00:00 Introduction: Marc Kermisch & His Journey to the C Suite 03:02 Life as a CTO/CIO 05:47 The Technical Aptitude Spectrum 08:57 Leaders Needing to Be Led: Seeking Mentorship as an Executive 12:26 Overcoming Self-Doubt 16:44 Career Progression Beyond the C-Suite 19:48 Navigating Politics and Bureaucracy at the Top 24:18 Behind Those Feel-Good Mission Statements 30:36 Carrying the Weight of Layoffs as a C-Suite Exec 37:36 Understanding the C-Suite Perspective

In this episode of the Cupalo Conversations podcast, host Lauren Hannon sits down with Marc Kermisch, a renowned Twin Cities tech leader who has held C-suite positions at Red Wing Shoe Co, Bluestem Brands, OptumRX, and CNH Industrial. Marc shares his incredible journey from an English major to CTO/CIO, shedding light on the real struggles and emotional challenges of leadership at the top. In this honest conversation, Marc opens up about the tremendous responsibility and often personal sacrifice that comes with the job of being an executive. Marc emphasizes the need for ongoing mentorship the higher you climb on the ladder. How self-doubt and navigating corporate politics persist at the top and what it's like to wade through those waters. The importance of continuous learning and self-awareness in leadership success. They also discuss the emotional toll of layoffs and balancing leadership decisions with empathy as well as what a "real" mission statement means in driving company goals. Tune in to hear Marc’s story of embracing challenges, learning from setbacks, and making a lasting impact as a tech leader. Whether you're climbing the corporate ladder or looking to develop your leadership skills, this episode offers valuable takeaways for personal and professional growth Connect with Lauren Hannon Sign up for "Cupalo Newsletter" (Lauren's email newsletter): https://cupalo.substack.com/ Follow Lauren on LinkedIn: / hannonlauren Check out Cupalo's website: https://cupalo.io/