Episode #1: Join us on a remarkable journey through the evolution of the telecommunications industry over the past 35 years. We sit down with our inspiring guest, founder Sharon Woods, who shares her personal story of starting out in the early 1990s with a small team in Southern California, guided by two visionary executive founders. She navigates us through her transition from employee to CEO, highlighting the pivotal moment when she boldly decided to buy out the founders to drive innovation and secure the company’s future. Her story is one of versatility, strategic decision-making, and staying true to the company’s mission while adapting to the rapidly changing tech landscape.

Listen in as we explore the profound impact of deregulation in the 1990s and technological advancements like VoIP on the telecom industry. Our guest provides insight into how her company, ITS, maintained a competitive edge by focusing on personalized customer service and flexible solutions for small and medium-sized businesses. We also discuss the challenges and opportunities presented by the entry of cable companies and cellular technology, as well as how ITS offered viable alternatives to dominant market players.

In this conversation, we uncover the significance of building trust through managed services, emphasizing the advantages of smaller providers in offering relationship-based services. Our guest candidly shares her experiences as a female CEO in a male-dominated industry, highlighting the importance of effective networking and collaboration. We celebrate the courage to embrace new challenges, both in business and personal life, as exemplified by The Lake Sirens, a vocal band formed by professional women. Through stories of business leadership and the pursuit of creative passions, we are reminded of the importance of lifelong learning and nurturing a supportive company culture.

Chapters:

(00:00) 35 Years of Business Technology Evolution
(08:41) Technology Evolution Impacts Telecom Industry
(22:13) Building Trust Through Managed Services
(26:03) Lessons in Business Leadership and Networking
(34:21) The Lake Sirens

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