True CEO

Hosted by LaKeysha Cobbs-Hayes, Sonya Songer, Acacia Smith and LaVonne Shields

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Feb 2024

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About the show

True CEO is the ultimate podcast for ambitious entrepreneurs looking to take their business to the next level. Hosted by industry experts, each episode delves into the strategies, tactics and mindset needed to become a successful CEO. From scaling your company to mastering the art of leadership, this podcast has everything you need to achieve your entrepreneurial goals in the new year. Tune in for actionable tips, inspiring stories, and expert interviews that will help you to BOSS up.

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28 recent

February 21, 20244 min

Bonus Episode - Am I Being Strategic?

Send a textUnlock the secrets of strategic thinking with me, LaKeysha Cobbs- Hayes from True CEO, and transform your approach to business and leadership. Get ready to elevate your game as we dissect the art of looking beyond the horizon, where decisions align not just with immediate goals but with the grand vision for your enterprise. In this bonus episode, we don't just tackle the immediate; we're all about anticipating future needs, seizing opportunities, and setting measurable goals that will chart the course for your business's success.Listen in as I share insights on becoming a proactive planner, prioritizing high-impact tasks, and the crucial role of feedback in refining your strategy. Discover how asking the right questions can reveal new pathways to growth and how evidence-based decisions trump gut reactions. Strategic thinking isn't just a buzzword; it's a skill you can master, shaping you into the strategic leader your business deserves. Join me, and let's embark on this journey towards strategic excellence together. Thanks for listening! Please follow, rate and review.Produced and Recorded by Randall Hayes.CONNECT WITH OUR HOSTS ON SOCIAL MEDIALaKeysha Cobbs-Hayes:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lakeyshacobbshayes/https://www.instagram.com/strategic_behavior/Sonya Songer:Website:https://www.bossyhr.com/?fbclid=IwAR3gOrNMMOOkESANYrhNSCuhuAEiqbJubGKCgCZTgLeUiP1Sx5LitYO6uyQInstagram:https://www.instagram.com/onlybossyhr/LaVonne Shields: Website:https://www.accountingstrong.comInstagram:https://www.instagram.com/theaccountingstrategist/Acacia Smith:Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/groups/3396192067327920Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/blck.mgmt/https://www.instagram.com/modestwomen_ie/

February 18, 2024Episode 2635 min

Episode 26 - Transformative Leadership Through Strategic Thinking and Execution

Send a textUnlock the power of strategic thinking and transform your business leadership approach with us—LaKeysha Cobbs-Hayes, Acacia Smith, and Lavonne Shields—as we navigate through the complexities of planning, adaptability, and fostering a strategic mindset. Expect to gain a wealth of knowledge as we argue the need for both detailed plans and mental agility, ensuring you're equipped to lead with confidence. Business owners facing the overwhelm of modern entrepreneurship will find solace and strategies in our discussions, as we balance the scales between meticulous preparation and dynamic execution.Dive into the trenches of company leadership, where we dissect the CEO's role in system creation and the art of delegation. We share personal challenges and triumphs, illustrating the delicate dance between steering your vision and harnessing the expertise of others. Listen closely as we reveal the essence of a playbook that empowers your team to succeed, with or without you at the helm. Our anecdotes and industry insights will leave you with a blueprint for accountability and the agility to adjust to the rapid pace of business evolution.Wrap up your listening experience with a masterclass in developing a strategic mindset. Imagine tapping into your subconscious like a chef crafting a culinary masterpiece, blending creativity with business acumen. We emphasize the importance of aligning daily actions with your vision, dissecting strategic behavior change, and the art of communication. This episode promises not only to set the stage for strategic goal setting but to ensure those goals resonate deeply with your core values and are effectively imparted to your team. Join us and step up your strategic game to steer your business to triumphant heights. Thanks for listening! Please follow, rate and review.Produced and Recorded by Randall Hayes.CONNECT WITH OUR HOSTS ON SOCIAL MEDIALaKeysha Cobbs-Hayes:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lakeyshacobbshayes/https://www.instagram.com/strategic_behavior/Sonya Songer:Website:https://www.bossyhr.com/?fbclid=IwAR3gOrNMMOOkESANYrhNSCuhuAEiqbJubGKCgCZTgLeUiP1Sx5LitYO6uyQInstagram:https://www.instagram.com/onlybossyhr/LaVonne Shields: Website:https://www.accountingstrong.comInstagram:https://www.instagram.com/theaccountingstrategist/Acacia Smith:Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/groups/3396192067327920Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/blck.mgmt/https://www.instagram.com/modestwomen_ie/

February 11, 2024Episode 2522 min

Episode 25 - From Micromanagement to Macro Success

Send a textAre you holding your business back by clinging too tightly to the reins? That's the central conundrum we unravel on the True CEO podcast, with LaKeysha Cobbs-Hayes & Sonya Songer, where we dissect the 'control freak' mindset and its complex relationship with business growth. As an experienced CEO strategist, LaKeysha lends her expertise to this rich discussion, helping us uncover how the urge to control can be both a fortress and a cage for company leaders. We venture into the psychological roots of control, debating the implications of fear and identity entanglement in one's business. Plus, we don't shy away from the contentious debate over HR's tight grip on sensitive matters versus the liberation necessary for scaling operations. If you're ready to equip your team for success without stifling creativity, join us for a transformative conversation on empowering leadership.This episode is not just a deep investigation into the balance of control—it's a roadmap to fostering an environment where predictability and stability meet focus and consistency. You'll discover the detrimental effects of micromanagement on company culture and the underestimated power of clear communication and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs). Together with LaKeysha & Sonya, we explore the evolutionary journey from prioritizing loyalty to valuing adaptability and share our own experiences of making this critical shift. Whether you're a budding entrepreneur or a seasoned leader looking to refine your approach, this episode promises actionable insights to guide your company towards becoming a thriving empire. Tune in, equip yourself with strategic wisdom, and set your business on the path of exponential growth. Thanks for listening! Please follow, rate and review.Produced and Recorded by Randall Hayes.CONNECT WITH OUR HOSTS ON SOCIAL MEDIALaKeysha Cobbs-Hayes:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lakeyshacobbshayes/https://www.instagram.com/strategic_behavior/Sonya Songer:Website:https://www.bossyhr.com/?fbclid=IwAR3gOrNMMOOkESANYrhNSCuhuAEiqbJubGKCgCZTgLeUiP1Sx5LitYO6uyQInstagram:https://www.instagram.com/onlybossyhr/LaVonne Shields: Website:https://www.accountingstrong.comInstagram:https://www.instagram.com/theaccountingstrategist/Acacia Smith:Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/groups/3396192067327920Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/blck.mgmt/https://www.instagram.com/modestwomen_ie/

October 30, 2023Episode 2445 min

Episode 24 - The CEO's Playbook: Understanding and Harnessing Business Finances

Send a textAre you prepared to conquer the business landscape? If you're a CEO, you can't afford to miss our latest True CEO Podcast, where we unmask the mysterious world of accounting. We've got LaVonne Shields, our accounting strategist, sharing her insights on vital financial concepts - from mastering financial statements to tax planning. Imagine yourself transforming every financial transaction into a stepping stone for sustainable business success; we'll show you how!Ready to decipher the language of business? Let's discuss the distinction between deductions and expenses, and disbursements and dividends. Imagine the feeling of confidence as you navigate business conversations, understanding every word that's thrown your way. We'll also chat about reverse engineering your staff's paychecks, ensuring you're not underpaying or overpaying anyone.In the final segment of our podcast, we dive into the nitty-gritty of business banking and the role of technology in business. As a bonus, we'll also address the realities of predatory lending, the risks of financing a big asset on a credit card, and how to find the right loan for your needs. It's time to revolutionize your understanding of accounting and leadership! Tune in and become the master of your financial destiny. Thanks for listening! Please follow, rate and review.Produced and Recorded by Randall Hayes.CONNECT WITH OUR HOSTS ON SOCIAL MEDIALaKeysha Cobbs-Hayes:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lakeyshacobbshayes/https://www.instagram.com/strategic_behavior/Sonya Songer:Website:https://www.bossyhr.com/?fbclid=IwAR3gOrNMMOOkESANYrhNSCuhuAEiqbJubGKCgCZTgLeUiP1Sx5LitYO6uyQInstagram:https://www.instagram.com/onlybossyhr/LaVonne Shields: Website:https://www.accountingstrong.comInstagram:https://www.instagram.com/theaccountingstrategist/Acacia Smith:Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/groups/3396192067327920Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/blck.mgmt/https://www.instagram.com/modestwomen_ie/

September 10, 2023Episode 231 hr 5 min

Episode 23 - Breaking Down Barriers: The Key to Transformational Leadership

Send a textReady to shake up your leadership style? Tune into our bold conversation as our co-hosts, LaKeysha Cobbs-Hayes, Sonya Songer, Acacia Smith and LaVonne Sheilds, dismantle the traditional leadership framework and erect a new, transformational approach. We delve into the power of flexibility, the key role of trust and the critical need for confidence and empowerment in leadership. Through lively discussions, we illuminate the path to become a transformational leader, one who motivates others to step out of their comfort zones and reach their highest potential.Is your leadership purpose the same as your job title? We challenge this notion and scrutinize the stark contrasts between transformational and trained leadership. Our panel explores the profound role mindset plays in leadership and how one's purpose and calling shape their leadership style. We reflect on how leaders can inspire others to level up and how bravery is crucial when initiating change. We also give a nod to the importance of creating transformation-friendly spaces and maintaining a balanced work-life equation.To top it all off, we dive into the essence of ownership in leadership roles, external pressures, and their influence on performance. We investigate the significance of aligning with shared values and the incremental steps required to achieve your goals. We discuss the road to becoming a transformational leader, the fight against imposter syndrome, and the quintessential transformational lifestyle. To wrap up, join us as we explore revolutionary ways to connect with HR on social media, harnessing digital platforms' transformative power to overhaul human resources departments. Don't miss out on this enlightening journey to transformational leadership. Thanks for listening! Please follow, rate and review.Produced and Recorded by Randall Hayes.CONNECT WITH OUR HOSTS ON SOCIAL MEDIALaKeysha Cobbs-Hayes:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lakeyshacobbshayes/https://www.instagram.com/strategic_behavior/Sonya Songer:Website:https://www.bossyhr.com/?fbclid=IwAR3gOrNMMOOkESANYrhNSCuhuAEiqbJubGKCgCZTgLeUiP1Sx5LitYO6uyQInstagram:https://www.instagram.com/onlybossyhr/LaVonne Shields: Website:https://www.accountingstrong.comInstagram:https://www.instagram.com/theaccountingstrategist/Acacia Smith:Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/groups/3396192067327920Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/blck.mgmt/https://www.instagram.com/modestwomen_ie/

August 30, 20233 min

Bonus Episode: The Power of Saying No & The 'Yes Audit'

Send a textWe're back with a bonus episode expanding on one of our most talked-about topics: the transformative power of saying "No." But this time, we’re adding another layer to the conversation with an exploration of the 'Yes Audit'.In this exclusive bonus content:Introducing the 'Yes Audit': Understand what it means to audit every 'Yes' in your life. Is every commitment and decision you're making truly aligned with your goals?The Mechanics of the 'Yes Audit': A step-by-step walkthrough on how to carry out this introspective exercise, and how it can revolutionize your decision-making process.Join us for this deeper dive and gain additional tools to navigate the complex landscape of entrepreneurial decisions. With the 'Yes Audit', you'll learn not only the art of refusal but also the mastery of affirmation, striking a balance that fosters growth, clarity, and well-being.Whether you're revisiting the topic or looking for more insights after our main episode, this bonus content promises to equip you with a holistic understanding of entrepreneurial balance. Dive in and redefine the way you perceive 'Yes' and 'No' in your journey. Thanks for listening! Please follow, rate and review.Produced and Recorded by Randall Hayes.CONNECT WITH OUR HOSTS ON SOCIAL MEDIALaKeysha Cobbs-Hayes:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lakeyshacobbshayes/https://www.instagram.com/strategic_behavior/Sonya Songer:Website:https://www.bossyhr.com/?fbclid=IwAR3gOrNMMOOkESANYrhNSCuhuAEiqbJubGKCgCZTgLeUiP1Sx5LitYO6uyQInstagram:https://www.instagram.com/onlybossyhr/LaVonne Shields: Website:https://www.accountingstrong.comInstagram:https://www.instagram.com/theaccountingstrategist/Acacia Smith:Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/groups/3396192067327920Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/blck.mgmt/https://www.instagram.com/modestwomen_ie/

August 27, 2023Episode 2227 min

Episode 22 - The Power of Saying No: Our Take on Entrepreneurial Balance

Send a textEver found yourself stretched too thin, hustling between multiple jobs, and trying to manage a growing business? Let's be honest, it's all too common in entrepreneurship. This episode, we'll hear from one our co-hosts, LaKeysha Cobbs-Hayes, an expert CEO strategist who can relate to these challenges. She shares her personal story of being overextended, revealing the unseen costs and the toll it took on her productivity.Together, we dig into the art of saying 'no,' setting boundaries, and the essential skill of delegation. We delve into crafting a business plan that doesn't just feed your ambitious dreams but is grounded in reality. Lakeysha spills the beans on how to set both external and internal boundaries to keep your entrepreneurial journey sustainable. In our candid chat, you'll find inspiration and practical advice to help you avoid overextending yourself and instead focus on creating a balanced path to success. Thanks for listening! Please follow, rate and review.Produced and Recorded by Randall Hayes.CONNECT WITH OUR HOSTS ON SOCIAL MEDIALaKeysha Cobbs-Hayes:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lakeyshacobbshayes/https://www.instagram.com/strategic_behavior/Sonya Songer:Website:https://www.bossyhr.com/?fbclid=IwAR3gOrNMMOOkESANYrhNSCuhuAEiqbJubGKCgCZTgLeUiP1Sx5LitYO6uyQInstagram:https://www.instagram.com/onlybossyhr/LaVonne Shields: Website:https://www.accountingstrong.comInstagram:https://www.instagram.com/theaccountingstrategist/Acacia Smith:Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/groups/3396192067327920Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/blck.mgmt/https://www.instagram.com/modestwomen_ie/

August 13, 2023Episode 211 hr 16 min

Episode 21 - Goddess Body: Blending Spirituality, Entrepreneurship and Health

Send a textEver found yourself at the crossroads of a transformative health journey, and found your purpose? That's exactly what happened with our guest, the inspiring Goddess Body, who went from a career in criminal justice and forensics to creating her own holistic health business. Her health journey led her to switch tracks and focus on natural beauty, guiding and mentoring other women entrepreneurs in the process. Listen in to her riveting story of setting audacious goals, standing out in a saturated market, and the power of being consistent and true to your purpose. Imagine juggling hats, not just a few, but many - that's a day in the life of Goddess Body as she built her enterprise. She talks about how to manage life, business, and family, and the importance of setting targets. Find out about her first Black Friday success, the need for a tax expert when starting a business, and the significance of having an omnipresent online presence. You'll also hear about the importance of community, insights into the future of the feminine hygiene industry, and ensuring product integrity. Ever thought about the influence of the moon on your health and your business? Goddess Body sheds light on the power of a 28-day lunar cycle for manifestation. Learn about the role of emotions, hormones, and the lunar cycle in forming new habits and bringing new creations into the world. Discover how to prioritize experiences for children while setting goals, and the power of renewal through spirituality. Lastly, Goddess Body shares her humbling experience with the universe, emphasizing the importance of spiritual knowledge in achieving success. Tune in for an enlightening discussion on holistic health, entrepreneurship, and purpose-driven success. Thanks for listening! Please follow, rate and review.Produced and Recorded by Randall Hayes.CONNECT WITH OUR HOSTS ON SOCIAL MEDIALaKeysha Cobbs-Hayes:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lakeyshacobbshayes/https://www.instagram.com/strategic_behavior/Sonya Songer:Website:https://www.bossyhr.com/?fbclid=IwAR3gOrNMMOOkESANYrhNSCuhuAEiqbJubGKCgCZTgLeUiP1Sx5LitYO6uyQInstagram:https://www.instagram.com/onlybossyhr/LaVonne Shields: Website:https://www.accountingstrong.comInstagram:https://www.instagram.com/theaccountingstrategist/Acacia Smith:Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/groups/3396192067327920Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/blck.mgmt/https://www.instagram.com/modestwomen_ie/

August 6, 2023Episode 2034 min

Episode 20 - Dodging the Pitfalls: A Comprehensive Guide to HR for CEOs

Send a textAttention, business leaders! Transitioning from hands-on to the helm? Avoid sinking your ship! In this episode, we spotlight five catastrophic HR blunders even seasoned CEOs make. Discover how these missteps can cost you more than money, and unlock transformative strategies to elevate from "busy bee" to visionary leader. Elevate your game, safeguard your culture, and champion your business like never before. This isn’t just advice, it’s your roadmap.Tune in. Step up. Transform. Thanks for listening! Please follow, rate and review.Produced and Recorded by Randall Hayes.CONNECT WITH OUR HOSTS ON SOCIAL MEDIALaKeysha Cobbs-Hayes:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lakeyshacobbshayes/https://www.instagram.com/strategic_behavior/Sonya Songer:Website:https://www.bossyhr.com/?fbclid=IwAR3gOrNMMOOkESANYrhNSCuhuAEiqbJubGKCgCZTgLeUiP1Sx5LitYO6uyQInstagram:https://www.instagram.com/onlybossyhr/LaVonne Shields: Website:https://www.accountingstrong.comInstagram:https://www.instagram.com/theaccountingstrategist/Acacia Smith:Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/groups/3396192067327920Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/blck.mgmt/https://www.instagram.com/modestwomen_ie/

July 30, 2023Episode 1939 min

Episode 19 - Collective Excellence: Black Business Owners Unite for Impact

Send a textIn this inspiring and enlightening episode of True CEO, we delve into the world of collaboration over competition with three exceptional Black business owners who have paved the way for success in their respective industries. Join us as we explore the stories, challenges, and triumphs of Arthur Hairston, Harry Jackson, and Portia James, three remarkable entrepreneurs who are breaking barriers and fostering a culture of unity within the business community.Throughout this episode, we explore the transformative power of unity and support in the entrepreneurial journey. Our guests reveal how they have leveraged collaboration with other Black business owners to break down barriers, build networks, and create a thriving ecosystem that propels everyone forward. They discuss the importance of community engagement and how it has contributed to their individual and collective success.Tune in to this episode of True CEO to gain a fresh perspective on entrepreneurship, diversity, and the spirit of collaboration that drives positive change. Join us as we celebrate the achievements of Arthur Hairston, Harry Jackson, and Portia James and learn from their experiences as they continue to pave the way for future generations of Black business owners.CONNECT WITH TRUE CEO https://strategicbehaviorconsultants.comInstagram:https://www.instagram.com/trueceopodcast/Apple Podcasts:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/true-ceo/id1665463433Spotify:https://open.spotify.com/show/21YaW6aCbEmtwWRn3wujvjGoogle Podcasts:https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9mZWVkcy5idXp6c3Byb3V0LmNvbS8yMTE1NDg2LnJzcw Thanks for listening! Please follow, rate and review.Produced and Recorded by Randall Hayes.CONNECT WITH OUR HOSTS ON SOCIAL MEDIALaKeysha Cobbs-Hayes:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lakeyshacobbshayes/https://www.instagram.com/strategic_behavior/Sonya Songer:Website:https://www.bossyhr.com/?fbclid=IwAR3gOrNMMOOkESANYrhNSCuhuAEiqbJubGKCgCZTgLeUiP1Sx5LitYO6uyQInstagram:https://www.instagram.com/onlybossyhr/LaVonne Shields: Website:https://www.accountingstrong.comInstagram:https://www.instagram.com/theaccountingstrategist/Acacia Smith:Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/groups/3396192067327920Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/blck.mgmt/https://www.instagram.com/modestwomen_ie/