What separates a project from a company? And what makes some organizations scale effortlessly—while others stall out under their own ambition? Few people have lived that question more deeply than Mike Oakman. With three decades of experience spanning startups, private equity-backed growth, and billion-dollar enterprises, Mike has led everything from scrappy engineering teams to 400-person global operations. Most recently, as CTO of RVO Health, he helped unite some of the world’s most trusted health and wellness brands under one mission: making healthcare personal, at scale. Now, after exiting corporate life, Mike is helping industrial leaders reimagine what’s next—at the intersection of people, process, and intelligent technology. His philosophy is deceptively simple: growth isn’t about more; it’s about better. In this episode of Real Leadership, Mike and host Jim Weaver unpack the lessons learned from a career spent scaling complexity into clarity. In this episode, we cover: Why most startups fail before they even begin—and how to tell if you’ve built a project or a company The power of knowing your “why” and how purpose becomes a competitive advantage How to connect 400 engineers around one mission (and why connection beats communication) Why “boring” companies are often the most effective ones The four gears of AI adoption—and how industrial companies can finally shift out of first How technology done right brings leaders closer to their customers, not further away Listen for: a rare conversation that moves seamlessly from tech strategy to human behavior—from agile frameworks to the art of focus. Time Stamps 00:03:21 — RVO Health at scale and why consumer trust starts with experience and security. 00:07:56 — Personalization in action: “I’m here—do you see me?” and serving the next best action. 00:11:41 — Team at scale: 300+ engineers, 60 data scientists, and the org around them. 00:13:18 — The Engineering Summit: aligning builders to mission (and why it matters more in remote work). 00:15:02 — From waterfall to flow: a plain-English explainer of agile that leaders actually use. 00:20:26 — Project vs. product vs. company: the hard truth about TAM/SAM/SOM and repeatability. 00:30:31 — Industrial reality check: automation on the line, spreadsheets in the back office—opportunity hiding in plain sight. 00:31:49 — Three questions for leaders: Are we visible, attractive, and responsive when buyers find us? 00:37:52 — The maturity path for AI/automation and how to assess your org—fast. 00:42:12 — Free your customer-facing teams: where automation creates human time that actually grows revenue. 00:44:53 — How to reach Mike (and why leaders are calling him now). Show Notes Mike Oakman — LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mikeoakman/  RVO Health: https://www.rvohealth.com/  Content Logistix: contentlogistix.com/  Jim Weaver — LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/jim-weaver-36457418 Real Leadership Podcast: realleadership.oningroup.com  Real Leadership — LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/104897916/ The Ōnin Group: oningroup.com/clients 

What happens when a CEO trades the corporate script for a hard hat…and wins? Greg Ramfos, CEO of DURA Shiloh, is leading one of the boldest turnarounds in the automotive world. With 16 plants, 4,000 employees, and a mission to bring manufacturing back to its roots, Greg’s not following the playbook. He’s rewriting it. Raised in poverty and foster care, Greg learned early that resilience beats pedigree. By 28, he was a millionaire. By 50, he was rebuilding a global automotive supplier—one plant, one person, one process at a time. He believes leadership starts where the noise ends: on the factory floor. In this episode, he shares how accountability, honesty, and ownership can turn chaos into a comeback story. In this episode, we cover: How to turn around underperforming plants—without massive capital Why “own it like your name’s on the building” is Greg’s leadership mantra The lost art of partnership between OEMs and suppliers How tariffs and regionalization are reshaping the auto industry Why the next generation of builders—not bots—will drive America’s revival What it takes to lead with truth, grit, and zero corporate fluff Time Stamps 05:41 – The state of the auto industry and the EV reality check10:02 – Why manufacturing revival starts with people, not policy16:48 – Building the “Ready to Work” pipeline for the next generation 23:15 – Rebuilding trust and performance, one plant at a time 29:40 – The 10-step playbook for leading a global turnaround 37:22 – From corporate conditioning to entrepreneurial accountability 45:18 – Why real leadership begins on the factory floor Show Notes Greg’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gregramfos/  DURA Shiloh Website: durashiloh.com DURA Shiloh LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/dura-shiloh/  Jim’s LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/jim-weaver-36457418 Real Leadership Podcast: realleadership.oningroup.com Real Leadership LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/104897916/ The Ōnin Group: oningroup.com/clients

What does it take to lead real digital transformation—while keeping food on shelves across the globe? At Schreiber Foods, that question isn’t theoretical. It’s the work of SriRaj Kantamneni, EVP & Chief Information and Digital Officer at Schreiber and the architect behind an ambitious digital overhaul in one of the most critical global industries — food and ag. But Sri didn’t come up through Silicon Valley. He grew up under the hood of his family’s auto shop in Iowa. That beginning shaped everything: how he leads, what he builds, and why he believes transformation isn’t about chasing shiny tools. It’s about solving the hard stuff: Making food more affordable, more accessible, and more reliable on a global scale. In this episode of Real Leadership, Sri walks us through how Schreiber is building a digital system that doesn’t break the business—and why food and ag is quietly becoming one of the most advanced tech fields on the planet. How to balance transforming the core and disrupting through digital without losing focus or breaking the business What it takes to turn internal tools into market-ready products How AI is becoming the great equalizer, helping food and ag leapfrog entire tech cycles instead of playing catch-up Why culture is the make-or-break factor in innovation and how curiosity, hackathons, and fusion teams drive lasting change Plus: facial recognition for cows and shrimp that signal when they’re hungry—the unexpected edge of food tech that’s getting very real, very fast. Time Stamps 02:50 - Digital Transformation Vision and Strategy 08:53 - Future of the Food Industry 11:58 - Local vs Global Food Production 15:01- Innovations at Schreiber Foods 17:47 - The Hive: A User-Friendly Software Solution 20:52 - Digital Adoption in Agriculture 23:47 - AI and Technology in Agriculture 26:54 - Fostering a Problem-Solving Mindset 29:59 - AI's Impact on Workforce Dynamics 32:48 - Upskilling and Navigating AI Transition Show Notes SriRaj on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sriraj/  Schreiber Foods Website: schreiberfoods.com/   Schreiber Horizon: schreiberhorizon.com  Contact Schreiber Foods LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/schreiber-foods/  Jim’s LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/jim-weaver-36457418 Real Leadership Podcast: realleadership.oningroup.com Real Leadership LinkedIn :https://www.linkedin.com/company/104897916/ The Ōnin Group: oningroup.com/clients

What if the future of logistics isn’t about bigger fleets—but about smarter connections? Chris Condon grew up with the grit of farm country and the drive to fix what’s broken. After decades in the freight industry, he realized the real opportunity wasn’t in moving more freight. It was in empowering the small and mid-sized freight forwarders who move 80% of the world’s cargo. In this episode of Real Leadership, Chris shares the journey that led him to found Aircon, an AI-powered platform reshaping how freight forwarders quote, book, and manage cargo. From sleepless nights building early-stage tech to rethinking how the industry uses capacity, Chris unpacks the lessons he’s learned about leadership, adaptability, and the power of putting people—and partners—first. In this episode, we cover: Why small freight forwarders are the “linchpin” of global logistics How AI can help companies compete at scale without massive infrastructure The leadership mindset shift from operational execution to strategic advisory What it really takes to navigate the ups and downs of early-stage growth The future of air freight—and why capacity, not cost, will define success Time Stamps 04:10 - Understanding AirCon's Role in Freight Forwarding 06:56 - The Decision to Start AirCon 07:11 - The Importance of Freight Forwarders 08:03 - AI's Impact on Small and Medium-Sized Businesses 10:11 - The Future of the Logistics Workforce 11:54 - Leadership Lessons from Farming Background Show Notes Chris on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/chriscondon/  Aircon Website: https://www.airconai.com/  Contact Aircon: sales@airconai.com  Jim’s LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/jim-weaver-36457418 Real Leadership Podcast: realleadership.oningroup.com Real Leadership LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/company/104897916/ The Ōnin Group: oningroup.com/clients

Chris Cochran didn’t set out to disrupt one of the most entrenched industries in the U.S. — he just knew there had to be a better way. Now, as founder and CEO of FreightWise, he’s led one of the fastest-growing logistics tech companies in the country—proving that innovation doesn’t have to come from Silicon Valley to change everything. In this episode of Real Leadership, Chris shares the story behind FreightWise’s rise, the lessons he’s learned from building in one of the most complex sectors, and why the AI revolution is less about hype—and more about what’s possible when leaders stay focused on value. In this episode, we cover: Why small and mid-size businesses are the future of supply chain innovation The hard truth about AI adoption—and why most projects fail The freight tech shift that could redefine warehouse productivity What makes a great client relationship (and what can break it) How EBITDA became a mindset—and a mission Time Stamps 02:17 - Understanding FreightWise and Its Market 13:25 - The Future of AI in Logistics 23:15 - Career Guidance in an AI-Driven World 29:14 - Lessons from Entrepreneurial Journey 36:01 - The Value of EBITDA in Business Growth   Show Notes Chris’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrisrwcochran/  FreightWise: https://www.linkedin.com/company/freightwise-llc/  Freightwise LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/freightwise-llc/  Jim’s LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/jim-weaver-36457418 Real Leadership Podcast: realleadership.oningroup.com  Real Leadership LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/company/104897916/ The Ōnin Group: oningroup.com/clients

Chad Wiegand didn’t follow a corporate blueprint. He built a leadership model designed for complexity. From pharmacy school to law, from boardroom legal counsel to global strategy, Chad built his career by stepping into uncertainty—and bringing clarity. Today, he’s EVP and Chief Risk Officer at Schreiber Foods, an $8 billion, employee-owned food giant. He oversees everything from legal and audit to food safety, regulatory, compliance, and culture. But Chad will tell you: his impact isn’t about saying no. It’s about helping leaders make better decisions in the gray. In this episode of Real Leadership, Chad shares the pivotal moments that shaped his philosophy—from learning how to lead through risk to discovering why vulnerability might be a leader’s sharpest edge. In this episode, we cover: 🔥 The “Red Team / Green Team” structure that takes ego out of strategy 🔥 The surprising KPI that actually matters for legal leaders 🔥 How vulnerability can build more trust than confidence ever could 🔥 Why in-house legal teams must stop being seen as a cost center 🔥 What it really looks like to lead through chaos—with clarity Time Stamps   05:47 - Attributes of a Great In-House Legal Program 12:05 - Negotiation Styles in Legal Interactions 18:02 - Chad's Evolution at Schreiber Foods 25:14 - Risk Management and Decision Making 30:37 - Nose In, Hands Out Leadership 35:43 - The Impact of ESOP on Culture 42:10 - The Power of Vulnerability Show Notes   Chad’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chadwiegand/  Schreiber Foods: schreiberfoods.com/  Schreiber Foods’ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/schreiber-foods/  Jim’s LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/jim-weaver-36457418 Real Leadership Podcast: realleadership.oningroup.com  Real Leadership LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/104897916/ The Ōnin Group: oningroup.com/clients

You don’t have to choose between legacy and innovation. Jessica Warnke is proof — she’s doing both—and doing it exceptionally well. Jessica grew up in the logistics world—her grandfather started a truck dealership with poker winnings, her father scaled Carter Express from 13 trucks to a national logistics force.  Today, Jessica is the President & CEO of Carter Logistics, leading a 900-truck operation with global ties and deep family roots. But taking the reins wasn’t guaranteed—and it wasn’t easy. Jessica had to carve her own path, earn trust, and step into leadership at the intersection of tradition, innovation, and transformation. In this episode of Real Leadership, Jessica shares her real-world lessons on building culture, driving innovation in a male-dominated industry, and what it really means to lead when the stakes are personal and global. In this episode, we cover: 🔥 Why chasing “balance” is a myth—and what to do instead 🔥 The hardest part of being a second (and third) generation leader 🔥 How Carter is staying agile amid tariffs, AI, and industry shakeups 🔥 Why women were built for logistics—and how she’s opening doors 🔥 How to protect your culture during growth, acquisition, and change Time Stamps 06:10: Jessica's Journey into Trucking 12:47: Navigating Second Generation Leadership 14:49: Breaking Gender Barriers in Logistics 18:20: Challenges in the Automotive Supply Chain 22:30: Embracing Technology in Logistics 25:15: The Impact of Global Partnerships 29:01: Building a Strong Company Culture 30:34: Balancing Work and Family Life Show Notes Jessica’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessica-warnke-2863b614/  Carter Logistics: carter-logistics.com Carter Logistics on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/carter-logistics-llc/  Jim’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jim-weaver-36457418/  The Ōnin Group: oningroup.com/clients Real Leadership Podcast: realleadership.oningroup.com 

Andrew Tidwell has never followed the traditional HR playbook. With a background in labor negotiations, international chaos, and what he calls “solving difficult people problems,” Andrew built a career by saying yes to the messy stuff—and figuring it out mid-flight. Today, he’s CHRO at WineShipping, where he’s helped transform a fast-scaling logistics company into a culture-first, award-winning workplace.  But ask him how he got there, and he’ll tell you: It wasn’t by being the smartest guy in the room. It was by being the most useful. In this episode of Real Leadership, Andrew shares the moments that shaped his leadership style—from giving away a beat-up Jeep to settle a dispute in Mexico to building HR teams that operators actually trust. In this episode, we cover: 🔥 The myth of “don’t bring me problems” — and what to say instead 🔥 The overlooked leadership skill that builds trust instantly 🔥 Why HR needs to stop being “nice” and start being necessary 🔥 How to coach when you’re the boss (and everyone’s guarded) 🔥 The power of ownership—and how it rewires an entire company culture Time Stamps 06:53 – The Mexico City Jeep story: creative problem-solving in action 11:42 – HR as a driver, not a speed bump 14:20 – Speaking finance: how HR wins credibility in the boardroom 16:30 – The coaching haiku that changed Andrew’s leadership 21:22 – “It’s not your sandbox—it’s our sandbox”: the case for ownership 26:15 – What AI and robotics can’t replace in warehouse work 32:17 – Habits that help HR leaders scale with the business 34:54 – The problem with passing the message up the chain 36:26 – Who WineShipping is hiring—and what kind of talent fits Show Notes Andrew’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrewtidwell/  Wineshipping: https://wineshipping.com/   Wineshipping LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/wineshipping-com-llc/  Jim Weaver LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/jim-weaver-36457418 Real Leadership Podcast: realleadership.oningroup.com  Real Leadership LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/104897916/ The Ōnin Group: oningroup.com/clients

What if everything you thought about leadership was wrong?   Rudy Alanis grew up in a family where leadership meant service, purpose, and people. But after 25 years in global HR leadership—working at GE, TE Connectivity, Helix Electric, and now as Chief People Officer at Facility Solutions Group (FSG)—he’s learned that success isn’t just about working hard or getting results. It’s about how you lead people along the way.   In this episode of Real Leadership, Rudy shares the defining moments that shaped his leadership philosophy, from his first big reality check with Jack Welch to navigating a high-stakes leadership challenge in post-communist Prague, where trust wasn’t given—it had to be earned. In this episode, we cover:   🔥 The biggest leadership myth that’s holding companies back 🔥 Why great results don’t always mean great leadership 🔥 How to build a winning team without creating “corporate carnage” 🔥 The mistake that turns high performers into company risks 🔥 Mentors vs. Sponsors – The career secret no one tells you   Time Stamps   08:01: Lessons from Jack Welch: The HR Perspective 14:28: Building Value in the Workplace 20:04: Finding Potential in Adversity 26:05: Cultural Insights from Prague: A New Perspective 27:08: Cultural Connections and Resilience 29:00: The Importance of Respect in M&A 30:21: Transforming Hard Work into Value 33:25: Understanding Facility Solutions Group 37:11: Attracting Talent in a Changing Landscape 40:42: Engaging Employees for Success 43:24: Staying Inspired as a Cultural Ambassador   Show Notes Rudy’s LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/rudyalanis/  Facility Solutions Group (FSG): fsg.com/  FSG LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/facility-solutions-group/  Jim Weaver on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/jim-weaver-36457418 The Ōnin Group: oningroup.com/clients Real Leadership Podcast: realleadership.oningroup.com

What keeps a logistics company thriving for nearly six decades? Plenty of companies throw around words like trust and transparency, but few actually walk the talk. Even fewer know how to turn these values into a competitive edge. In this episode, Paul shares what most leaders overlook when it comes to building a resilient, high-performing organization—whether you're leading a logistics team, navigating an acquisition, or thinking about long-term growth. 🎙️ Inside this episode, you’ll discover: ✅ Why trust is a competitive advantage—and how to build it at every level of your organization ✅ The art of straight talk—how honesty (done right) fuels accountability and better decisions ✅ Acquisitions: Make or break? The hidden factor that determines if an acquisition will soar or sink ✅ Beyond growth: The long-term playbook—why sustainable success is about more than just expansion ✅ Career velocity vs. career mastery—why ambitious professionals should slow down to speed up Whether you're a seasoned executive or a rising star in logistics, this episode is packed with real-world leadership lessons that will challenge the way you think about trust, growth, and success. Timestamps [07:00] The technology shift that will make or break logistics companies [12:30] Why acquisitions are the key to long-term industry dominance [18:00] How Paul’s leadership philosophy is driving billion-dollar success [23:00] The unexpected risk that could crash the industry overnight [27:30] What supply chain leaders must do now to prepare for future disruptions [34:00] The AI and automation revolution—Paul’s game-changing perspective [40:00] The number one leadership trait every great executive needs Show Notes WSI Website: wsinc.comPaul Simmons on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/paul-simmons-4674428The Advantage by Patrick Lencioni: LinkJim Weaver on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/jim-weaver-36457418The Ōnin Group: oningroup.com/clientsReal Leadership Podcast: realleadership.oningroup.com

The Psychologist Who Built a Life-Saving Logistics Empire Most people don’t wake up thinking they’ll run a high-stakes logistics company. Matt Silverberg didn’t either. Armed with a master’s in clinical psychology, he was working in the nonprofit sector—until a phone call changed everything. His father-in-law needed help in a niche logistics business. What started as a favor turned into a full-scale leadership pivot. Today, Matt is the CEO of Associated Couriers and Chief Commercial Officer of Life Couriers, leading an industry where: Every second counts when lives are on the line Scaling a company means merging business with purpose Drones will soon deliver life-saving medicine In this episode, Matt shares: The strategy that drove three times revenue growth before acquisition Hard-earned lessons from merging company cultures How logistics innovation—from drones to Big Pharma—is reshaping healthcare Why Conscious Capitalism is the key to sustainable success Timestamps: [03:22] – The hidden world of life-critical logistics[10:36] – From psychologist to CEO—Matt’s unexpected career shift[13:23] – Tough calls and big wins that fueled explosive growth[16:27] – Merging company cultures and the battles that came with it[24:08] – Rebranding to Life Couriers and a new vision for the future[27:23] – The biggest lesson from a failed acquisition[32:36] – What’s next for logistics? Drones, AI, and global expansion Resources & Links: Life Couriers Website: www.lifecouriers.com Matt Silverberg on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-silverberg-5312a9103/ Learn More About Conscious Capitalism: www.consciouscapitalism.org Jim Weaver on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jim-weaver-36457418/  Real Leadership Website: realleadership.oningroup.com/ Real Leadership LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/104897916/admin/dashboard/  

From transforming a struggling division into a $6 billion powerhouse to tackling the unprecedented challenges of modern warfare, Matt Milas, President of Defense & Space at Honeywell Aerospace, knows what it means to lead under pressure.    His journey is a masterclass in turning obstacles into opportunities, and he shares it all on this week’s episode of Real Leadership.   With 20+ years in aerospace leadership, Matt has held executive roles at L3Harris, Raytheon, and Spirit AeroSystems. Now, he’s leading one of the most critical sectors in global defense, driving innovation in AI, automation, and advanced military technology—all while navigating supply chain bottlenecks and the rapidly evolving battlefield.   In this episode, Matt dives into how Honeywell is shaping the future of defense, the leadership principles behind scaling a multi-billion-dollar business, and the bold decisions required to stay ahead in an increasingly complex industry.   With candid insights, battle-tested strategies, and a deep understanding of what it takes to lead high-performing teams, Matt’s story is packed with valuable lessons for leaders across all industries. Episode Highlights: 🔹 The Changing Face of Warfare: How drones, AI, and autonomous systems are redefining military strategy—and what leaders need to know.🔹 Leading Through Growth & Constraint: The inside story of how Honeywell’s Defense & Space division grew by $1.4 billion in two years—and why supply chain resilience is key.🔹 Fixing What’s Broken: Matt’s turnaround playbook for reviving underperforming businesses and building a culture of execution and trust.🔹 The Future of AI in Defense: What’s next for AI-powered systems, autonomous warfare, and digital transformation in aerospace.🔹 The Leadership Mindset for High-Stakes Industries: How Matt stays energized, focused, and ahead of the curve while leading at the highest level. Timestamps: ⏱ 00:02:15 – How Matt’s aerospace career prepared him for leading in defense⏱ 00:10:36 – The asymmetric cost of war: Why the U.S. is adapting to low-cost threats⏱ 00:19:57 – The supply chain crisis in defense: Why capacity is the #1 challenge⏱ 00:27:57 – The future of AI & automation in military applications⏱ 00:31:59 – Matt’s leadership philosophy: The #1 trait he looks for in his team⏱ 00:45:45 – How Matt stays on top of his game as a leader 💡 Loved this episode? Don’t forget to subscribe to Real Leadership for more candid conversations with executives who make, move, and process. Stay inspired—follow us on LinkedIn for updates on upcoming episodes and actionable leadership insights. Show Notes Honeywell Careers: https://careers.honeywell.com/us/en Connect with Matt: https://www.linkedin.com/in/milas/  Connect with Jim: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jim-weaver-36457418/  The Ōnin Group: https://oningroup.com/clients/ Explore staffing resources: https://oninstaffing.com/staffing-questions/  Real Leadership Podcat: https://realleadership.oningroup.com/

What does it really take to be a great leader in today’s world? In Season 1 of Real Leadership, we explored this question by talking with 28 extraordinary leaders in the real economy—those who inspire their teams, solve real-world challenges, and create meaningful impact every day. Through their stories, one thing became clear: success isn’t about ego or titles. It’s about leading with a servant’s heart, building purpose-driven teams, and using your influence to make a difference. Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll uncover: ✔️ Why leadership from the middle is the foundation of real change. ✔️ How servant-hearted leaders can drive success for teams, customers, and communities. ✔️ The power of individual actions in shaping organizations, cultures, and the future. Leadership isn’t just about what happens at the top. It’s about how we show up—every day, in every role. Whether you’re leading a company, a department, or just starting your journey, these lessons prove that real leadership is within reach for all of us. Season 2 is just around the corner, and the journey is only getting started.  

From navigating a high-stakes maternity leave during the pandemic to stepping in as interim CEO during a health crisis, Chrissy Dunlap, Chief Revenue Officer at BirdieBox, knows what it means to lead with heart and grit. Her journey is a masterclass in balancing personal adversity with professional leadership, and she shares it all on this week’s episode of Real Leadership. From her start in the sports industry to leading one of the most innovative players in a $250 billion gifting industry, Chrissy’s story is packed with insights for leaders across all sectors. In this episode, Chrissy dives into how BirdieBox scaled its unique gifting model, built partnerships with industry giants like the Dallas Cowboys, and navigated pivotal moments, including the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. With humor, candor, and actionable insights, Chrissy shares stories about overcoming challenges and building a people-first company culture.  Episode Highlights: The Power of Personalization: How BirdieBox is redefining corporate gifting by blending psychology with curated, high-end products. Leadership in Crisis: Chrissy’s journey navigating COVID-19, balancing maternity leave with professional responsibilities, and leading a team through uncertainty. Scaling with Intention: The pivotal moments that propelled BirdieBox from a small startup to a leader in corporate gifting, including a key partnership with the Dallas Cowboys. Sales with a Purpose: Chrissy’s philosophy on active listening, staying curious, and creating authentic connections in sales. Timestamps: 00:01:47 – Chrissy’s serendipitous start in the sports industry and her rise to leadership. 01:28:57 – What makes BirdieBox a standout in the $250 billion gifting industry. 14:10:24 – How BirdieBox pivoted during COVID-19 with “COVID care packages.” 25:03:79 – A meeting with the Dallas Cowboys that changed everything for BirdieBox. 35:12:70 – Chrissy’s advice for leaders on active listening and staying curious. Call to Action: Love this episode? Don’t forget to subscribe to Real Leadership for more candid conversations with leaders who make, move, and process. Stay inspired—follow us on LinkedIn for updates on upcoming episodes and actionable insights. Connect with Chrissy Dunlap on LinkedIn or explore BirdieBox’s unique gifting solutions at BirdieBox.com.

How do you rise above a challenging start to lead one of the top companies in the baking industry? In this episode, Jim Weaver sits down with Mike Porter, President and COO of New Horizons Baking Company, to discuss his inspiring journey from a troubled adolescence to industry leadership. Mike shares how resilience, mentorship, and a people-first mindset have been key to his success. From implementing flexible work schedules to producing enough buns and muffins to circle the globe eight times in a year, Mike reveals the strategies that have driven New Horizons’ growth. He also offers invaluable leadership insights, including how empathy and trust can transform team performance and drive innovation. If you’re navigating leadership challenges, looking to foster a strong company culture, or simply searching for inspiration to tackle adversity head-on, this episode is packed with actionable lessons and real-world wisdom from one of the industry’s most impactful leaders. Why You Need to Listen Now: Discover the Power of Resilience: Learn how Mike overcame personal and professional obstacles to build a successful career and a thriving company. Embrace Empathy as a Leadership Tool: Hear how Mike’s people-first approach has created a culture of trust, empowerment, and collaboration at New Horizons. Unlock Innovation Through Flexibility: Explore how creative solutions like alternative work schedules can reduce turnover and boost productivity. Build a High-Performing Team: Mike shares practical advice on developing future leaders and creating an environment where everyone can thrive. Key Takeaways: Empathy is a Leadership Superpower: Learn why understanding your team’s needs is the foundation of a successful organization. Flexibility Drives Retention: Discover how offering employees options can dramatically improve loyalty and reduce turnover. Resilience Fuels Growth: Hear how a commitment to self-belief and continuous improvement can propel leaders and teams to new heights. Chapters: 00:00 - Mike Porter's Journey: From Adversity to Leadership 14:05 - The Power of Mentorship and Support Systems 20:17 - Leadership and Culture: The Foundation of Success 25:35 - Empowering People: The Heart of Leadership 32:42 - Advice for the Next Generation: Mindset and Belief 37:44 - Connecting with New Horizons: Opportunities and Resources Ready to elevate your leadership and embrace the power of resilience? Tune in to hear Mike Porter’s inspiring journey and actionable strategies for building trust, fostering innovation, and leading with empathy. Don’t miss this episode—hit play and start transforming your leadership approach today!

How do you lead in an industry with over 20,000 competitors, all vying for the same freight loads? In this episode, Jim Weaver sits down with Drew Herpich, Chief Commercial Officer at Nolan Transportation Group (NTG), one of the largest freight brokerages in the U.S. Drew brings a wealth of experience from his 14 years at Coyote Logistics and shares how NTG is navigating an evolving logistics landscape—from potential East Coast port strikes to the role of AI in transportation. Plus, Drew offers deep insights into why transparency and communication are the keys to effective leadership in today’s fast-paced world. If you’re leading through industry disruptions, interested in leveraging technology for efficiency, or simply looking to sharpen your leadership edge, this episode is filled with real-world, actionable insights from one of the top leaders in logistics today. Why You Need to Listen Now:  Learn to Navigate Industry Disruptions: Discover actionable strategies for keeping your supply chain running smoothly, even in the face of potential crises. Drew shares how NTG stays ahead of disruptions before they happen. Unlock the Power of Technology in Logistics: Gain insights into how automation and AI can give your company a competitive edge. Master Leadership Through Radical Transparency: Find out how fostering open, direct communication can strengthen your leadership. Drew’s approach to radical transparency builds trust and enhances team performance, offering lessons you can apply immediately. Build a Winning Company Culture: Get insider advice on scaling a business and creating a strong, cohesive culture. Drew reflects on his experience at Coyote Logistics, offering practical lessons for building a high-performing team, whether you’re leading 15 people or 5,000. Key Takeaways: Technology isn’t a luxury—it's essential: Discover how AI and automation are transforming freight brokerage, making it crucial for staying competitive. Radical transparency builds stronger teams: Drew shares how being open, honest, and direct is not just good leadership—it’s the key to sustained success. Learn how the right company culture can drive growth, from Drew’s journey of scaling Coyote Logistics to 3,300 employees. Chapters: 00:01 – Welcome & Introduction to Drew Herpich 01:12 – What NTG Does: A Deep Dive into Freight Brokerage 03:32 – Managing Real-Time Disruptions: The East Coast Port Strike Threat 05:08 – The Future of Logistics: Technology, AI, and Industry Consolidation 11:40 – Building Coyote Logistics: Lessons on Culture, Growth, and Leadership 20:47 – Radical Transparency: Why Over-Communicating is a Leadership Superpower 26:21 – Setting Organizational Goals: NTG’s Playbook for Success 33:52 – Why You Should Consider Working at NTG 35:56 – Where to Find NTG and Opportunities to Partner Call to Action: Ready to strengthen your leadership and tackle the biggest challenges in logistics? Tune in to hear Drew Herpich share his insider strategies for navigating disruptions, leveraging technology, and building a culture of radical transparency at NTG. Don’t miss this episode—hit play and start transforming your leadership approach today!

What does it take to lead a global powerhouse like Shell through history's most critical energy transition? Carolyn Comer, President and CEO of Shell Energy North America, knows exactly how to turn big challenges into big opportunities—and she’s sharing her playbook in this must-listen episode of Real Leadership. Carolyn pulls back the curtain on the energy industry’s biggest hurdles: reliability, affordability, and the urgent shift to cleaner energy. But this episode goes far beyond industry talk. Carolyn delivers raw, actionable insights on what it takes to lead—how empathy, curiosity, and bravery drive success at the highest levels. From overcoming self-doubt to taking bold risks, she shares the exact strategies that have shaped her career and transformed leadership at Shell. In an era of evolving leadership, Carolyn shows why Emotional Intelligence (EQ) isn’t just a buzzword—it’s a competitive edge. She also looks candidly at how Shell is driving diversity and inclusion in leadership, creating opportunities for women to thrive in one of the most complex industries. If you’re serious about leadership, growth, and the future of energy, this episode is packed with the real-world lessons you need to hear. Don't miss your chance to learn from one of the most influential leaders in energy today. Why You Need to Listen Now: Master the Energy Transition: Carolyn explains how Shell is tackling the urgent shift to clean energy while keeping power affordable and reliable. Learn the strategic insights you won’t hear anywhere else. Unlock Leadership Secrets: Carolyn’s approach to leadership—rooted in empathy, curiosity, and courage—will transform your thinking about leading teams and driving change. Learn from a Proven Leader: Whether you're an executive or aspiring leader, Carolyn’s advice on self-advocacy, mentorship, and finding work-life balance will inspire you to take bold steps in your journey. Inside Shell’s DEI Strategy: Discover how Shell breaks barriers in leadership diversity and hear Carolyn’s story of rising to the top in a male-dominated industry. Key Takeaways: The energy industry is at a crossroads—discover how Shell is positioning itself for a cleaner, more reliable future. Empathy and engagement are not just leadership buzzwords but your keys to inspiring and motivating teams. Women in leadership can thrive with the right support system—find out how Shell is building that environment. Curiosity and bravery are the cornerstones of success in any industry—learn how to cultivate both for your career. Chapters:00:00 – Introduction to Carolyn Comer07:21 – Inside Shell and the Energy Industry14:32 – Balancing Clean Energy, Reliability, and Affordability23:11 – What’s Next for Nuclear Energy?26:16 – Leading as a Woman in the Energy Sector29:29 – How to Achieve Work-Life Balance in High-Level Leadership38:14 – Carolyn’s Personal Philosophy on Leadership and Growth Sound Bites:"Be curious and be brave.""People will always remember how you made them feel." Call to Action:If you’re ready to level up your leadership and get a behind-the-scenes look at the energy industry's future, this episode is for you. Listen now to discover how one of the most powerful women in energy is leading Shell through change—and how you can apply her lessons to your career. Don’t wait—hit play and start transforming your leadership today!

Reducing Fear in the WorkplaceHow do you take a family business from survival mode to thriving on the global stage? Paula Marshall, CEO of The Bama Companies, did just that by focusing on reducing fear in the workplace. In this episode, Paula shares how she transformed Bama’s culture by fostering open communication and collaboration. She emphasizes the power of making employees feel valued and secure, which in turn led to better performance and innovation across the board. If you're looking for leadership insights that go beyond the usual playbook, Paula's approach will inspire you to rethink how you lead.Why You Should ListenPaula Marshall didn’t just inherit a business—she transformed it. After taking over The Bama Companies during a family health crisis, Paula navigated the pressures from major clients like McDonald’s and turned a regional pie company into an international powerhouse. In this episode, Paula delves into the lessons she learned from Dr. W. Edwards Deming, particularly the Red Bead Experiment, and how it reshaped her management style. She also discusses the challenges of expanding into China and how maintaining a win-win relationship between the U.S. and China is crucial for future success. If you’re interested in leadership that balances performance with compassion, this conversation is for you.Show Notes and Time Stamps00:00:00 - Introduction and Background: Paula Marshall’s journey to becoming CEO of The Bama Companies. 00:02:13 - Becoming CEO of the Family Business: The challenges of taking over after a family health crisis. 00:09:49 - Growth and Success under Paula’s Leadership: How Bama grew from $30 million to $350 million in revenue. 00:13:09 - Reducing Fear and Fostering Communication: Paula’s focus on creating a safe and open work environment. 00:17:05 - The Influence of the Deming System: Lessons from Dr. W. Edwards Deming that shaped Paula’s leadership. 00:21:28 - The Red Bead Experiment and Faulty Systems: Understanding the impact of systems on employee performance. 00:24:17 - Taking Responsibility and Involving Employees: The importance of leadership accountability and employee involvement. 00:29:15 - From Handheld Pies to International Expansion: The story of Bama’s growth from Tulsa to the global market. 00:32:50 - Challenges and Opportunities in Operating in China: Navigating the complexities of international business. 00:38:36 - Building a Win-Win Relationship between the U.S. and China: Paula’s insights on maintaining positive international relations. 00:43:17 - Loving and Honoring Every Soul Every Second: Paula’s personal mission statement and how it guides her leadership. 00:45:05 - Continuous Improvement and Engagement: Keys to achieving excellence in business. Connect with Paula MarshallPersonal Website: Paula Marshall Official LinkedIn: Paula Marshall on LinkedIn Instagram: Paula Marshall on Instagram    

Empowerment Without AbandonmentEver wondered how the leader of a $3.1 billion company maintains a culture of independence and accountability across multiple industries? David Walker, President and CEO of EBSCO Industries, shares his secret: Empowerment without Abandonment. In this episode, David explains how giving his teams the freedom to be entrepreneurial—without leaving them to fend for themselves—has been crucial to EBSCO’s sustained success. If you’re passionate about leadership that fosters innovation and autonomy while ensuring alignment and accountability, this episode is a must-hear.Why You Should ListenDavid Walker isn’t just managing a business—he’s guiding a global enterprise with a deep understanding of how to balance empowerment and oversight. This episode of Real Leadership offers a rare look into how one of America’s largest privately-held companies thrives under his leadership. You’ll hear David discuss practical strategies for: Building and maintaining momentum in a diversified business. Creating a winning company culture that resonates across different sectors. Navigating the challenges of today’s volatile economic environment with resilience and foresight. This episode isn’t just for CEOs—it’s for anyone who wants to learn how to lead with purpose, whether you're managing a team or looking to grow in your career.Show Notes and Time Stamps 00:00:00 - Introduction: Meet David Walker, the leader behind EBSCO Industries. 00:05:30 - David’s Journey: From public accounting to leading a global enterprise. 00:15:00 - Empowerment without Abandonment: How to balance autonomy and accountability in leadership. 00:30:00 - Sustaining Growth: EBSCO’s strategy for long-term success across multiple industries. 00:45:00 - Cultural Insights: Fostering a culture of humility and continuous improvement. 01:00:00 - Work-Life Balance: David’s advice for young professionals on balancing career and family. 01:15:00 - Looking Ahead: David’s thoughts on the future of manufacturing in the U.S. and EBSCO’s role in it. Connect with David Walker LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-walker-826090a/ LinkedIn Company Website: EBSCO Indushttps://www.ebscoind.comtries Email: davidwalker@ebsco.com Listen NowDon’t miss this deep dive into leadership from one of America’s top business minds. Tune in to Real Leadership on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Learn how to lead with empowerment and accountability, and discover what it takes to sustain success in today’s competitive environment.

He’s driving operational excellence in a world of milk runs, cross-docks, and lean practices. Richard DeBoer, Executive Vice President of Supply Chain Logistics at Carter Logistics, combines financial acumen with operational expertise to lead one of the top logistics firms. Drawing on his wealth of experience as CFO and COO, Richard has propelled Carter Logistics into a period of expansion, fortifying their presence in markets considered challenging to navigate. In this episode, you will:  Learn the strategies behind a 200% revenue increase in Mexico operations Uncover how lean practices and continuous improvement can boost your efficiency Discover how Carter Logistics evolved from a local player to a major force in transportation Gain insights on navigating cross-border logistics and the impact of infrastructure development in Mexico Show Notes Connect with Richard: https://www.linkedin.com/in/richard-deboer-75738435/  Connect with Carter Logistics: Website: https://www.carter-express.com/  Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/carter-logistics-llc/  Connect with Jim:  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jim-weaver-36457418/ Twitter/X: https://x.com/jpweaverjr  Learn More About Ōnin:  Website: OninGroup.com/clients/ LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/4c1PmRc  Ōnin is a staffing company driven by purpose and focused on the workforce needs of light industrial and manufacturing companies. We're all about solving our clients' toughest workforce challenges head-on so everyone can win in a new era of work.