Trailblazing for Success: Inspiring Leaders

Hosted by Bruce and Gail Montgomery

Business Management

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Sep 2025

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Join us on Trailblazing for Success: Inspiring Leaders, a podcast celebrating remarkable leaders and their journeys to success. Discover their secrets, adventures, challenges, and innovations.

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September 26, 2025Episode 4622 min

E46 | Revolutionizing Fan Engagement with AI and Storytelling, with Bill Bailey

SummaryIn this engaging conversation, Bill Bailey, head of sports and entertainment at Satisfi Labs, shares his journey from the food industry to the sports world, highlighting the innovative work being done at Satisfi Labs to enhance fan engagement through AI and data analytics. He discusses the importance of storytelling in business, building meaningful relationships, and adapting to different learning styles. Bill also offers insights into the future of AI in sports and entertainment and shares valuable leadership lessons.TakeawaysBill Bailey has a diverse background in food and sports industries.Satisfi Labs focuses on enhancing fan engagement through AI.The company has a 70% market share in sports entertainment.AI is used to provide instant answers to fan inquiries.Storytelling is crucial for effective communication in business.Building relationships is key to success in sales.Different people consume information in various ways.Repetition and multiple formats help in effective communication.AI will continue to evolve and play a significant role in business.Effective leadership involves providing context and removing obstacles.Chapters00:00 Family Life and Personal Updates00:20 Satisfye Labs and Innovations in Sports Entertainment03:48 Guardrails for Brand Protection04:45 The Art of Storytelling in Business08:02 From Food Business to Sports Leadership10:25 Evolving Storytelling Techniques14:19 AI in Customer Engagement17:23 The Future of AI in Business19:48 Leadership Lessons and AdviceKeywordsBill Bailey, Satisfi Labs, AI, sports, entertainment, fan engagement, storytelling, leadership, data analytics, technology

September 5, 2025Episode 4526 min

E45 | Biology Meets Boardroom: Aim Your Effort Where It Counts, with Carla Fowler

SummaryIn this engaging conversation, Bruce and Gail speak with Dr. Carla Fowler, the Managing Director of THAXA Executive Coaching. They discuss Carla's journey from a medical and academic background to the world of executive coaching, exploring themes of leadership, performance science, and the importance of visibility in achieving success. Carla shares her insights on the methodologies she employs in coaching, emphasizing the need for a holistic approach that includes strategy, execution, mindset, and biology. The conversation wraps up with valuable advice on making impactful decisions and the significance of understanding one's own capabilities in a leadership role.Takeaways- The importance of personal stories in connecting with others.- Making a career pivot can be a brave and necessary decision.- Leaders need to be aware of their visibility and impact.- Performance science encompasses strategy, execution, mindset, and biology.- A bias for action can lead to burnout if not managed properly.- Understanding one's own capabilities is crucial for effective leadership.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Personal Anecdotes02:45 Carla Fowler's Journey to Executive Coaching05:37 The Decision to Pivot Careers08:21 Understanding Leadership and Performance Science11:14 The Importance of Visibility in Leadership13:52 Advice and Insights on Effective Leadership16:39 Final Thoughts and Closing RemarksKeywordsexecutive coaching, performance science, leadership, personal development, career pivot, mindset, strategy, biology, visibility, advice

May 30, 2025Episode 4425 min

E44 | Casting Big Nets: How Adventure and Alignment Fuel Sam Vandervalk’s Mission

Summary In this conversation, Sam Vandervalk shares his journey from being a sport fishing guide to founding Arc Trips, a mastermind retreat experience for high-achieving entrepreneurs. He discusses the importance of aligning success with deeper meaning, the challenges he faced in building his fishing business, and his latest venture into creating an adventure booking platform that utilizes AI. Sam emphasizes the significance of personal growth for entrepreneurs and how it impacts their business success.TakeawaysSam Vandervalk founded Arc Trips to help leaders find purpose beyond success.True fulfillment comes from aligning achievement with deeper meaning.Sam started his fishing business while attending university, aiming for financial independence.He became a leader in SEO for fishing keywords, achieving top rankings on Google.Sam's business model includes a unique fish guarantee for customers.He emphasizes the importance of personal growth for business leaders.Sam is developing an AI-driven adventure booking platform.The platform aims to enhance the experience for both hosts and guests.Finding Purpose Beyond Success with Sam VandervalkChapters00:00 Introduction to Sam Vanderwalk01:04 The Concept of Adventure-Based Mastermind Retreats02:04 Exploring Vancouver's Natural Wonders03:30 Sam's Journey to Entrepreneurship08:14 Overcoming SEO Challenges10:26 Innovating the Fishing Experience14:18 Building an Adventure Booking Platform22:12 The Importance of Personal Growth in BusinessKeywordsSam Vandervalk, Arc Trips, mastermind retreats, adventure-based retreats, personal growth, entrepreneurship, fishing business, adventure booking platform, leadership, purpose-driven business

May 16, 2025Episode 4323 min

E43 | When Math Meets Humanity: The Trailblazing Leadership of Renu Hooda

SummaryIn this engaging conversation, Renu Hooda, Chief People Officer at Credera, shares her unique journey into HR leadership, emphasizing the importance of people-first values in business. She discusses the challenges and opportunities presented by AI and technology, the significance of soft skills in the workplace, and her approach to leading teams through uncertainty. Renu highlights the value of believing in others and fostering a supportive environment, drawing from her own experiences to inspire and empower her team.TakeawaysRenu Hooda emphasizes the importance of a people-first approach in business.Her journey to becoming a Chief People Officer was unexpected but fulfilling.Credera's unique value lies in its commitment to integrity and teamwork.AI and technology are changing the landscape of HR, but human creativity remains essential.Soft skills are increasingly recognized as critical in the workplace.Leaders must help their teams embrace uncertainty and change.Effective communication is key to alleviating fears during transitions.Renu's background in applied mathematics informs her leadership style.Finding joy in work and personal life is crucial for motivation.Believing in others can unlock their potential and drive success.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Setting the Stage00:40 Renu Huda's Journey to Cradera05:58 The Role of People in Business Transformation08:51 Embracing Change and Uncertainty13:10 The Cobbler's Shoes and Management Consulting15:26 Connecting with Teams During Uncertainty19:21 Finding Joy and Inspiration20:47 Empowerment Through BeliefKeywordsRenu Hooda, Credera, Chief People Officer, HR leadership, AI in HR, employee experience, navigating change, uncertainty in business, human resources, corporate culture

May 9, 2025Episode 4237 min

E42 | Boil the Chicken: Finding Simplicity in Business with Liza & Jay Graves

SummaryIn this engaging conversation, Bruce and Gail interview Liza and Jay Graves, a married couple who co-founded Style Blueprint, an online publication dedicated to supporting local businesses in the South. They discuss the challenges and rewards of working together as a couple, the importance of community involvement, and the strategies they employ to create a positive workplace culture. The Graves share their insights on balancing personal and professional life, the significance of employee satisfaction, and the best advice they've received throughout their entrepreneurial journey.KeywordsStyle Blueprint, entrepreneurship, working couples, local businesses, company culture, advice, partnership, positivity, community involvement, business growthChapters00:00 Introductions to Jay and Liza Graves01:30 How Style Blueprint Got Started05:41 How Jay Joined Style Blueprint13:10 Reflections on Partnership and Growth22:42 Building a Strong Company Culture30:31 Advice and Lessons Learned

April 18, 202525 min

E41 | Raise Your Hand, Raise It Often: Meme Callnin’s Guide to Bold Transitions

Summary:In this episode of Trailblazers, we sit down with Meme Callnin - retired global HR exec, unapologetic question-asker, and newly minted independent board director. Meme takes us through her bold and beautifully nonlinear career path, from starting out as a computer science major (spoiler: she’s not a programmer) to finding her calling in human capital strategy, sales leadership, and now, boardroom impact.She shares what it means to lead with curiosity, make authentic transitions, and - yes - raise your hand and raise it often. Whether you’re mid-career, exploring a pivot, or dreaming of a board seat, Meme offers a grounded and energizing perspective on staying relevant, passionate, and gutsy.TakeawaysMeme transitioned from a corporate HR role to board directorship.Diversity in board composition leads to better organizational outcomes.Engagement and culture are critical for effective governance.Asking questions is essential for board members.Meme emphasizes the importance of women in leadership roles.Risk management should focus on opportunities for innovation.A strong connection with the CEO is vital for board effectiveness.Meme's nonprofit work has been deeply fulfilling and impactful.Raising your hand for opportunities is crucial for career growth.Authenticity and passion are key traits for effective board members.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Mimi Kalman and Her Journey03:05 Transitioning to Board Directorship06:05 The Importance of Women on Boards08:58 Unique Contributions to Board Dynamics11:59 Navigating Risks in Modern Board Governance14:59 Defining the Ideal Board Experience18:11 Proud Moments in Nonprofit Board Work21:15 Advice for LeadersKeywordsboard director, women in leadership, corporate governance, human capital, nonprofit boards, risk management, career transition, influential leadership, diversity in boards, mentorship

April 4, 2025Episode 4020 min

E40 | From West Point to Workplace: How Ryan Hill is Rewriting the Rules of Leadership Development

SummaryIn this engaging conversation, Ryan Hill shares his journey from a military career to becoming a business and personal coach. He discusses the importance of behavior change in leadership, the lessons learned from his military background, and how these experiences shape his coaching philosophy. Ryan emphasizes the need for sustained leadership development and the value of recognizing uncertainty in decision-making. He also reflects on the differences between military and civilian leadership opportunities and the lessons learned from toxic leadership experiences.Takeaways- Ryan Hill transitioned from a military career to coaching.- Behavior change in leadership requires time and sustained effort.- Leadership skills are universal across sectors.- Opportunities for leadership development are often lacking in civilian roles.- Toxic leadership experiences can provide valuable learning opportunities.- Experiences, both good and bad, serve as data points for growth.Chapters00:00 Ryan Hill's Background and Transition to Coaching03:28 Leadership Lessons from Military Experience08:45 Managing Uncertainty in Leadership11:20 Differences in Leadership: Military vs. Civilian14:08 The Value of Learning from Toxic Leadership19:20 Final Thoughts and AdviceKeywordsleadership, coaching, military, behavior change, uncertainty, followership, personal development, business coaching, Ryan Hill, leadership training

March 14, 2025Episode 3924 min

E39 | Fins to the Left, AI to the Right: A Conversation with CEO of ManoByte Kevin Dean

SummaryIn this episode, we dive deep—literally and figuratively—into the world of AI, business strategy, and entrepreneurial resilience with Kevin Dean, CEO of ManoByte. From his early days as a self-proclaimed geek to building a company that helps businesses leverage technology for growth, Kevin shares his journey, the lessons learned from launching a startup during a recession, and how AI is reshaping the way we work. We explore the rapid evolution of AI, the balance between human intuition and artificial intelligence, and the surprising ways digital twins are already transforming industries. Plus, a shared love for scuba diving, Jimmy Buffett, and navigating uncertainty makes for a conversation that’s equal parts insightful and fun. This is an engaging discussion packed with wisdom, humor, and a few fins-to-the-left moments!TakeawaysManoByte focuses on leveraging technology for business strategy.Entrepreneurship often involves learning from failures.Timing is crucial in business decisions.AI is evolving rapidly and is just getting started.Human intuition and empathy are irreplaceable by AI.AI will change job landscapes, but it won't eliminate all jobs.Failure is a necessary part of growth and innovation.Understanding the underlying questions is key to effective communication.Personal relationships and communication are vital in business. Chapters00:00 Introduction and Background01:38 The Journey of ManoByte05:29 Lessons from Early Challenges13:03 The Evolution of AI in Business18:03 Client Success Stories and Insights22:49 Final Thoughts and Advice24:16 Trailblazer OutroKeywordsManoByte, Kevin Dean, AI, sales enablement, entrepreneurship, digital twins, business strategy, technology, client success, lessons learned

February 21, 2025Episode 3822 min

E38 | Thriving in Challenge-tunity: Kim Williams on Leadership, Legacy, and Embracing Uncertainty

SummaryIn this engaging conversation, Kim Williams, VP and General Manager of Canadian Operations for Ovintiv, shares her unique journey within the energy sector, the evolution of leadership in oil and gas, and the importance of thriving in uncertainty. She discusses the rich history of Ovintiv, the challenges faced in the Canadian energy landscape, and the skills needed for modern leadership. Kim emphasizes the significance of team motivation, understanding the business holistically, and the potential future of the energy industry in Canada, especially in light of recent acquisitions and market dynamics.TakeawaysOvintiv has a rich history dating back to the late 1800s.Thriving in uncertainty requires reframing challenges as opportunities.Leadership has evolved from command and control to collaborative networks.Understanding finance is crucial for team engagement and motivation.Motivating teams involves explaining the 'why' behind decisions.The future of the energy industry in Canada is promising but requires action.Sound Bites"How do you keep everyone engaged?""Don't waste a crisis."Chapters00:00 Introducing Kim Williams, VP & General Manager of Canadian Operations, Ovintiv02:18 Background on Ovintiv05:20 Thriving in Uncertainty: Leadership Challenges07:25 Evolving Leadership Skills in Oil and Gas09:37 Motivating Teams Through Change13:39 Future of the Energy Industry16:39 Key Leadership Advice and Personal Growth20:40 Looking Forward: New Beginnings and Acquisitions22:22 Trailblazer Tuesdays (Presentation) (22).mp4

February 14, 2025Episode 3722 min

E37 | Building a Business That Lasts: Brent Abrahm on Innovation & Leadership

SummaryIn this engaging conversation, Brent Abrahm, president and CEO of Accruit, shares insights into his company, which specializes in facilitating 1031 Like-kind Exchange Transactions. He discusses the evolution of Accruit over 25 years, the challenges faced during uncertain times, and the importance of leadership and team motivation. Brent emphasizes the significance of hiring for cultural fit and the lessons learned throughout his journey, including the value of listening and adapting to change.TakeawaysAccruit facilitates 1031 Like-kind Exchange Transactions to defer taxes.The company has been leveraging technology for 25 years to enhance client engagement.Brent's journey into the business was driven by a fascination with international marketing.Accruit pivoted from equipment to real estate after a significant tax code change.Leadership during uncertainty requires focusing on controllable factors.Hiring for cultural fit is essential, guided by the four C's: Creative, Curious, Competitive, Collaborative.Listening to employees is crucial for maintaining morale and productivity.Patience is key in leadership and business development.Change is constant, and leaders must adapt to remain relevant.Enjoyment in work is vital for both leaders and their teams.Chapters00:00 The Story of Accruit02:01 Navigating Challenges and Changes05:50 Getting into the Industry09:15 Keeping Teams Motivated11:32 Hiring for Success15:14 Advice and Lessons Learned17:54 Creating a Positive Work Environment20:41 Looking Ahead and Future Aspirations22:27 Trailblazer Tuesdays (Presentation) (22).mp4