek interviews the Founder at Capital Gains Tax Solutions, Brett Swarts. Brett shares his expertise in capital gains tax exit planning, focusing on strategies like deferred sales trusts to help clients achieve truly passive income and financial freedom. He discusses his faith-driven approach to stewardship, the importance of purposeful living, and the upcoming generational wealth transfer. Brett also offers practical advice for entrepreneurs and invites listeners to learn more through his book and website, emphasizing collaboration and personalized solutions for complex financial needs.Check out Brett's work HERE. Connect with Brett on LinkedIn.Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply HERE.

In this episode of Cake on Tuesday: The Leadership Blueprint, Elizabeth Bieniek interviews the President and CEO at Executive Help Now, Renee Hastings. Renee shares her journey from corporate executive assistant to entrepreneur, highlighting the importance of meaningful work, strong company culture, and value-driven hiring. She explores the challenges of entrepreneurship, the power of delegation, and the necessity of open communication in virtual assistant partnerships. Renee recounts client success stories, discusses supporting her team’s growth, and introduces new services like podcast production. Check out Renee's work HERE. Connect with Renee on LinkedIn.Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply HERE.

In this episode of Cake on Tuesday: The Leadership Blueprint, Elizabeth Bieniek interviews the Founder and CEO of Intentionally Inspirational, Jason Wright. Jason shares his philosophy of simplifying marketing by focusing on relationships, the importance of taking action over perfection, and fostering innovation within his team. He discusses lessons from his book, "The Backwards Route to Forward Progress," and reflects on mindset, resilience, and redefining success. Check out Jason's work HERE. Connect with Jason on LinkedIn.Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply HERE.

In this episode of Cake on Tuesday: The Leadership Blueprint, Elizabeth Bieniek interviews the CEO and President of Anago Cleaning Systems, Adam Povlitz. Adam shares his journey from the family business to leading innovation in the industry, emphasizing Anago’s unique three-tier franchise model and commitment to technology. He discusses building a culture of innovation, the importance of clear communication, and lessons learned about leadership and hiring. He also covers industry misconceptions, the value of empathy, and practical advice for aspiring CEOs. Check out Adam's work HERE. Connect with Adam on LinkedIn.Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply HERE.

In this episode of Cake on Tuesday: The Leadership Blueprint, Elizabeth Bieniek interviews the Founder of Wish Wear Accessories, Ashley Hamic. Ashley shares her journey from a high-tech career to creating accessible, fun clothing and accessories for children with disabilities, inspired by her experiences as a rare disease mom. She highlights the importance of innovation, community support, and celebrating small wins. Ashley discusses her design process, the value of real-world feedback, and the power of connection among families facing similar challenges, offering inspiration and practical advice to listeners.Check out Ashley's work HERE. Connect with Ashley on LinkedIn.Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply HERE.

In this episode of Cake on Tuesday: The Leadership Blueprint, Elizabeth Bieniek interviews the CEO of Fiscal Advocate, Jon Morris. Jon shares his journey from building and selling a major marketing agency to helping entrepreneurs with financial management. He discusses finding joy in everyday business tasks, building a positive company culture, and fostering innovation. Jon offers practical advice on financial metrics for service businesses and emphasizes the importance of customer care. Check out Jon's work HERE. Connect with Jon on LinkedIn.Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply HERE.

In this episode of Cake on Tuesday: The Leadership Blueprint, Elizabeth Bieniek interviews the President and Bilingual Telemarketing Trainer of Costa Rica's Call Center, Richard Blank. Richard shares his innovative approach to telemarketing, emphasizing authentic communication, phonetic microexpressions, and the power of workplace gamification. He discusses building a positive company culture through play, his passion for vintage pinball machines, and the importance of personal connections. Richard also offers practical advice on self-reflection, leadership, and patience in communication, drawing from his experiences in Costa Rica. Check out Richard's work HERE. Connect with Richard on LinkedIn.Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply HERE.

In this episode of Cake on Tuesday: The Leadership Blueprint, Elizabeth Bieniek interviews Chris Botting. Chris discusses his extensive experience in technology leadership, product management, and business strategy. Chris shares insights on understanding customer needs, the value of a “strategic backlog,” and balancing long-term vision with short-term execution. They explore the importance of transparency with customers, managing emotions in decision-making, and using financial analysis for business priorities. Chris also offers practical advice for emerging leaders, emphasizing effective communication, teamwork, and adaptability as keys to success in today’s fast-changing business environment.Check out Chris's work HERE. Connect with Chris on LinkedIn.Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply HERE.

In this episode of Cake on Tuesday: The Leadership Blueprint, Elizabeth Bieniek interviews the Founder of Meema Stories, Stephen Quatrano. Stephen discusses his mission to combat social isolation among elders through storytelling and technology. Stephen shares insights from his experience as a CTO and multi-founder, discussing how meaningful media can spark conversations and connections between elders and caregivers. Stephen highlights the challenges of aging, the importance of community, and invites listeners—especially writers, media professionals, and caregivers—to join Meema Stories’ mission to enrich elder care through shared stories and deeper human connection.Check out Stephen's work HERE. Connect with Stephen on LinkedIn.Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply HERE.