Eric Gilbert, CEO of Innova Furnishings and second-generation owner, shares his journey of learning that effective leadership means getting out of your own way. Through losing major customers, promoting team members into his roles, and navigating family business transitions, Eric discovered that the emotional component of leadership—not just hitting numbers—determines long-term success.

In this episode, we discuss:

- Why losing a major customer actually created more profitable growth

- How "firing yourself" from roles opens opportunities for team development

- The importance of realistic timelines—becoming a good CEO takes 3-8 years, not 90 days

- Why one-on-one coaching addresses the emotional challenges that advisory boards can't

P.S. To explore how we can support your leadership journey, book a free 15-minute call here: https://calendly.com/marcdbraun/15-minute-ceo-intro-call

Mark Lee, a seasoned construction industry leader, shares his journey from self-focused to servant leadership through powerful stories of transformation. With decades of experience turning around company cultures, Mark demonstrates how authentic leadership starts with caring for "the as is" before creating change. His approach centers on leading by example—from moving executive offices to storage rooms to parking in the furthest spot to reinforce safety culture.In this episode, we discuss:- Building trust through appreciating current state before transformation- Leading with actions that align with values rather than just words- Creating cultural change through intentional, visible servant leadership- The critical shift from "me-centered" to "we-centered" leadership philosophyP.S. To explore how we can support your leadership journey, book a free 15-minute call here: https://calendly.com/marcdbraun/15-minute-ceo-intro-call

Cory Jensen, President of Continental Manufacturing, shares how he transformed a struggling Iowa plant from 300% turnover to an award-winning team in just two years. Through daily team meetings, peer recognition systems, and unwavering commitment to three core values, they eliminated temp workers and built a culture so strong that job applicants now line up at their door.

In this episode, we discuss:

- Creating accountability through daily open forum meetings and transparent metrics

- Building values-driven culture with the "Three C's": Character, Collaboration, Commitment

- Transforming hiring from external recruiting to internal referrals and promotions

- Shifting sales approach from pushy tactics to transparent, relationship-based partnerships

P.S. To explore how we can support your leadership journey, book a free 15-minute call here: https://calendly.com/marcdbraun/15-minute-ceo-intro-call