Elevating Leadership: Andrew Almazan on Scaling Businesses, Building Teams, and Bravery in Action

On this episode of the McCoy Leadership Podcast, I sat down with Andrew Almazan—a powerhouse in scaling businesses and building high-performance teams across hospitality, digital media, and craft brewing. We unpacked the leap from corporate stability to entrepreneurial risk, the importance of assembling the right team, and why connecting—not just communicating—is the key to true leadership impact. Plus, we dove into how bravery, integrity, and leveraging technology like AI all play a role in modern business growth. 

------

Download your free episode guide here!

------

00:00 "From Media to Executive Coaching"

06:14 "Journey to VP of People Operations"

07:49 Career Shift Amid Economic Changes

12:26 Leading Through Diverse Strengths

16:02 Effective Execution of Initiatives

18:55 Communication vs. Connection in Leadership

21:43 Targeting Growth-Oriented Small Business Owners

27:13 Embracing AI: Overcoming Traditional Mindset

28:25 Lonely Leadership Journey

35:22 AI's Role in Content Creation

36:26 Embrace Hardship for Growth

39:48 "Maximize Strengths with Self Audit"

44:05 Advice for Future Leaders

46:21 Podcast Updates & Listener Alerts

------

Here are 3 key takeaways that stand out for leaders and aspiring changemakers:

🔹 Scaling Sustainably Starts With People Andrew emphasized that no matter your strategy, it’s the right team and their buy-in that ultimately drive results. Success requires melding analytics with creativity, and ensuring every team member is both seen and heard.

🔹 Bravery & Integrity Are Leadership Cornerstones Stepping out on your own—or into the unknown—takes both courage and a strong moral compass. Andrew’s journey is a reminder that short-term discomfort can lead to long-term fulfillment. Betting on yourself, especially when the path is uncertain, is often the bravest (and most rewarding) move.

🔹 Tech is a Tool, Not a Replacement for Connection AI and digital tools are changing the landscape, but Andrew stresses the importance of marrying innovation with human-centered leadership. Use technology to streamline operations, but never at the expense of authentic connection and integrity.

------

Want to learn more about McCoy Leadership?  Check out our website, https://www.mccoyleadership.com/ and don't forget to subscribe to receive all the latest podcast episode.

------

Links

Andrew's website

LinkedIn

Instagram

 

Book Recommendations

Be Excellent at Anything

Fierce Conversations