In this episode of CEO & Executive Thought Leadership, host Jennifer Kluge sits down with David Lopez, President and CEO of American Gaming Systems (AGS), to discuss what it takes to lead a company through rapid growth while keeping people at the center of the business.

David shares his experience leading acquisitions, taking the company public, partnering with private equity, and navigating complex organizational change. He discusses why building a culture of trust, humility, and teamwork has been just as important as achieving business results. From hiring the right leaders and eliminating organizational politics to fostering transparency and empowering employees, David offers practical leadership lessons for executives leading through transformation.

Whether you're scaling a business, integrating acquisitions, or developing your leadership team, this episode provides valuable insights on creating sustainable growth without sacrificing culture.

In this episode of CEO & Executive Thought Leadership, host Jennifer Kluge sits down with Kelly Springer, President and CEO of Metal Flow Corporation, to discuss leadership in an era of rapid transformation. From automation and workforce development to navigating industry disruption and global competition, Kelly shares how a people-first approach has helped Metal Flow continue to innovate and grow.

Drawing on her background in finance and manufacturing leadership, Kelly explores the importance of balancing data-driven decision-making with a deep commitment to employees. She discusses why communication, trust, and clarity are critical during times of change and how leaders can build resilient organizations by investing in both technology and talent.

The conversation also highlights strategic decision-making, the future of advanced manufacturing, and the opportunities AI presents for improving efficiency, innovation, and workforce development. Kelly offers practical insights for leaders seeking to create cultures that embrace change while remaining focused on people and long-term success.

In this special panel episode of CEO & Executive Thought Leadership, Eve Lai of VIVUS LLC, Shonna Turner of Riskonnect, Cristin Costanza of OneMagnify, and Tonya Hubbartt of Blachford Acoustics Group share their experiences leading organizations through mergers, acquisitions, private equity transitions, and other major business changes. Together, they discuss culture, communication, trust, and the strategies that help employees and organizations thrive during times of transformation.

Jennifer Kluge sits down with Ben Juech, President of Coakley Brothers, to explore how workplace design, leadership, and culture will intersect to drive business success. Ben shares how his organization has evolved into a global, full service workplace transformation company, helping organizations across industries rethink the environments where people will live, work, and play. He also offers practical leadership insights, from leading by example and building strong teams to staying grounded in purpose during times of constant change. Whether you are rethinking your workplace strategy or looking to elevate your leadership approach, this conversation will deliver actionable insights on designing both spaces and cultures where people will thrive.

In this episode, Jennifer Kluge sits down with John Boyd, Executive Vice President and Founding Principal of Signature Associates. He shares how market knowledge, long-term relationships, and disciplined strategy helped grow Signature Associates from its early days into a full-service firm serving clients across North America, Europe, and Asia. This conversation offers valuable insights on leadership longevity, market evolution, and building teams that stand the test of time.

In this episode of CEO of Thought Leadership, Sandy Harvey explores the critical role civility plays in shaping strong workplace cultures and effective leadership. Drawing on her experience developing leaders and guiding organizations through change, Sandy shares how respect, trust, and intentional communication create environments where people can thrive—even during uncertainty. This conversation offers timely insights for leaders looking to build cultures rooted in dignity, accountability, and long-term success.

President and Founder Jean Bourgeois shares how she built Excelas from an idea to a nationally recognized medical-legal consulting firm. From navigating uncertainty and innovation to shaping an award-winning culture, Jean offers honest insight into leadership, resilience, and the power of doing meaningful work.

In this episode of CEO Thought Leadership, Jennifer Kluge speaks with Steve Grieco, CEO of MedeAnalytics, about how data, AI, and modern technology are revolutionizing healthcare. Steve shares how he transformed MedeAnalytics through modernization, team building, and a people-first culture. Hear insights on the future of AI in healthcare, controlling rising costs, and the leadership lessons that shaped his journey.