In this engaging episode of Zero to 5000, host Drew McClure sits down with Carrie Cook, the dynamic leader behind Ignite Funding and Preferred Trust Company. Carrie shares her incredible journey of rescuing two companies, transforming them into thriving enterprises, and navigating the complex worlds of private lending and self-directed custodianship. With insights into leadership, innovation, and adaptability, this conversation offers a masterclass for founders and executives alike. Key Takeaways: The Dual Executive Role: Carrie took on the challenge of running two companies simultaneously, leveraging synergies to achieve remarkable growth for both organizations. Rebuilding from Crisis: Ignite Funding, once $700K in debt, is now a multimillion-dollar success thanks to Carrie’s decisive leadership and willingness to make tough calls. Trust Through Transparency: Carrie emphasized the importance of investor communication during crises, including hosting town halls and sharing unvarnished truths. Efficiency Drives Scale: From pioneering electronic signatures in Nevada to building custom operational technology, Carrie showed how innovation powers efficiency and scalability. The Power of People: Recognizing and maximizing employee potential is central to Carrie’s leadership philosophy, with unique strategies like physically relocating staff to spark new perspectives.