• Why Perseverance is the Greatest Entrepreneurial Trait
    Oct 16 2025

    Welcome to The Digital Transformist with Mike LaVista! In today's episode, we have the incredible Karen Todd sharing her inspiring journey of building her companies, including her current role as CEO and founder of Aurore Financial Group. Karen delves into her background in the real estate industry and how her company focuses on GP investments in sponsors who specialize in areas like multi-family, self-storage, and the booming data center industry. She discusses the importance of following genius investors and surrounding herself with trendsetters to spot the next big opportunities.

    Karen's story is a testament to perseverance and resilience, as she shares her beginnings in real estate and flipping houses to put herself through college. She credits her entrepreneurial spirit to her upbringing in an entrepreneurial family and her unwavering determination to succeed. Karen's journey from humble beginnings to the heights of success is a true inspiration for aspiring entrepreneurs. Join us as we dive into Karen's remarkable story and learn valuable insights on spotting trends, building successful businesses, and never giving up on your dreams.

    Don't miss out on this engaging conversation with Karen Todd, where she shares her wisdom, experiences, and the importance of perseverance in the world of entrepreneurship. Tune in to The Digital Transformist for a dose of inspiration and valuable insights from a trailblazing entrepreneur like Karen. Subscribe now and join us on this exciting journey of transformation and growth!

    Listeners can get in touch with Karen Todd through LinkedIn and Aurore Financial Group.

    Michael can be found at https://caxy.com and his podcast The Digital Transformist https://www.youtube.com/@DigitalTransformistPodcast

    Michael's book, Superpowered: 7 Leadership Superpowers Technology Executives Can Use to Grow a More Engaged, Tech-driven and Profitable Organization, can be found on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Superpowered-Essential-Leadership-Technology-Executives/dp/1735504904

    CHAPTERS:
    00:00 - Introduction to Karen Todd
    01:01 - Focus on Multi-Family Real Estate
    01:35 - Spotting Investment Opportunities
    02:14 - Surrounding Yourself with Visionaries
    03:24 - Journey into Real Estate and Brokerage
    04:59 - Perseverance Through Financial Challenges
    06:20 - Building Companies and Helping Others
    08:05 - Lessons Learned from Adversity
    09:40 - Balancing Entrepreneurship and Family
    11:15 - Future Plans and Growth Strategies

    Show more Show less
    24 mins
  • Figuring Things Out is a Skill You Practice
    Oct 10 2025

    Welcome to The Digital Transformist! In this episode, we have the dynamic CEO of Gemini Builds It, Courtney Wright, joining us for an exciting conversation. Courtney shares a captivating story of how she reconnected with our host, Mike, after years of being in different circles, and how their chance encounter led to this engaging discussion. Gemini Builds It is a US-based manufacturing company specializing in custom framing and casework for museums, institutions, and colleges across the country.

    Courtney takes us through her journey of pivoting her business during the challenging times of COVID-19, showcasing the importance of spotting opportunities and adapting to changing circumstances. She shares insightful advice for CEOs looking to gain a competitive edge by exploring adjacent spaces and making bold moves. Courtney's story is a perfect blend of luck and skill, demonstrating the power of strategic thinking and proactive decision-making in times of uncertainty.

    Join us as we dive deep into Courtney's inspiring narrative, filled with lessons on resilience, innovation, and the art of seizing opportunities. Whether you're a seasoned entrepreneur or an aspiring leader, this episode offers valuable insights and inspiration to navigate the ever-evolving landscape of business. Don't miss out on this thought-provoking conversation with a visionary leader who is reshaping the industry one bold move at a time!

    Listeners can get in touch with Courtney Wright, CEO of Gemini Builds It, by visiting the company's website or contacting them through their social media channels.

    Michael can be found at https://caxy.com and his podcast The Digital Transformist https://www.youtube.com/@DigitalTransformistPodcast

    Michael's book, Superpowered: 7 Leadership Superpowers Technology Executives Can Use to Grow a More Engaged, Tech-driven and Profitable Organization, can be found on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Superpowered-Essential-Leadership-Technology-Executives/dp/1735504904

    CHAPTERS:
    00:00 - Introduction to Courtney Wright and Gemini Builds It
    02:12 - Spotting Opportunities During COVID
    03:26 - Taking Action During COVID
    04:41 - Seizing the Opportunity with Costco
    05:56 - Adapting Business Strategy During COVID
    06:44 - Lessons Learned from Acting Swiftly
    07:55 - Embracing Challenges and Stimulating Growth
    09:03 - Building a Nimble and Creative Team
    10:18 - Navigating Uncertainty with Confidence
    11:29 - Sustaining Success Beyond COVID
    12:15 - Conclusion and Final Thoughts

    Show more Show less
    26 mins
  • The is a Crisis Coming for Skilled Labor
    Sep 26 2025

    Our guest, Matt, the head of talent at our company, shares some eye-opening statistics about the impending changes in the labor market. With 2.7 million boomers expected to retire by 2030, there is a growing gap in the workforce that needs to be filled by millennials and Gen Z. Manufacturing and skilled labor positions are in high demand, with 450,000 jobs currently open and more to come in the future.

    We also discuss the role of technology in the workforce and how it can augment, rather than replace, human workers. As we look towards the future, it's clear that finding better ways to work is essential for the success of industries like trades and manufacturing. So, if you're considering a career change or simply curious about the changing landscape of work, this podcast episode is a must-listen. Join us as we explore the exciting world of career transitions and the opportunities that lie ahead.

    Listeners can get in touch with the guest, Matt, through the company's website or by reaching out to the podcast host.

    Michael can be found at https://caxy.com and his podcast The Digital Transformist https://www.youtube.com/@DigitalTransformistPodcast

    Michael's book, Superpowered: 7 Leadership Superpowers Technology Executives Can Use to Grow a More Engaged, Tech-driven and Profitable Organization, can be found on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Superpowered-Essential-Leadership-Technology-Executives/dp/1735504904

    CHAPTERS:
    00:00 - The Desire for Change
    01:11 - The Impact of Labor Market Changes
    02:30 - Augmenting Jobs with Technology
    03:28 - The Imperative of Automation
    04:33 - Optimizing Work Processes
    05:48 - Efficiency for Growth
    06:23 - Breaking the Stigma of Trades
    07:33 - Finding Top Talent
    08:12 - Embracing Modernization
    09:05 - Overcoming Barriers to Entry
    10:20 - Creating Opportunities for Success
    11:15 - Adapting to the Changing Workforce

    Show more Show less
    23 mins
  • What it takes to 2x, 10x and 1000x your business
    Sep 19 2025

    Are you ready to take your business to the next level? In this engaging and informative video/podcast, we're diving into the 2x, 10x, and 1,000x growth plan strategies that could revolutionize your organization.

    Imagine being able to scale your business without the headache of hiring and training more people. The key? A digital scaling model that can unlock untapped potential in your industry. Whether it's improving existing processes by 2x, thinking outside the box for 10x growth, or pursuing a groundbreaking 1,000x opportunity, there's a strategy for every business looking to thrive in the digital age.

    Join us as we explore the common pitfalls of AI initiatives, the importance of automation in streamlining operations, and how to identify and capitalize on game-changing opportunities that could catapult your business to new heights. Don't miss out on this valuable insight that could be the key to unlocking your organization's full potential. Tune in now to learn more!

    To get in touch with the guest, visit their website and look for contact information or social media links.

    Michael can be found at https://caxy.com and his podcast The Digital Transformist https://www.youtube.com/@DigitalTransformistPodcast

    Michael's book, Superpowered: 7 Leadership Superpowers Technology Executives Can Use to Grow a More Engaged, Tech-driven and Profitable Organization, can be found on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Superpowered-Essential-Leadership-Technology-Executives/dp/1735504904


    CHAPTERS:

    00:00:00 - Introduction to Digital Scaling

    00:38:00 - The 1,000x Growth Plan

    00:54:00 - Exploring the 2x, 10x, and 1,000x Ideas

    01:08:00 - The Concept of 2x Changes

    01:29:00 - Unveiling the 1,000x Opportunity

    01:50:00 - Addressing Wasted Efforts in AI

    02:18:00 - Strategies for Implementing 10x Growth

    02:45:00 - Leveraging Technology for 1,000x Success

    03:02:00 - Overcoming Challenges in Digital Scaling

    03:29:00 - Achieving Sustainable Growth

    03:50:00 - Conclusion and Key Takeaways

    Show more Show less
    10 mins
  • Let's Play Offense with Black Swan Ideas
    Sep 11 2025

    In this eye-opening video, we delve into the concept of black swan events and how they can impact not only your business but also your personal life. Drawing from real-life experiences, the speaker shares how a seemingly minor issue overlooked for years led to a major crisis. Just like the unexpected appearance of black swans challenged the belief that all swans are white, black swan events in business can catch us off guard if we fail to anticipate them.

    Through anecdotes and insights, we explore the importance of playing offense rather than defense when it comes to preparing for black swan events. The speaker emphasizes the need to pay attention to subtle problems that may be lurking beneath the surface, waiting to disrupt our plans. By being proactive and staying vigilant, we can better navigate the unpredictable nature of these events and avoid being blindsided.

    Join us as we uncover the hidden dangers of complacency and the power of being proactive in the face of uncertainty. Discover how a shift in mindset can help you identify and mitigate potential black swan events before they have a chance to wreak havoc on your business or personal life. Don't wait for the next surprise to strike - arm yourself with the knowledge and foresight needed to stay ahead of the game.

    Listeners can get in touch with the guest by visiting their website and reaching out through the contact page or social media channels mentioned on the site.

    Michael can be found at https://caxy.com and his podcast The Digital Transformist https://www.youtube.com/@DigitalTransformistPodcast

    Michael's book, Superpowered: 7 Leadership Superpowers Technology Executives Can Use to Grow a More Engaged, Tech-driven and Profitable Organization, can be found on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Superpowered-Essential-Leadership-Technology-Executives/dp/1735504904

    CHAPTERS:
    00:43 - Black Swan Events in Business
    01:25 - The Importance of Expertise
    02:10 - Discovering Black Swans in Australia
    02:40 - Financial Black Swan Events
    03:13 - Recognizing and Rationalizing Problems
    03:46 - Valuable Input from New Perspectives
    04:15 - Developing Narratives Around Issues
    05:02 - Taking Action on Identified Problems
    05:35 - Embracing Change for Growth
    06:17 - Revisiting and Reassessing Business Strategies
    07:00 - Implementing Preventative Measures
    07:45 - Learning from Past Black Swan Events

    Show more Show less
    12 mins
  • Surprising Ways AI Changed Our Business
    Sep 4 2025

    In this captivating podcast episode, we sit down with Rob Cioffi, CEO of Forefront Supply Chain Solutions, who shares his incredible journey of transforming a traditional business into a data-driven powerhouse. Rob's keen eye for opportunity led him to see the untapped potential in the wealth of data that his company possessed, and he wasted no time in leveraging AI and innovative initiatives to unlock its full potential. Through collaboration and a culture of experimentation within his team, Forefront Supply Chain Solutions has seen remarkable success in using data to anticipate customer needs and enhance their offerings.

    Rob's background in metal distribution and management consulting equipped him with the skills to recognize the value of data and its transformative power in today's technology-driven landscape. With a focus on growth and adding value, Rob and his partner Charlie Dross saw Forefront as a diamond in the rough, poised for expansion. By harnessing their expertise and the insights gleaned from decades of experience, they were able to identify the company's core strength as a data company, paving the way for innovative solutions and strategic growth opportunities.

    Join us as Rob delves into the fascinating journey of how Forefront Supply Chain Solutions evolved from a traditional business into a data-driven success story. Discover the power of data in driving business decisions, the importance of leveraging technology for growth, and the transformative impact of adopting a data-centric approach in a production plant setting. Tune in to gain valuable insights and inspiration from Rob's story of innovation, collaboration, and the relentless pursuit of excellence in the world of packaging solutions.

    Listeners can get in touch with Rob Cioffi, CEO of Forefront Packaging Solutions, through the company's website or by contacting them directly through their contact information provided on the website https://goforefront.com/.

    Michael can be found at https://caxy.com and his podcast The Digital Transformist https://www.youtube.com/@DigitalTransformistPodcast

    Michael's book, Superpowered: 7 Leadership Superpowers Technology Executives Can Use to Grow a More Engaged, Tech-driven and Profitable Organization, can be found on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Superpowered-Essential-Leadership-Technology-Executives/dp/1735504904

    CHAPTERS:
    00:00: Introduction to Rob Chofy and Forefront Packaging
    01:08: Exploring Production Plant Innovations
    02:02: Embracing AI and Advanced Analytics
    03:10: Leveraging Customer Data for Growth
    04:38: Rocking the Boat: Seeking Growth Opportunities
    05:24: The Power of Data-Driven Decision Making
    06:12: Transforming Customer Relationships through Data
    07:05: Innovations in Packaging Design
    08:03: Selling Convenience Through Data
    09:15: Acquiring and Scaling Businesses
    10:24: Unleashing the Potential of Data in Packaging
    11:18: Future Growth Strategies with Data Insights

    Show more Show less
    29 mins
  • Unexpected Places for Wins for Middle Market Companies - Expert Roundtable Part 2
    Aug 28 2025

    Welcome back to the podcast for part two of our roundtable discussion on serving companies in the middle market looking to grow and exit. Join Mike LaVista, John Lanier, Tim Behmigian, and Tim Pagett as they dive into the ever-changing landscape of business, technology, and market conditions. In this episode, the team explores the shift towards operational impact over financial engineering, citing a recent MIT study on AI initiatives and the importance of optimizing how things move through a company. With increased competition for deals and a focus on value creation, private equity firms are seeking new ways to drive success beyond traditional methods.

    As the conversation unfolds, the team touches on the challenges of implementing new tools and systems in companies not yet ready for automation, highlighting the prevalence of workarounds and inefficiencies. From outdated Excel spreadsheets to unexpected requests for walkie talkies, the need for streamlining operations and embracing innovation is more crucial than ever. Join us as we discuss the implications of a higher rate environment on business strategies and the importance of staying ahead of the curve in today's fast-paced market.

    Don't miss out on this insightful discussion filled with practical advice and real-world examples that will inspire you to rethink your approach to growth and success in the middle market. Tune in now and discover how you can navigate the changing landscape of business with confidence and creativity.

    Listeners can get in touch with Tim Padgett by visiting the website of The Pepper Group, a full-service B2B marketing team. https://www.peppergroup.com/

    John Lanier can be found through his website https://www.profitrainmaking.com/

    Tim Van Mieghem can be found through his website https://www.proactiongroup.com/

    Michael can be found at https://caxy.com and his podcast The Digital Transformist https://www.youtube.com/@DigitalTransformistPodcast

    Michael's book, Superpowered: 7 Leadership Superpowers Technology Executives Can Use to Grow a More Engaged, Tech-driven and Profitable Organization, can be found on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Superpowered-Essential-Leadership-Technology-Executives/dp/1735504904

    CHAPTERS:
    00:00 - Welcome to the Podcast: Roundtable Part Two
    01:05 - Adapting to Market Changes
    02:08 - Impact of Operational Initiatives
    03:12 - Value Creation in a Competitive Market
    04:44 - Addressing System Inefficiencies
    05:57 - The Pitfalls of Workarounds
    08:21 - Leveraging Technology for Growth
    09:32 - Building a Strong Operational Foundation
    11:02 - Strategies for Sustainable Growth
    12:19 - Navigating Market Uncertainties
    13:45 - Maximizing Exit Opportunities
    15:02 - Conclusion and Key Takeaways

    Show more Show less
    37 mins
  • Middle Market Secrets Nobody Talks About - Expert Roundtable Part 1
    Aug 21 2025

    Welcome to The Digital Transformist podcast, where today we're shaking things up with a round table discussion featuring three industry experts: Tim Padgett, Tim Van Mieghem, and John Lanier. These seasoned professionals all specialize in serving middle market companies looking to grow and exit successfully. Throughout this episode, they delve into the common challenges faced by businesses in this space and share some innovative solutions and ideas that have yielded impressive results.

    As the conversation unfolds, each guest introduces themselves and their respective companies, shedding light on their unique areas of expertise within the middle market landscape. From operational excellence to demand fulfillment and talent marketing, these experts cover a wide range of topics essential for business growth and success.

    The discussion takes an interesting turn as the guests delve into examples of unconventional strategies that surprisingly led to significant outcomes for their clients. From leveraging AI technology to implementing lean operations and focusing on talent marketing, these experts share valuable insights and experiences that can inspire CEOs and business leaders looking to drive growth and innovation within their organizations. Join us for part one of this engaging round table discussion and stay tuned for more thought-provoking insights in part two.

    Listeners can get in touch with Tim Padgett by visiting the website of The Pepper Group, a full-service B2B marketing team. https://www.peppergroup.com/

    John Lanier can be found through his website https://www.profitrainmaking.com/

    Tim Van Mieghem can be found through his website https://www.proactiongroup.com/

    Michael can be found at https://caxy.com and his podcast The Digital Transformist https://www.youtube.com/@DigitalTransformistPodcast

    Michael's book, Superpowered: 7 Leadership Superpowers Technology Executives Can Use to Grow a More Engaged, Tech-driven and Profitable Organization, can be found on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Superpowered-Essential-Leadership-Technology-Executives/dp/1735504904

    CHAPTERS:
    00:00: Welcome to the podcast
    00:39: The Middle Market Landscape
    01:16: Serving Middle Market Companies
    02:26: Remedying Growing Pains
    03:10: B2B Marketing Strategies
    04:22: Unconventional Success Stories
    05:08: Navigating Operational Excellence
    06:15: Marketing Innovations in the Middle Market
    07:20: The Impact of Talent Marketing
    08:45: Strategies for Sustainable Growth
    09:55: Leveraging AI in Business Operations
    10:42: People Management in Middle Market Success

    Show more Show less
    25 mins