CEO & Executive Thought Leadership

In this episode, Jennifer Kluge sits down with John Boyd, Executive Vice President and Founding Principal of Signature Associates. He shares how market knowledge, long-term relationships, and disciplined strategy helped grow Signature Associates from its early days into a full-service firm serving clients across North America, Europe, and Asia. This conversation offers valuable insights on leadership longevity, market evolution, and building teams that stand the test of time.

In this episode of CEO of Thought Leadership, Sandy Harvey explores the critical role civility plays in shaping strong workplace cultures and effective leadership. Drawing on her experience developing leaders and guiding organizations through change, Sandy shares how respect, trust, and intentional communication create environments where people can thrive—even during uncertainty. This conversation offers timely insights for leaders looking to build cultures rooted in dignity, accountability, and long-term success.

President and Founder Jean Bourgeois shares how she built Excelas from an idea to a nationally recognized medical-legal consulting firm. From navigating uncertainty and innovation to shaping an award-winning culture, Jean offers honest insight into leadership, resilience, and the power of doing meaningful work.

In this episode of CEO Thought Leadership, Jennifer Kluge speaks with Steve Grieco, CEO of MedeAnalytics, about how data, AI, and modern technology are revolutionizing healthcare. Steve shares how he transformed MedeAnalytics through modernization, team building, and a people-first culture. Hear insights on the future of AI in healthcare, controlling rising costs, and the leadership lessons that shaped his journey.

Siding Unlimited and Outdoor Living Unlimited, a thriving second-generation family business rooted in hard work, passion, and trust. Aaron and Eric Brown share how they’ve expanded their father’s legacy into two award-winning companies—balancing innovation, marketing growth, and leadership while staying true to their core values. They discuss the realities of entrepreneurship, navigating tough economic times, managing family dynamics, and the lessons learned from building a business that’s as people-focused as it is successful.

In this episode, Jennifer Kluge sits down with Adam and Alex Krenke, Co-CEOs of Quest CE, to explore what it takes to lead a thriving second-generation family business. The Krenkes share their journey from working summer jobs in a seven-person company to leading a 50-person national operation specializing in compliance and continuing education for financial institutions.They discuss how trust, communication, and complementary strengths make their co-leadership work, along with the lessons they’ve learned from their parents’ entrepreneurial legacy. The conversation covers everything from adapting to hybrid work and leveraging AI, to protecting company culture and fostering employee longevity.Adam and Alex also open up about family life, daily rituals, and the advice they’d give the next generation—reminding listeners that leadership is as much about people as it is about performance.

Jennifer Kluge sits down with Scott Sylvester, President and CEO of Consumers Credit Union, to discuss how innovation, culture, and people-first leadership fuel sustainable growth. From embracing AI and digital transformation to building an award-winning workplace culture, Scott shares insights on leading through change while staying rooted in community values.

In this episode of Executive Thought Leadership, host Jennifer Kluge sits down with Bhushan Kulkarni, Founder & CEO of GDI Infotech & InfoReady, to discuss how platform thinking, proactive technology adoption, and servant leadership drive scalable success. Bhushan shares hard-won lessons on entrepreneurship, cybersecurity threats, and the evolving role of AI in business and education. A candid, insightful conversation every modern leader should hear.

Denis Neville, CEO of CoreFX Ingredients, shares how he built an award-winning culture and rapidly scaled his company by blending science, wellness innovation, and disciplined leadership. From supply chain challenges to category creation, Denis opens up about entrepreneurship, mentorship, and the mindset required for sustainable success.

Dr. Richard Pappas, President of Davenport University, shares how bold innovation, accountability, and a student-first mission are reshaping higher education. From affordability and workforce readiness to AI, equity, and leadership wisdom—this conversation is a masterclass for purpose-driven change.

Todd Houghton, President of Homewatch CareGivers, joins CEO & Executive Thought Leadership to dive into the urgent challenges and exciting innovations reshaping the caregiving industry. With 90% of aging adults preferring to stay at home and a looming shortage of 2 million caregivers, Todd explains how his organization is meeting demand through strategic recruitment, caregiver training academies, and smart technology like ambient AI and virtual assistants.

In this episode, Innovia Wealth's Michael Berkemeier and Aaron Veldheer join host Jennifer Kluge to share how they built a thriving partnership, lead through uncertainty, and foster a values-driven culture. Hear how daily habits, emotional intelligence, and strategic risk-taking fuel long-term success—for their clients and their team.

In this episode of CEO and Executive Thought Leadership, host Jennifer Kluge interviews leadership expert Kim Boudreau Smith, discussing key aspects of effective leadership, including emotional intelligence, radical candor, and executive presence.

What happens after a successful career? In this episode of CEO and Executive Thought Leadership, Jennifer Kluge speaks with Mary Starr, former owner and executive of The Starr Group, about her journey of selling her business and transitioning into retirement. Mary shares insights on preparing for a sale, protecting company culture, and ensuring a smooth leadership transition. She also opens up about the emotional side of stepping away after 40 years, her passion for wellness, and how she’s embracing her next chapter. Tune in for invaluable advice on leadership, legacy, and life beyond business.

Jennifer Kluge sits down with Rob Dwortz of Become Unmistakable, to discuss creating exceptional organizational cultures and upskilling leadership teams. Rob explains how tools like uMap facilitate meaningful conversations between managers and employees, replacing outdated performance reviews with continuous feedback. He addresses modern leadership challenges, including generational shifts, skills gaps, while sharing inspiring success stories from companies excelling in culture and innovation. Rob also previews his upcoming book, Right Brain Justified.

Amelia Ellenstein discusses her journey from corporate leadership to a fulfilling off-grid life in Hawaii. She emphasizes aligning work with personal values, mindfulness, and creating meaningful achievements. Drawing from Hawaiian lei-making practices, she highlights the power of intention, ritual, and community in leadership. Amelia also shares lessons from endurance challenges, like setting a Guinness World Record, and how the mantra "not if, but how" fosters problem-solving and resilience. Her insights inspire leaders to blend productivity with purpose for balanced, impactful lives.

In this episode, Jennifer Kluge interviews Sam Brenner, founder and CEO of CRB Workforce, a 100% remote recruitment firm specializing in ed tech, entertainment, and more. Sam shares his entrepreneurial journey, core values like "Pressure is a Privilege," and his philosophy on hard work, leadership, and culture-building in a remote environment. Tune in to gain actionable advice on managing up, being decisive, and redefining success in today’s talent market.

In this insightful interview, Shilan Parham, CEO and President of Outliers Consulting Solutions, shares her inspiring journey from Iran to the United States. She discusses the importance of leadership, culture, and innovation in today's rapidly changing business landscape. Parham also provides valuable insights into the future of work, the impact of AI, and the essential role of human connection.

In this episode of CEO Thought Leadership, Jennifer Kluge sits down with Art Betancourt, the founder and CEO of AEBetancourt, a national professional placement and recruiting firm. They discuss the company's rapid growth, the challenges and rewards of entrepreneurship, and the importance of company culture and employee development. Betancourt also shares personal insights into his career journey and the factors that have contributed to his success.

In this episode, we sit down with Ken Lear, CEO of 2313 Inc., to explore the intricacies of the sales industry. Ken shares his expert insights on building strong customer relationships, essential sales strategies, and the pivotal role of effective communication. He also reflects on his journey to becoming a successful leader, offering valuable advice for aspiring sales professionals.

In this interview, Chris Auwarter of Evantage, Inc. talks with host Jennifer about finding success and happiness. Chris shares his journey from point guard to leader, emphasizing the importance of growth mindsets and making a positive impact. He also reveals the challenges and defining moments that shaped his career.

Jim Strack, Milwaukee's Enterprise Mobility leader, talks career, leadership, giving back, and technology adoption. He credits their success to a strong employee development culture. While Jim sees a future with adaptable technology, he emphasizes Enterprise's cautious approach, waiting for trends like electric vehicles to solidify.

Jennifer Kluge and Tania Van Herle, CEO of HED, discuss a shift in the architecture and engineering industry towards integrated practice and sustainable design. They touch on challenges faced by the industry, including disruptive technologies and staff burnout, and how HED approaches these challenges with a focus on company culture and employee well-being.

Wilbur Millhouse III, CEO of Millhouse Engineering and Construction, discusses his journey from basement startup to global success with host Jennifer Kluge. Highlighting company culture, philanthropy, and projects like the O'Hare Airport expansion and energy initiatives in Nigeria. Despite setbacks, Wilbur emphasizes resilience and continuous improvement.

In this illuminating interview, Bill Dwyer, CEO of Helping Hand, provides valuable perspectives on fostering an inclusive workplace environment for individuals with disabilities. From advocating patience and genuine communication to addressing the challenges faced by nonprofits, Bill shares practical strategies for effective leadership and employee engagement. His insights shed light on the importance of creating supportive cultures that embrace diversity and empower every employee to thrive.

Join Jennifer Kluge as she sits down with Rebecca Bray, President of Epitec. They'll delve into various aspects of Rebecca's career, leadership, and client connection insights. Epitec is a leading staffing provider in the United States specializing in IT engineering and professional staffing.

Join Jennifer Kluge as she sits down with David Foltyn, CEO and Chairman of Honigman LLP. Listen as they discuss Mergers and Acquisitions, Uncertainty in the Business Climate, DE&I, and AI and Law.

Join Jennifer Kluge as she sits down with Francy Lucido, Co-Founder and President of Michigan Staffing. Listen as they discuss the ongoing battle for talent and the determination required to build a thriving business.

Join Jennifer Kluge as she sits down with Charles Johnson, Executive Manager & CEO at Detroit Athletic Club. Listen as they discuss the unique culture of the hospitality industry as a historic facility.

Join Jennifer Kluge as she sits down with Ryan Maibach, President and CEO of Barton Malow. As a 4th generational leader, Ryan shares a unique and fun ritual they practice to celebrate their employees.

Join Jennifer Kluge as she sits down with Ron Daugherty, President and CEO of Daugherty Business Solutions, one of the highest scoring companies in the Best and Brightest Companies to Work For in the Nation program. Ron shares how he’s building more diversity in the technology space with their Access Point program.

Join Jennifer Kluge as she sits down with Amy Bielski, President and CEO of Ripple Effect. Amy shares the importance of employee flexibility and culture in order to create operational excellence.

Join Jennifer Kluge as she sits down with Laura Nador, President of CHEP North America at Brambles, as she shares the secrets to being one of the world's most sustainable businesses in supply chain.

Join Jennifer Kluge as she sits down with Kevin Schnieders, Chief Servant Leader and CEO of EDSI, as he shares how they consistently put people before profits in the world of workforce development.

Join Jennifer Kluge as she sits down with Scott Kirchner, president of Panasonic Automotive Systems of America. This year's winner of the Best of the Best and Brightest Companies National Overall Elite award. Listen in as Scott shares his leadership secrets behind being one of the highest-scoring companies at the national level.

Join Jennifer Kluge as she sits down with Enrique Alvarez, co-founder and managing director of Vector Global Logistics, as he shares how they make the world a better place through their passion for giving back, while coordinating an international supply chain.

Join Jennifer Kluge as she sits down with Mark Conrad, owner of Express Employment Professionals, as they discuss the uncertainty in the market, and Mark shares the current trends he's seeing in the talent industry.

Join Jennifer Kluge as she sits down with Kathy Steele, Founder & CEO of Red Caffeine, as they discuss the importance of the value proposition, and fostering an open and transparent dialogue with your employees.

In this inspiring conversation, Jennifer Kluge interviews Jennifer Dean, founder and president of Dean’s Professional Services, as she reflects on 30 years of building a thriving healthcare staffing company with over 2,000 employees across 20 states. Jennifer shares how being outspoken, staying true to her values, and leading with purpose shaped her success in one of the most challenging industriesFrom navigating burnout and talent shortages to confronting bias as a Black woman CEO, Jennifer offers candid insights on leadership, culture, resilience, and finding peace in your purpose. This episode is a powerful listen for anyone looking to lead boldly and build a career—and company—rooted in authenticity and strength.

Join Jennifer Kluge and Mark Peters, CEO of Butterball Farms Farms, Inc., as they discuss the importance of building an enriching culture where employees feel a sense of belonging, while maintaining profitability and operations.

Join Jennifer Kluge and Jason Grobbel, President of EW Grobbel, a 5th generation leader of a 130-year-old family-owned business, as he shares his years of trial and error on crafting an environment that is welcoming to everyone while continuing to evolve as a company in the food industry.

Join Jennifer Kluge as she sits down with Jim Emme, CEO of NOW Health Group, a Best and Brightest Winner for over 15 years. Jim shares the lessons he's learned while being a leader in the wellness industry. He discusses how NOW adapted to supply chain challenges and the influence of a celebrity shoutout that made its product go viral.

Join Jennifer Kluge as she sits down with Denise Navarro, President & CEO of Logical Innovations, Inc., as she shares insight into her resilient workforce and what it's like to be a woman leader in a STEM industry.

Join Jennifer Kluge as she sits down with Mike Novakoski, President & CEO of EV Construction, as they discuss how building culture and being vulnerable with your team leads to higher retention and engagement.

Join Jennifer Kluge as she sits down with Tom Gimbel, Founder and CEO of LaSalle Network, to get his insight and expertise on current recruitment and retention trends.

Welcome to the CEO Thought Leadership Podcast. Join Jennifer Kluge as she explores the minds of elite thinkers and leaders from across the nation, championing some amazing best practices, and providing fantastic corporate cultures. This podcast is produced in partnership with The National Association For Business Resources (NABR), The Best and Brightest Companies To Work For, and Corp! Magazine.