Disrupt & Innovate

Chris Hood, an expert in customer experience strategy, discusses how AI is reshaping the way businesses approach customer service and engagement. With over 35 years of experience, Chris shares real-world examples from brands like Discover Card and Taco Bell to highlight the importance of maintaining human-to-human connections in an increasingly digital world. He also explains why traditional custo...

Lisa L. Levy interviews Deirdre Tshien, the co-founder and CEO of Capsho, an AI-powered podcast copywriter platform. Deirdre shares her entrepreneurial journey, the challenges of building businesses across multiple industries, and how Capsho is helping podcasters amplify their voices efficiently. Learn why content repurposing, when done mindlessly, can be counterproductive, and how AI can help cre...

Mike Straza, a fractional CFO and COO, discusses his approach to helping businesses overcome operational challenges and achieve growth. With a focus on a 90-day engagement process, Mike emphasizes the importance of understanding a company's current state, identifying pain points, and implementing actionable solutions. He shares insights on the significance of experience in consulting, the necessit...

Lisa L. Levy speaks with Leanne Linsky, a comedian turned entrepreneur, about her journey from the corporate world to founding Plauzzable, an innovative online comedy platform. They discuss the importance of education in entrepreneurship, the unique features of Plauzzable that empower comedians, and how the platform is reshaping the comedy landscape by making it more accessible and profitable for...

Lance Seiko, a serial entrepreneur and architect, discusses his journey with F9 Productions, emphasizing the importance of customer service in architecture, the role of architects in everyday life, and the shift towards sustainable design. He shares insights on generational living, the challenges of building tiny houses, and the impact of residential architecture on people's lives. The conversatio...

Alec Crawford, CEO of Artificial Intelligence Risk, shares insights on AI adoption and the critical steps businesses need to take to protect themselves from AI-driven financial fraud and cybersecurity risks. From implementing private AI and securing sensitive data to setting governance rules and navigating compliance, Alec explains how organizations can safely leverage AI technology for growth. He...

Tawnya Landis, seasoned entrepreneur, certified coach, and wellness advocate, shares her inspiring journey through the highs and lows of entrepreneurship. Co-author of Balancing Act, Tawnya talks about her experiences in building businesses, overcoming financial crises, managing personal challenges, and finding work-life harmony. From navigating a bankruptcy during a health crisis to successfully...

Lisa L. Levy and Mona Bavar explore the intersection of AI, storytelling, and human connection. Mona discusses her journey as an entrepreneur, the importance of maintaining authenticity in branding, and how AI can be a tool for growth rather than a replacement for human creativity. They emphasize the significance of understanding one's 'why' in business and the need for a balance between structure...

Oscar Vasquez, founder of EstateDocPrep.com, discusses the critical importance of estate planning, highlighting that 68% of Americans lack a valid will or estate plan. He explains the concept of probate and how a living trust can prevent the complications that arise from it. Oscar outlines the steps to create a living trust, dispelling the myth that estate planning is only for the wealthy. He intr...

Jason Saltzman discusses the pressing issue of debt in America, highlighting that one in three Americans are currently behind on their bills. He introduces his financial technology company, Relief, which aims to help individuals manage their debt more effectively. Jason shares insights into the challenges of entrepreneurship, the reality of business exits, and the importance of focusing on the pre...

Tracy Christian, founder of Sante Grace, discusses her journey in the fashion industry, focusing on creating high-quality, stylish clothing for plus-sized women. She shares her frustrations with the lack of options available and how she aims to empower women by providing fashionable choices that accommodate their bodies. Tracy also reflects on her entrepreneurial journey during the pandemic, the c...

Lisa L. Levy and Linda Fisk discuss the importance of empowering women in leadership roles, addressing challenges such as imposter syndrome, and the necessity of innovation in business. They explore how AI can be leveraged for growth and efficiency, particularly in healthcare, and emphasize the value of community and mentorship in achieving success. Takeaways Linda Fisk focuses on helping women ac...

Shahar Boyayan discusses the transformative impact of AI on consumer behavior and business strategies. With five generations adapting to AI, the conversation explores how businesses, especially small ones, can leverage AI to enhance customer experiences and address pain points. The importance of understanding customer needs and the role of hyper-personalization in today's market are emphasized, al...

Description: Charles Sims, former CTO of the LA Clippers and United Talent Agency, as he shares his transformative journey from tech leadership to venture capital. In this interview, Charles dives into his innovative approach to building startups, the importance of execution, and the power of networking. Learn how he empowers entrepreneurs to navigate the complex world of venture funding and how h...

In this conversation, Emma Rainfield, an expert in operational excellence, discusses the importance of foundational frameworks for businesses to achieve growth and scale. She introduces her WAVE framework, which emphasizes the need for a clear vision, focus, values-driven hiring, and execution. Emma shares her experiences working with entrepreneurs and the challenges they face, as well as her jour...

Alyssa Borden, founder of Success Bridge, shares her expertise on navigating the world of strategic HR leadership, workforce transformation, and business success. With a background in HR across various industries, Alyssa discusses the importance of connecting vision with actionable outcomes and empowering organizations to not just survive but thrive in today's fast-changing landscape. Alyssa also...

Dr. Deborah Heiser, founder of the Mentor Project, discusses the importance of mentorship, leadership transformation, and generativity. As an applied developmental psychologist and TEDx speaker, Dr. Heiser shares her unique perspective on how mentoring can shape the next generation, create meaningful impact, and empower individuals of all ages. From her early research in aging to the creation of a...

Matthew Lesko shares his insights on accessing government funding and grants, emphasizing the importance of experience and community support. He discusses the challenges faced by individuals and businesses in navigating financial resources and highlights the role of government programs in fostering economic development. Lesko encourages listeners to leverage available resources and connect with or...

Lisa L. Levy speaks with Erica Maureen Carder about the importance of a people-first approach in business, especially during challenging times like layoffs. Erica discusses her pivot to focus on outplacement services that prioritize mental health and career transition support for individuals affected by layoffs. They explore the emotional impact of job loss, the potential for entrepreneurship, and...

Lisa L. Levy interviews Hilda Fainsod, a seasoned expert in leadership coaching, personal transformation, and mental fitness. With over 20 years of experience coaching top executives, Hilda shares her approach to overcoming self-sabotage, navigating challenges, and creating lasting change. Discover how asking the right questions—like "Who do you want to become?"—can lead to a more impactful life a...

In this video, Georgiana (Gia) Laudi, co-founder of Forget the Funnel and a growth strategy expert, shares how businesses can align customer needs with growth strategies to achieve predictable revenue. Discover the power of the Jobs to Be Done framework, customer-led growth methodologies, and why narrowing your focus to ideal customers can drive exceptional results. Whether you're in SaaS or any s...

Discover how Dr. Michael Neal, founder of Build My Team and practicing optometrist, revolutionized hiring for small businesses. Learn how his innovative, automated approach flips traditional hiring upside down, focusing on talents and strengths instead of resumes. Dr. Neal shares his game-changing strategies that helped his practice thrive with high-performing A players and how his system is trans...

Join Lisa L. Levy as she interviews Rachel Burr, an executive coach and leadership consultant passionate about helping leaders embrace their authenticity. Discover how Rachel’s unique approach empowers leaders to overcome challenges, build high-performing teams, and create thriving workplace cultures. From generational dynamics to managing rapid change, this insightful discussion dives into what i...

In this episode of Disrupt and Innovate, Lisa L. Levy hosts Lynn Daniel, founder and CEO of The Daniel Group, to discuss the critical role of customer experience (CX) in business success. They explore how CX drives differentiation, builds loyalty, and transforms customer satisfaction into long-term growth. Lynn shares actionable insights on designing effective customer journeys, the importance of...

Emily Schneider, a seasoned visual storyteller and presentation design expert, shares her journey and valuable tips for transforming complex ideas into visually stunning presentations. Learn how to leverage the power of visuals to engage your audience, make lasting impressions, and communicate your message effectively. Whether you're a business leader, entrepreneur, or creative professional, this...