CXO Outlook – Magazine – April 2024 – Most Inspiring Business Leaders – 2024

FEATURING INSIDE

Amber Vanderburg

Founder, The Pathwayz Group

Jack Laken CEO, TermoBuild & Advisor, AdvisoryCloud

Joseph Pine

Co-founder, Strategic Horizons LLP, Speaker, Management Advisor, & Author

Mordy Levine

Managing Partner, Exit Strategy Mastery, Chief Operating Officer, Lizzy James Designs, Inc. & CEO, North American Resellers

Shona Hirons

Global Corporate Burnout Expert & Director, Mindset in Motion Ltd

MOST INSPIRING BUSINESS LEADERS 2024

Jeffrey Burch

Managing Partner, Bonafide Logistics

Warren Weiss

Managing Partner, WestWave Capital

MOST INSPIRING BUSINESS WOMAN 2024

E. Michelle Bohreer

Attorney and Founder of Bohreer Law Firm

Pauline Parry

Founder and CEO, Good Gracious! Events

MOST INNOVATIVE COMPANY TO WATCH IN 2024

New World Wind

SHAPING THE FUTURE OF E-COMMERCE WITH INGENUITY AND DRIVE

FOUNDER AND CEO, AUDACIA GROUP

April 2024

Creative Consultants

Charlie Jameson

Louis Bernard

Managing Editor

Sarath Shyam

Branding & Marketing Partnerships

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Jessica Edword

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Andrew Scott

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Editorial Enquiry admin@cxooutlook.com

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Leadership in 2024: Trends, Insights, and Innovations

In the realm of business leadership, 2024 brings about notable changes. Remote work has become the norm, with leaders utilizing technology to bridge distances among teams. Diversity and inclusion are no longer just aspirations but necessary tactics for fostering innovation and resilience. Purpose-driven leadership is gaining momentum, as leaders rally their teams around missions that extend beyond mere profit.

Adaptability emerges as a cornerstone as leaders maneuver through the rapidly changing business landscape. They embrace change and make swift decisions, recognizing the importance of agility for survival. Digital transformation takes center stage, with leaders harnessing technology to enhance efficiency and uncover fresh opportunities.

Amidst the hurdles, forwardthinking leaders are mapping a path to success. By fostering connections, embracing diversity, and leading with purpose, they steer their organizations through uncharted territories with confidence and clarity. As 2024 unfolds, these leadership trends will continue to shape the business arena, paving the way for a brighter tomorrow.

In this exclusive edition, CXO Outlook Magazine spotlights the Most Inspiring Business Leaders, the Most Inspiring Business Woman of 2024, and the Most Innovative Company to Watch. These individuals and organizations epitomize exceptional leadership qualities, including resilience, innovation, empathy, and unwavering dedication.

Featured on the cover is Alexandre Bonvin, Founder and CEO of Audacia Group, an innovative investment holding company. With expertise in private equity and a knack for business, Alexandre unites e-commerce

and digital companies in a specialized competence center, providing them with the resources to grow sustainably. With a rich background in F&B, real estate, and economics, Alexandre Bonvin's insatiable curiosity and entrepreneurial prowess drive Audacia towards innovation, audacity, and excellence in the e-commerce realm.

Within these pages, readers will discover a mosaic of opinions and insights from industry leaders and experts. From discussions on emerging technologies to strategies for navigating organizational shifts, these perspectives offer a holistic view of the latest trends in business and technology.

As the world undergoes profound transformations, the essence of leadership evolves alongside it. CXO Outlook Magazine remains a steadfast companion for those seeking to understand, adapt, and flourish in this dynamic landscape. Through curated articles, interviews, and analyses, readers gain invaluable insights and strategies for confronting contemporary leadership challenges. Happy Reading.

ALEXANDRE BONVIN

FOUNDER AND CEO, AUDACIA GROUP

SHAPING THE FUTURE OF E-COMMERCE WITH INGENUITY AND DRIVE

10 COVER STORY

MOST INNOVATIVE

COMPANY

TO WATCH IN 2024

New World Wind

Luc Eric KRIEF, Chairman and

CEO

Pioneering Sustainable Energy Solutions for a Greener Tomorrow

MOST INSPIRING BUSINESS LEADERS

Jeffrey Burch

Managing Partner, Bonafide Logistics

Reshaping the Transportation and Logistics Landscape with Innovation and Commitment

Warren Weiss

Managing Partner at WestWave Capital

Empowering Entrepreneurs and Driving Meaningful Innovation

MOST INSPIRING BUSINESS WOMAN

E. Michelle Bohreer

Attorney and Founder of Bohreer Law Firm

Championing Justice, Empowering Clients, and Building Community

Pauline Parry

Founder and CEO, Good Gracious! Events

Fostering a Culture of Hospitality Excellence

92 IN MY VIEW

Joseph Pine, Co-founder, Strategic Horizons LLP, Speaker, Management Advisor, & Author Helping Businesses Conceive & Design New Ways of Adding Value to their Economic Offerings

The Power of Consistency: Why it Trumps Perfection in Achieving Goals

Shona Hirons, Global Corporate Burnout Expert & Director, Mindset in Motion Ltd

EXPERT OPINION

32

50

Helping Business Owners

Maximize their Proceeds When Selling their Companies

Mordy Levine, Managing Partner, Exit Strategy Mastery, Chief Operating Officer, Lizzy James Designs, Inc. & CEO, North American Resellers

LEADER'S INSIGHTS

Equipping Leaders to Create More Efficient, Effective, & Enjoyable Workplaces

Amber Vanderburg, Founder, The Pathwayz Group

68

84

Jack Laken, CEO, TermoBuild & Advisor, AdvisoryCloud A Driving Force Behind Low-Energy Building Solutions

MOST STRATEGIC BUSINESS LEADER TO WATCH IN 2024

STORY COVER

ALEXANDRE BONVIN

FOUNDER AND CEO, AUDACIA GROUP

SHAPING THE FUTURE OF E-COMMERCE WITH INGENUITY AND DRIVE

After completing his studies at the London School of Economics and gaining experience at Investis Group, a prominent Swiss real estate company, Alexandre Bonvin embarked on his entrepreneurial journey by founding Audacia in 2018. Leading this innovative investment holding company, the Valais-native entrepreneur sets his sights on acquiring, consolidating, and supporting promising Swiss and European e-commerce brands. With a background in economics and finance, coupled with extensive experience in the F&B and real estate sectors, Alexandre brings a wealth of knowledge to his role, driving Audacia towards innovation, audacity, and excellence in the e-commerce industry.

Alexandre shares, “I come from an entrepreneurial family and have always been surrounded by entrepreneurs. I guess it was natural for me to become an entrepreneur early in my life. I started with F&B and real estate before I had the opportunity to acquire an e-commerce company. Before that, my background in economics and finance allowed me to be active in private equity, which is what we do at Audacia. We focus on e-commerce, which is a world I didn’t know much about except that I was a customer. From my point of view, it was and still is the most convenient way to shop. When I had the opportunity to acquire my first e-commerce company, I just wanted to learn more about the industry and get my foot in the door.”

Establishing Audacia Group marked a pivotal moment for Alexandre, representing a shift to a sector promising innovation, growth, and the opportunity to influence consumer behavior at scale. By focusing on acquiring, nurturing, and supporting various e-commerce brands, he aimed to

create a diversified portfolio capable of withstanding market changes and catering to different consumer needs and trends.

His inspiration for entering the e-commerce acquisition industry likely stemmed from recognizing the fragmented nature of the market, where numerous niche markets offered opportunities for consolidation and scale. Alexandre’s approach - identifying, acquiring, and integrating these niche companies into Audacia’s ecosystem - reflects a strategic vision to build a robust and resilient business model capable of

adapting to and capitalizing on the nuances of the digital economy.

Audacia Group’s E-Commerce Strategy

In the pursuit of expanding its portfolio, Audacia sets its sights on companies operating in niche industries within fragmented markets, particularly those entrenched in the online realm. These companies must possess a solid presence in the Swiss or European market, boasting healthy margins and minimal competition. Crucially, they must operate within promising industries with sustained

By focusing on acquiring, nurturing, and supporting various e-commerce brands, Alexandre aimed to create a diversified portfolio capable of withstanding market changes and catering to different consumer needs and trends

demand, fostering repeat business and offering tangible opportunities for brand growth.

At the heart of Audacia Group’s endeavors lies a mission deeply rooted in innovation and growth within the e-commerce landscape. This mission extends beyond mere portfolio expansion, emphasizing the nurturing and development of brands within its purview. Central to this vision is the aspiration to emerge as a preeminent figure in the e-commerce sphere, leveraging technology and strategic acquisitions to construct a diversified and resilient business model encompassing both goods and services.

At Audacia, fostering an environment conducive to cross-company collaboration enables the sharing of knowledge, expertise, and know-how, propelling both brands and the group towards sustainable growth

The cornerstone of Audacia Group’s triumphs resides in its dynamic team - a cohort characterized by youth, passion, and seasoned expertise. Bolstered by individuals versed in e-commerce, business development, and specialized domains such as marketing, IT, customer support, and logistics, the team epitomizes a synergy of skills and experiences. At Audacia, fostering an environment conducive to cross-company collaboration enables the sharing of knowledge, expertise, and knowhow, propelling both brands and the group towards sustainable growth. Alexandre states, “I’m grateful to have surrounded myself with the right people to nurture Audacia and the brands in our portfolio in the most optimal manner possible.”

Central to Audacia’s strategy is its global expansion while maintaining a robust operational foothold in Switzerland, striking a delicate balance between global aspirations and local resilience

The Entrepreneurial Legacy

The entrepreneurial ethos embodied by Alexandre finds resonance in Audacia Group’s overarching approach, emphasizing innovation, strategic growth, and operational excellence. At the core of this approach lies a steadfast commitment to acquiring niche e-commerce brands and seamlessly integrating them into a unified network, thereby fostering sustainable and scalable value creation.

Illustrating this commitment further is Audacia’s embrace of cutting-edge technologies, such as blockchain, to tokenize shares, heralding a future where e-commerce transcends mere transactions to encompass immersive, secure, and customer-centric experiences. This technological leap mirrors the company’s ethos of innovation, positioning Audacia as a frontrunner in shaping the evolving landscape of e-commerce.

Central to Audacia’s strategy is its global expansion while maintaining a robust operational foothold in Switzerland, striking a delicate balance between global aspirations and local resilience. Alexandre says, “As a proud Valaisan, I find it very important to establish a company in my home region and to participate in the development of the economic fabric.” Audacia’s mission, centered on growth, innovation, and strategic acquisitions within the e-commerce realm, mirrors Alexandre’s entrepreneurial vision and personal values. It signifies a dedication not only to achieving business success but also to pushing the boundaries of possibility within the e-commerce industry, fostering a culture of boldness, curiosity, and innovation, and contributing to the broader digital economy. Alexandre adds, “Audacia also means boldness and curiosity, two values that represent my entrepreneurial mindset.”

Harnessing the Expertise

Drawing upon a rich background spanning real estate, finance, and hospitality, Alexandre brings a multifaceted perspective to the development and support of brands within the Audacia portfolio. His real estate acumen furnishes a strategic advantage, facilitating a

nuanced understanding of market dynamics, asset valuation, and investment optimization. Alexandre emphasizes, “In real estate, people work with a long-term vision. You learn how to take care of your acquired assets by renovating, upgrading, and refurbishing them; it’s a long process.”

Bolstered by a robust financial background, Alexandre steers the brands towards financial stability and growth, overseeing financial planning, investment strategies, risk management, and capital allocation. His adeptness at analyzing market trends and financial data equips him to make informed decisions that bolster profitability and foster sustainable growth.

Furthermore, Alexandre’s hospitality experience infuses Audacia Group’s culture with a customercentric ethos, prioritizing customer service, experience, and satisfaction. Recognizing the pivotal role of customer engagement and loyalty in e-commerce, he underscores the application of hospitality principles to enhance brand reputation, cultivate customer loyalty, and curate distinctive brand experiences.

By amalgamating these spheres of expertise, Alexandre crafts a comprehensive strategy for Audacia’s brands, encompassing market analysis,

financial health, operational efficiency, and customer engagement. His diverse skill set not only facilitates the direct management and expansion of these brands but also aids in identifying acquisition targets aligned with Audacia’s strategic objectives and values.

Charting New Frontiers

Audacia was one of the first companies to tokenize its shares on the blockchain in 2021.

Alexandre’s decision to tokenize Audacia’s shares marked a pioneering stride aligned with the burgeoning trend of leveraging blockchain technology to augment the value, liquidity, and accessibility of real-world assets. “Tokenization, a process involving the creation of digital representations of asset ownership on a blockchain, heralds a paradigm shift in asset management and transferability,” explains Alexandre.

Foremost among the benefits of tokenizing assets is the enhancement of liquidity. Fragmenting assets into smaller, tradable units facilitates ease of buying and selling shares, potentially expanding the investor base and deepening market liquidity. This fractional ownership democratizes access to investment opportunities, previously the purview of large investors or institutions.

Furthermore, the transparency and immutability inherent in blockchain technology ensure that all transactions and ownership records remain verifiable, mitigating the risk of fraud and instilling investor confidence. The decentralized nature of blockchain reduces reliance on intermediaries, streamlining processes and curbing transaction costs.

Moreover, tokenization paves the way for the integration of real-world assets into decentralized finance (DeFi) ecosystems, fostering the development of innovative financial products and services. By embracing tokenization, Audacia not only modernizes its investment framework but also positions itself at the vanguard of a technological revolution poised to redefine global asset management and trading.

Alexandre’s visionary step to tokenize company shares underscores his conviction in blockchain’s potential to revolutionize real asset management, ushering in a new era characterized by improved liquidity, heightened accessibility, enhanced transparency, and reduced transaction costs. Alexandre summarizes, “My innovative step to tokenize company shares reflects my belief in the potential of blockchain to revolutionize real asset management, offering benefits such as improved liquidity, increased accessibility, enhanced transparency, and reduced transaction costs.”

Nurturing Success

Under the Audacia umbrella, KissKiss stands as a prime example of the support and integration afforded to brands within the Group’s portfolio. Originally an online sex shop with limited reach, KissKiss has blossomed into a Swiss market leader, boasting an extensive catalog of approximately 9,000 products from 300 brands and processing between 700 to 1200 orders daily.

Spearheading KissKiss’s trajectory is Marc, who, at just 24 years old, transitioned from a back-office role to brand manager, steering the brand towards consolidation and expansion both domestically and internationally.

Alexandre’s visionary step to tokenize company shares underscores his conviction in blockchain’s potential to revolutionize real asset management, ushering in a new era characterized by improved liquidity, heightened accessibility, enhanced transparency, and reduced transaction costs

Meanwhile, the founder and former manager of KissKiss embarked on a new endeavor, assuming leadership of La Ferme du CBD, an e-commerce platform specializing in CBD products and a market leader in France, overseen by Audacia’s teams.

Celebrating milestones are Stickerkid and Stickeryeti, marking their 20th and 10th anniversaries, respectively. Acquired by Audacia in 2019, these brands operate from a locally integrated production facility, overseeing every aspect from customer requests to product shipment. Boasting state-of-the-art machinery,

they continually innovate product offerings and refine printing processes.

At Audacia, each brand manager is unburdened from administrative tasks, thanks to transversal departments handling HR, finance, accounting, and administration. This streamlined approach empowers managers to concentrate on brand performance and development. Additionally, shared resources, including expertise, talent pools, tools, and operational structures, foster a collaborative environment conducive to growth and costefficiency across all brands within the portfolio.

Forging a Unique Path

Audacia distinguishes itself through its mission, underpinned by an innovative business model, and its core values of audacity, curiosity, and daring.

Audacia distinguishes itself through its mission, underpinned by an innovative business model, and its core values of audacity, curiosity, and daring. By prioritizing e-commerce brands with significant potential operating in niche markets, Audacia endeavors to carve a niche in the industry. Often, the acquired brands are perceived as “boring,” “small,” or lacking profitability, requiring a strategic boost to realize their growth potential.

Despite its international reach, Audacia maintains a steadfast commitment to its local roots, firmly entrenched in the Valais/Switzerland market while experiencing exponential growth. Alexandre states, “Maintaining our roots is very important.” Moreover, navigating change management poses a significant challenge, one that has been met with success due to the presence of a competent and adept team, facilitating Audacia’s growth and portfolio expansion over the past five years.

In the ever-evolving landscape of e-commerce, staying abreast of market dynamics and evolving consumer behaviors is paramount. The upheaval

brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic provided a significant impetus, yet vigilance and adaptability remain imperative. Alexandre emphasizes, “We have to follow the trend and adapt to the new standards of the market, online routines, and the whole e-commerce and digital context.” Such adaptability ensures that Audacia remains at the forefront of industry trends, poised to capitalize on emerging opportunities and navigate challenges effectively.

Unveiling the Strategic Approach

At the heart of Audacia’s methodology lie curiosity, boldness, and innovation. Alexandre emphasizes, “Curiosity, boldness, and innovation are the watchwords of the Audacia method.” Continuously scouting for potential e-commerce ventures to acquire and integrate into the group, as well as seeking strategic partnerships, underscores Audacia’s commitment to expansion and development.

Additionally, a long-term aspiration involves international expansion through the establishment of physical infrastructures.

Following the exponential growth spurred by the post-COVID era, Audacia’s teams now confront the formidable challenges posed by an evolving e-commerce landscape. As the sector stabilizes, agility becomes paramount, necessitating rapid adaptation to market shifts and evolving online consumer behaviors. Furthermore, managing change while safeguarding the Group’s long-term sustainability emerges as a central challenge for Audacia. Alexandre states, “After the meteoric growth of the post-Covid era, Audacia’s teams must now face the major challenges posed by a volatile world such as e-commerce.” Indeed, navigating these challenges while upholding Audacia’s ethos of innovation and resilience will be instrumental in charting the Group’s path toward continued success.

MOST INSPIRING BUSINESS LEADER 2024

Jeffrey Burch

MANAGING PARTNER, BONAFIDE LOGISTICS

RESHAPING THE TRANSPORTATION AND LOGISTICS LANDSCAPE WITH INNOVATION AND COMMITMENT

When it comes to transporting oversize cargo, experience and expertise are essential.

Bonafide Logistics is a reliable and proficient company that is wellequipped to handle even the most challenging logistical tasks. With their dedicated team and broad network of carriers, they offer seamless transport solutions for oversized and overdimensional cargo throughout North America and beyond. The company is led by Managing Partner, Jeff Burch.

Born in 1984 in Houston, TX, Jeff brings a wealth of experience to the table, boasting a remarkable 15-year career in the transportation and logistics industry. His journey is one of resilience and adaptability. "I was an

instrumentation tech in refineries for 8 years and was laid off in 2008. A friend offered me an opportunity in a new logistics company and the rest was history," shares Jeff.

Driven by a passion for logistics, Jeff has notched several milestones as an entrepreneur. He's successfully owned and operated three 3rd party logistics companies, a testament to his entrepreneurial spirit and keen business acumen. Jeff's leadership and strategic acuity have been pivotal in propelling these ventures to success, earning him a reputation as a forward-thinking and results-oriented professional.

Navigating the Logistics Landscape

Jeff's profound comprehension of the transportation and logistics sector, coupled

Jeffrey Burch MANAGING PARTNER, BONAFIDE LOGISTICS

with his hands-on experience, has cemented his status as a respected authority in the field. His commitment to delivering exceptional service and streamlining supply chain operations has garnered him the trust and admiration of colleagues and clients alike.

With a vast network of over 11,000 carriers, Bonafide Logistics possesses the resources to meet the unique needs of any cargo

"At Bonafide, we like to have fun. The industry is already stressful enough. We are a team, and everyone looks after each other. My contribution, I believe, is the fine line between work and pleasure. I have fun, but I lead by example on the work ethic," explains Jeff. The seasoned team at Bonafide Logistics is well-versed in the complexities of shipping oversize cargo. From meticulous planning to flawless execution, they spare no effort to ensure the safe and efficient transportation of large equipment, cargo, and freight.

Bonafide Logistics' logistical experts conduct thorough site surveys to assess specific requirements and challenges. They then craft a comprehensive plan, covering everything from route optimization to acquiring permits and coordinating support services. With a vast network of over 11,000 carriers, Bonafide Logistics possesses the resources to meet the unique needs of any cargo. Each carrier undergoes rigorous screening to ensure compliance with stringent standards, ensuring reliability and professionalism at every turn.

Bonafide Logistics has expanded its expertise and services beyond national borders with the help of its sister companies. They can manage all aspects of international shipping, including

handling customs paperwork and navigating border crossings. With Bonafide Logistics leading the way, clients can be confident that their cargo will travel across the globe without any issues and arrive at its destination smoothly.

Trailblazing Contributions

Specializing in transporting large, heavy haul, and specialty cargo, Bonafide Logistics is the go-to choice for clients seeking reliability, punctuality, and cost-effectiveness. Whether it's machinery, equipment, or infrastructure components, they possess the capabilities to handle it all, earning them a stellar reputation across diverse industries. Renowned for his innovative prowess and adeptness in overcoming

complex logistical hurdles, Jeff continues to make waves in the transportation and logistics realm. His steadfast commitment to excellence and entrepreneurial zeal serve as guiding beacons for aspiring professionals in the field.

"As a business owner, I think the biggest challenges are cash flow. Bonafide has had dramatic growth since inception, and we have been able to maintain it without having to borrow money," Jeff shares. At present, Jeff Burch is actively involved in several groundbreaking projects within the transportation and logistics domain. Leveraging his extensive experience and entrepreneurial flair, he spearheads initiatives aimed at revolutionizing supply chain management and enhancing operational efficiency.

"Our service sets us apart from any other company. From quoting to accounting, you will receive the best communication and attitudes from all team members. We are not here just to take your money, but to guide you into providing efficient streamlined solutions," emphasizes Jeff. Choosing Bonafide Logistics means more than just selecting a logistics provider; it entails forging a partnership with a team dedicated to client success. Bonafide Logistics understands the pivotal role of flawless execution in their services and strives for excellence in every facet of their operations. With Bonafide Logistics at their side, clients can trust that their cargo will be handled with utmost care and professionalism from inception to delivery.

With Bonafide Logistics at their side, clients can trust that their cargo will be handled with utmost care and professionalism from inception to delivery

In a Quest for Innovation in Transportation and Logistics

One of Jeff's ongoing projects centers on harnessing cutting-edge technology to streamline logistics processes, optimize route planning, and enhance overall transportation operations. By embracing advanced solutions like AI-driven predictive analytics and IoT-enabled tracking systems, Jeff aims to raise industry standards and deliver unparalleled value to clients and partners.

In addition to these initiatives, Jeff is actively involved in cultivating strategic partnerships and collaborations to foster innovation and tackle emerging challenges in the transportation and logistics sector. His visionary leadership and collaborative ethos play pivotal roles in shaping the industry's future and positioning his projects as trailblazers in positive transformation. "We have tools we use for quoting purposes, but ultimately, we just stay in the loop. Your customers will tell you everything you need to know. You just have to listen," shares Jeff.

Last year, Bonafide Logistics, LLC expanded into the carrier side by launching Bonafide Transportation Service, LLC. This year, their focus is on diversifying assets and expanding the fleet. Plans are underway to acquire yard space and warehouse facilities to broaden their scope. They aim to establish a fullservice solutions company encompassing all aspects of transportation and logistics.

Jeff's ongoing projects underscore his unwavering dedication to driving positive change, embracing innovation, and shaping the future of transportation and logistics through forward-thinking endeavors. "Lead with your heart. In every industry, you will run into the greedy and the downturns. Just like everything else you do, it just takes effort. It is not easy, just put in the time and effort, and the rewards will come," concludes Jeff.

The Power of Consistency: Why it Trumps Perfection in Achieving Goals

Shona Hirons, Global Corporate Burnout Expert & Director, Mindset in Motion Ltd

We live in a world fixated on flawless outcomes and pictureperfect achievements. The pursuit for perfection often overshadows the true hero of success: consistency. Having been brought up with a perfectionist mindset that turned me into feeling like a failure if I fell anything shy of perfect, which led to me becoming burnt out, I’ve learnt that it’s consistency that emerges as the unsung champion in the realm of achieving goals.

Imagine a marathon where the finish line represents our goals. Perfectionists might start with an explosive burst of energy, striving for faultless strides, yet often stumble under the weight of their impossibly high standards. On

the contrary, the consistent player maintains a steady pace, focusing on progress over perfection, ultimately crossing the finish line with resilience and determination.

Consistency breeds progress. It is the commitment to showing up every day, even when motivation wanes or obstacles arise. Perfection demands flawlessness from the start, often leading to procrastination or paralysis by analysis. In contrast, consistency acknowledges that progress, no matter how small, is a step closer to the goal. I’ve come to realise that slow and steady yields longerlasting achievable results.

Consider the case of skill development. Whether it’s learning a musical instrument

Shona Hirons is an award-winning global Resilience and Burnout Coach. A breakdown from workrelated stress, which led to a lifechanging accident, requiring major facial reconstructive surgery and brain damage, gave her a big wakeup call. During her recovery, she went on a journey of self-discovery to rebuild her resilience, consider her values, and achieve all the things she was told she couldn’t do. Shona has developed strategies to boost her resilience, and now helps others to do the same. She is the CEO of Mindset in Motion, and a leader in corporate wellbeing, working with corporate clients in over 55 countries. Her mission: To improve the well-being of people and businesses throughout the world.

From the entrepreneur building a business brick by brick to the student mastering a subject through regular study sessions, it’s the consistent effort that lays the foundation for success

or mastering a new language, the daily commitment to practice, even for a short duration, outshines sporadic, marathon sessions. Consistent, deliberate practice hones abilities and leads to gradual improvement, and you’ll soon become the master.

One thing to remember, is you don’t have to be good to get started, but you do have to get started to be good. In the past my mindset was in the wrong place. I wouldn’t try something if I wasn’t good at it immediately, but following a lifechanging accident in 2017 that was caused by burnout, which was partly caused my perfectionist mindset, I was bed bound for months and couldn’t do all the things I’d been good at and loved doing, so for the sake of my sanity and general health, I had to find something to fill the gap.

Over several months, I learnt how to play the guitar and crochet. Was I good at either before I started? Absolutely not, but with consistency and practice I became good. I’m fine with not being perfect, but I have fun, and this has improved my whole mindset and the way I approach everything in life now.

Moreover, consistency cultivates habits, and it is in these habits that success finds its breeding ground. Small, repeated actions compound over time, forming the building blocks for accomplishments. From the entrepreneur building a business brick by brick to the student mastering a subject through regular study sessions, it’s the consistent effort that lays the foundation for success.

In the pursuit of goals, setbacks and failures are inevitable. I set myself a big goal to climb Kiliminjaro in February 2024,

which would mark seven years since my lifechanging accident, where I was told there would be things, I’d never be able to achieve again, and one of those things involved reaching high altitude, due to the pressure on my brain. Unfortunately, the company that

Consistency makes you resilient and teaches you the valuable lessons that failures are stepping stones, not roadblocks, on the path to success

I booked the challenge with had to cancel the expedition due to low numbers. At first, I was disappointed, because this date was symbolic to me.

My old perfectionist mindset would have viewed this as an insurmountable barrier,

but I’ve continued with my training, and by committing to consistency has made me embrace this setback as part of the journey. I’ll still complete the challenge, but at a different time and I’m still going to do a virtual climb of Kiliminjaro on the original dates that I picked instead.

Consistency makes you resilient and teaches you the valuable lessons that failures are stepping stones, not roadblocks, on the path to success.

The psychological impact of consistency cannot be overlooked. It creates a sense of momentum and instills confidence. When progress is visible, no matter how incremental, it fuels motivation, propelling us closer to our goals.

It’s essential to distinguish between striving for excellence and chasing perfection. Excellence allows room for growth and acknowledges that improvement is a continual process. Perfection, on the other hand, often paralyses progress, as the pursuit for flawlessness becomes unrealistic.

My mantra has become progress over perfection. I celebrate the small wins, the daily strides taken toward the goal. I’m embracing the journey and understand that consistency is the guiding force that outshines the mirage of perfection.

In conclusion, consistency triumphs over perfection in the pursuit of goals. It’s the unwavering commitment, the persistent effort, and the willingness to progress, imperfectly yet consistently, that ultimately lead to success. As Aristotle aptly said, “We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence, then, is not an act, but a habit.” Therefore, let consistency be the cornerstone of your journey towards achieving your goals.

MOST INSPIRING BUSINESS WOMAN 2024

E. Michelle Bohreer

ATTORNEY AND FOUNDER OF BOHREER LAW FIRM

CHAMPIONING JUSTICE, EMPOWERING CLIENTS, AND BUILDING COMMUNITY

"Harper Lee's 'To Kill a Mockingbird' transcends generations, inspiring countless individuals to pursue justice and embody the values of the legal profession. For E. Michelle Bohreer, Attorney and Founder of Bohreer Law Firm, the novel ignited a lifelong passion for advocacy and community service. “I knew I wanted to be a lawyer as early as high school when I read To Kill A Mockingbird. I also knew I did not want to be a criminal lawyer,” shares Michelle.

Michelle's journey into law began in 1990, propelled by her exceptional academic achievements at the University of Houston Law Center. Graduating with top honors, she seamlessly transitioned from her role as a certified public accountant at Anderson to embark on a legal career distinguished by her unparalleled dedication to client service. “My background as a CPA has been invaluable in my legal career, particularly in understanding my clients’ business goals and desires,” Michelle emphasizes.

ATTORNEY AND FOUNDER OF BOHREER LAW FIRM

E. Michelle Bohreer

Drawing on her unique background, Michelle approaches law as a counselor, guiding clients towards their objectives while preemptively mitigating risks. Her expertise as both an attorney and CPA equip her with a comprehensive understanding of her clients' business needs, fostering collaborative partnerships aimed at achieving favorable outcomes. “Being in trial and

picking a jury are my favorite parts of practicing law,” Michelle enthuses.

However, Michelle's commitment extends beyond the courtroom. A stalwart advocate for her community, she has lent her expertise to numerous charitable organizations, including her current role as Chair of the Board of KnowAutism Foundation. As a distinguished

Each year since 2004, Michelle has been recognized by her peers as a 'Texas Super Lawyer' in Law and Politics Magazine and Texas Monthly

member of the Rotary Club of Houston-Skyline, Michelle's leadership has been recognized with Rotary International's prestigious Service Above Self Award, a testament to her unwavering dedication to empowering others.

In 2021-2022, Michelle's passion for service led her to serve as District Governor for Rotary District 5890, where she continues to champion causes close to her heart, including empowering girls through her role as Zone 25b Empowering Girls Ambassador.

Championing Integrity and Collaboration in Legal Excellence

Each year since 2004, Michelle has been recognized by her peers as a 'Texas Super Lawyer' in Law and Politics Magazine and Texas Monthly. “Being recognized by your peers stands as a tremendous acknowledgment of your accomplishments as an attorney,” Michelle reflects. “I believe that my diligent preparedness, candor, and focus on the best result for my client without getting my ego involved allows me to work collaboratively when possible, with lawyers on the 'other side', which often provides the greatest outcome for everyone involved.”

Michelle's collaborative approach and commitment to her clients' best interests have solidified her reputation as a trusted legal advisor. She emphasizes the importance of being a strategic partner with her clients, a cornerstone of her success. “Being a strategic partner with my clients is a cornerstone, in my opinion, to my success,” Michelle asserts.

In addition to being recognized as a 'Texas Super Lawyer,' Michelle has also received the top rating from the preeminent attorney rating service of Martindale-Hubbell, identifying her with the highest ethical standards and professional ability. “Bottom line, you only have one reputation, being candid,

authentic, and honest in all circumstances are benchmarks to being a good attorney,” Michelle emphasizes. “I am thrilled that I have been recognized by my peers for these characteristics.”

Building Trust, Preventing Problems, and Advocating with Precision Michelle's approach to commercial litigation and employment practice is characterized by

a dynamic relationship-focused strategy. “If you don’t understand the goals of your client, it is difficult to imagine how you will approach a business or litigation matter to achieve the best possible result,” Michelle explains. “Ensuring that your client’s goals and business needs are known and forefront as you approach each issue allows Bohreer Law Firm to differentiate itself and provide the best representation possible.”

Founding Bohreer Law Firm provided Michelle with the platform to establish a clientdriven practice rooted in her belief in giving back to the community. “Our firm prides itself on our commitment to our local and global community while always striving to provide exceptional service to our clients,” Michelle emphasizes.

Selectivity is a cornerstone of Bohreer Law Firm's approach, both in client representation and

matter selection. “We want to make sure that we are always available when our clients need us and that we stay up-to-date and incredibly prepared in our primary focus areas,” Michelle asserts. Reflecting on advice from her past, Michelle recalls a partner at Anderson who emphasized the importance of personal service. “We are a personal service business. Once you stop giving personal service, you will stop getting business,” the partner had told her. This philosophy continues to underpin Bohreer Law Firm's ethos.

Communication is paramount in Michelle's advocacy philosophy. “Listening and understanding the circumstances, situation, and client needs provide a critical backdrop to effective advocacy,” she states. “If a lawyer doesn’t listen to their client, how is it possible for a lawyer to be acting in their client’s best interest?”

Founding Bohreer Law Firm provided Michelle with the platform to establish a clientdriven practice rooted in her belief in giving back to the community

Michelle's background as a CPA enriches her legal acumen, particularly in understanding financial documents and their implications. “Many companies must disclose pending litigation in audits or financial representations to a bank, and these representations may prevent the company from achieving its goals,” Michelle explains. “Cases that should be tried should be tried, but cases that can be resolved, issues that can be concluded without litigation, typically will best serve the client.”

Reflecting on her legal career, Michelle recounts a particularly complex commercial litigation matter where her unique understanding of tax reporting proved instrumental in uncovering fraud. “I felt very fortunate to be able to assist my client with this unique knowledge and to obtain a wonderful result under those circumstances,” Michelle recalls.

While multi-million-dollar judgments and successful defense against discrimination or

For Michelle, the integration of personal passions with professional pursuits is paramount in achieving success in the legal field

harassment claims are undoubtedly satisfying, Michelle finds the greatest success in preventing problems before they escalate. “My greatest success comes when Bohreer Law Firm can stop a problem before it escalates,” she explains.

Michelle vividly remembers an instance where proactive measures prevented a potentially harmful situation. During sexual harassment training for a client, she uncovered a compromising situation involving a young receptionist. “We were able to immediately jump into action with the client and stop the inappropriate behavior before it escalated,”

Michelle recounts. “My client was so grateful for the proactive work, and I was so glad to have been part of ending an incredibly difficult situation before it became unresolvable.”

Balancing Passion, Parenthood, and Professional Excellence

For Michelle, the integration of personal passions with professional pursuits is paramount in achieving success in the legal field. “Finding the intersection of your work life and your personal passion will make you a more successful person, not just a successful lawyer,” she advises.

From the outset of her career, Michelle recognized the importance of balancing her legal endeavors with her personal life goals. As a mother, she adapted her approach to client development, seamlessly blending family events with professional opportunities. “Once I had my son, I shifted client development opportunities to family events, which allowed me again to excel in my legal career while enjoying my time with my family,” Michelle explains.

Navigating the demands of a legal career requires resilience and adaptability. Michelle views challenges as opportunities for growth and greater success. “Realizing that I needed to set boundaries in the practice of law was difficult for me,” she admits. “Finding that blend of personal passion and business growth conquered the inevitable challenge of there not being enough time.”

Looking ahead, Bohreer Law Firm remains committed to its core values of client-driven service and strategic partnership. “In the coming years, we will continue to focus on client-driven service and being strategic partners with our clients,” Michelle affirms. “Additionally, we will continue to give back to our community. These focuses will allow us to grow and continue our success for years to come.”

MOST INNOVATIVE COMPANY TO WATCH IN 2024

New World Wind

PIONEERING SUSTAINABLE ENERGY SOLUTIONS FOR A GREENER TOMORROW

Luc Eric KRIEF, the dynamic Chairman and CEO of New World Wind, brings over thirty years of diverse leadership experience to the table, straddling the realms of construction and service industries. Armed with a robust educational background in aeronautics and management, coupled with hands-on involvement across various sectors, KRIEF has consistently showcased his prowess in areas such as re-engineering, logistics, finance, commercial development, and human resources. "In today's energy landscape, nuclear, petrol, and coal belong to the past.

It's time for renewable energies to take center stage, delivering electricity where it's needed most," remarks KRIEF.

Since 2017, New World Wind has been at the forefront of the energy revolution, introducing innovative solutions to the market. "Our focus has been on creating smart wind turbines tailored for individuals and communities. These turbines are specifically engineered for seamless integration within urban environments," KRIEF elaborates.

Central to New World Wind's offerings is Aeroleaf ®, a groundbreaking micro-turbine that redefines wind power generation.

LUC ERIC KRIEF, CHAIRMAN AND CEO

By harnessing the power of nature to generate electricity, New World Wind not only reduces carbon emissions but also lowers energy costs for consumers

Lightweight and agile, Aeroleaf® harnesses wind energy from all directions, maximizing efficiency even in low-wind conditions. Unlike traditional turbines, its direct drive mechanism operates silently, making it ideal for urban settings where noise pollution is a concern. "Aeroleaf® technology strikes a balance between simplicity and complexity.

While it leverages the magnetic field generated by magnets and wiring, the process of converting this energy into usable power requires intricate engineering," explains KRIEF.

Beyond its technological advancements, New World Wind is driven by a commitment to environmental sustainability. By harnessing the power of nature to generate electricity, the company not only reduces carbon emissions but also lowers energy costs for consumers. "We pride ourselves on being both environmentally conscious and socially responsible. Our products are designed to seamlessly integrate into urban landscapes, ensuring minimal disruption and maximum eco-friendliness," KRIEF asserts.

Revolutionizing Energy

New World Wind is pioneering a transformative concept in the realm of energy. "We are biomorphic, customizable, adaptable, recyclable. What’s else? We are the new product for a new way of energy," shares KRIEF. At the heart of New World Wind's mission is the reduction of carbon emissions, offering a compelling alternative to fossil fuels. With a philosophy of harnessing wind energy wherever it blows, the company's Aeroleaf® can be seamlessly integrated into diverse environments. "We collaborate with cities and architects to ensure optimal placement, but thanks to our biomorphic design, integration is simple and effortless," adds KRIEF.

From rooftops to telecom towers, there are virtually no limits to where Aeroleaf® can be deployed. Leveraging nature-inspired designs such as WindBush, WindTree and WindPalm, New World Wind continues to innovate, offering aesthetically pleasing and effective solutions. "To date, we've installed more than 130 'tree' units worldwide, and we're continuously refining our technologies to introduce new products and applications," KRIEF reveals.

With a global presence spanning five continents, New World Wind is dedicated to empowering individuals with access to clean energy. One notable project involved providing Aeroleaf® to a Spanish research base in Antarctica, demonstrating the resilience and versatility of the technology. "We take pride in such installations, as they showcase the reliability of Aeroleaf® even in the harshest conditions," remarks KRIEF.

Empowering the Future

KRIEF's vision for New World Wind has always been centered on delivering innovative, environmentally friendly solutions to customers. "Our products are original and relevant, they do not have any impact on the environment (no bird kills, no noise) and are close to the final users. This is crucial, as 'smart grids' are the future of energy provision, and we've been at the forefront since day one," emphasizes KRIEF.

KRIEF's multifaceted expertise, particularly in re-engineering and resource optimization, has been instrumental in positioning New World Wind as a niche player with global ambitions. Drawing parallels with Tesla's trajectory, he envisions a future where New World Wind's solutions become ubiquitous

and competitively priced. "Like Tesla, we started with high prices and new technology. But as demand grows, we aim to make our products accessible to everyone," KRIEF shares.

In a world where energy is indispensable for every aspect of life, KRIEF recognizes the urgent need for sustainable alternatives. "Energy is essential for food, education, travel, information, communication, and every other aspect of our lives. But we must also acknowledge its potential to harm our planet. That's why we're committed to finding greener solutions," affirms KRIEF.

New World Wind's commitment to sustainability extends beyond its products; it's ingrained in the company's culture. "As engineers and entrepreneurs, our focus is singular: to provide the best products and solutions while minimizing our carbon footprint," KRIEF explains.

With a global presence spanning five continents, New World Wind is dedicated to empowering individuals with access to clean energy

Looking ahead, New World Wind is poised to expand its product range and market reach to meet the growing demand for sustainable energy solutions. "The demand for energy will only increase, and we're determined to meet these new challenges while aligning with the evolving needs of our customers. New World Wind is ready to be the provider of choice for the new era," KRIEF concludes, encapsulating the company's unwavering commitment to shaping a brighter, greener future for generations to come.

Equipping Leaders to Create More Efficient, Effective, & Enjoyable Workplaces

Amber Vanderburg, Founder, The Pathwayz Group

Hi Amber, please brief us about yourself and your journey as Founder at The Pathwayz Group.

I have spent my entire professional life devoted to talent development - whether it be building healthcare teams in the medical system, soccer players in professional academy teams, students and faculties in universities, or professionals in business teams. I am passionate about equipping others with the tools, resources, and support they need to be the best version of themselves.

My journey started a few years ago when I was the HR director for a national education leadership company. It was a dream job with a dream team and a dream company….and I left it to chase another dream. That was a large leap - to leave predictable happiness for a vague idea or thought of something bigger.

I wanted to start an international learning and development company that would help teams perform better through improved leadership, communication, and collaboration skills. I wanted to create a more actionable,

We are constantly challenging, refining, growing, and learning to be better versions of ourselves - the talent development ideology is from the inside out

Amber Vanderburg is a multi-award-winning international businessperson, keynote speaker, author, and founder of the international learning development company, The Pathwayz Group, which has led 800,000+ learners in more than 75 countries in action-focused leadership and team development learning journeys. Amber's history in talent development includes talent development with Adidas Gameday Academy and Paris Saint Germain Academy in Bangalore, India, authoring top-reviewed online learning courses for platforms such as LinkedIn Learning, Lecturio, and PluralSight, and acting as HR Director of Paradigm Shift Leadership. In 2022, she published her first business adventure book "Uniquely Better" about building higher team performance.

Recently, in an exclusive interview with CXO Outlook Magazine, Amber shared her professional trajectory, what sets The Pathwayz Group apart from other market competitors, insights on diversity in leadership, her biggest stress reliever, future plans, pearls of wisdom, and much more. The following excerpts are taken from the interview.

approachable, and digestible instructional design that was truly memorable for learners. And I wanted to be globally focusedspecializing in multi-national organizations.

I started giving keynotes and workshops, building online courses (this was before the pandemic and online courses were not as large-scale), and learning as much as I could.

My goal was to create a full company - not solely the Amber Vanderburg show. I wanted to create an organization where we could learn from and support one another. As we continue to learn, try, discover, fail, revise, and refine our content and delivery methods - it’s opened up doors I never imagined. I have an incredible team and we have the opportunity to make an impact in some remarkable organizations.

My team talks about how, as a learning company, we are constantly learning - it makes sense. We are constantly challenging, refining, growing, and learning to be better versions of ourselves - the talent development ideology is from the inside out.

What sets The Pathwayz Group apart from other market competitors?

The qualitative surveys say it best - it’s the action-focused learning that breaks down ideas into motions. The Pathwayz Group sessions draw from a unique blend of professional athletic instructional design, educational curriculum development, and corporate training methodologies. The result is shorter, faster, more agile iterations of learning, more memorable and digestible action steps, and more focused facilitated discussion. The average learning session features 1-4 actionstep focused activities per hour. Our learning features 5-8 action-step focused activities per hour with more than 60 methods of engagement in our facilitator toolbox.

We also believe that activities are only as good as the time spent reflecting upon them. Our facilitators average 10-20 years of experience in a leadership/facilitation position and are certified to lead deeper, challenging conversations to get to the heart of the learning.

I focus on acknowledging, appreciating, and utilizing those who have been champions of my success and help me confront the hurdles and challenges that come with being a female-owned business in this industry

One of our recent feedback surveys said it best, “I've been to a lot of sessions, but this is the first one that I walk away truly believing that action will be taken. It's not only discussion, it's an action plan.”

What are some of the major challenges in the leadership industry we face at the moment? Why do we need to address our efforts to improve leadership for the future?

One of the major challenges I see in the leadership industry is leadership expectations. Leadership is a tough skill and the expectations for those in leadership positions are growing more and more - from leading a dispersed workforce to leading a more generationally diverse workforce - the toolbox continues to expand. It’s an exciting opportunity to increase the skills of leaders to make a powerful impact.

In tandem with the growing expectations, the investment in leadership skill development must continue to grow. Since the pandemic, we have had furloughs, layoffs, early retirements, and The Great Resignations leading to a gap in knowledge/ skills in some workplaces. We’ve had several instances with organizations that have 50% new leadership in the last 3 years with no leadership development - sometimes this percentage is even greater. Investing in future leaders and preparing others to step into leadership positions early makes for a smoother transition and greater success.

Working in a historically maledominated industry, what has been your journey breaking down barriers and stepping into leadership roles?

Of course, there are challenges. Especially in international business, there are some areas of

the world where being a female business owner is particularly difficult. At the end of the day, it’s the relationships with those who support and encourage that speak volumes into my life. A couple of months ago, I was in Europe to give a keynote to a few hundred technologists - before my speech three guys came to see me just to offer well wishes and show their support. Last week, I was preparing for a big proposal for one of our larger clients, and a mentor offered time to give their insight and advice to enhance the presentation. Recently, I was in a particularly challenging meeting in Asia and had two guys reinforce my ideas and make sure my credit was acknowledged. I could tell you about the smallminded voices and actions that make my job more challenging than others, but small-minded voices get a small amount of space in my brain.

I focus on acknowledging, appreciating, and utilizing those who have been champions of my success and help me confront the hurdles and challenges that come with being a femaleowned business in this industry. In turn, I aim to champion the success of others.

What are your thoughts on diversity and inclusion? How important is it to have authentic conversations with leaders, professionals, and changemakers to create more acceptance across the globe?

Of course, diversity and inclusion are critical aspects of communities, workplaces, and society as a whole.

I have a course on LinkedIn Learning about Diversity in Teams but let’s talk specifically about Diversity in Leadership. I was working with a large organization’s executive team during their end-of-year retreat. They had

incredibly strong relationships and supported one another in a way that other teams would only dream of. The challenge wasthrough all the niceties they were terrible at executing ideas.

We did the StrengthFinder profile and found that - in this large national company88% of the executive team’s strengths were in relationship building. Less than 5% of strengths were in executing ideas. Imagine all of the ways this single-focused team dynamic negatively impacted the leadership and progress of this organization?

When looking at diversity, we look at abilities, gender, race, strengths, ethnicities, politics, religions and so much more. It’s critical that we intentionally build more diverse teams.

Now, you can have a diverse team that is not inclusive. And you can have an inclusive team that is not diverse. I was working with one team that was wonderfully inclusive. In fact, it was one of their core values! Be inclusive! I was welcomed by the team and quickly invited to any and every social event. I looked around. Everybody looked like me. Most people had the same background, beliefs, and ideas as me. As I worked with the team more, we brought in a more diverse group of people. The team was challenged in the way they understood, interacticed, and collaborated with others. The inclusive behaviors were challenged. After some serious growing pains, we were able to add BOTH diversity and inclusion into our work dynamic for a more creative, innovative, and holistic team performance.

It’s critical that we have real honest conversations about creating more diverse and inclusive places around the globe.

In your academic or work career, were there any mentors who have helped you grow along the way? What’s the best piece of advice you have ever received?

Some people say that “it takes a village to raise a child.” I feel like in my life, I was raised by a metropolis of people who have constantly encouraged, challenged, supported, and championed me to be the best version of myself. I do not take for granted the people who have poured into my life and try in earnest to pay forward the investment.

I have a notebook of advice and quotes from over the years. One piece that stands out is from a dear mentor of mine in academia who said, “Amber, there is a big difference between the person who has 30 years of experience, and the person who has 1 year of experience repeated 30 times.” It challenged me to constantly learn, develop, grow. I reserve the right to be smarter and better tomorrow than I am today. This ideology applies to me as a person and to The Pathwayz Group as an organization.

What’s a leadership lesson that you’ve learnt that’s unique to being a female leader?

A common “Vandy-ism” we say at The Pathwayz Group is, “If you can achieve your dreams on your own, then you are not dreaming big enough.” It’s true, if you want to build something, do something, be something bigger than yourself, then you have to include more than yourself.

I think this should apply to everyone, but I’d like to point out that, particularly for women, include others and ask for help. Successful people rarely achieve success on

My focus is to continue to build this company to expand our global reach and make a positive impact in the workplaces

their own - seize the opportunity to build a relationship and include others on this journey.

What is your biggest stress reliever?

I schedule time in my calendar to walk or run. The mental clarity during that time is a game changer in my life.

What is your secret to striking a worklife balance?

I don’t think anyone has ever struck the secret to work-life balance. Part of my ideology I emphasize with my team is identifying what is important and what is priority. There are a million things that are important - what is priority for right now? We have projects, ideas, initiatives that are important for our teams - we have three priorities and focus areas for right now. Same goes for life, laundry is always important - yesterday it became a real priority for me.

Where do you see yourself in 5 years from now?

My focus is to continue to build this company to expand our global reach and make a positive impact in the workplaces. I see this company with a stronger facilitator team, enhanced curriculum, and a prominent global presence within the international business community.

What practical tips would you like to share with other professionals who aspire to improve leadership skills within their own organisations?

Find one area that you would like to improve upon, identify one action step, and start today. When it comes to leadership: Don’t delay, start today.

MOST INSPIRING BUSINESS WOMAN 2024

Pauline Parry

FOUNDER AND CEO, GOOD GRACIOUS! EVENTS

FOSTERING A CULTURE OF HOSPITALITY EXCELLENCE

Pauline Parry is a seasoned and highly sought-after Founder and CEO of Good Gracious! Events, an awardwinning food and beverage company. Pauline, an emblem of excellence, has carved an illustrious path in the dynamic world of hospitality. She is also an author of two highly acclaimed books, ‘Food Fun Love – Party Styles’ and ‘My Culinary Love Story’.

With a string of accolades and awards under her belt, including Caterer of the Year, Best Event for a Corporation, Best Off-Premise Caterer, The I-3 Award (Innovation, Inspiration, and Instruction), ACE (Achievement in Catering Excellence) and the UK’s John Mossman Award for ICA, Pauline has established herself as a force to be reckoned. Today, she is considered a

role model for aspiring hospitality professionals who wish to make a difference in the industry.

Let’s delve deeper into Pauline’s success story which is a testament to her passion for cooking, commitment to excellence, and desire to impact the world positively.

Embarking on an Unexpected Journey in Hospitality

Pauline’s journey in hospitality started out by chance. As a newly single mother, she had no idea, all those years ago what she was getting into but needless to say by chance after dining at a local French-style bistro in Somerset, when she was asked by the couple who owned the restaurant if she would like to come and work with them. “My response was ‘What would I

Pauline Parry

FOUNDER AND CEO, GOOD GRACIOUS! EVENTS

do”, shares Pauline. Little did she know what she was taking on, but she did take on the challenge and absolutely fell in love with all things related to culinary and hospitality.

After working in the bistro for a few years, Pauline’s journey took her to a Michelin Star restaurant at Thornbury Castle where she lived and worked with her two children. She took on the role of Assistant Manager and was also given

the task of being part of opening the Castle as a seven-room boutique hotel. “The experience and knowledge gained by all this was amazing and I felt overwhelmed that I was given this opportunity by the owner, Kenneth Bell, who was an extraordinary entrepreneur,” mentions Pauline. Without a doubt, Mr. Bell pushed her to the limits to be successful in her role, and for that, she remains grateful to him.

The next stage of Pauline’s journey took her to America. She fell in love with a British man who had the opportunity to take on a project in California for a six-month period, which turned into a lifetime. She thought she might potentially work in a restaurant, hotel or country club. However, she was encouraged by some wonderful people whom she met through her children to start her own hospitality company.

They thought Pauline was quite fabulous at cooking and entertaining. Again, she found herself saying, ‘How do I start such a venture?’. “I suppose I must thank the American entrepreneurial spirit for giving me the encouragement that all things are possible if you have the drive and passion to make it work,” adds Pauline.

A little anecdote on how Pauline named her company Good Gracious! an expression which

Established in Los Angeles just over four decades ago, GOOD GRACIOUS! Events

is a leading catering company specializing in event design, wedding consulting, event planning, corporate meetings, and gourmet catering

is commonly used in England. One day Pauline called her mum in England and said, “Hello Mum’ and she responded by saying, “Good Gracious is that you Pauline”. That is how Good Gracious! Events was born.

About Good Gracious! Events

Established in Los Angeles just over four decades ago, GOOD GRACIOUS! Events is a leading catering company specializing in event design, wedding consulting, event planning, corporate meetings, and gourmet catering.

The company is renowned for its innovative, trendsetting style, unparalleled quality, attention to detail, unique presentations, and fabulous culinary creations.

But the secret sauce behind Good Gracious!’s success and award-winning status is its commitment to excellence. Since the beginning,

Under Pauline’s leadership, the Good Gracious! team has built and nurtured positive relationships with their clients who come back to them year after year

Good Gracious!’s philosophy has been to be the best in every facet of the business. Founder and CEO, Pauline shares that she has been fortunate to have had repeated clients and referrals over the years. She asserts, “We pride ourselves that our reputation is based on innovation, presentation, and producing artistic delicious food with excellent hospitality for each and every event we do.” After forty years in business, Good Gracious! has built a reputation as an expert in the industry and can be relied upon to accomplish all the necessary elements for a successful event.

How Good Gracious! Events Went to the Next Level

Pauline shares one of the pivotal moments in business that took Good Gracious! Events to the next level of being recognized

as a company qualified to execute logistically challenging events with flair. A few years back, a leading gaming company was planning to launch their new product to an audience of 5000 at a venue in Los Angeles. And guess what? Good Gracious! Events was referred to be on the list of 10 potential companies to cater the event. The entire process was quite simple; the event producer lined the catering companies up in forty-five minutes intervals to meet at the venue giving them verbally all

the details along with an RFP packet to submit a proposal in fourteen days. “Our time frame for this initial meeting was 12.30 pm so we decided to take a dozen lunch boxes for them as they might not have time for lunch hoping this might give them a taste of our food,” remarks Pauline.

Technically, Pauline and her team had never done an event of this size, so the experience of executing an event of this calibre was not on their side and in all honesty, they were not sure a lunch box was going to

cut it either. Pauline and her team of two returned to the office feeling quite overwhelmed as to how they would even begin putting this together. After taking a few deep breaths, they decided to sleep on it overnight and return to the office next day, a Saturday and start the process fresh. At home, Pauline had a restless night with the event going over and over in her mind and upon awakening, she said to her husband, “I think we need to go to Atlanta (home of the event producers) and present our proposal, it would be quite silly to send a multi-million job by fed ex, right?” And so, it was decided that Pauline and her team would go and present. Without wasting any time, they connected with the event producers to ask if they could come by on Thursday as they were in town and meet to discuss their initial proposal. They took the red eye to Atlanta and met with the producers the next day at their offices to discuss the event. “I was quite clear this was the first proposal they had seen and were calculating what their budget might

be at the end of the day as this was the first event of this magnitude the client had done too,” adds Pauline.

Long story short, Good Gracious! Events won the proposal. Pauline and her team successfully executed the event that entailed forty-five double sided food stations, eightyeight bars, a tray pass VIP reception, and a food station décor. Not just for one, two or even ten, Good Gracious! did the event for the same gaming company for fifteen years. How amazing is that, right!

Putting on the Writer’s Hat

For someone who is never shy of taking on a new challenge, Pauline was approached by a publisher to write a book. She thought it could be a great opportunity to introduce her business to a wider audience. She reflects, “It was hard work but truly a fun experience, although we

did wonder sometimes when we are doing our “real” business why are we doing this as it took up so of our energy, but it was worth all the effort.” She further states that when you take on a challenge you have never done before you come out stronger than when you went in, and you are subject to finding another set of skills you thought you never had, and our minds have opened us to many possibilities. Just like she did.

In 2012, Pauline launched her first book, ‘FOOD, FUN, LOVE: Party Styles’ which is an entertainment lifestyle book that highlights

twelve different events. It gives an introduction about the event, a menu with recipes together with photos of the event. At the end of each chapter, Pauline has given some entertainment tips with regards to what that chapter was about.

Pauline launched her second book in 2022, ‘My Culinary Love Story’ which is about how she got into the industry with recipes and why she came to America. Ask her about what’s next in store for her. Without missing a beat, she confirms that she is writing a third book, tentatively titled, ‘So that’s how you see it?’ which will be based on doing business as Good Gracious! Events and maintaining a lifestyle.

Event Conceptualization and Designing

When a client approaches Good Gracious! for an event, whether it is a social client or a corporate client, Pauline and her team keenly listen to them, note minute details, visit the venue, observe the surroundings, and a lot more. They also reach out to their partner resources to bring in the required elements that are unavailable in-house, whether it is floral, entertainment, lighting etc.

In 2012, Pauline launched her first book, ‘FOOD, FUN, LOVE: Party Styles’ which is an entertainment lifestyle book that highlights twelve different events

To make all this happen, Pauline and her team keep their minds drenched in food, wine, design, and stay abreast with the latest industry trends through dining, travel, magazines, podcasts, articles, museums, and generally keeping up with pop culture. By doing this and much more, they create a vision that best meets the client’s requirement, a magical extravaganza that Good Gracious! Events is known for.

Striking a Fine Balance Between Traditions and Innovation

In the rapidly evolving landscape of hospitality management, the delicate balancing act between tradition and innovation has become more crucial than ever. Pauline feels that one needs

to know the structure of the tried and tested methods that is traditional to make culinary and event design solid and practical. Once that structure is in place, then one is open to innovation. She also highlights that the heart of culinary culture is traditional, and one must go to the roots of this culture to realize what those tastes and flavours are and then can bring a twist whether it is a new flavour profile or present with a more architectural style to define the foods louder in this day and age.

Staying Ahead of the Curve

One of the ways in which Pauline ensures that her team of Good Gracious! Events stays ahead of the curve and maintain their cutting-edge mindset

Pauline shares that if aspiring professionals have the drive and passion and truly believe the culinary and hospitality industry might be a career passage for them, then they must embrace it whole heartly as the results are priceless

is by encouraging them to regularly attend conferences, participate in staff exchanges, take on leadership roles with associations, and deliver talks as speakers on diverse topics related to food, business, creativity, and hospitality in the industry. Moreover, under Pauline’s leadership, the Good Gracious! team has built and nurtured positive relationships with their clients who come back to them year after year.

Event Planning Trends to Watch Out for in 2024

In Pauline’s opinion, social media will continue to play a major role in telling the world what is in stores. She herself as a business owner believes in setting the trends rather than following them. Likewise, technology adoption in business operations will be crucial in delivering phenomenal customer experience through food, hospitality, entertainment, and activities at events.

Pearls of Wisdom

Pauline shares that if aspiring professionals have the drive and passion and truly believe the culinary and hospitality industry might be a career passage for them, then they must embrace it whole heartly as the results are priceless. She also points out that the event industry is not rocket science, rather it is a science of how you approach hospitality. It is full of emotions, massive details, one must have a deep understanding of people and their brands and have the creativity and vision to translate all into an event. “This job is not for the faint of heart either as you have to work weekends, holidays, evenings when most are relaxing, and you are working,” concludes Pauline.

Helping Business Owners Maximize their Proceeds When Selling their Companies

Mordy Levine, Managing Partner, Exit Strategy Mastery, Chief Operating Officer, Lizzy James Designs, Inc. & CEO, North American Resellers

Hi Mordy. Tell us a little bit about your background and how you started your first business.

I went to the University of Chicago Business School when I was 21. In retrospect, that was probably not a great idea – since I had no business experience. When I graduated I sold fresh fruit ices from a street cart on 42nd St in NYC – my first entrepreneurial (and successful) venture. I probably made $500.

Fast forward to 2024, and I have founded at many ventures, with success of sale, IPO, merger, etc. with about 10 of them.

Can you briefly tell us about Exit Strategy Mastery? What are its mission and vision?

My partner Richard Harmon and I created Exit Strategy Mastery to help business owners prepare to sell their businesses. Although

Although owners may be experts at running their business, they typically do not have the skill set to maximize proceeds when selling their company

After earning an MBA in Finance and Accounting from the University of Chicago Business School, Mordy Levine embarked on an entrepreneurial journey, creating numerous companies from seed capital, and transforming them into profitable, salable entities. Among his numerous accomplishments, he co-founded a technology placement firm. Within 33 months, as CEO, Mordy managed 300 employees across 12 cities, leading to a successful acquisition and subsequent IPO. He created the largest custom marine apparel and accessories company in the US and sold it. He cofounded an asthma / diabetes mail order pharmacy growing to 3,000 patients and then sold successfully. As cofounder of a handmade jewelry manufacturer, the company grew to over 1,000 retailers worldwide. He operates, with his partner and cofounder, Exit Strategy Mastery.

Recently, in an exclusive interview with CXO Outlook Magazine, Mordy shared his professional trajectory, the top qualities required to be successful entrepreneurs, how he defines success, future plans, pearls of wisdom, and much more. The following excerpts are taken from the interview.

owners may be experts at running their business, they typically do not have the skill set to maximize proceeds when selling their company. Many end up leaving millions of dollars behind on the closing table when selling their life’s passion, and are left disappointed.

We solve that problem by showing owners exactly what to do (and not do) before, during, and after they sell. As a result, they reduce risk of a failed or disappointing event when selling - and they maximize their sales proceeds. It levels the playing field between experienced buyers and business owners.

We are also evangelists for a transaction type called an ESOP – Employee Stock Ownership Plans. ESOP transactions in our opinion are the best for businesses that qualify. When structuring an ESOP appropriately –

Owners sell a portion of the company to employees (employees don’t pay anything for it).

Owners get proceeds from the sale - also tax free.

Company taxes can go to zero in perpetuity. Owners maintain governance over the company operations.

Employees become highly motivated as their stock vests over time.

Owners still own a large percentage of the company for future growth and/or sale.

You founded & currently manage North American Resellers LLC, a financial management company for IT companies operating in the Ukraine and Europe. What sets it apart from other market competitors?

We manage client funds intelligently and conservatively for companies who are not able

to - as a result of doing business outside of the US. Many of their clients based in the US have greater confidence and trust working directly with a US-based company.

In your opinion, what are the top qualities or skills you believe entrepreneurs need in order to be successful?

Grit, grit and grit. Intelligence, skills, salesmanship, creativity, and leadership are all wonderful traits to have – no doubt. I like grit and passion. That is what it really takes to be successful.

What is one thing that you do daily to grow as an entrepreneur?

I meditate every day and have done so for almost 40 years. Without that I would probably be extremely unhappy – and not have a clue how to address it. We all know the benefits of meditation – both anecdotally and scientifically. But in short, it provides calmness, equanimity, clarity, joy, compassion, and a more accurate understanding of reality (and it’s not what you think!). And that applies for non-entrepreneurs as well.

What has been your most effective marketing strategy to grow your business?

For Exit Strategy Mastery we spend a lot of time on LinkedIn by simply posting good content. Over time, when someone needs us, they have that confidence that we can help them. It’s a simple, straightforward way to get our message out on a business-to-business platform. Over time it works. Nothing fancy, just one step at a time.

By being able to pay attention moment-to-moment and learn from the process as we travel down the road – that is freedom

What is your definition of success?

Freedom from fear, stress, anxiety – or at a minimum being able to deal with it when it arises. Anyone can feel successful momentarily when the sun is shining, and the food is good. By being able to pay attention moment-to-moment and learn from the process as we travel down the road – that is freedom. Achievements are great – but very fleeting. Being in the moment is quite freeing versus always focusing on the future or the past.

What’s a productivity tip you swear by?

Practice paying attention to what you are doing now. Don’t get ahead of yourself or lose your mind by rushing or dwelling on the past or all the possibilities that may happen in the future.

Where do you see yourself in the next 5 years?

Same place I am now. Enjoying whatever I am doing. Learning. Teaching. Leaving my comfort zone here and there. Living one day at a time.

What’s your best piece of advice for aspiring and new entrepreneurs?

Find something you like to do and do it – either as a business or as a hobby. Train yourself, with or without a mentor, on how to be in the present moment (it will take the rest of your life). Work hard – but don’t take yourself that seriously. Life is very short. Don’t waste it living in the past or the future. They don’t really exist.

MOST INSPIRING BUSINESS LEADER 2024

Warren Weiss EMPOWERING ENTREPRENEURS AND DRIVING MEANINGFUL INNOVATION

MANAGING PARTNER AT WESTWAVE CAPITAL

Warren Weiss, fondly called "Bunny", has an impressive track record of discovering tech giants in their early stages. He gained recognition for his work on SilverSpring Networks, which earned him a place on the Forbes Midas List of Top Technology Investors. Additionally, Business Insider magazine voted him as one of the Top 100 Seed investors. Bunny has had a successful career as a CEO of both public and private venture-backed companies.

In the early days of his career, Weiss was deeply involved in the software industry's evolving landscape. He recounts, "I was in the software business before it was even called the software business." Working for one of the

world's largest software companies at that time, he gained valuable experience in accounting and manufacturing and developed a profound appreciation for both technology and business.

A pivotal moment came when he ventured into Silicon Valley to collaborate with none other than Steve Jobs. "When I moved to Silicon Valley to work with Steve Jobs, I learned more about deep technology that allows you to build software," Weiss recalls. This experience provided him with a comprehensive understanding of the intricate workings behind the technology that drives innovation, laying a solid foundation for his future endeavors.

Transitioning into leadership roles, Weiss went on to helm four public and private software companies as CEO, all of which were

Warren Weiss

MANAGING PARTNER AT WESTWAVE CAPITAL

Damon Lewis CFO

Gaurav Manglik GENERAL PARTNER

At WestWave Capital, Weiss and his team are driven by a singular goal to become the foremost microVC firm in the industry

venture-backed. Through these experiences, he developed a keen interest in the world of venture capital. "I became intrigued with what venture people do for a living, with my own personal interaction while I was running these companies," he shares.

Despite initially uncertain about pursuing a career in VC, Weiss found himself drawn into the

fold when approached by Foundation Capital. Recognizing the value of experienced operating executives like himself, the firm offered training in investing in startup companies within the deep technology enterprise market. "It was fortunate that it was a great fit for me, and that’s how I launched my career in VC," Weiss reflects on this pivotal juncture.

At WestWave Capital, Weiss and his team are driven by a singular goal—to become the foremost micro-VC firm in the industry. Specializing in seed and pre-seed investments within the enterprise sector, they leverage their collective experience as former operating executives with strong tech backgrounds. "Our goal is to be the #1 micro-VC," Weiss asserts.

Central to their investment philosophy is the belief that building a great company starts with a great product. "We believe that the way to build a great company is to have a great product. That’s where we start," Weiss emphasizes. Assessing factors such as market potential, the team's ability to deliver, and core competencies in company management are paramount considerations in their investment decisions.

Furthermore, Weiss emphasizes the importance of evaluating the founder's potential

Rohan Puranik PARTNER

to lead the company effectively. "We have to think strongly about whether or not the founder can be a CEO of the company, short or long term," he explains. Ultimately, the aim is to generate substantial returns on investment. "For every dollar we invest, how do we make 10 times our money," Weiss outlines, underscoring the overarching principles guiding their investment strategies.

Unlocking Potential: The WestWave Approach

At WestWave Capital, the mission is clear: to invest in exceptional entrepreneurs and companies. Weiss emphasizes this core principle: "It’s as simple as that." Yet, he acknowledges the inherent challenges and risks associated with their endeavors. "We spend a lot of time thinking about how to help our

Rong Cao PARTNER

At WestWave Capital, the mission is clear: to invest in exceptional entrepreneurs and companies

entrepreneurs and companies’ de-risk," Weiss explains. This involves pivotal decisions such as strategic hiring, product launches, acquiring early customers, forging beneficial partnerships, facilitating fundraising efforts, and devising longterm execution plans—be it through acquisitions or initial public offerings.

But what specific criteria guide WestWave's investment decisions? Weiss outlines key factors: a sizable market opportunity coupled with a stellar founding team. Additionally, the ability to develop unique intellectual property is paramount. "A company that can build unique intellectual property around their product," Weiss underscores. Moreover, Weiss emphasizes the importance of profitability, citing a minimum target of a 70% gross margin. Coupled with robust growth— ideally exceeding 100% in the early stages— such companies possess the potential to achieve remarkable valuation multiples, ranging from 10 to 50 times revenue.

Despite being a relatively young firm, WestWave has already achieved notable successes within the cybersecurity space. Weiss reflects on their "Shift Left" thesis, focusing on integrating security measures early in the development cycle. "We’ve had several security companies that met our thesis around what we call 'Shift Left,'" he shares. Among these successes is Accurics, an investment by Weiss's partner Gaurav, which was later acquired by Tenable with an impressive 8x return. Similarly, Tugboat Logic, a company Weiss personally invested in, found success in automating compliance processes and was acquired by One Trust. Weiss attributes their achievements to exemplary leadership, strong team-building efforts, and a relentless pursuit of product-market fit.

"Investing in early-stage CEOs who prioritize team building, culture development, and achieving

product-market fit is crucial," Weiss emphasizes. This approach enables young companies to streamline operations, accelerate growth, and establish robust metrics essential for sustaining success in the competitive SaaS landscape.

Navigating Growth

In the world of venture capital, financial investment is merely the tip of the iceberg. Weiss says, "The financial investment is the easiest part of being in the VC business."

Beyond capital infusion, WestWave is deeply committed to nurturing the growth and success of their portfolio companies. "We provide comprehensive support, ranging from coaching and product strategy to facilitating customer introductions and identifying channel partners," Weiss explains. Central to their approach is the cultivation of an experienced executive team.

"We help hire experienced board members that can mentor and tutor many first-time CEOs and other executives on the team," Weiss elaborates. Leveraging their extensive network, WestWave connects portfolio companies with invaluable resources and opportunities for growth.

Reflecting on pivotal moments, Weiss highlights the significance of CEO transitions in shaping a company's trajectory. "Without naming specific companies, we’ve had to go through many CEO changes," he shares. "Having the right CEO makes all the difference in the outcome." Indeed, Weiss emphasizes that hiring the right CEO and assembling a strong executive team are among the most critical aspects of their investment strategy. Equally important is securing co-investors who bring industry expertise and contribute to a robust board. "It is also important to get great coinvestors that understand the industry and will

be great board members, so that the management team and board are strong together to build a great company," Weiss notes.

Moreover, WestWave actively facilitates strategic partnerships, leveraging personal relationships to drive half of the acquisitions their portfolio companies have secured in the past year. Weiss underscores the importance of such partnerships, particularly for young companies navigating the competitive landscape. Recognizing the challenges inherent in the startup journey, WestWave guides companies struggling to find product-market fit. "We’ve advised companies when they don’t find product-market fit, but they have good technology, to sell the company early versus raise money," Weiss explains. This proactive approach aims to mitigate risks and maximize potential outcomes for all stakeholders involved.

Furthermore, Weiss remains deeply involved with portfolio companies, often serving on boards for extended periods. "I have also stayed on many boards that were public for a long time, to help them with the rest of their journey and eventually hire outside board members to take my place," he shares. This commitment underscores WestWave's dedication to longterm partnership and support, ensuring sustained success beyond the initial investment phase.

Forging Futures with a Thesis-Driven Approach

At WestWave Capital, a thesis-driven approach shapes their investment strategy across various sectors, including security, analytics, SaaS, cloud infrastructure, and edge computing. Weiss elaborates, "We’re a thesis-driven firm. So, we have many theses about areas such as security, analytics, SaaS, Cloud infrastructure, Edge Computing."

Leveraging their extensive network, WestWave connects portfolio companies with invaluable resources and opportunities for growth

One notable category within their investment thesis is Over the Horizon investing, where they explore emerging technologies with transformative potential. Weiss cites Robotics as a prime example, highlighting partner Rohan's expertise in the field. "In the early days of Robotics, it was mostly a hardwaretype product that was very expensive to build," Weiss explains. Their thesis revolves around leveraging standard industry off-the-shelf parts to enhance robot functionality, focusing on value-added components like artificial intelligence and SaaS applications.

An example of this approach is seen in the agricultural sector, where a WestWave portfolio company developed a robot capable of picking various fruits and vegetables in vertical greenhouses. "What we liked about that, was that it allowed the robot to pick multiple types

of fruits and vegetables, and the humans being much more productive," Weiss remarks.

Another success story lies in Andromeda Surgical, where Rohan's investment led to the development of a cost-effective robot for prostate surgery. "They are building a robot to do prostate surgery," Weiss shares. Utilizing AI and off-the-shelf components, Andromeda Surgical offers a more efficient and affordable alternative to traditional robotic surgery systems.

Emphasizing their preference for businesses with high gross margins and recurring revenue, Weiss underscores the significance of investing in industries poised for exponential growth. "Many industries are currently part of an evolving stack that allows companies to build next-generation applications," he notes. WestWave's focus on Security, Analytics, SaaS, Cloud infrastructure, and Edge computing reflects their commitment

to capitalizing on high-growth opportunities with proven outcomes.

Moreover, Weiss sheds light on their exploration of Over the Horizon categories such as Robotics, Quantum computing, Space technology, and ARVR interfaces. While investments in these areas may be smaller initially, they are guided by a commitment to staying at the forefront of technological innovation and adapting their investment strategy accordingly.

Insights from the Venture Landscape

Within the venture industry, Weiss identifies key challenges that entrepreneurs and investors alike must confront. "Some of the biggest challenges facing the venture industry are:

Do we have the right leader as the CEO to run the company, and, do we have enough cash to

execute on the plan we have in place over a couple of years," Weiss remarks.

Indeed, financial stability and leadership prowess are pivotal determinants of a company's success. Weiss emphasizes the importance of prudent financial planning, noting that many entrepreneurs underestimate the capital required to sustain growth. "Many entrepreneurs underestimate the amount of cash, what it’s going to take to get there," he explains. WestWave works diligently to ensure financial visibility for at least two years ahead, mitigating the risk of cash shortages that could derail a company's trajectory.

Navigating the venture landscape requires foresight and adaptability. Weiss acknowledges the dynamic nature of the industry, characterized by fluctuations in the number of venture capital firms. "It’s always hard to predict the venture

landscape. That’s one of the fun and exciting things about it," Weiss reflects. While the current era presents unprecedented opportunities for venture capitalists, Weiss urges entrepreneurs to exercise diligence in selecting partners. "I think it’s very important for entrepreneurs to really check out the venture firms and the partner they take money from," he advises.

Looking towards the future, Weiss envisions transformative changes driven by technological innovation. "The world is in for massive changes in how everything operates at every level of our society," he predicts. While acknowledging the potential risks associated with advancing technologies such as AI, Weiss remains optimistic about the positive impact of technology on society. "I believe technology could play the most critical role in doing good for society," he asserts, highlighting the potential for technological advancements to enhance various aspects of human life.

In confronting the challenges and embracing the opportunities presented by the venture landscape, Weiss and WestWave Capital remain steadfast in their commitment to fostering innovation and driving positive societal change through strategic investment and collaboration.

Empowering Progress

At WestWave Capital, Weiss highlights the transformative impact of their investments on productivity and sustainability. "Many of the investments that we make help with productivity," Weiss emphasizes. A core focus of WestWave's investment strategy is digitizing traditional industries, ushering in a new era of efficiency and innovation. "Anything

that was being done with old systems, use paperwork and that weren’t digitized," Weiss explains. By leveraging cuttingedge technologies, WestWave facilitates the transition to digital solutions in trillion-dollar industries, significantly enhancing productivity and sustainability.

Moreover, Weiss underscores the critical role of cybersecurity in today's increasingly interconnected world. "We live in a very dangerous world from a Cyber security standpoint," he remarks. WestWave's investments in software companies aim to bolster security measures, safeguarding businesses and individuals against evolving cyber threats.

In tandem with advancements in cybersecurity, WestWave prioritizes investments in artificial intelligence (AI) technologies that enhance operational efficiency. "With AI, we try to invest in companies that help companies run more efficiently," Weiss elaborates. Contrary to concerns about job displacement, Weiss emphasizes the augmentative role of AI in empowering individuals to focus on higher-value tasks.

Reflecting on his career, Weiss cites Silver Spring Networks as a notable example of a successful investment in sustainabilityfocused companies. "Probably the most advanced one was Silver Spring Networks that led the world’s largest electric grid to connect customers and businesses to utilities using the internet," he shares. This innovative solution not only optimized energy distribution but also yielded substantial cost savings and enhanced safety and security measures.

The Importance of People and Integrity

For Weiss, the paramount importance of people has been a guiding principle throughout his career. "Probably the most important thing that shaped my life, and that I learned very early on, is that people are the key," Weiss reflects. Drawing from his formative experiences, Weiss emphasizes the significance of surrounding oneself with exceptional individuals. "I always try to get the best people to run these companies, as well as all positions of the company," he shares. This collaborative ethos extends beyond individual investments, with Weiss emphasizing the importance of teamwork within the partnership to ensure the success of portfolio companies.

Leading by example is another cornerstone of Weiss's leadership philosophy. "Leading by example. That’s the most important thing

a leader could do," he asserts. Upholding honesty, integrity, and a commitment to doing the right thing are fundamental tenets of Weiss's leadership approach. In a small firm like WestWave, fostering a culture of transparency and mutual support is essential for collective growth and mentorship. Continuous learning and adaptability are also essential traits in the fast-paced venture industry. "You must constantly evolve and prove yourself in the venture business," Weiss notes. Intellectual curiosity, he believes, is a prerequisite for success in an environment where change is constant and rapid.

WestWave's Vision for the Future

The journey of witnessing entrepreneurs achieve financial success and deliver impactful products to the market is deeply rewarding for Weiss.

At WestWave Capital, a thesis-driven approach shapes their investment strategy across various sectors, including security, analytics, SaaS, cloud infrastructure, and edge computing

In tandem with advancements in cybersecurity, WestWave prioritizes investments in artificial intelligence (AI) technologies that enhance operational efficiency

"If a company does get the opportunity to go public, and you see entrepreneurs achieve financial freedom, the privilege of being in the best capitalist market in the world, in the United States, delivering world-changing products to customers that improve their lives and their customer’s lives, as well as increase profit, is really a thrill," Weiss reflects. Indeed, the prospect of guiding portfolio companies towards success, whether through an IPO or other avenues, fuels Weiss's dedication to venture capital. "That’s the most rewarding thing I’ve been involved in my whole career," he acknowledges. While the journey to success in venture capital can be lengthy, spanning a decade or more, Weiss finds fulfillment in the opportunity to support entrepreneurs as they realize their dreams of building successful companies.

Looking ahead, Weiss remains committed to WestWave Capital's long-term vision and aspirations. "Our aspirations are the same today as hopefully they will be 10 years from now," Weiss affirms. Central to their mission is the pursuit of excellence in the realm of Enterprise Deep Technology, with a focus on investments in the sub $100 million fund size.

WestWave Capital will continue to grow and progress while maintaining Weiss's steadfast commitment to supporting entrepreneurs, fostering innovation, and driving positive societal impact. With dedication, strategic vision, and a collaborative spirit, WestWave Capital is well-positioned to navigate the complexities of the venture landscape and make enduring contributions to the world of technology and business.

A Driving Force Behind Low-Energy Building Solutions

Jack Laken, CEO, TermoBuild & Advisor, AdvisoryCloud

From your experience, what do you believe sustainable design is? What does it aim to accomplish?

By designing and building systems that not only conserve energy but also actively share it, we're creating a blueprint for a future where buildings are not just structures, but active participants in a cleaner, more efficient urban landscape.

TermoBuild represents a paradigm shift from linear wasteful building designs in the pursuit of today’s energy-efficient buildings.

Our approach "Do more with less," goes beyond conventional practices to fill the gap in the market. It is aiming to expand building and energy grid performance while enhancing the management and outcomes of today's specified materials and operational reliability and reduced run to failure risks. The outcomes of this innovative balanced energy supply and demand approach speak for themselves. At the heart of our vision is a silent revolution in the form of rechargeable buildings, safety and indoor wellness as new standard.

Effective façade design should be integral to the broader objectives of sustainable building outcomes, moving beyond mere comparisons of individual commodities

Jack Laken, P.Eng. B.Sc., is a Professional Engineer and President of TermoBuild Canada, specializing in filling the gap in global decarbonization through integrated building solutions. With over 30 years of North American and International experience, Jack has been a driving force behind lowenergy building solutions, rated as the best in Canada, India and recently in the USA. His passion lies in connecting existing products to create new value edge, particularly within the realm of Smart City intelligent buildings. Proven track record of "doing more with less," a philosophy set to propel the decarbonization of many buildings into the climate-smart category. Recently, in an exclusive interview with CXO Outlook Magazine, Jack shared his insights on the importance of sustainable design, the inspiration behind establishing TermoBuild, the new technologies that can be used to help increase energy efficiency, future plans, and much more. The following excerpts are taken from the interview.

This validated approach, encapsulated by the mantra "Do more with less," stands in stark contrast to imposed solutions. Sustainable design, for us, is a holistic concept that aims to accomplish more than just minimizing energy consumption. It encompasses a broader vision that includes indoor wellness, elevated comfort, and safety. We believe that a sustainable building should seamlessly integrate with the Smart City Energy Grid, contributing not only to environmental conservation but also to the overall wellbeing of its occupants.

At TermoBuild, our commitment goes beyond meeting standard sustainability benchmarks; we aspire to untangle the intricacies that often impede the progress of climate-conscious initiatives in the realm of buildings. By doing so, we strive to redefine sustainable design, ensuring that it not only meets environmental standards but also enhances the quality of life for those who inhabit these spaces.

What are the strategies to manage

energy and other resources consumption through effective design of façades to attain net-zero building?

Effective façade design should be integral to the broader objectives of sustainable building outcomes, moving beyond mere comparisons of individual commodities. At TermoBuild, we approach this challenge differently, seeing it as an opportunity to create integrated solutions that extend beyond the façade and in fact improves its specified performance. One key strategy involves harnessing the historically passive properties of concrete

floors, transforming them into year-round rechargeable thermal batteries. It begins with

One Floor – 5 Systems - is an innovative approach not only reduces stress on the building envelope, creates carbon negative assembly and significantly impacts the overall desired outcomes. By activating passive concrete as a climate-smart asset, buildings have the energy potential to become carbon-negative in operational mode as well. For instance, a Climate Smart Floor, seamlessly linked with any heating/cooling system, can replace up to five stand-alone, costly, and eliminate carbonintensive mechanical systems.

The question we asked ourselves was: Can we create super-performing buildings that cost no more than conventional construction? The answer is yes, and TermoBuild achieves this through two key principles:

Thermal Energy Storage and Distribution:

TermoBuild creates a distinctive form of nondisposable thermal energy storage and distribution using conventional building materials, by actively managing thermal properties of concrete linked with noticeably reduced HVAC systems.

Mechanical Systems Simplification:

TermoBuild's technology consolidates five mechanical systems into one, utilizing standard HVAC equipment. This simplification results in significant cost savings, for example, a 100,000 square foot building can save up to $3.0 million in avoided costs.

The combination of using standard building materials and optimized mechanical plant requirements positions TermoBuild as a

pioneer in supercharged buildings, delivering elevated performance edge at a cost no higher than conventional construction.

What was the inspiration behind establishing TermoBuild? What sets it apart from other market competitors?

TermoBuild mindset “do more with less” with purpose and passion using clients’ preferences sets us apart from market competitors in our commitment to filling the gaps that the Business as Usual (BAU) approach. We understand that true innovation lies in reducing reliance on large heating and cooling systems as it's not usually done. This appeals to hearts and minds by helping them understand that reimagining the entire process reduces costs and risks using their preferences.

Our inspiration for establishing TermoBuild stemmed from the lessons learned globally from wasteful conventional building designs and construction. It recognizes the need for

meaningful integration by engaging concrete into climate smart floor kit that eliminates the need for many energy saving systems.

Our focus goes beyond mere efficiency; it extends to optimizing sustainability and enhancing the overall user wellness experience edge. TermoBuild's integrated building solutions are not just about meeting industry standards but about setting new benchmarks for excellence in construction, ensuring that every aspect of the process contributes to a more efficient, ecofriendly, and user-centric built environment.

The inspiration behind founding TermoBuild stems from our extensive experience in conventional building construction. Having immersed ourselves in the intricacies of traditional methods, we recognized the need for a paradigm shift towards integrated building solutions. Our value-added journey was fueled by the lessons learned from the limitations of the Business as Usual (BAU) approach prevalent in the building industry.

Our value-added journey was fueled by the lessons learned from the limitations of the Business as Usual (BAU) approach prevalent in the building industry

We believe in the immediate viability and value of sustainable practices, and the growing awareness in the market is a positive indicator that the shift towards sustainability is gaining momentum

Through meticulous research and development, we discovered that a significant number of equipment can be reduced or eliminated without compromising the quality of construction. This revelation not only contributes to the immediate improvement of our daily lives but also aligns with our dedication to cost effective reduction of carbon footprints. TermoBuild is not just a validated construction solution in demand today; it's a testament to our commitment to building a more sustainable and eco-friendly future edge from the start.

You are also an Advisor at AdvisoryCloud. Can you please tell us about this platform and your role in it?

I have been associated with AdvisoryCloud since its initial unveiling. AdvisoryCloud is a platform that evolves and connects experienced advisors with organizations seeking strategic guidance.

Looking ahead to the New Year, we are planning to leverage our broader strategy. Specifically, we intend to incorporate AdvisoryCloud into our Playbook and Guide for decision makers to Maximize ROI on Sustainability. This playbook will serve as a cost effective and easy to implement road map for businesses and individuals looking to enhance their initiatives and navigate the complexities of integrating sustainable practices into their operations.

On a different note, the sustainability initiatives also tie into my role at TermoBuild. For instance, our year-round indoor wellness is a part of a larger effort to optimize building system decarbonization. Built in thermal energy storage adds safety and significantly reduces reliance on traditional air conditioning systems by tapping into free and natural energy sources such as night sky cooling. This approach is often overlooked

in conventional building systems, leading to the incorporation of more heating equipment than necessary for comfort. TermoBuild, on the other hand, takes full advantage of these natural resources, minimizing mechanical equipment, and consequently reducing both capital costs and ongoing energy bills. The synergy between nature connected buildings and TermoBuild allows for a holistic daily approach to sustainable practices and business strategy.

How do you feel sustainability is progressing in the market and among professionals?

Linear approach to building design that begins with green and yet wasteful design choices unintentionally contributing to greenhouse gas emissions, climate change, natural resource depletion due to excessive waste, pollution of air, energy, water, and soil.

Not many are aware of the cost-effective precision engineered sustainability solutions that exist in the market today. Significant opportunity available for decisionmakers to act now rather than wait for government incentives to make them attractive. TermoBuild's Climate Smart solution is a testament to this perspective as it doesn't solely rely on government incentives to be cost-effective. We believe in the immediate viability and value of sustainable practices, and the growing awareness in the market is a positive indicator that the shift towards sustainability is gaining momentum.

How has sustainable value add design and build come to be at the heart of TermoBuild’s practice?

Filling the gap with conventional “business as usual” (bau) approach warms the heart of

investors and customers in more than one way. Our Climate Smart buildings turn out to be the cornerstone of TermoBuild's practice of “do more with less”. It has uncovered instantly rewarding climate transition opportunities that often go unnoticed in mainstream designs. Embracing a systemic approach to building solutions, we recognized the potential for synergy by fusing Heating/Cooling Systems with thermally managed concrete floors.

This innovative integration is not merely an add-on but a strategic move to maximize investments appeal edge in Climate Smart buildings and scale sustainable development. By reimagining the relationship between heating and cooling systems and thermally charged concrete structures, we unlock opportunities for financial and environmental viability from the start. This newly created fusion not only reduces the perceived risks associated with the net-zero transition but transforms them into profitable opportunities.

What are future technologies that could save significant energy in buildings?

Connecting the dots between the Energy Grid with Thermally Charged Buildings, ushering in a new era of transformational climate smart innovation. The concept of energy sharing is not just a technological advancement but a cultural shift towards a more sustainable and interconnected community.

This concept revolves around creating clusters of energy-sharing buildings seamlessly integrated with the utility-scale energy grid. Expanding the energy grid capacity is a crucial step towards unlocking the full potential of power supply and demand. TermoBuild advocates for a comprehensive approach,

leveraging beyond-the-meter cloud-based energy management systems to financially enhance the process of decarbonization. This innovative strategy edge offers a cost-effective solution for reliably improving supply and demand capacity, particularly during winter or summer peaks.

By integrating cloud-based energy management, TermoBuild seeks to optimize the utilization of electric buildings within the broader energy grid. This approach goes beyond traditional methods, allowing for realtime monitoring, analysis, and adjustment of energy consumption patterns. The cloud-based system facilitates a dynamic response to the ever-changing demands on the grid, ensuring efficient and sustainable energy usage.

Financially enhancing decarbonization becomes achievable through this approach contributes to the overall stability and resilience of the energy grid. By synchronizing power supply and demand in a smart and responsive manner, TermoBuild's strategy aims to create a more sustainable, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly energy ecosystem for all-electric buildings.

By harnessing typically dormant thermal capacity of the buildings, we significantly reduce the need for traditional energy sources as well as Solar PV or Wind. Instead, we tap into the untapped nighttime free ambient cooling capacity or idle power stations energy.

Validated building cases within the TermoBuild framework have consistently demonstrated benefit-cost ratios edge greater than one. This not only underscores the economic viability of our solution but also positions TermoBuild as a trailblazer in the

quest for sustainable and energy-efficient building technologies for the future.

What are some of your passions outside of work? What do you like to do in your time off?

Cycling, hiking and chess help in both physical fitness and mental wellbeing.

Tell us about your future plans. Where do you see yourself in the next 5 years? The idea of our new standard of energy sharing between buildings represents more than just a technological breakthrough; it signifies elevated indoor wellness, safety, resilience and social low carbon shift toward a sustainable interconnected community edge.

In the next 5 years, we envision TermoBuild continuing to play a pivotal role in the journey towards net-zero and sustainable construction practices. With TermoBuild new standard we are committed to addressing significant decarbonization challenges faced by investors, architects, capital project managers, and engineers, especially in the early planning stages of a project.

As #investors, #architects, #HVAC #engineers and #facilitiespanning professionals, together we hold a distinctive opportunity to spearhead the practical journey toward zero-carbon buildings from the start. It allows us to immediately set the stage for a climate smart future where buildings evolve from mere structures to dynamic contributors in a cleaner, healthier and more efficient urban landscape.

Our future plans involve actively contributing to the transition towards more sustainable and energy-efficient building

The idea of our new standard of energy sharing between buildings represents more than just a technological breakthrough; it signifies elevated indoor wellness, safety, resilience and social low carbon shift toward a sustainable interconnected community edge

solutions. We aim to be at the forefront of innovation, providing leading-edge multitasking building capabilities. As part of this journey, we encourage interested parties to reach out for a free assessment to see firsthand what drives positive change in shaping the future of sustainable construction.

Going forward, what is needed to move the mainstream toward sustainable buildings?

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To accelerate the adoption of sustainable buildings, it's essential for decision-makers to capture what truly matters to them. Our solutions directly address some of the most pressing climate questions, providing a pathway for individuals and organizations to contribute meaningfully to a more sustainable future.

We invite everyone to be a part of Climate Smart Buildings with purpose and passion at the edge of innovation. By collectively embracing sustainable practices, we can shape a built environment that aligns with both environmental responsibility and economic viability.

Helping Businesses Conceive & Design New Ways of Adding Value to their Economic Offerings

Joseph Pine, Co-founder, Strategic Horizons LLP, Speaker, Management Advisor, & Author

Joseph, can you please share your background and areas of interest?

I have a technology background, having worked at IBM for 13 years in technical, managerial, and strategy positions. I also have a Master of Science degree in Management of Technology from MIT, and I took my thesis there and turned it into my first book,

Mass Customization, about efficiently serving customers uniquely. After I left IBM to found Strategic Horizons I discovered the Experience Economy – where goods and services are no longer enough, and what customers want today are experiences. I wrote my second book on that subject with my partner Jim Gilmore, which we updated and re-released in 2020 with the

B. Joseph Pine II is an internationally acclaimed author, speaker, and management advisor. Joe has addressed the World Economic Forum in Davos, the original TED conference in California, and the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas. A Lecturer in Columbia University’s Technology Management program, he co-founded Strategic Horizons LLP to help businesses conceive and design new ways of adding value to their economic offerings. A prolific writer, Joe is most famous for his 1999 book The Experience Economy, which was updated in 2011 and re-released in hardcover in 2020 with new ideas on Competing for Customer Time, Attention, and Money. Recently, in an exclusive interview with CXO Outlook Magazine, Joseph shared his professional trajectory, the inspiration behind establishing Strategic Horizons LLP, the key takeaways from his latest book, personal role model, significant career milestone, future plans, pearls of wisdom, and much more. The following excerpts are taken from the interview.

Goods and services are everywhere being commoditized, and so companies need to shift up what I call the Progression of Economic Value to staging experiences for their customers

new subtitle Competing for Customer Time, Attention, and Money. I’ve also coauthored Authenticity: What Consumers Really Want and Infinite Possibility: Creating Customer Value on the Digital Frontier.

So, my area of interest is helping companies create greater economic value! My purpose in business is to develop frameworks that first describe what is going on in the world of

business and then prescribe what companies can do about it.

What was the inspiration behind establishing Strategic Horizons LLP? What sets it apart from other market competitors?

Jim and I founded it with our Managing Partner, Doug Parker, to create a different kind of firm

that didn’t do normal consulting projects, but rather inspired, educated, and guided companies in thinking differently about their business. We call it a thinking studio for helping enterprises conceive and design new ways of adding value to their economic offerings.

You are a Strategic Thought Leader at Stone Mantel. Can you please tell us about this firm and your role in it?

Dave Norton, the founder of Stone Mantel, and I have worked together for 25 years in helping companies design and implement experience innovations that enhance the value they create for customers. Dave and our colleagues there are amazing at discovering insights directly from consumers and then seeing how they can impact clients. For a number of years, we’ve worked together on a yearlong journey called The Collaborative where clients pool their resources to gain a huge amount of qualitative and quantitative data that we help them interpret and use to create specific experience innovations –and increasingly not just memorable but meaningful and transformative experiences.

Please share the main takeaways from your book, ‘The Experience Economy: Competing for Customer Time, Attention, and Money’. Executives need to understand what business they truly are in – or should be in. Goods and services are everywhere being commoditized, and so companies need to shift up what I call the Progression of Economic Value to staging experiences for their customers. It’s crucial to understand that experiences are a distinct economic offering, as distinct from services as services are from goods. Experiences use goods as props and services as the stage to engage each individual in an inherently personal way – creating the memory that is the hallmark of the experience.

And because we now live in an Experience Economy, companies compete against every other company for the time, attention, and money of individual customers; these are the currencies of the Experience Economy. So, if you want to earn the money customers spend – whether they be consumers or businesses – you have to grab their attention with the experience you stage and get them to want to spend time with you in that experience.

With clients a key challenge is getting them to understand the need to change, to light a fire under them so they viscerally understand that need and then I can help guide them in the right direction

Goods and services offer time well saved; experiences are about time well spent, that customers value the time they spend with you.

And there’s one more economic offering companies need to understand, where you use experiences as the raw material to guide people to change, to achieve their aspirations. This final economic offering is a transformation, where you guide customers in becoming who they want to become. Any business that is in the business of helping people become healthy, wealthy, or wise is in the transformation business, which offers not just time well spent but time well invested.

Every summer you teach the course "Creating Value in the Experience Economy" to master’s students from around the world in first Columbia University's Technology Management program and now at Northeastern University. Can you please brief us about this program and its relevance in today’s rapidly evolving business landscape?

This program is based on the work I do with clients in helping them understand the shift from goods & services to experiences & transformations through our Experience Economy Expert Certification program. It gets them to understand the big picture, and then determine how they can design & depict enhanced or new economic offerings that enables them to stage experiences that are robust, cohesive, personal, dramatic, and even transformative. In the course I also share ideas, principles, and frameworks from my work on authenticity as well as using digital technology to fuse the real and the virtual – both very important in a world

where “authenticity” was proclaimed the 2023 Word of the Year by Merriam-Webster and where digital technology, including the arrival of generative AI, is infusing our lives.

In what ways have you found it effective for sharing ideas with others and inspiring change?

It depends on the client and where they are at in their journey to create economic value for their customers. Sometimes they desire just a speech to learn of the possibilities and inspire them to seek out new opportunities, but even then, I have to practice what I preach and make sure it is an experience unto itself, often including interactions so participants can wrestle with the issues.

With many others I conduct workshops so they can fully understand my ideas, principles, and frameworks, and develop their own ideas for what their businesses can do differently. One of the things I love to do is preceding workshops with an Experience Expedition, taking the client to an experience hub city such as New York, Chicago, Las Vegas, London, or Amsterdam. That lets them experience some of the best places in the world for themselves (as well as a few of the worst) and develop their own principles for what creates great experiences.

I mentioned earlier our Experience Economy Expert Certification program, which we offer physically or virtually, publicly or privately for individual corporations, and even one-on-one. It enables each newly minted Certified Expert to internalize our frameworks and be able to apply them in their own businesses or with their clients.

In your current role, what kind of challenges do you face and how do you overcome them?

Like everyone, I struggle with time, the time to do everything I’d like to do along with what others desire of me. One of my methods of handling it is the only time I do a to-do list is in periods of great time stress to ensure what absolutely must get done does get done, and as for everything else, if I don’t remember it and fail to do it, then how important was it really?

With clients a key challenge is getting them to understand the need to change, to light a fire under them so they viscerally understand that need and then I can help guide them in the right direction. So every one of my core frameworks has a “bogeyman” to threaten them with. With the need to go beyond goods & services to experiences & transformations, for example, the bogeyman is commoditization. If they do not make the shift, they will eventually fall to the forces of commoditization and become an undifferentiated commodity.

It’s not enough to have great ideas, if you want to see them implemented you have to get others to see what you do, and that requires great writing and presenting

Can you name a person who has had a tremendous impact on you as a leader? Maybe someone who has been a mentor to you? Why and how did this person impact your life?

I would have to say the late Stan Davis, who was my intellectual idol. When I was a strategic planner at IBM, I read his amazing 1987 book Future Perfect, which is as applicable today as when he wrote it. Stan coined the term Mass Customization, which I then worked to get into our plans & strategies

at IBM, and then chose as my thesis and topic of my first book. Stan was kind enough to write the foreword to Mass Customization, after which we met and became friends. He continued to inspire me with his thoughts and his way of thinking and how he worked with clients, who often paid him just to think and write! In fact, another chapter in Future Perfect also inspired the model core to my book Infinite Possibility.

Which one of your accomplishments makes you the proudest to date?

Wow. I guess I would have to say it was discovering the Experience Economy way back in late 1993 or early 1994. It was Providence, as one day with a client I blurted out how mass customizing a service would turn it into an experience, and realized that it was true –if you design a service so appropriate for a particular person, exactly the service that was needed at that point in time, then you couldn’t help but make the client go “Wow!” and turn it into a memorable event, an experience.

That meant that experiences were a distinct economic offering, and if that were true there would be an economy based on experiences that would succeed the Service Economy as it supplanted the Industrial Economy, which superseded the Agrarian Economy. And now that idea has come to pass, and through our book and work on it has changed and created hundreds, thousands of companies who were inspired by the concept.

How do you unplug and step away from work?

It’s a hard thing to do when I’ve worked out of my home for over 30 years now, and

when I go out to experience anything I can’t help but analyze it at the same time. The exceptions are what I like to call my two vices: golf and cigars. And they go so well together! I also spend a lot of time studying and teaching in theology and apologetics and hope to write on those subjects one day as well.

What is your biggest goal? Where do you see yourself in 5 years from now?

Well, one thing you won’t see me doing is retiring! I although I might change the ratio of work to golf over time…. I plan on continuing to pursue my purpose in business that I mentioned earlier, and to that end I am just starting a new book on the Transformation Economy that will one day surpass the Experience Economy. And I think I have another business book or two in me, as I also continue to work with clients on seeing the world of business differently.

One piece of advice you would like to give to aspiring professionals in your industry.

Learn how to communicate your ideas. It’s not enough to have great ideas, if you want to see them implemented you have to get others to see what you do, and that requires great writing and presenting. I learned that early on in my IBM days, and in my case, it led to a career in writing, speaking, and advising. But even absent that possibility, being able to communicate effectively, to inspire and lead, should be top of mind for every professional.