Discover the remarkable story of Adam Melonas, CEO of Chew, as he takes us from his humble beginnings washing cars at age 8 to pioneering "better-for-you" candy and building a billion-dollar business with a mission.
Learn how Adam's unique approach to conscious capitalism, food innovation, and bold leadership strategies transformed the consumer goods industry. Don't miss his insights on turning failures into opportunities and the mindset required to create lasting impact.
Jennifer Harvey, CEO of Crown Worldwide Group, shares her journey from growing up in a family business to leading a billion-dollar global operation. Discover how she’s navigating industry shifts, fostering innovation, and balancing legacy with modern leadership. From international relocations to safeguarding fine art, this episode dives into the challenges and triumphs of steering a global enterprise in a rapidly changing world.
In this episode of TOP CEO, host Ben Kaplan speaks with Tom Dowd, the transformative leader behind F45 Training, shares his remarkable journey from investor to CEO during one of the company’s most challenging periods. Discover how Tom shifted F45’s focus from high-profile celebrity endorsements to celebrating real member success stories, transforming the brand’s trajectory.
Learn the bold steps he took to revamp the company’s marketing, expand into Pilates and recovery services, and redefine what it means to foster community within the fitness industry. With lessons on leadership under pressure, prioritizing customer feedback, and building a culture of collaboration, Tom’s story offers a masterclass in driving growth while staying true to your brand’s core values.
Tune in to explore how one CEO’s hands-on approach turned setbacks into growth opportunities, proving that the best stories come from the people who live them.
In this episode, we dive deep into the entrepreneurial journey of Felix Lee, CEO and co-founder of ADP List, a mentorship platform that connects thousands of people with industry mentors from companies like Google, Meta, and Netflix. Felix shares how he started with a simple Google spreadsheet during the pandemic, aiming to help laid-off designers find jobs. From there, his platform grew into a global network, but not without challenges.
We discuss the difficult balance between growth and monetization, Felix's decision to prioritize impact over immediate revenue, and the personal struggles he faced when his co-founder stepped away. Felix also opens up about the toughest moments in building his company and the advice that has shaped his leadership style. Whether you're a startup founder, mentor, or someone navigating the business world, Felix's story offers invaluable lessons on resilience, vision, and the power of community. Tune in to hear the inspiring journey of a leader who's not afraid to take risks and stay true to his mission.
In this episode, we sit down with Ryan Ellis, the CEO of TravisMathew, who transformed a startup with zero brand awareness into a $300 million lifestyle powerhouse. Ryan shares the journey of navigating countless setbacks, building a brand that balances performance with style, and leveraging unique athlete endorsements. From nearly going under multiple times to becoming a retail success story, Ryan’s story is one of grit, innovation, and the relentless pursuit of being better every day. Tune in to learn what it really takes to create a brand people love and the lessons Ryan learned along the way.
In this episode, Ben Kaplan sits down with Ed Jennings, CEO of QuickBase, to uncover the strategies behind transforming a tech company into an industry powerhouse. Ed shares his journey of refining QuickBase’s approach, from navigating the challenges of rapid growth to making tough decisions that narrowed their focus on key sectors like construction and manufacturing. Discover what it takes to galvanize a team around a singular vision, pivot from being a generalist to a specialist, and drive sustainable growth in a complex SaaS landscape. If you want insights on turning a company around or scaling it to new heights, this episode is for you!
In this episode of TOP CEO, Curtis Hite, CEO of Improving, shares the gripping story of how he led his company (Valtech) through the aftermath of the Enron scandal. When their largest client collapsed, Curtis was faced with tough decisions, including layoffs and restructuring, right before Christmas. Through resilience, strategic decisions, and a commitment to conscious capitalism, Curtis turned adversity into growth. Tune in to learn how one leader navigated the storm and emerged stronger, offering valuable lessons for business leaders facing their own challenges.
In this episode of TOP CEO, we dive into the transformative journey of Bryan Murphy, CEO of Smartling. Bryan shares his insights on navigating the challenges posed by generative AI in the translation industry. He discusses the pivotal decisions made to embrace AI, the significant investments in technology, and the strategic reorganization of the company to stay ahead of the curve. Discover how Smartling turned potential threats into opportunities, revolutionizing their business model and setting new standards in the industry. Tune in for a compelling story of innovation, leadership, and resilience in the face of rapid technological change.
In this episode of "TOP CEO," host Ben Kaplan engages with Rahul Kakkar, CEO of Tome Biosciences, exploring the dramatic shifts in the biotech industry and how emerging companies navigate financial and technological hurdles. Founded in 2021, Tome Biosciences has been at the forefront of gene editing technology, thriving amidst substantial economic downturns that have challenged the sector. Rahul discusses strategic pivots and operational efficiencies that have allowed Tome to maintain innovation under financial constraints, delves into the high-risk, high-reward nature of biotech investments, and explains how changing interest rates and investment trends have shaped the industry landscape. Join us as Rahul shares insights from Tome's journey through optimistic beginnings and trials of fundraising during industry lows, revealing critical decisions that have set the stage for the company's future endeavors.
On this episode of TOP CEO, dive into an episode with Nate Randle of Gabb, as he faces a crisis threatening his mission to safeguard kids in the digital realm. When their key manufacturing partner exits unexpectedly, Randle is thrust into a whirlwind of challenges, from product delays to stakeholder doubts. Without revealing how they tackle these obstacles, this episode offers a gripping look at leadership under pressure, the scramble for solutions, and the resilience required to navigate a start-up through uncertainty. Join us to explore the high-stakes decisions and raw moments that define Gabb's journey through adversity.
In this episode of TOP CEO, we delve into the intricate journey of Jason Scherer, CEO of VitaTek, as he navigates the complex landscape of the medical device manufacturing industry. Faced with the daunting challenge of integrating disparate elements of medical device development under one roof, Scherer's story unfolds as a quest for efficiency and innovation against a backdrop of industry fragmentation. From cold-calling potential partners in Minnesota to wrestling with the realities of merging differing company cultures, this episode offers a candid look at the hurdles of business expansion and the strategic partnerships essential for growth. Discover how Scherer's relentless pursuit of a 'needle in a haystack' partnership and his commitment to bridging cultural divides illustrate the resilience required to lead and expand a business in a highly regulated sector. Tune in to hear a tale of determination, strategic alliances, and the transformative power of visionary leadership in the medical device field.
In the latest "TOP CEO" episode, join us for an intriguing journey with James Ontra, CEO of Shufflrr. From a presentation creation agency to a leading software solution, James' story is about perseverance and innovation. He navigated the challenges of bootstrap funding and AI integration, balancing financial allure with compliance risks and customer concerns.
This episode explores the pivotal decisions James faced: embracing AI without losing Shufflrr's core mission or alienating customers. It's a tale of finding the grey area in a black-and-white situation, prioritizing existing customers over rapid expansion, and adapting without losing the company's essence.
Discover how James' leadership evolved, focusing not just on product functionality but on building trust in the team and the roadmap for Shufflrr's future. The episode delves into how communication and client relationships are key in navigating the ever-changing tech landscape.
Don't miss this insightful episode as we explore Shufflrr's vision for the future, where presentation management becomes a strategic C-suite decision, changing corporate communications worldwide.
In this episode of TOP CEO, Mike Salguero, CEO of ButcherBox, shares his entrepreneurial journey from launching a subscription-based meat delivery service to navigating the challenges of scaling a business without external funding. Salguero details how he turned ButcherBox from a side hustle into a multi-million dollar venture, emphasizing the importance of staying true to core values, focusing on quality over quantity, and making tough decisions during pivotal moments like the COVID-19 pandemic. This episode is a masterclass in leadership and the art of building a sustainable, member-obsessed business model.
Produced by TOP Thought Leader
Voiceover - Tom Cain
In this episode, we dive into TextNow's transformative journey under Derek Ting's leadership. From a strategic pivot focusing solely on TextNow to pioneering a free service model, we explore how the company turned challenges into opportunities. Witness Ting's evolution from developer to leader, guiding TextNow through Silicon Valley's competitive landscape with a focus on sustainable growth. We also uncover how TextNow overcame technical hurdles, expanding its reach in the mobile communication industry. This story is not just about innovation; it's a testament to the power of resilience and the courage to redefine the future of connectivity. Join us for a tale of breaking barriers and shaping the digital world.
In this gripping episode of TOP CEO, we delve into the high-stakes world of Avaya, a company on the precipice of a major crisis. As we navigate through the turbulent waters of corporate restructuring, we explore the daunting challenges faced by Alan Masarek, the CEO at the helm during this critical time.
Confronted with the aftermath of a Chapter 11 announcement, Masarek grapples with not just the financial implications but also the looming threat of losing customer trust. The episode paints a vivid picture of a company burdened with a massive $600 million investment gone wrong, and a colossal debt of nearly $4 billion.
As if these financial hurdles weren't enough, Avaya faces the challenge of adapting to rapidly changing industry dynamics, particularly the shift to cloud-based solutions. With the company's legacy and future at stake, the pressure mounts to evolve and innovate in a market that waits for no one.
This episode doesn't just take you through the stormy seas of corporate distress; it also gives an inside look at the cultural shifts needed within Avaya. How does a CEO instil a new way of thinking in a time of crisis? What does it take to lead a team through uncertainty and change?
Join us in this episode of TOP CEO for a story of resilience, strategy, and leadership under pressure. Discover the intricate complexities and tough decisions faced by a CEO in the throes of corporate upheaval. Tune in for an episode that promises to keep you on the edge of your seat, but don't expect any easy answers – this is a journey through challenges, with solutions waiting to be discovered.
In this episode of TOP CEO, we step into the world of Hans Skruvfors, the visionary at the helm of Foodora. As the CEO of a company revolutionizing the delivery space, Hans faces a maelstrom of challenges that test the mettle of his leadership and the resilience of his team. From the logistical hurdles of a major merger to the unprecedented demands of a global pandemic, Foodora's journey is a testament to the power of innovation and adaptability.
Under Hans's guidance, Foodora transforms from a traditional food delivery service into a lifeline for restaurants and customers alike, expanding its offerings beyond cuisine to meet the urgent needs of a world in lockdown. This episode explores the internal struggles, the strategic pivots, and the bold decisions that redefine what it means to be a leader in crisis.
Join us as we dissect the anatomy of Foodora's extraordinary circumstances—where every step is a gamble, and every gamble is a step towards redefining the future of delivery services. This isn't just a story of a company; it's a narrative about the essence of leadership, the spirit of entrepreneurship, and the relentless pursuit of excellence.
In this riveting episode of TOP CEO, we unpack the complex and inspiring journey of Method:CRM, a platform that dared to be different from the get-go. Join us as we explore how they navigated the labyrinth of modern-day challenges, from launching a visionary 'no-code' platform to grappling with the 'one-size-doesn't-fit-all' dilemma.
Discover how Method:CRM turned every obstacle into a stepping stone: battling MVP complexities, overcoming technical debt, and embracing a mobile-first world. In a special segment, we delve into Paul’s strategic choices post-Series A investment, a watershed moment that could redefine the platform’s destiny.
Get ready for an enlightening conversation that pushes the boundaries of what a SaaS company can be. This episode serves as a masterclass in listening to user feedback while staying true to a grander vision. If you're intrigued by the intricate interplay of technology, business, and customer-focused evolution, this episode is your roadmap to the highs, lows, and undeniable resilience of Method:CRM.
In this gripping episode, we unpack the formidable challenges faced by Poplin, a trailblazer in the fertility space. How do you make fertility proactive rather than reactive? How do you merge healthcare and technology into a single, user-friendly platform? Alexandria DeVito, the company's founder and CEO, shares her journey through these complex questions. Listen in to learn how she navigated product iterations, customer feedback, and the loneliness of being a solo founder. Whether you're in healthcare, tech, or any other sector, this episode offers actionable insights into overcoming business challenges that seem insurmountable. Don't miss it.
Are you a tech entrepreneur, a CEO, or simply someone fascinated by business resilience? This episode is a must-listen. Join us as we sit down with Abeer Raza, the co-founder of TekRevol, a company that faced the brink of collapse but clawed its way back with strategic brilliance.
Discover how TekRevol diversified into the booming Middle East market to offset U.S. downturns. Learn about the transformative role of AI in their service lines, from development to marketing. Hear about their audacious venture into the restaurant industry during the pandemic and the power of knowledge leadership in building strong industry connections.
If you're grappling with challenges in your business or looking for inspiration to scale, this episode offers actionable insights and a roadmap for not just surviving but thriving.