Growth Think Tank

Today's guest, Houri Tamizifar, Co-Founder and CEO of Cynuria Inc. and Inc. 5000 honoree (Rank No. 2502), joins the show to discuss the growing importance of Leadership Adaptability and the evolving role of AI in education. Houri shares why college students must proactively build AI skills and collaborate with faculty to stay ahead of rapid technological changes shaping the workforce. She highlights how clear communication and a cu...

In this episode, I break down the core habits that set successful CEOs apart and how those habits directly influence organizational growth. We explore the risks of overcommitting and getting too deep into day-to-day operations, a common trap that can cloud strategic focus. I make the case for a more disciplined approach to choosing opportunities and explain why shifting from monthly to weekly performance metrics can dramatically im...

Today's guest is Kelsey Hensley, President at NovEx Supply Chain, whose company was ranked No. 1,662 on the 2025 Inc. 5000 list. In this Grow Think Tank interview, Kelsey shares insights on company culture and leadership development, highlighting the six core values, kindness, openness, intentionality, trustworthiness, initiative, and accountability, that guide decision-making and foster personal growth at NovEx. She discusses the ...

In this episode, CEO coach Gene Hammett explores what it truly means to Be Intentional as a Leader, encouraging listeners to examine their leadership style and uncover the barriers limiting their growth. Drawing from his recent keynote at the Association of Animal Welfare Advancement, he introduces a clear two-part framework for elevating leadership, recognizing current hindrances, and defining the aspirational traits that drive st...

In this episode of Grow Think Tank, we dive into the connection between leadership and workplace stress, and how CEOs can minimize stress to create healthier, more productive teams. Research shows that 75% of employees see their boss as a primary source of stress, which makes leadership style more important than ever. We'll talk about how clear communication, aligned priorities, and a psychologically safe environment can transform ...

In this episode of Growth Think Tank, host Gene Hammett interviews Lauren McSorley, co-founder of LMH Experiences, ranked No. 1707 on the Inc. 5000 (2025), about her journey in corporate event planning and building a thriving business by helping leaders focus on strengths. Lauren shares insights on adaptability, creativity, and self-awareness in leadership, especially as the industry evolves toward virtual and hybrid events, and di...

In this episode, I dive into the powerful connection between coaching and effective leadership, drawing from my 13 years as a CEO coach. I discuss why many leaders overlook their potential as coaches and share practical ways to strengthen those skills, especially when things become messy or unpredictable. Instead of jumping in with quick answers, I highlight how asking the right questions can unlock your team's potential and spark ...

In this episode, I chat with Aisha Chottani, co-founder of Moment, ranked No. 589 on the 2025 Inc. 5000 list, about what it's like to lead a fast-growing startup in the functional beverage space. Aisha shares how she uses "learning calls" and regular feedback sessions to foster open communication, build trust, and keep her remote team aligned. We discuss the power of leadership, emphasizing the importance of alignment, transparency...

In this episode of Growth Think Tank, I delve into the power of leadership energy and its impact on communication, influence, and connection. I share why managing your energy. Not just your time, but also key to inspiring others and sustaining growth. You'll learn how to conduct an energy audit to identify what drains and fuels you, align your schedule with your natural energy rhythms, and build in recovery cycles that keep you per...