A nationally recognized workplace expert, Linda, based in Sarasota, is the architect of the Spectator-Free Workplace methodology, which fosters shared ownership of performance and revitalizes engagement, productivity and morale. Linda worked in journalism and corporate communications, with GE and AlliedSignal, before starting her own firm. Business Observer Managing Editor Mark Gordon and Linda talked about her work in helping leaders break down silos and become better listeners to the entire team. She also talked about some key lessons learned from her entrepreneurial parents to legendary GE executive Jack Welch.

3 Takeaways:

1. (04:50) People make the success in business
2. (07:30) You can’t lead with a void of knowledge
3. (12:45) Use AI to spark creativity

Timestamps:

(00:00) Introducing Linda Dulye, founder, Dulye & Co.

(04:30) What is Dulye & Co.?

(06:40) How do you advise your clients?

(09:00) Creating a better culture

(10:20) AI-proofing your career

(12:30) Using AI as a tool

(14:30) Linda’s career trajectory

(17:30) Must-have leadership characteristics

(19:00) Using feedback

(20:10) Mentors

(23:30) Syracuse Basketball and Dulye & Co. in 2026

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Michael Arrieta founded Garden City Equity after working in Silicon Valley for tech companies, including a stint as a global vice president and chief of staff to the CEO at DocuSign. Garden City, he says, is dedicated to making people-first investments in family and founder-owned businesses in the Southeast. One of its recent investments is in Venice-based outdoor aluminum and pool cage material manufacturer Commercial Residential Aluminum. On this episode, Business Observer Managing Editor Mark Gordon and Michael talked about key business and leadership lessons he learned from DocuSign and other tech companies. They also talked about his mentors and his vision on what makes for a strong and sustainable company culture.

3 Takeaways:

1. (11:20) Give employees a clear path of growth
2. (13:15) People support what they help create
3. (14:45) To be a good leader, you need to be a servant

Timestamps:

(00:00) Introducing Michael Arrieta, founder and managing partner, Garden City Equity

(03:40) What is Garden City Equity?

(05:55) Michael’s career arch

(08:40) What is a good company culture?

(13:00) Clarity is kindness

(14:45) What made you the leader you are today?

(16:55) Lessons from Docusign

(18:20) Vulnerability

(22:00) Leadership legacy

(24:00) What's coming up for Garden City Equity?

Join us every week as we interview business leaders to learn what makes them great, what they look for in growing leaders, and much more.

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Aakash Patel founded Elevate Inc. in 2012. The firm provides community relations, targeted networking, and social media consultation. Aakash is also on the board of Hillsborough College and the Early Learning Coalition of Hillsborough County. On this episode, Business Observer Managing Editor Mark Gordon and Aakash talked about his unique backstory in launching his company and his tricks and tips for networking. They also talked about his mentors and role models and what motivates him to give back to the community in nonprofit board roles.

3 Takeaways:

1. (06:45) When people are giving you guidance, it is because they care
2. (07:05) Good leaders communicate well and listen well
3. (13:30) Lead with integrity

Timestamps:

(00:00) Introducing Aakash Patel, Founder and President of Elevate

(02:30) What is Elevate, Inc?

(04:20) How did you build this network?

(05:20) Learning from mentors

(06:30) Responding to feedback

(07:05) What characteristics make a good leader?

(07:45) Community involvement

(09:40) Advice for those interested in joining boards

(10:40) Running for office

(12:10) Making tough decisions

(13:30) Best leadership advice?

(14:35) What do you hope people remember about Elevate?

(15:15) What is coming up in 2026?

Join us every week as we interview business leaders to learn what makes them great, what they look for in growing leaders, and much more.

Visit businessobserverfl.com for more.