About the Guest(s):

Alyssa McEwen is a dynamic entrepreneur and the CEO of Harmonious, a company revolutionizing the investment industry with technological innovations, especially in fund administration and special purpose vehicles (SPVs). Alyssa resonates with entrepreneurship through her family’s business background in Utah. Her expertise expands to managing multiple ventures, including Storybook, where she plays a pivotal role in offering investment opportunities. With a foundation in software engineering, Alyssa is transforming the industry's landscape while advocating for gender diversity and inclusion within traditionally male-dominated financial sectors.

Episode Summary:

In this fascinating episode of the "Who You Know Show," host Trevor Houston chats with Alyssa McEwen, CEO of Harmonious. Alyssa shares her journey from growing up on a family ranch in Utah to becoming a leading figure in the fintech and investment sectors. Her story is one of grit, perseverance, and innovation, as she seeks to transform the fund administration field using cutting-edge technology. Her insights into creating harmonious business systems and networks are sure to inspire listeners aiming to elevate their professional growth.

The conversation dives deep into Alyssa’s entrepreneurial experiences, emphasizing the importance of grit and hard work while navigating the business world. She reflects on overcoming industry challenges, the importance of mentorship, and the power of building genuine relationships. Alyssa also discusses the significant impact of harmonious team dynamics and an inclusive company culture in achieving business success. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, a job seeker, or someone looking to enhance their professional journey, this episode offers invaluable lessons and inspiration to forge ahead.

Resources:

• Alyssa McEwen LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alyssalmcewen/
• Career Transition Summit: https://event.webinarjam.com/register/67/04404igv
• LinkedIn e-book: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://online.flippingbook.com/view/714118097/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠
• Subscribe: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/who-ya-know-show ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠
• Trevor Houston is a licensed financial professional offering insurance/financial products through various carriers. For more info visit ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠http://cpwstrategies.com

Chapters:(

0:00) Alyssa McEwen's Journey to Launching Harmonious in Private Investments

(2:46) Lessons in Hard Work and Grit From Ranch Life

(5:25) Overcoming Challenges and Building Relationships in Fund Administration

(13:33) Discussing Dog Breeds and Pet Ownership

(14:16) Overcoming Obstacles and Pursuing Unicorn Status in Fintech

(17:47) Alyssa McEwen's Journey to Becoming a Unicorn in Fund Administration

About the Guest(s):

David O'HaraDavid O'Hara is the President of Improving, a distinguished IT and business solutions company lauded for its innovative approach. With an extensive background in technology and entrepreneurship, David began his journey as a self-taught software developer at the young age of nine. He pivoted from a prospective career in medicine to tech entrepreneurship, selling his first company before joining Improving. David's leadership and strategic insight have been pivotal in the growth and success of Improving, emphasizing a culture of excellence and community involvement.

Episode Summary:

In this episode of the "Who You Know Show," host Trevor Houston welcomes David O'Hara, the President of Improving, to dive into the intricacies of building a successful IT and business consulting company. The discussion kicks off with a personal narrative from David about his technology journey and the entrepreneurial spirit that led him to the pivotal role at Improving. Trevor and David explore the complex balance in startups between innovative product development and effective sales and marketing strategies.

The conversation transitions into Improving's organizational philosophy and how its commitment to culture and conscious capitalism has shaped its trajectory. David highlights the community-focused initiatives like CodeLaunch, which aim to foster startup growth without immediate financial gain for the company, thereby forging lasting relationships based on trust and mutual success. The episode further delves into the strategic growth of Improving through acquisitions, emphasizing the importance of cultural alignment in mergers and acquisitions to ensure seamless integration and shared values.

Resources:

• David O’Hara LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidmohara/
• Career Transition Summit: https://event.webinarjam.com/register/67/04404igv
• LinkedIn e-book: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://online.flippingbook.com/view/714118097/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠
• Subscribe: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/who-ya-know-show ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠
• Trevor Houston is a licensed financial professional offering insurance/financial products through various carriers. For more info visit ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠http://cpwstrategies.com

Chapters:

(0:00) The Importance of Sales and Marketing in Business Success

(5:32) Improving's Role in Conscious Capitalism and Community Engagement

(12:42) Building Relationships and Success Through Abundance Mindset

(16:54) Integrating Company Cultures for Successful Acquisitions

(21:44) Leveraging Forbes Membership for Business Growth and Recognition

(25:39) The Future of IT and AI in Business Strategy

About the Guest(s):

Todd Krum is a seasoned professional with over 25 years of experience in talent acquisition and executive job search. Throughout his career, Todd has made significant strides in implementing transformational leadership approaches to recruiting and consulting, focusing on client collaboration and strategic alignment. Based in Houston, Todd has honed his expertise primarily in staffing, recruiting, and talent search, with a notable period in IT consulting. Currently, he holds a key position at Sudduth Search, where he continues to drive forward the mission of connecting clients with the right talent while fostering strong, transformative relationships.

Episode Summary:

Join Trevor Houston and co-host Mark Elder as they explore the dynamic world of talent acquisition with industry expert Todd Krum at the Code Launch event. This episode unpacks Todd's fascinating journey over 25 years in recruiting, with a focus on transformational leadership and strategic alignment in hiring processes. Highlighting the importance of understanding client needs, Todd shares insights from his experiences, particularly about navigating the evolving tech landscape.

The discussion takes a deep dive into the future of talent acquisition against the backdrop of technological advancements, including AI. Todd emphasizes the significance of maintaining the human element amidst such changes and predicts an optimistic hiring outlook for 2024-2025 despite potential challenges. The conversation also tackles the intricacies of the hiring process and how AI tools have helped expedite it. Additionally, Todd delves into the challenges of ageism, the importance of skill development, and maintaining relationships for career growth. He stresses the need for alignment and agility in the fast-changing tech hiring landscape.

Resources:

• Todd Krum LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/toddkrum/
• Career Transition Summit: https://event.webinarjam.com/register/67/04404igv
• LinkedIn e-book: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://online.flippingbook.com/view/714118097/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠
• Subscribe: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/who-ya-know-show ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠
• Trevor Houston is a licensed financial professional offering insurance/financial products through various carriers. For more info visit ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠http://cpwstrategies.com

Chapters:

(0:00) Navigating Talent Acquisition Challenges and Opportunities

(8:10) The Importance of Networking and Relationships in Business Growth

(16:35) Rethinking Interview Processes and Compensation for Candidates

(19:10) Strategies for Effective Job Applications and Networking

(25:46) Networking Insights with Todd Krum on The Who You Know Show

About the Guest(s):

Justin Fortier is the founder and CEO of FYC Labs, a leading software development company that specializes in building cutting-edge web platforms and designing powerful products. With over a decade of experience in tech entrepreneurship, Justin has transformed his business from a small-scale WordPress website developer into a full-fledged software development agency with a global presence. Through his innovative approach, he has spurred growth across multiple ventures under the Fractal Group consortium, leveraging the power of technology to scale operations effectively.

Episode Summary:

In this episode of the "Who You Know Show," listeners are introduced to Justin Fortier, the dynamic CEO and founder of FYC Labs, a software development firm rooted in innovation and growth. The conversation dives into Justin's unique journey from a grad school entrepreneur to leading a multi-entity consortium, highlighting valuable lessons about business scaling, strategic innovation, and organizational culture.

Throughout the discussion, Justin unpacks the innovative structures within FYC Labs and the Fractal Group, aimed at enhancing productivity and operational efficiency. He explains the significance of building a unified operating system that eliminates friction between different projects, allowing seamless movement of talent and resources. Justin also emphasizes the importance of managing accounts receivable to maintain a positive cash flow and navigating the evolving landscape of AI and technology to stay competitive.

Resources:

• Justin Fortier LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/justinffortier/
• Career Transition Summit: https://event.webinarjam.com/register/67/04404igv
• LinkedIn e-book: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://online.flippingbook.com/view/714118097/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠
• Subscribe: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/who-ya-know-show ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠
• Trevor Houston is a licensed financial professional offering insurance/financial products through various carriers. For more info visit ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠http://cpwstrategies.com

Chapters:

(0:00) Building a Tech-Driven Business with Justin Fortier

(2:25) Innovative Business Scaling Through Unified Operating Systems

(7:09) Overcoming Payment Challenges and Building an Accounts Receivable Platform

(9:55) AI's Impact on Business and Cybersecurity Challenges

(13:39) Balancing Technical Expertise and Leadership in Business

(17:24) Recruiting Senior Executives for Business Expansion

(20:38) Embrace Scars to Demonstrate Resilience in Job Interviews

(21:54) AI Bots, Cybersecurity, and Business Growth Strategies

About the Guest(s):

Jason W. Taylor is the President and Founder of Code Launch, an initiative designed to support entrepreneurs and startups in the tech industry. With a background in software development, Taylor established Code Authority to offer elite development services and eventually expanded his vision to focus on empowering early-stage ventures through what is now known as Code Launch. Under his leadership, Code Launch has evolved into a significant event for startups, combining elements of competition, networking, and trade shows.

Episode Summary:

In this exciting episode of the "Who You Know Show," Mark Elder welcomes Jason W. Taylor, the visionary behind Code Launch, a platform revolutionizing support for tech startups. As Elder fills in for the regular host Trevor Houston, who is under the weather, Taylor dives deep into the intricacies of nurturing startups, sharing strategies and insights for entrepreneurs eager to make their mark in the highly competitive tech landscape. With Code Launch's upcoming World Championship event on November 20th at Gillies, Dallas, listeners are in for an engaging discussion on how beginning ventures can attract the right attention and secure investment without losing their essence.

Jason W. Taylor elaborates on Code Launch's journey from its humble beginnings to becoming a pivotal event for tech founders worldwide. The conversation focuses on startup dynamics, emphasizing the importance of team-building, traversing early-stage hurdles, and understanding market valuation for startups. Taylor echoes the principles of conscious capitalism, having adopted them alongside Code Launch's parent company, Improving. The episode explores how Code Launch bridges the gap between visionary ideas and market-ready solutions, making it a beacon of inspiration and opportunity in the world of tech entrepreneurship.

Resources:

• Jason W. Taylor LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jason-w-taylor-startups/
• Career Transition Summit: https://event.webinarjam.com/register/67/04404igv
• LinkedIn e-book: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://online.flippingbook.com/view/714118097/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠
• Subscribe: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/who-ya-know-show ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠
• Trevor Houston is a licensed financial professional offering insurance/financial products through various carriers. For more info visit ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠http://cpwstrategies.com

Chapters:

(0:00) Code Launch: Empowering Startups Through Innovative Competitions

(5:42) Avoiding Pitfalls in Developing Digital Products

(7:27) The Evolution and Success of Code Launch Events

(11:18) Empowering Startups Through Venturetainment and Overcoming Solopreneur Challenges

(21:17) Exciting Ventures and Entertainment at Code Launch Event

(27:11) Conscious Capitalism's Impact on Startups and Community Engagement

(33:52) Innovative Ventures and Young Talent at CodeLaunch

(38:25) Innovative Tech Products and Networking at CodeLaunch Event

(44:36) Essential Skills for Startup Success and Overcoming Common Fears

(48:36) Strategies for Early Stage Venture Fundraising and Valuation

(52:23) CodeLaunch Expands Globally with Conscious Capitalism and New Markets

(56:12) Building a Successful Startup Requires a Strong Team and Perseverance

(1:00:45) Code Launch World Championship: A Must-Attend Event for Innovators

About the Guest(s):

Shelley Goldstein is a renowned public speaking coach and the creator of the Remarkable Speaking Framework. With a background in design and marketing, Shelley transitioned from a behind-the-scenes player to a thought leader empowering others to find and use their voice. Her expertise focuses on helping people overcome the fear of public speaking and crafting authentic, impactful communication. Shelley's approach blends creative strategies with practical techniques, allowing speakers to distill their message for various platforms, from keynote speeches to book writings.

Episode Summary:

In this episode of the Who You Know Show, host Trevor Houston engages with guest Shelley Goldstein in a lively discussion about overcoming the fear of public speaking and expressing oneself authentically. The episode kicks off by reminiscing about Trevor's early encounters with public speaking anxiety and how Shelley’s insights on thought reframing helped redefine his narrative. The conversation explores the transformational power of Shelley's Remarkable Speaking Framework, which consists of quick writing and speaking sprints designed to streamline thoughts and create compelling narratives under pressure.

Shelley Goldstein elaborates on the necessity of public speaking skills not just on stage but throughout different aspects of public communication, including writing books and crafting courses. The conversation deepens into how speakers can reframe their thoughts, focusing on serving their audience rather than being hindered by self-doubt or fear of judgment. As they decode the essence of a successful speaking engagement, Shelley emphasizes shedding labels like introvert or extrovert, explaining the uninhibited power of speaking from a place of purpose and empowerment to captivate and engage audiences.

Resources:

• Shelley Goldstein LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shelleygoldstein/
• Career Transition Summit: https://event.webinarjam.com/register/67/04404igv
• LinkedIn e-book: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://online.flippingbook.com/view/714118097/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠
• Subscribe: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/who-ya-know-show ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠
• Trevor Houston is a licensed financial professional offering insurance/financial products through various carriers. For more info visit ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠http://cpwstrategies.com

Chapters:

(0:00) Overcoming Fear and Finding Your Voice in Public Speaking

(7:33) Overcoming Fear and Embracing Public Speaking with Purpose

(19:44) Creating Mic Drop Moments Through Time-Constrained Speaking Exercises

(23:44) Overcoming Job Rejection and Embracing Personal Value

(25:28) Embracing Failure and Learning from Rejection

(28:20) Embracing Failure and Remixing Ideas for Innovation

(33:57) Building Audience Rapport Through Conversation and Storytelling

(40:04) Ditching the Script for Authentic and Engaging Conversations

(46:40) The Art of Being Heard and Influential in Communication

(54:11) The Power of Emotion in Motivational Speaking

(56:19) Embodying Energy and Passion for Effective Communication

(1:00:23) Overcoming Fear to Achieve Dreams and Purpose

About the Guest(s):

Julie Nee is an accomplished expert in positive mindset and leadership coaching. With a career spanning over two decades, she began at the Hershey Company in sales and sales leadership before transitioning to work alongside bestselling author and speaker John Gordon. Her motivational speaking and coaching focus on positivity, resilience, and enabling personal transformation. She is the co-author of the book "You Grow Girl" aimed at empowering women across various stages of life and the author of "Mirror, Mirror," which provides insights into personal development and positivity.

Episode Summary:

In this insightful episode of the Who You Know Show, host Trevor Houston converses with Julie Nee about the power of positivity in navigating challenging life transitions. The episode begins with a personal anecdote from Julie about her battle with breast cancer and how positive thinking and maintaining a healthy mindset played crucial roles in her healing journey. Julie discusses various life transitions, including career changes and becoming an empty nester, and how reframing one's perspective can lead to personal growth and productivity. She emphasizes the idea that maintaining a positive outlook is essential not just when life is easy, but more importantly, when life is challenging.

Throughout the conversation, Trevor and Julie delve into strategies for overcoming self-doubt and limiting beliefs. Julie shares her experience of transitioning from a comfortable corporate role at the Hershey Company to a path of motivational speaking, amplifying the importance of self-belief and reminding oneself of past achievements. The episode also covers practical actions to combat negativity, such as acknowledging feelings, staying active, and practicing gratitude. Julie also highlights the significance of heart-centered leadership, touching on cultivating environments that foster personal and professional growth, especially for women. She encourages listeners to engage in self-reflection to enhance personal resilience and shine their inner light.

Resources:

• Julie Nee LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/julie-nee/
• Career Transition Summit: https://event.webinarjam.com/register/67/04404igv
• LinkedIn e-book: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://online.flippingbook.com/view/714118097/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠
• Subscribe: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/who-ya-know-show ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠
• Trevor Houston is a licensed financial professional offering insurance/financial products through various carriers. For more info visit ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠http://cpwstrategies.com

Chapters:

(0:00) Reframing Mindset and Positivity in Life Transitions

(11:56) Embracing Emotions and Gratitude for Healing and Positivity

(19:54) Overcoming Limiting Beliefs and Embracing Practical Solutions

(23:56) Harnessing Positive Self-Talk to Transform Your Day

(30:25) The Importance of Sleep for Optimal Health and Well-Being

(34:11) Empowering Women Through Community, Growth, and Self-Reflection

(38:57) Overcoming Imposter Syndrome While Writing and Creating

(46:29) Heart-Centered Leadership and Women's Empowerment Events

About the Guest(s):

Mac Prichard is a seasoned communications professional with a rich background in politics, government, and nonprofits. He successfully ran a public relations agency for 15 years and is the founder of Mac’s List, an innovative job board platform that enhances the hiring process. Mac is highly esteemed for his expertise in networking and career development, providing insightful advice to job seekers and employers alike. As a podcast host, he shares career advice on "Find Your Dream Job," helping individuals navigate the job market effectively.

Episode Summary:

In this episode of the Who You Know Show, host Trevor Houston welcomes Mac Prichard, founder of Mac’s List and a veteran in the field of career communications, to discuss the critical role of networking and creating authentic relationships in job searching. Mac shares his unique journey of transforming a simple goodwill email into a comprehensive career platform, Mac’s List, exemplifying the power of service to others. The conversation dives into the core philosophy underpinning Mac’s List: making the hiring process more human. Through this enlightening dialogue, listeners uncover practical ways to leverage networking beyond expectations, making useful connections that genuinely pave the way for career advancement.

Throughout the episode, Mac elaborates on the concept of "networking as a service," emphasizing the importance of serving without expecting immediate returns. SEO-optimized topics such as job search strategies, leveraging LinkedIn for personal branding, and innovative methods to stand out in today's AI-driven job market are explored. Mac stresses the necessity of targeted and relationship-based job searches, encouraging job seekers to establish clear goals and tap into human connections to break through automated applicant systems. As the episode unfolds, practical examples and success stories from Mac's extensive experience reveal actionable insights into how networking, volunteering, and lifelong learning can transform one's career trajectory.

Resources:

• Mac Prichard LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/macprichard/
• Career Transition Summit: https://event.webinarjam.com/register/67/04404igv
• LinkedIn e-book: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://online.flippingbook.com/view/714118097/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠
• Subscribe: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/who-ya-know-show ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠
• Trevor Houston is a licensed financial professional offering insurance/financial products through various carriers. For more info visit ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠http://cpwstrategies.com

Chapters:

(0:00) Networking as a Service Without Expectation of Return

(5:09) Humanizing the Hiring Process Through Relationships and Referrals

(10:40) Reconnecting with Old Colleagues Can Open New Opportunities

(13:21) Effective Networking and Job Search Strategies

(15:14) The Power of Video Resumes and Networking

(17:08) Making Job Searches More Human Through Networking and Strategy

(24:48) The Power of Informational Interviews in Job Searching

(27:36) Transform Informational Interviews Into Engaging Podcast Opportunities

(31:34) Networking and Strategic Job Searching in a New City

(35:39) Leveraging Online Platforms for Introverts in Networking

(38:43) Strategic Networking and Content Creation for Job Seekers

(46:44) Volunteering and Networking: Keys to Job Search Success

(54:18) The Importance of Specificity in Job Searching and Hiring

(58:25) Adapting to Rapid Change in the Job Market

(1:03:26) Leveraging Personal Networks for a Fulfilling Job Search