Second in Command: The Chief Behind the Chief with Cameron Herold

In today's episode of the Second in Command podcast, co-host Sivana Brewer is joined by Andrew Alexandrovich, Chief Operating Officer of Environmental Incentives. During the conversation, Sivana and Andrew explore the complexities of navigating company growth and the unique challenges that arise when an organization scales rapidly. They explore the intricate balance between quality and quantity, p...

In today's episode of the Second in Command podcast, Cameron dives into the unique dynamics between COOs and CEOs, comparing them to how men and women perceive the world differently.  Cameron discusses the relatively short tenure of most COOs and how the role evolves as a company scales. He also touches on how the COO’s skill set may not always keep pace with the company’s growth, leading to...

In today's episode of the Second in Command podcast, Cameron is joined by COO Alliance Member Tony Skowron, COO of The Beyond Collection, a commission-free marketplace connecting meeting planners and luxury hospitality partners. During the conversation, Tony shares a compelling journey marked by growth, challenge, and intentionality. From navigating the complexities of entering an established but...

In today's episode of the Second in Command podcast, Cameron reveals a fresh approach to team building and annual planning that goes beyond stale meeting rooms and rigid agendas.  You'll discover a game-changing strategy that combines the camaraderie of cooking, the serenity of nature, and the power of collaborative goal-setting. Learn how swapping hotel conference rooms for an Airbnb retreat...

In today's episode of the Second in Command podcast, co-host Sivana Brewer is joined by Alicia Ramirez-Ingalls, Strategy and Operations Lead at Neat, a video communications device design company based in Oslo, Norway. Throughout the conversation, Sivana and Alicia explore the challenges and experiences of navigating high-pressure environments, particularly when self-doubt and imposter syndrome ine...

In today's episode of the Second in Command podcast, Cameron is joined by Rob Follows, Chairman and Founder of STS Capital Partners. During the conversation, Rob and Cameron discuss the intricacies of selling businesses and navigating the complex world of mergers and acquisitions. They explore the challenges faced by entrepreneurs and business owners when it comes to maximizing the value of their...

In today's episode of the Second in Command podcast, Cameron is joined by Alon Peleg, a seasoned Israeli leader and COO of aiOla, a cutting-edge conversational AI lab. During the conversation, Cameron and Alon explore the strategic decisions behind building a high-performance company culture and scaling effectively within a competitive industry. Alon shares insights on creating an environment that...

In today's episode of the Second in Command podcast, Cameron discusses the intricate journey of transitioning from a hands-on business operator to a strategic owner.  Discover the mindset and practical steps required for a CEO to step back from daily operations without losing the essence of their leadership. You'll learn the importance of clear communication, robust planning, and maintaining...

In today's episode of The Second in Command podcast, Cameron is joined by Ryan Casey, Chief Operating Officer for The Lifestyle Investor. Ryan shares insights from an unexpected career journey that began in a surprising industry and led to expertise in sales, systems, and personal development. The conversation explores the power of structured approaches to relationship-building, professional growt...

In today's episode of the Second in Command podcast, Cameron takes you on an exploration of a highly exclusive global network designed for those who are second-in-command within their organizations.  The vision behind this community is clear: creating a space where professionals in leadership positions can connect, collaborate, and learn from one another. With monthly events, both virtual and...

In today's episode of The Second in Command podcast, co-host Sivana Brewer is joined by Ashley John Heather, Co-Founder, President, and COO of Lumati, a wellness firm that blends evidence-based science with natural solutions. During the conversation, Ashley shares a personal and professional journey marked by rapid growth, continuous adaptation, and a deep commitment to making an impact. As Lumati...

In today's episode of the Second in Command podcast, Cameron explores a pivotal leadership decision that can transform the way businesses operate, grow, and scale.  Every visionary leader reaches a point where their plate is too full, their time too stretched, and their focus divided. But the key to overcoming this challenge isn't just about delegation—it's about finding the right person to s...

In today's episode of The Second in Command podcast, Cameron is joined by Alex Dogliotti, Ph. D, Chief Human Resources Officer and Chief Operations Officer for Mindvalley. During the conversation, Alex shares insights into a groundbreaking shift reshaping the way organizations operate. He discusses how a passion-driven initiative within the company led to a powerful internal transformation, fundam...

In today's episode of the Second in Command podcast, Cameron is joined by Jonathan Keyser, Founder and Managing Partner of Keyser Commercial Real Estate, the largest commercial real estate firm of its kind in Arizona. In this conversation, Jonathan shares insights into a critical yet often overlooked area of business strategy. He highlights how companies can gain a significant edge by reevaluating...

In today's episode of The Second in Command podcast, Cameron is joined by Stephanie Buckner, COO of Altair, a leader in computational science and AI solutions. During the conversation, Cameron and Stephanie explore the complexities of leading an organization that spans across the globe, managing both internal growth and external acquisitions. They touch on how corporate culture plays a pivotal rol...

In today's episode of the Second in Command podcast, Cameron explores the intricacies of leadership roles within organizations, focusing on a key executive position that plays a crucial part in shaping company culture and driving success: the COO.  You'll learn how this role evolves over time, with special attention paid to the dynamics between two critical figures at the helm of a company. A...

In today's episode of The Second in Command podcast, co-host Sivana Brewer is joined by COO Alliance Member, Doug Smith, Vice President and COO of America's Best Restaurants. This episode does a deep dive into Doug's personal and professional journey, as well as the triumphs and challenges he has weathered along the way. He shares candid stories from his career, revealing pivotal moments that shap...

In today's episode of The Second in Command podcast, Cameron is joined by Susan Goebel, a Fractional COO, as well as the Founder and CEO of Scaling Management Consulting Group, Inc. During the discussion Cameron and Susan dive into the challenges businesses face as they scale and grow, especially when it comes to operational inefficiencies and leadership struggles. Susan shares stories of companie...

In today's episode of The Second in Command podcast, Cameron is joined by Sean Seamer, Global Chief Operating Officer of Brainlabs, a high-performance media agency. During the conversation, you'll be given a glimpse behind the scenes of a global organization's leadership transition and growth strategy. Sean, a seasoned executive with a wealth of international experience, shares his approach to ste...

In today's episode of The Second in Command podcast, Cameron is joined by Kate Lincoln-Goldfinch, the owner and CEO of Lincoln-Goldfinch Law – Abogados de Inmigración. During the conversation, Cameron and Kate explore the nuances of navigating complex professional relationships. You'll hear about the challenges of balancing different leadership styles, the importance of communication, and the impa...

In today's episode of The Second in Command podcast, Cameron is joined by Jeff MacPherson, co-founder of XnGen AI, an AI-powered business transformation platform. During the episode, Cameron and Jeff explore the evolving role of digital agents and their transformative potential across industries. You'll learn how these agents are capable of executing complex tasks on behalf of businesses, freeing...

In today's episode of the Second in Command podcast, Cameron is joined by Mac Lackey, founder of ExitDNA. During this fascinating conversation, Cameron and Mac explore the journey of business leaders who are crafting legacies while preparing for transformative opportunities. You'll discover how embracing proactive strategies and gaining clarity on personal and professional goals can unlock unimagi...

In today's episode of The Second in Command podcast, co-host Sivana Brewer is joined by Sami Erhart, Chief Operating Officer of Titan Restoration. During the conversation, Sivana and Sami explore the challenges and breakthroughs that come with embracing innovation in a professional setting. They discuss the natural resistance people have when faced with new tools or approaches, particularly when t...

In today's episode of the Second in Command podcast, Cameron explores the question of whether businesses truly need a Chief Operating Officer or if alternative solutions would be more cost-effective and practical. Many business leaders assume they need a high-level executive to manage operations, but taking that step prematurely can lead to unnecessary costs, friction, and even structural upheaval...

In today's episode of The Second in Command podcast, Cameron is joined by Roy Heldshtein, Managing Partner, Chief Operating Officer and Chief Financial Officer of Team8, a venture group based in Tel Aviv, Israel. During the conversation, Roy shares insights on navigating the complexities of leadership within a rapidly growing organization. With a strong emphasis on operational efficiency and balan...