CEO Podcasts: CEO Chat Podcast + I AM CEO Podcast Powered by Blue16 Media & CBNation.co

Dr. Keegan Caldwell is the founder and managing partner of Caldwell Law, a leading intellectual property and corporate law firm with a global presence. With a diverse background that includes service in the U.S. Marine Corps, a doctorate in Physical Chemistry, and an unconventional journey to practicing law. Dr. Caldwell discusses how he built a law firm that has developed IP portfolios worth over $24 billion by leveraging data analytics, innovative legal strategies, and a commitment to client ROI. He highlights his firm’s unique value proposition—combining cutting-edge technology with a personalized client experience—and its global expansion with offices in Boston, Los Angeles, London, and Tokyo. Dr. Caldwell also reflects on how his long-term involvement in 12-step recovery programs has shaped his leadership style, emphasizing self-awareness, empathy, and service to others. Website: Keegan Caldwell LinkedIn: Keegan Caldwell Check out our CEO Hack Buzz Newsletter–our premium newsletter with hacks and nuggets to level up your organization. Sign up HERE. I AM CEO Handbook Volume 3 is HERE and it's FREE. Get your copy here: http://cbnation.co/iamceo3. Get the 100+ things that you can learn from 1600 business podcasts we recorded. Hear Gresh's story, learn the 16 business pillars from the podcast, find out about CBNation Architects and why you might be one and so much more. Did we mention it was FREE? Download it today!

Stephen Leonard is the President and CEO of the Leonard Group, a multi-million-dollar company that includes brands like Lisa Leonard Designs and the Stephen David Leonard line. Stephen has built a business that not only creates beautiful products but also tells real stories and reflects the imperfect-yet-beautiful nature of life. Stephen discusses how he left full-time pastoral ministry to lead the business, strongly emphasizing storytelling and purpose-driven products. He highlights the importance of embedding personal significance into their jewelry through custom names, dates, and messages, and how their organic, imperfect designs reflect life’s beauty amid struggle. In addition, Stephen emphasizes the power of authenticity, execution over ideas, and the deep impact of living and leading from a place of purpose. Website: Stephen David Leonard LinkedIn: Stephen Leonard Previous Episode: iam297-president-ceo-provides-quality-handmade-meaningful-accessories-for-men-and-women Check out our CEO Hack Buzz Newsletter–our premium newsletter with hacks and nuggets to level up your organization. Sign up HERE. I AM CEO Handbook Volume 3 is HERE and it's FREE. Get your copy here: http://cbnation.co/iamceo3. Get the 100+ things that you can learn from 1600 business podcasts we recorded. Hear Gresh's story, learn the 16 business pillars from the podcast, find out about CBNation Architects and why you might be one and so much more. Did we mention it was FREE? Download it today!

Coyetta Mitchell is a dynamic entrepreneur, business coach, and the inspiring voice behind the Being Coco Bee podcast. She founded My Wave Life Hair in response to negative commentary about Black women's hair choices, creating a brand that celebrates self-expression and provides high-quality hair products. Coyetta expands her mission through coaching and content that supports women in building businesses, shifting their mindsets, and embracing holistic growth. Her work is deeply rooted in authenticity, community, and empowerment, and her brand stands out by also giving back. Coyetta highlights the need for patience, confidence, and adaptability in business, encourages fellow entrepreneurs to embrace change, trust in their path, and stay grounded through prayer and purpose. Website: My Wave Life Hair Co. Instagram: iamcoyetta Previous Episode: iam294-business-coach-and-podcast-host-provides-resources-and-services-to-help-women-live-better Check out our CEO Hack Buzz Newsletter–our premium newsletter with hacks and nuggets to level up your organization. Sign up HERE. I AM CEO Handbook Volume 3 is HERE and it's FREE. Get your copy here: http://cbnation.co/iamceo3. Get the 100+ things that you can learn from 1600 business podcasts we recorded. Hear Gresh's story, learn the 16 business pillars from the podcast, find out about CBNation Architects and why you might be one and so much more. Did we mention it was FREE? Download it today!

In this special episode, Gresham Harkless shares an honest and introspective update on Day 161 of his entrepreneurial journey, offering insights into the mental and emotional challenges of building momentum in a niche space. While he admits feeling like he hasn’t moved far from where he started, Gresham acknowledges the unseen growth that’s taken place—improved routines, clearer processes, and a stronger mental game. He emphasizes the importance of mental endurance, recognizing that success often comes after consistent effort, even when early results are minimal. Gresham discusses his evolving approach to lead generation, including multi-channel strategies like LinkedIn and networking, while also weighing the value of joining a group like BNI, which previously yielded strong results. http://bluestarfranchise.comhttps://bluestarfranchise.com/franchisehttp://bluestarfranchise.com/assessmenthttp://franchiseceo.co Check out our CEO Hack Buzz Newsletter–our premium newsletter with hacks and nuggets to level up your organization. Sign up HERE. I AM CEO Handbook Volume 3 is HERE and it's FREE. Get your copy here: http://cbnation.co/iamceo3. Get the 100+ things that you can learn from 1600 business podcasts we recorded. Hear Gresh's story, learn the 16 business pillars from the podcast, find out about CBNation Architects and why you might be one and so much more. Did we mention it was FREE? Download it today!

In this special episode, Gresham Harkless addresses the challenges in the franchise consulting industry, such as lengthy sales cycles, difficulties with lead qualification, and the emotional strain of slow progress, especially after learning that it often takes brokers over a year to close their first deal. Gresham shares his experience with shifting lead generation strategies, the decline of organic outreach on Facebook, and the need to refine his sales approach, particularly in understanding a lead's financial readiness. Gresh remains focused on growth, networking, and self-awareness, urging persistence, authenticity, and long-term vision. http://bluestarfranchise.comhttps://bluestarfranchise.com/franchisehttp://bluestarfranchise.com/assessmenthttp://franchiseceo.co Check out our CEO Hack Buzz Newsletter–our premium newsletter with hacks and nuggets to level up your organization. Sign up HERE. I AM CEO Handbook Volume 3 is HERE and it's FREE. Get your copy here: http://cbnation.co/iamceo3. Get the 100+ things that you can learn from 1600 business podcasts we recorded. Hear Gresh's story, learn the 16 business pillars from the podcast, find out about CBNation Architects and why you might be one and so much more. Did we mention it was FREE? Download it today!

In this episode, Gresham Harkless reflects on reaching day 159 of his journey as a Franchise Broker, sharing powerful insights about growth, discipline, and staying committed through the long game. He introduces the concept of "polite urgency"—a balanced approach to driving action by being assertive without being aggressive. Gresham discusses how many people lose momentum by being passive or indecisive, and how simply following through, communicating promptly, and honoring commitments can set you apart in business. Gresham also points out that strong customer service, like picking up the phone and replying to messages, can make a bigger impact than most realize, especially when combined with a solid product or service. Despite feeling overwhelmed at times, he stresses the value of staying focused, taking consistent action, and treating each day as a step toward long-term goals. http://bluestarfranchise.comhttps://bluestarfranchise.com/franchisehttp://bluestarfranchise.com/assessmenthttp://franchiseceo.co Check out our CEO Hack Buzz Newsletter–our premium newsletter with hacks and nuggets to level up your organization. Sign up HERE. I AM CEO Handbook Volume 3 is HERE and it's FREE. Get your copy here: http://cbnation.co/iamceo3. Get the 100+ things that you can learn from 1600 business podcasts we recorded. Hear Gresh's story, learn the 16 business pillars from the podcast, find out about CBNation Architects and why you might be one and so much more. Did we mention it was FREE? Download it today!

In this special episode, Gresham Harkless reflects on the challenges, setbacks, and learning curves he’s faced at the 175-day mark of his franchise broker journey. Gresham aims to close two deals within that time frame, but he's only seen limited movement with one candidate whose financial readiness is uncertain. He shares how the process has proven far more difficult than anticipated, with many candidates dropping off at various stages and deals taking much longer than expected, often four to six months or more. Gresham emphasizes that the biggest barrier is generating consistent, qualified leads, calling it a “leads game” where, without a strong pipeline, no amount of knowledge or process can make up the difference. Moreover, Gresham remains committed to learning and adjusting, focusing on lead generation and advising others to start part-time and build from there. http://bluestarfranchise.comhttps://bluestarfranchise.com/franchisehttp://bluestarfranchise.com/assessmenthttp://franchiseceo.co Check out our CEO Hack Buzz Newsletter–our premium newsletter with hacks and nuggets to level up your organization. Sign up HERE. I AM CEO Handbook Volume 3 is HERE and it's FREE. Get your copy here: http://cbnation.co/iamceo3. Get the 100+ things that you can learn from 1600 business podcasts we recorded. Hear Gresh's story, learn the 16 business pillars from the podcast, find out about CBNation Architects and why you might be one and so much more. Did we mention it was FREE? Download it today!

Jeff Holman is the founder of Intellectual Strategies, a groundbreaking legal services firm changing how startups and scaling companies access legal support. With a background in engineering, law, and business, Jeff combines technical know-how with strategic legal insight to support entrepreneurs navigating growth and complexity. Jeff emphasizes the critical but often overlooked concept of "freedom to operate," helping businesses avoid legal landmines that can stall growth. Jeff discusses the importance of documentation, proactive legal planning, and having trusted advisors, especially for CEOs who often carry the weight of the business alone. Jeff advocates that leaders embrace experimentation, lean into their blind spots, and build with confidence, knowing they have the right support. Website: Intellectual Strategies LinkedIn: Jeff Holman Check out our CEO Hack Buzz Newsletter–our premium newsletter with hacks and nuggets to level up your organization. Sign up HERE. I AM CEO Handbook Volume 3 is HERE and it's FREE. Get your copy here: http://cbnation.co/iamceo3. Get the 100+ things that you can learn from 1600 business podcasts we recorded. Hear Gresh's story, learn the 16 business pillars from the podcast, find out about CBNation Architects and why you might be one and so much more. Did we mention it was FREE? Download it today!

Neha Gupta is the founder of College Shortcuts, a TEDx speaker, and bestselling author who has helped thousands of students gain college admission by aligning their passions with their academic goals. Neha shares her deeply personal journey of navigating the college admissions process as the daughter of immigrant parents, which led her to create a mentorship-driven platform that supports students from middle school onward. She discusses how College Shortcuts empowers students to uncover their “superpowers” through personalized guidance, early exposure to real-world experiences, and intentional packaging of their achievements for college applications. In addition, Neha’s approach blends purpose, precision, and personal connection, making this a must-listen for parents, educators, and entrepreneurs alike. Website: College Shortcuts LinkedIn: Neha Gupta Previous Episode: iam293-founder-and-best-selling-author-helps-thousands-of-students-get-into-their-dream-college Check out our CEO Hack Buzz Newsletter–our premium newsletter with hacks and nuggets to level up your organization. Sign up HERE. I AM CEO Handbook Volume 3 is HERE and it's FREE. Get your copy here: http://cbnation.co/iamceo3. Get the 100+ things that you can learn from 1600 business podcasts we recorded. Hear Gresh's story, learn the 16 business pillars from the podcast, find out about CBNation Architects and why you might be one and so much more. Did we mention it was FREE? Download it today!

Danielle Roberts is a founding partner of Boomer Benefits, a national top-producing agency specializing in Medicare-related insurance products across 47 states. She's a member of the Forbes Finance Council, where she writes about Medicare Retirement and Personal Finance, and is also a past president of the Fort Worth chapter of the National Association of Health Underwriters. Danielle discusses her pivot from journalism to business, sparked by financial necessity and nurtured through hands-on learning in the staffing industry. She explains how her early hustle—cold-calling and door-knocking—laid the foundation for a business serving clients in 47 states. Danielle highlights the complexity of Medicare and how Boomer Benefits stands out by offering not just insurance, but exceptional, ongoing client support. Danielle emphasizes the importance of simplifying complex topics for clients, investing in team culture, and maintaining confidence and persistence as a new entrepreneur. Website: Boomer Benefits LinkedIn: Danielle Kunkle Roberts Previous Episode: iam292-founding-partner-helps-baby-boomers-navigate-medicare-and-supplemental-coverage Check out our CEO Hack Buzz Newsletter–our premium newsletter with hacks and nuggets to level up your organization. Sign up HERE. I AM CEO Handbook Volume 3 is HERE and it's FREE. Get your copy here: http://cbnation.co/iamceo3. Get the 100+ things that you can learn from 1600 business podcasts we recorded. Hear Gresh's story, learn the 16 business pillars from the podcast, find out about CBNation Architects and why you might be one and so much more. Did we mention it was FREE? Download it today!

In this reflective episode, Gresham Harkless emphasizes the importance of staying attuned to the human side of business, especially during unpredictable and challenging times. Gresham shares real-life examples, such as a candidate needing to postpone meetings due to a family emergency, to highlight how “life-lifes” often disrupts even the best-laid plans. Gresham recommends embracing these moments with empathy and flexibility, reminding listeners that business isn’t just a mechanical process but one deeply rooted in people’s lives, emotions, and evolving circumstances. Gresham points out that being a beacon—offering consistency, understanding, and support—can be a powerful force amid market uncertainties and personal setbacks. http://bluestarfranchise.comhttps://bluestarfranchise.com/franchisehttp://bluestarfranchise.com/assessmenthttp://franchiseceo.co Check out our CEO Hack Buzz Newsletter–our premium newsletter with hacks and nuggets to level up your organization. Sign up HERE. I AM CEO Handbook Volume 3 is HERE and it's FREE. Get your copy here: http://cbnation.co/iamceo3. Get the 100+ things that you can learn from 1600 business podcasts we recorded. Hear Gresh's story, learn the 16 business pillars from the podcast, find out about CBNation Architects and why you might be one and so much more. Did we mention it was FREE? Download it today!

On day 157 of his franchise broker journey, Gresham Harkless reflects on the challenges and lessons of staying focused while managing both personal and professional responsibilities. Gresham discusses the importance of blocking out distractions and leveraging early morning routines to lock in on key goals. His current focus is on building a lead generation system that supports his ventures like Blue Star, Blue 16, and CB Nation. Although he didn't make significant progress during the first week of his 12-week year, he recognizes the value in the feedback he received and intends to use it to refine his approach moving forward. Additionally, with his baby starting to sleep better and grow, he now has more time to focus on his business, emphasizing the balance between sacrifice and growth. Gresham emphasizes the importance of staying focused on his goals and being flexible as new challenges come up, with the 12-week year providing a framework to ensure steady progress. http://bluestarfranchise.comhttps://bluestarfranchise.com/franchisehttp://bluestarfranchise.com/assessmenthttp://franchiseceo.co Check out our CEO Hack Buzz Newsletter–our premium newsletter with hacks and nuggets to level up your organization. Sign up HERE. I AM CEO Handbook Volume 3 is HERE and it's FREE. Get your copy here: http://cbnation.co/iamceo3. Get the 100+ things that you can learn from 1600 business podcasts we recorded. Hear Gresh's story, learn the 16 business pillars from the podcast, find out about CBNation Architects and why you might be one and so much more. Did we mention it was FREE? Download it today!

Gresham Harkless reflects on the challenges he's facing as a new franchise broker, particularly when candidates encounter unexpected financing obstacles. Gresham shares that one of the toughest but most important parts of the process is recognizing when a candidate may be heading in the wrong direction and making the pivot early, even if it sets the timeline back by several weeks. He emphasizes how financing plays a central role in determining what brands are accessible, with more established brands often being easier to fund than emerging ones. Gresham also mentions the importance of leaning on funding experts earlier in the process to provide clarity and avoid delays. http://bluestarfranchise.comhttps://bluestarfranchise.com/franchisehttp://bluestarfranchise.com/assessmenthttp://franchiseceo.co Check out our CEO Hack Buzz Newsletter–our premium newsletter with hacks and nuggets to level up your organization. Sign up HERE. I AM CEO Handbook Volume 3 is HERE and it's FREE. Get your copy here: http://cbnation.co/iamceo3. Get the 100+ things that you can learn from 1600 business podcasts we recorded. Hear Gresh's story, learn the 16 business pillars from the podcast, find out about CBNation Architects and why you might be one and so much more. Did we mention it was FREE? Download it today!

In this special episode, Gresham Harkless reflects on the often underestimated challenge of managing the human side of business relationships, especially in roles involving sales or brokering. Gresham explains that while processes and logistics matter, it’s the emotional and interpersonal dynamics that are hardest to navigate. Through his experiences, Gresham realizes that success hinges less on leads or inventory and more on understanding each individual’s personal journey and emotional readiness. Gresham notes that creating space for honest, consistent conversations helps uncover hidden concerns and builds deeper trust. Moreover, he emphasizes the long-term value of authentic connections, where empathy and open dialogue drive better outcomes and lasting partnerships. http://bluestarfranchise.comhttps://bluestarfranchise.com/franchisehttp://bluestarfranchise.com/assessmenthttp://franchiseceo.co Check out our CEO Hack Buzz Newsletter–our premium newsletter with hacks and nuggets to level up your organization. Sign up HERE. I AM CEO Handbook Volume 3 is HERE and it's FREE. Get your copy here: http://cbnation.co/iamceo3. Get the 100+ things that you can learn from 1600 business podcasts we recorded. Hear Gresh's story, learn the 16 business pillars from the podcast, find out about CBNation Architects and why you might be one and so much more. Did we mention it was FREE? Download it today!

Kash Fadaie is the founder of Fadaie Insurance, an $11 million revenue agency he built from the ground up. His early life was marked by political upheaval and multiple cultural transitions, which he credits as foundational to his resilience and personal growth. Kash believes success stems not from chasing outcomes, but from authenticity, alignment, and high-frequency living rooted in service and presence. Kash emphasizes building strong daily routines—especially morning rituals—as key to personal and professional effectiveness. He also champions the integration of one’s spiritual path with their work life, arguing that this unity naturally draws in clients, builds trust, and creates a lasting impact. Website: Fadaie Insurance LinkedIn: Khashayar (Kash) Fadaie Check out our CEO Hack Buzz Newsletter–our premium newsletter with hacks and nuggets to level up your organization. Sign up HERE. I AM CEO Handbook Volume 3 is HERE and it's FREE. Get your copy here: http://cbnation.co/iamceo3. Get the 100+ things that you can learn from 1600 business podcasts we recorded. Hear Gresh's story, learn the 16 business pillars from the podcast, find out about CBNation Architects and why you might be one and so much more. Did we mention it was FREE? Download it today!

Melissa St. Clair is a seasoned virtual business support expert and the founder of Paper Chaser, a company she launched in 2006 to help small business owners streamline operations, communications, and administrative tasks. As a military spouse, Melissa built a portable career that allowed her to thrive professionally while relocating frequently with her active-duty husband. She shares how technology enabled her early adoption of virtual services and highlights the importance of supporting clients through strategic partnerships, helping them focus on what they do best. Melissa discusses her “three B’s for success”—be present, be persistent, and be positive—as her guiding principles. Additionally, Melissa underscores the importance of preparing a business “ICE” (In Case of Emergency) standard operating procedure from day one. Website: Paper Chaser LinkedIn: Melissa St. Clair Previous Episode: iam290-virtual-assistant-supports-small-business-owners-with-online-office-support-services Check out our CEO Hack Buzz Newsletter–our premium newsletter with hacks and nuggets to level up your organization. Sign up HERE. I AM CEO Handbook Volume 3 is HERE and it's FREE. Get your copy here: http://cbnation.co/iamceo3. Get the 100+ things that you can learn from 1600 business podcasts we recorded. Hear Gresh's story, learn the 16 business pillars from the podcast, find out about CBNation Architects and why you might be one and so much more. Did we mention it was FREE? Download it today!

Amberly Lago is a former professional dancer and athlete and a leading expert in the field of resilience, transformation, and health and wellness. She's a motivational speaker and the best-selling author of True Grit and Grace. Amberly empowers people around the world by sharing her story of how she turned a tragedy into triumph. Amberly has recently been featured on NBC's The Today Show and contributed to magazines such as Shape, Fit Pregnancy, and Health and Disability Magazine. After enduring 34 surgeries to save her leg and navigating life as a once nationally recognized fitness coach turned bedridden patient, she discovered her true calling: helping others build resilience. Amberly shares her signature PACER framework—Perspective, Acceptance, Community, Endurance, and Rest—which she developed to manage physical and emotional pain, and now uses to guide her coaching clients. Amberly emphasizes the importance of gratitude, daily habits, and inner strength, reminding listeners that resilience is not just innate but can be cultivated with the right mindset and tools. Moreover, Amberly highlights that true leadership isn't just about running a business—it's about service, authenticity, and empowering people to find strength in their struggles. Website: Amberly Lago LinkedIn: Amberly Lago Instagram: amberlylagomotivation Previous Episode: iam286-motivational-speaker-and-best-selling-author-empowers-people-by-sharing-her-story Check out our CEO Hack Buzz Newsletter–our premium newsletter with hacks and nuggets to level up your organization. Sign up HERE. I AM CEO Handbook Volume 3 is HERE and it's FREE. Get your copy here: http://cbnation.co/iamceo3. Get the 100+ things that you can learn from 1600 business podcasts we recorded. Hear Gresh's story, learn the 16 business pillars from the podcast, find out about CBNation Architects and why you might be one and so much more. Did we mention it was FREE? Download it today!

On day 154 of his franchise broker journey, Gresham Harkless reflects on the emotional and strategic challenges of building momentum without having closed a traditional deal. While others in his cohort have closed deals—mostly through personal connections—he’s navigating the harder road of building a system that doesn’t rely on warm leads. Gresham acknowledges the temptation to press clients when deals lag, especially with long lead times, like one prospect who keeps pushing meetings back months at a time—but he consciously focuses on planting seeds and celebrating small wins. Gresham recognizes lead quality as the biggest challenge and is shifting his strategy toward more targeted outreach, including cold emailing, LinkedIn messaging, and Google Ads aimed at experienced franchise owners. He also sees potential in reconnecting with candidates who didn’t complete the process with other brokers, viewing partnerships and strategic collaborations as a smart path to create new opportunities. http://bluestarfranchise.comhttps://bluestarfranchise.com/franchisehttp://bluestarfranchise.com/assessmenthttp://franchiseceo.co Check out our CEO Hack Buzz Newsletter–our premium newsletter with hacks and nuggets to level up your organization. Sign up HERE. I AM CEO Handbook Volume 3 is HERE and it's FREE. Get your copy here: http://cbnation.co/iamceo3. Get the 100+ things that you can learn from 1600 business podcasts we recorded. Hear Gresh's story, learn the 16 business pillars from the podcast, find out about CBNation Architects and why you might be one and so much more. Did we mention it was FREE? Download it today!

In this special episode, Gresham Harkless shares a transparent and introspective update on his franchise broker journey, now over 150 days in, noting the emotional weight of not yet closing a deal. He expresses a mix of hope and frustration, acknowledging his strengths in lead generation but recognizing a gap in nurturing leads through the lengthy sales cycle. Gresham identifies a key mistake in not qualifying candidates financially early enough, realizing that without proper funding, even motivated prospects can’t move forward. In addition, Gresham is confronting the emotional fatigue of ghosted candidates and unclear financing paths, and he’s beginning to see that focusing on mindset, money, and motivation, especially securing the financial piece, is crucial before advancing candidates too far. http://bluestarfranchise.comhttps://bluestarfranchise.com/franchisehttp://bluestarfranchise.com/assessmenthttp://franchiseceo.co Check out our CEO Hack Buzz Newsletter–our premium newsletter with hacks and nuggets to level up your organization. Sign up HERE. I AM CEO Handbook Volume 3 is HERE and it's FREE. Get your copy here: http://cbnation.co/iamceo3. Get the 100+ things that you can learn from 1600 business podcasts we recorded. Hear Gresh's story, learn the 16 business pillars from the podcast, find out about CBNation Architects and why you might be one and so much more. Did we mention it was FREE? Download it today!

In this special episode, Gresham Harkless offers a thoughtful and vulnerable update on the emotional and practical challenges he's facing. He reflects on the frustration of feeling like he should be further ahead, despite putting in consistent effort, and how that mindset can cloud the real progress being made. Gresham emphasizes the importance of the three core elements in the franchise process—mindset, money, and motivation— in evaluating candidates and maintaining his momentum. He shares examples of how deals have stalled or fallen through due to candidates lacking one of these elements, highlighting the unpredictable nature of the business. http://bluestarfranchise.comhttps://bluestarfranchise.com/franchisehttp://bluestarfranchise.com/assessmenthttp://franchiseceo.co Check out our CEO Hack Buzz Newsletter–our premium newsletter with hacks and nuggets to level up your organization. Sign up HERE. I AM CEO Handbook Volume 3 is HERE and it's FREE. Get your copy here: http://cbnation.co/iamceo3. Get the 100+ things that you can learn from 1600 business podcasts we recorded. Hear Gresh's story, learn the 16 business pillars from the podcast, find out about CBNation Architects and why you might be one and so much more. Did we mention it was FREE? Download it today!