Realistic CEO Podcast

In this episode of the Realistic CEO podcast, the host shares his lifelong dream of becoming a CEO and introduces guest Casey Anton, a former restaurateur who transitioned into helping businesses manage their finances. Casey discusses her journey, starting from managing a successful restaurant in Boston to becoming an expert in financial management for small businesses. She explains how her practi...

In this episode of the Realistic CEO Podcast, the host sits down with seasoned entrepreneur and real estate expert James Fiore. James shares his incredible journey of owning and flipping over 300 properties and multiple businesses, including retail stores and insurance companies. Despite starting small, he managed to build a significant portfolio worth millions. He discusses his experiences in rea...

In this episode of the Realistic CEO Podcast, host Mikey sits down with Tucker Bartone, a multi-franchise owner of Crumble and PLAYA Bowls. Tucker shares his incredible journey from a high school dream of becoming a CEO to managing multiple successful franchises. Hear about his unique path through a major in graphic design, psychology, dropping out of college, and making game changing decisions li...

Welcome to another episode of the Realistic CEO podcast! In this special episode, we interview Stacy Ashton, a real estate broker who owns a building on 107 Williams Street in North Hampton, Massachusetts. Join us as Stacy gives us a detailed tour of a unit in her building, sharing insights into her design choices and the thoughtfulness she puts into making each unit unique and comfortable. Stacy...

In this episode of the Realistic CEO Podcast, host Mikey interviews Matthew Bannister, head of marketing and corporate responsibility at PeoplesBank. Matthew shares his career journey from his first job in banking to his current role, discussing the rewarding aspects of his job, the evolution of advertising, and the significance of playing the long game in one’s career. He also reflects on the imp...

In this episode of The Realistic CEO Podcast, Mikey sits down with Victor Woolridge, a seasoned board member of corporate and non-profit organizations. Victor shares his journey as having a successful career in investments and board management. He discusses the importance of passion, determination, and learning in achieving professional goals. Victor also explains the differences between for-profi...

In this episode of the Realistic CEO podcast, our host interviews Sam Bradley, Executive Director of the Pan-African Historical Museum USA (PAHMUSA) in Springfield, Massachusetts. Sam shares his incredible journey from aspiring to be a CEO as a child, navigating a career in the music industry, to overcoming life-threatening health challenges and eventually running a nonprofit museum. Tune in to he...

Join us in this episode of the Realistic CEO Podcast as we dive deep into the incredible journey of Nicole Nell, the President of Visual Sound Productions. Discover how she transitioned from being a professional dance choreographer to running a multifaceted production company comprising four distinct divisions—VSP Weddings, VSP Multimedia, VSP AV, and VSP Talent. Learn about her background, challe...

In this episode of the Realistic CEO podcast, join the host Mikey as he interviews Lauren Tabin, a Vice President at ESB Bank, about her remarkable journey from starting as a bank teller to managing two offices. Lauren shares valuable insights into her career, the challenges she overcame, and the importance of hard work, networking, and staying true to oneself. She also provides practical advice f...

In this episode of the Realistic CEO podcast, we discuss with Tracie Kennedy, the owner and executive director of two childcare centers in South Hadley, about her journey to becoming a CEO. Tracie shares her experience of overcoming challenges, including her daughter being denied enrollment due to a disability, and how it inspired her to open her own inclusive childcare center. She discusses the p...

In this episode of the Realistic CEO podcast, our host revisits his aspiration of becoming a CEO, defying early skepticism from a high school teacher. Joined by Will Weche, founder and CEO of Willful Change, they dive deep into Will's journey from working in nonprofit organizations to leading a successful training and development firm. Will shares insights on leadership, self-awareness, and person...

In this episode of the Realistic CEO podcast, the host sits down with Dave Fontaine Jr., a successful leader in the construction industry. Dave shares his journey of joining and transforming his family business, Fontaine Bros, which started in 1933 during the Great Depression. They discuss the challenges and achievements of running a large-scale commercial construction company, the importance of r...

Join us in this episode of the Realistic CEO podcast as we explore the inspiring journey of Shannon Rudder, President and CEO of MLK Family Services. Learn about her passion for social justice, nonprofit work, and how aligning with her mission has fueled her success. Shannon also shares valuable insights on building a dedicated team, the importance of self-care, and tips for those looking to make...

In this episode of the Realistic CEO podcast, host Mikey interviews Dina from 94.7 WMAS, who recounts her unexpected journey from aspiring elementary teacher to a successful radio co-host. Dina describes her career changes, from initially wanting to work with children, to majoring in psychology, fashion merchandising, and finally communications. An unplanned internship at a radio station opened un...

In this episode of the 'Realistic CEO' podcast, host Mikey interviews Seth Kaye, a successful wedding and event photographer. They discuss Seth's unconventional path from a pre-med student to a thriving photography career. Seth shares insights into his passion for photography, the challenges he faced, and the lessons he learned. He also talks about the importance of building client relationships,...

Join us in this engaging episode of the Realistic CEO Podcast as we sit down with Dr. Kathy Martin, CEO of Glenmeadow, a senior living community. Dr. Martin shares her unique journey from higher education to becoming a CEO, the importance of transferable skills, and how she navigated this career shift. She provides valuable advice on leadership, team building, and running a nonprofit organization....

In this episode of the Realistic CEO Podcast, the host interviews Tracey, co-founder of Wicked Good Cupcakes. Tracey shares the story of how she and her daughter accidentally started their successful cupcake business, eventually landing a deal on Shark Tank and selling the company to Hickory Farms. Tracey discusses the challenges of starting with no experience, the importance of overcoming obstacl...

Join us on the Realistic CEO Podcast as we sit down with Nicole Obi, the President and CEO of the Black Economic Council of Massachusetts (BECMA). Nicole shares her eclectic journey from humble beginnings to leading a nonprofit dedicated to building black wealth through advocacy, programs, and events. Discover how BECMA supports black-owned businesses across Massachusetts, the importance of networ...

In this episode of the Realistic CEO Podcast, we follow the host on his quest to learn what it takes to become a CEO. Joined by Delcie Beam of Strategic IT, the discussion covers Delcie's journey from a high school computer repair gig to founding a successful, employee-owned IT company. They delve into topics such as the evolution of the business, the decision to create an ESOP, leadership qualiti...

In this episode of the Realistic CEO Podcast, Mikey sits down with Tessa, the executive director of E for All, to discuss her critical role in nurturing new and growing entrepreneurs in the Pioneer Valley. Tessa delves into her unexpected journey from working in local government to leading a team that drives economic development. She shares insights about her work in fundraising, volunteer managem...

In this episode of the Realistic CEO Podcast, join us as we delve into the inspiring journey of Kevin Lynn, Executive Director of MassHire. Kevin shares his unique path from high school to becoming a CEO, overcoming setbacks and learning valuable lessons along the way. Discover his insights on leadership, the importance of relationships, and the value of persistence. Learn how Kevin turned challen...

In this episode of the Realistic CEO podcast, host Mike interviews Joanna, Vice President at the Community Foundation of Western Massachusetts. Joanna shares her inspiring journey from delivering newspapers as a young girl to becoming an influential leader in the nonprofit world. She discusses the importance of resilience, mentorship, and advocating for equity. Joanna also provides valuable advice...

Join us on this episode of the Realistic CEO Podcast as we dive into April's inspiring Journey from owning her own hair to becoming a distinguished reporter at the Republican newspaper. April shares her inspiring journey from a challenging childhood and a career as a hair stylist to becoming a successful journalist. Despite facing numerous obstacles, including domestic violence and academic strugg...

Join us on this episode of the Realistic CEO Podcast as we sit down with Ryan Alekman , an accomplished lawyer and entrepreneur who shares his journey from law school to building a successful practice. Discover how he got started, the challenges he faced, and the power of perseverance and hard work. Learn valuable advice on becoming a lawyer, starting your own firm, and the importance of giving ba...

In this episode of the Realistic CEO Podcast, the host interviews Shandell, also known as 'Deli Sandwiches,' who shares his journey of becoming a successful business owner in the trucking industry. From childhood dreams to establishing his own business, Deli provides insightful advice on securing necessary paperwork, finding mentors, the importance of passion, and handling business expenses. They...