Experience-Focused Leaders

Hosted by Alex Shevelenko

Business Entrepreneurship

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Episodes

100

Latest episode

Jun 2026

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About the show

Introducing Alex Shevelenko, CEO and founder of RELAYTO and the host of the Experienced-Focused Leaders Podcast. With a mission to empower seasoned business owners who recognize the critical role of customer experience in achieving success, Alex brings together a community of discerning listeners eager to explore new perspectives and strategies for enhancing their experience-centric approach. In our thought-provoking podcast episodes, we dive deep into the stories and insights of accomplished business owners who have honed their expertise in delivering exceptional customer experiences. These industry veterans possess a wealth of knowledge and practical experience, making them valuable resources for our audience of seasoned professionals who are passionate about creating meaningful connections with their customers. Our podcast serves as a platform for exchanging ideas, sharing best practices, and exploring innovative approaches to customer experience. We understand that our audience is composed of discerning individuals who have already achieved considerable success and are constantly seeking new ways to elevate their customer-centric strategies. If you are a seasoned business owner with a profound understanding of the significance of customer experience in driving business growth, we invite you to join us as a guest on our podcast. Share your unique insights, success stories, and the strategies that have set you apart in your industry.

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60 recent

June 12, 202648 min

41 – How One Blog Post Generated Millions of Readers and 1,000+ Sign-ups

Your host Alex Shevelenko welcomes Gleb Budman, the co-founder and CEO of publicly listed Backblaze (NASDAQ: BLZE). In this episode, Gleb shares his visionary take on why first-principles thinking and long-term organic growth are the ultimate competitive advantages in a world increasingly dominated by trillion-dollar tech hyperscalers.Gleb discusses the evolution of his thinking from his early days as a multi-time exited founder to his team's decision to bootstrap Backblaze without initial venture capital funding. He explains why modern "best practices" of raising massive funding rounds early on can often feel like a trap, hollowing out a startup's focus by prioritizing investor pitches over earning a dollar from real customers. He introduces the reality of building an infrastructure company from a one-bedroom apartment—surviving on "rice and beans" while choosing to fund physical servers over founder salaries. As the conversation explores the future of cloud computing and AI workloads, Gleb highlights why Backblaze has become the core infrastructure layer for the "Neo-Cloud" gold rush, and why the most resilient brands will be those that offer open, flexible data storage without predatory egress fees.The conversation also touches on the practicalities of leadership and the psychology of performance, including Gleb’s advice on how to protect an organization from the "cortisol fluctuations" of stock market volatility by focusing the team on metrics they can actually control. He shares insights from his decades spent scaling Backblaze, explaining how a single, open-source technical blog post 15 years ago blossomed into a sustainable marketing engine that now attracts millions of readers annually. He also breaks down their recent, deliberate decision to close their physical headquarters—acknowledging their remote-first reality while introducing highly intentional playbooks to keep a 400-person team deeply connected. This episode serves as a masterclass for any leader looking to move beyond "innovation theater" and build an organization that is philosophically and technically equipped to stay resilient in an era of unprecedented uncertainty.To connect with Gleb, find him on LinkedIn (Gleb Budman) or follow his insights at @glebbudman on X. You can also visit backblaze.com/blog to see his vision for authentic, high-value communication in action. Don't just build a product—build the skills to solve the world's problems!Want to be a guest on the show? Contact us at relayto.com/contact.To learn more about RELAYTO, visit: relayto.com.

May 15, 20261 hr 12 min

37 – The Anti-Sales Manual: How Curiosity Closes More Deals

Your host Alex Shevelenko welcomes Barry Rhein, the founder of Barry Rhein & Associates and the legendary creator of the "Selling Through Curiosity" methodology. In this episode, Barry shares his visionary take on why genuine curiosity and human connection are the ultimate competitive advantages in a world increasingly flooded with automated, AI-generated noise and transactional sales pressure.Barry discusses the evolution of his thinking from his early days as a 12-year-old "worm entrepreneur" to his current role as a faculty member at Stanford Business School. He explains why modern sales "best practices" often feel like a destructive monoculture, hollowing out the trust between companies and their customers. He introduces the "Triangle of Curiosity"—a blueprint for balancing information gathering and relationship building with the customized value required to solve a customer's highest business priorities. As the conversation explores the future of AI, Barry highlights why the speed of technology cannot replace the "muscle memory" of human learning, and why the most resilient brands will be those that prioritize authentic problem-solving over mere product demos.The conversation also touches on the practicalities of leadership and the psychology of performance, including Barry’s advice on how to move beyond the "stigma" of sales by adopting an attitude of service. He shares insights from his decades spent training global giants like Salesforce, DocuSign, and SAP, explaining how practicing "open-ended" communication can protect a company’s mission and even save personal relationships. This episode serves as a masterclass for any leader looking to move beyond "innovation theater" and build an organization that is philosophically and technically equipped to stay curious in an era of unprecedented uncertainty.To connect with Barry, find him on LinkedIn or follow his insights at barryrhein.com. You can also visit sellingthroughcuriosity.com to see his vision for high-integrity communication in action. Don't just build a product—build the skills to solve the world's problems!Want to be a guest on the show? Contact us at relayto.com/contact.To learn more about RELAYTO, visit: relayto.com.

May 6, 202651 min

36 – Surgically Deboned: How Modern Finance Kills Great Companies

Your host Alex Shevelenko welcomes Eric Ries, entrepreneur, author, and the pioneer of the Lean Startup movement. In this episode, Eric shares his visionary take on why "trust" and "structural integrity" are the ultimate competitive advantages in a world increasingly flooded with automated, AI-generated noise and short-term financial pressure.Eric discusses the evolution of his thinking from the "Build-Measure-Learn" feedback loop to his new framework for "Incorruptible" organizations. He explains why modern "best practices" have become a destructive monoculture, hollowing out the missions of once-great companies. He introduces the concepts of Ethos and Integrity—a blueprint for balancing a company’s character with the legal strength required to resist the "mercenary" pressures of the modern market. As the conversation explores the future of AI, Eric highlights why the speed of technology cannot replace the slow process of human learning, and why the most resilient brands of the next century will be those that prioritize value creation over value extraction.The conversation also touches on the practicalities of leadership and board-level buy-in, including Eric’s advice on how to talk to skeptical "amoral" investors about long-term goals. He shares insights from his time building the Long-Term Stock Exchange and working with global giants, explaining how "Industrial Foundations" and specific governance structures can protect a company’s "spark" for 50 to 100 years. This episode serves as a masterclass for any leader looking to move beyond "innovation theater" and build an organization that is legally and philosophically equipped to stay true to its mission in an era of unprecedented uncertainty.To connect with Eric, find him on LinkedIn or follow his insights at Incorruptible.co. You can also visit ltse.com to see his vision for long-term capitalism in action. Don't just build a product—build an organization that can survive the century!Want to be a guest on the show? Contact us HERE. To learn more about RELAYTO, visit: relayto.com.

May 1, 202651 min

35 – Building Brands with Heart: How Emotion Drives B2B Success in the Age of AI

Your host Alex Shevelenko welcomes Adam Morgan, VP of Brand at Twilio and author of Sorry Spock, Emotions Drive Business. In this episode, Adam shares his visionary take on why the "human element" is the ultimate competitive advantage in a world increasingly flooded with automated, AI-generated noise.Adam discusses the shift from purely "data-driven" demand generation to a brand-first strategy, explaining why B2B companies must move past technical "specs" to create deep emotional connections. He introduces his "Hierarchy of Messaging"—a neuroscience-backed framework for balancing the brain’s "fast" emotional systems with its "slow" logical ones. As the conversation explores the future of creativity, Adam highlights why "taste," "vision," and "bespoke experiences" are the only things AI cannot replicate, forming a "human moat" around successful modern brands.The conversation also touches on the practicalities of leadership and buy-in, including Adam’s "manifesto" approach to winning over skeptical boards and C-suite executives. He shares the story behind Twilio’s "Builder" identity, explaining how a single, powerful archetype can unite a chaotic portfolio of products and inspire everyone from developers to CEOs. This episode serves as a masterclass for any leader looking to fight the "B2B snorefest" and build a brand that resonates in the hearts, not just the minds, of their audience.To connect with Adam, find him on LinkedIn or follow his insights on Medium at The Creative Machine. You can also visit twilio.com to see the "Builder" story in action. Don't just execute—become the architect of your brand’s future!Want to be a guest on the show? Contact us HERE. To learn more about RELAYTO, visit: [relayto.com].

April 24, 202638 min

34 – The Thursday Night Finish: How the "Hidden 10%" are Using AI to Outwork You

Your host Alex Shevelenko welcomes Greg Shove, the CEO of Section and a six-time CEO with a storied history of building companies that redefine how we work. In this episode, Greg shares his vision for the "Super Company," offering a candid masterclass on why AI transformation must start at the bottom of the organizational pyramid with the workforce, rather than being dictated from the top down by external consultants.Greg discusses the shift from being AI-proficient to becoming an "AI Maximalist," explaining why leaders must move past using technology for simple "parenting advice" and start using it as a high-stakes thought partner. He introduces the "Cut and Create" framework—a strategy for aggressively automating "busy work" to make room for high-value human creativity. As the conversation explores the future of the knowledge economy, Greg highlights why the "human element"—judgment, empathy, and storytelling—is becoming the most valuable premium in a world flooded with cheap, AI-generated noise.The conversation also touches on the uncomfortable realities of modern leadership, including Greg’s "lead or retire" ultimatum for executives who are resistant to change. He shares fascinating insights into the "hidden 10%" of employees who are already using AI to finish their work weeks by Thursday night and explains why leaders must celebrate these early adopters rather than viewing their efficiency as "cheating." This episode serves as a powerful guide for any leader looking to navigate the existential anxieties of the AI era while building a more productive, mission-driven organization.To connect with Greg, find him on LinkedIn or visit sectionai.com, where he shares his perspective on AI education, entrepreneurship, and the future of the global workforce. Embrace the opportunity to build a "Super Company" in this transformative era!Want to be a guest on the show? Contact us here.To learn more about RELAYTO, visit: relayto.com.

April 17, 202641 min

33 – The Path from Seed Stage to a Billion Dollar Exit

Your host Alex Shevelenko welcomes Brian Liu, the visionary founder and former CEO of LegalZoom, the company that redefined access to legal services and became the first publicly listed legal tech giant. In this episode, Brian shares his journey from a law school "misfit" to a pioneer of industry disruption, offering a rare look at how to scale a business in one of the world's most conservative professions.Brian discusses the evolution of legal technology over the last two decades, from the early days of online document templates to the current era of AI-driven automation. He emphasizes that true disruption isn't just about software; it is about democratizing access and bridging the gap between complex academic theory and the practical needs of everyday Americans. As the conversation explores the rise of AI in the enterprise space, Brian highlights why the "human element"—authenticity, empathy, and storytelling—remains the ultimate competitive advantage that technology cannot replicate.The conversation also touches on the intense challenges of navigating a highly regulated industry, including early legal battles and the nine-year journey from filing for an IPO to finally going public. Brian shares his philosophy on leadership, arguing that success is driven by group dynamics and trust rather than the ideas of a "lone genius." This episode serves as a powerful masterclass in resilience, showing how leaders can turn regulatory friction into a market-leading brand.To connect with Brian, find him on LinkedIn, where he shares his perspective on entrepreneurship, board governance, and the future of the legal profession. Embrace the opportunity to build a mission-driven organization in this transformative era!Want to be a guest on the show? Contact us HERE. To learn more about RELAYTO, visit: relayto.com.

April 10, 20261 hr 15 min

32 – Marketing as the Linchpin: Why the Future of Revenue is Creative

Your host Alex Shevelenko welcomes Amit Pande, an enterprise product leader with over two decades of experience at industry giants like Oracle, Yahoo, HP, and C3AI. In this episode, Amit shares his insights on the evolving landscape of go-to-market (GTM) strategies, particularly in the context of AI and enterprise applications. They delve into how GTM has transformed from a mere marketing and sales function into a foundational construct that drives innovation and revenue flow.Amit discusses the significant changes he’s observed over the past decade, including the rise of GTM engineers and the integration of sales, marketing, and customer success into cohesive teams. He emphasizes the necessity of adapting to new technologies and the importance of understanding customer needs in a rapidly changing environment. As they explore the implications of AI on traditional systems of record and engagement, Amit highlights the need for organizations to evolve their approaches to data management and customer interaction.The conversation also touches on the challenges faced by regulated industries and the importance of creating meaningful experiences for customers, even when human interaction is not present. Amit shares his vision for a future where AI enhances the sales process, enabling personalized engagements that resonate with buyers on a deeper level. This episode serves as a thought-provoking exploration of how leaders can navigate the complexities of modern GTM strategies while leveraging AI to drive meaningful change.To connect with Amit, find him on LinkedIn and X, where he shares insights on content, storytelling, and the impact of AI on industries. Embrace the opportunity to redefine your identity in this transformative era!To continue the conversation with Amit, visit his LinkedIn. Want to be a guest on the show? Contact us HERE. To learn more about RELAYTO, visit: relayto.com.

April 3, 20261 hr 2 min

31 – The 4 Step Mental Algorithm for High Achievers

Your host Alex Shevelenko welcomes Scott Britton, author of Conscious Accomplishment, for a profound exploration into the intersection of high-performance entrepreneurship and deep spiritual awareness. Scott, a prolific achiever and co-founder, shares his journey of moving beyond "ego-driven" success to find a more sustainable, "joy-centered" way of creating impact in the real world. Together, they challenge the traditional "macho" startup archetype of burnout and unprocessed stress.In this conversation, Scott breaks down his "Using Your Response to Life" philosophy—a tactical roadmap for turning daily triggers and professional frustrations into "golden threads" that lead to internal freedom. He reveals the invisible reality behind being a "prolific creator," sharing how minor work setbacks often mirror deep-seated childhood patterns that are finally ready to be "brought to completion." Scott illustrates the powerful "inward and outward" oscillation required of the modern leader, explaining how the resilience found in meditation is the ultimate training ground for a CEO navigating the uncertainty of the AI era.From the "Power of the Repatterning Sequence" to the necessity of finding a long-term teacher, Scott provides actionable "nuggets" to ensure your identity remains rooted in your "true nature" rather than your net worth. He also discusses the fascinating dynamic of building a "Conscious Talent" network, proving that "how you do one thing is how you do everything." He explains why the current "Matrix moment" in technology is the ultimate call for founders to recenter, allowing for rapid-fire growth without losing their humanity. This episode provides a sophisticated playbook for anyone looking to navigate the high-stakes world of startups as a "warrior" who is also deeply vulnerable and present.To continue the conversation with Scott, visit ScottBritton.me or find his book, Conscious Accomplishment, on Amazon and Audible.Want to be a guest on the show? Contact us here.To learn more about RELAYTO, visit: relayto.com

March 26, 202659 min

30 – Net Worth vs. Self-Worth: Why Your Startup Isn't You

Your host Alex Shevelenko welcomes "cohabitating" co-authors Jeffrey Chernick and Alix Gitter for a deep dive into the human soul of entrepreneurship. Jeffrey, a serial founder with 20 years of "startup life" addiction and multiple exits, joins forces with Alix, a professional actress and writer, to debut their bestselling book, High Five Energy: A Different Kind of Founder. Together, they challenge the "Silicon Valley" status quo of burnout and "dirty fuel."In this conversation, Jeffrey and Alix break down the "High Five Energy" philosophy—a roadmap for moving away from fear-based motivation toward joy-centered creation. Jeffrey reveals the invisible reality behind the "highlight reel," sharing how legendary exits often require "eight pivots" and the near-collapse of the business. Alix illustrates the powerful intersection of the arts and entrepreneurship, explaining how the resilience of an actor is the ultimate training ground for a CEO. From the "Power of the Pause" in meditation to the "four-foot rule" of virtual framing, they provide tactical "nuggets" to ensure your identity remains rooted in self-worth rather than net worth.The duo also shares the fascinating dynamic of writing a book as a married couple, proving that "how you do one thing is how you do everything." They discuss why AI is the ultimate co-pilot for the modern founder, removing every excuse to stay on the sidelines and allowing for rapid-fire experimentation. This episode provides a sophisticated playbook for anyone looking to navigate the high-stakes world of startups without losing their humanity, teaching you how to treat every crisis as a "practice" and turn every roadblock into a portal to your next big idea.To continue the conversation with Jeffrey and Alix, visit https://www.jeffreychernick.com/high-five-energy or find their book on Amazon and Barnes & Noble.Want to be a guest on the show? Contact us HERE.To learn more about RELAYTO, visit: relayto.com

March 20, 202645 min

29 – The Portal to Your People: Why Your Camera is Your Most Powerful Tool

Your host Alex Shevelenko welcomes Karin Reed, an Emmy Award-winning journalist turned leadership communications expert, for a masterclass in modern connectivity. As the CEO of Speaker Dynamics and the author of Suddenly Virtual and Suddenly Hybrid, Karin has become the go-to coach for global giants like Lenovo and Eli Lilly, helping executives move from being "talking heads" to authentic leaders who command the screen.In this conversation, Karin breaks down her "MVP" framework—Mental mindset, Vocal variety, and Physical factors—to solve the most common pitfalls of digital communication. She reveals why most people sound monotone when reading and introduces "analytical reading" to help you recapture the meaning behind your words. Karin explains the "Audience of One" philosophy, shifting the focus from performing for a crowd to building intimate, one-on-one connections through the camera lens. From the "Power of the Pause" to the "four-foot rule" of virtual framing, she provides tactical "quick wins" to ensure your message lands with impact rather than becoming vocal white noise.Karin also shares the fascinating story behind her prolific collaboration with Dr. Joe Allen—writing multiple books together before ever meeting in person—as a testament to the power of high-richness digital communication. She illustrates how leaders can leverage minimal slide design as a "memory hook" to foster spontaneous, authentic storytelling. This episode provides a sophisticated playbook for anyone looking to navigate the hybrid world, teaching you how to prioritize authenticity over perfection and turn every camera lens into a portal to your people.To continue the conversation with Karin, visit speakerdynamics.com or her LinkedIn profile.Want to be a guest on the show? Apply here.To learn more about RELAYTO, visit: relayto.com.