Confessions of an Implementer

S2E12 | From Reactive To Intentional: Leading With Clarity with Zach Arend

Welcome to Confessions of an Implementer, a podcast by Talent Harbor. We share unique stories of implementers and the companies they’ve transformed to give you a rare glimpse into the system's successes and challenges. I'm your host, Ryan Hogan.
 
Let’s dive in!
 
In this episode, I sit down with Zach Arend, keynote speaker and EOS Implementer, who shares how self leadership, trust, and personal responsibility are the foundation of authentic leadership. From navigating fear and reactive habits to embracing creative problem solving and honest communication, he outlines a path to leading with intention starting from within.
 
02:11 The Art of Bronco Riding: Lessons in Resilience
04:16 Raising High and Lifting: Overcoming Fear
06:12 Trusting Yourself in High-Pressure Situations
08:13 The Balance of Learning and Experience
10:10 The Power of Determination and Messy Learning
12:15 Creating an Environment for Leadership Growth
14:24 The Bridled Leader Trap
17:30 Embracing Uncertainty in Leadership
21:16 Transforming Leadership Styles for Growth
26:36 Navigating Demotion and Reinvention
31:36 Facing Fears: The Table Dilemma
33:32 The Inner Journey: Discovering True Aspirations
31:32 The Shift: From VP to EOS Implementer
37:22 The Inner Horse and Rider: Balancing Instinct and Direction
40:29 Owning Your Leadership: The Power of Perspective
44:52 The Art of Feedback: Sharing Perspectives
50:27 Current Endeavors: Workshops and Keynotes
53:23 Empowerment in Leadership: Nobody’s Coming
 
Episode Resources
 
Website: https://www.zacharend.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/zacharend/
Free Resource: https://www.zacharend.com/toolkit

S2E11 | From Fragrance To Framework: Organizational Change That Sticks with Tom Tompkins

Welcome to Confessions of an Implementer, a podcast by Talent Harbor. We share unique stories of implementers and the companies they’ve transformed to give you a rare glimpse into the system's successes and challenges. I'm your host, Ryan Hogan.
 
Let’s dive in!
 
In this episode, I sit down with Tom Tompkins, an EOS Implementer, who shares how EOS empowers leaders to make faster, more effective decisions, especially in smaller companies where impact is immediate. From aligning culture and hiring, to focusing sales strategy on real customer needs, Tom unpacks what drives lasting organizational change.
 
00:47 Journey from Engineering to Sales
02:50 The Allure of Small Businesses
04:53 From Sales to Business Development
09:47 The Fragrance Industry Turnaround
13:05 Navigating Family Ownership and Partnerships
14:23 Building a Revenue Function
19:17 The Role of Retailers in Sales
21:35 Creating a Collaborative Sales Process
27:25 Formulating Scents: The Science Behind the Art
30:52 The Importance of Accountability in Teams
33:23 Discovering EOS: A Turning Point
35:59 Building a Consulting Practice During the Pandemic
37:32 The Point of Transformation in Leadership
40:35 Preparing for EOS Implementation
42:32 Defining Target Markets: A Common Misunderstanding
45:05 The Role of Culture in Hiring
47:24 The Cost of Bad Hires
50:22 Finding the Right Clients
53:40 Connecting with the EOS Community
 
Episode Resources
 
Website: https://www.eosworldwide.com/tom-tompkins
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thomas-tompkins-tct/
Email: tom.tompkins@eosworldwide.com

S2E10 | Leading Change With Clarity with Justin Boling

Welcome to Confessions of an Implementer, a podcast by Talent Harbor. We share unique stories of implementers and the companies they’ve transformed to give you a rare glimpse into the system's successes and challenges. I'm your host, Ryan Hogan.
 
Let’s dive in!
 
In this episode, I sit down with Justin Boling, an EOS Implementer, who shares that Change isn’t easy, but with the right communication, clarity, and culture, it doesn’t have to be chaotic. Learn how setting expectations, building trust, and laying solid foundations can help teams navigate resistance, retain talent, and solve the right problems at the right time.
 
01:40 The Journey of a Change Agent
04:00 Understanding Resistance to Change
06:59 Navigating Conversations About Change
10:33 The Muscle of Comfort in Uncomfortable Situations
13:37 From Employee Number 11 to Growth
17:46 The Cost of Bad Hires
25:01 Implementing EOS for Sustainable Growth
29:14 Curiosity and Impact
30:06 Lessons from the Integrator Seat
31:10 The Importance of Slowing Down
32:01 Challenges in Implementation
33:00 Navigating Accountability and Expectations
35:39 Building Execution Mindsets
38:05 Identifying and Prioritizing Issues
40:01 From Ideas to Action
43:02 Tipping Points in Implementation
45:07 Balancing Structure and Flexibility
47:21 Finding the Right Fit
48:34 Closing Thoughts and Future Connections
 
Episode Resources
 
Website: https://www.eosworldwide.com/justin-boling
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/justin-boling-47056411/
Phone: (970) 556-2348

S2E9 | Winning Together: How Integrators Enable Visionaries with Rachel Lebowitz

Welcome to Confessions of an Implementer, a podcast by Talent Harbor. We share unique stories of implementers and the companies they’ve transformed to give you a rare glimpse into the system's successes and challenges. I'm your host, Ryan Hogan.
 
Let’s dive in!
 
In this episode, I sit down with Rachel Lebowitz, Author and EOS Implementer, to learn what makes a visionary and integrator duo thrive.  Hear how she breaks down the unique dynamics between these roles, highlighting how trust, tailored coaching, and strong boundaries allow integrators to lead with clarity, and help visionaries feel free to win without micromanaging.
 
02:40 Behavioral Insights in Business
04:40 The Role of Visionaries and Integrators
06:29 Understanding Micromanagement
08:40 Creating Ownership Without Title
10:13 The Characteristics of Effective Integrators
12:30 Navigating the Visionary-Integrator Relationship
18:01 The Importance of Boundaries
21:14 Empowering Integrators Through Support
27:13 Coaching for Integrators vs. Visionaries
30:03 Facing the Fear of Failure
31:36 The Power of Self-Reflection
33:09 The Rise of Fractional Integrators
35:58 Navigating the Transition to Fractional Roles
39:07 Building Trust in the Visionary-Integrator Dynamic
43:07 Traits of an Ideal Integrator
47:45 Rachel’s Empowerment Initiatives
 
Episode Resources
 
Website: https://www.empoweredcoo.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rachel-lebowitz-528011224

S2E8 | The Power Of Resilient Leadership with Josh Kosnick

Welcome to Confessions of an Implementer, a podcast by Talent Harbor. We share unique stories of implementers and the companies they’ve transformed to give you a rare glimpse into the system's successes and challenges. I'm your host, Ryan Hogan.
 
Let’s dive in!
 
In this episode, I sit down with Josh Kosnick, Coach and EOS Implementer, where he shares how facing a false lawsuit, stepping into leadership after a legacy, and discovering EOS helped him rebuild with purpose. From hiring smarter to building a strong culture and personal brand, he unpacks how clarity, consistency, and mental strength build lasting impact.
 
00:35 A Unique Journey into Wealth Management02:34 Leadership and Legacy04:49 Navigating Challenges During COVID-1906:24 The Sudden Shift: Termination09:25 Lessons from Leadership Failures10:35 Defining Purpose and Growth12:35 Building Trust as a New Leader16:23 Addressing Employee Concerns19:00 Navigating Legal Challenges24:01 Recognizing Toxic Behavior29:00 Recognizing Recruitment Mistakes31:27 Building a Strong Company Culture34:37 Lessons Learned from Business Challenges38:48 The Power of Retreats40:58 Building a Personal Brand46:18 The Kairos Code: A New Book52:53 Finding the Right Fit in Coaching
 
Episode Resources
 
Website: https://www.joshkosnick.com
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joshkosnick/

S2E7 | From Startup To Implementer: Scaling Made Easy With EOS with John Klick

Welcome to Confessions of an Implementer, a podcast by Talent Harbor. We share unique stories of implementers and the companies they’ve transformed to give you a rare glimpse into the system's successes and challenges. I'm your host, Ryan Hogan.
 
Let’s dive in!
 
In this episode, I sit down with John Klick, Entrepreneur and EOS Implementer, who shares how EOS helped him pivot from promotional merchandise to launching a brewery, to becoming and EOS Implementer, offering clarity, structure, and tools like the V/TO and Scorecard to guide a startup through uncertainty. From embracing healthy conflict to building trust and driving decisions with data, this episode shows how EOS builds alignment, accountability, and momentum in any business.
 
01:00 From Marketing to Brewing
02:42 The Vision for Success
03:51 The Role of EOS in Startups
06:08 Business Plans Reimagined
08:21 Navigating Team Dynamics
10:53 Capacity Challenges in Startups
12:06 Breaking Through Ceilings
14:21 The Integrator’s Role
17:00 Values and Culture in Business
19:38 Aligning Vision and Purpose
21:25 Entering the Danger Zone
24:50 Tactics for Encouraging Open Dialogue
30:07 Performance vs. Capacity: Understanding Team Dynamics
32:07 The People Analyzer: A Tool for Leadership Transparency
34:44 Navigating Resistance to Change in EOS Implementation
39:59 The Power of EOS: Freedom Through Accountability
42:16 Pivoting in Startups: The Need for Agility
46:12 Diverse Industries: The Beauty of EOS Across Sectors
49:38 The Value of ‘Windshield Time’ for Clarity and Reflection
50:02 Connecting with John: Resources and Community
 
Episode Resources
 
Website: https://www.eosworldwide.com/john-klick
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/johnklick/

S2E6 | Coaching Vs Therapy: Helping Others Reach Their Business Goals with Chris Castillo

Welcome to Confessions of an Implementer, a podcast by Talent Harbor. We share unique stories of implementers and the companies they’ve transformed to give you a rare glimpse into the system's successes and challenges. I'm your host, Ryan Hogan.
 
Let’s dive in!
 
In this episode, I sit down with Chris Castillo, Strategic Coach and EOS Implementer, who shares how EOS became the game changer for scaling, structure, and freedom in his coaching business, before becoming an Implementer. Learn why coaching, peer groups, and knowing your numbers are essential for any business owner, and how the right implementer can transform not just your business, but your mindset.
 
00:32 From Corporate to Coaching
02:44 Scaling and Systems
04:06 The Pool Business Experience
09:00 The Learning Curve of Entrepreneurship
12:00 Finding Your Niche
14:04 Understanding Life Coaching
17:30 The Role of a Coach
22:00 Getting Unstuck
25:00 The Entrepreneurial Journey
29:00 The Loneliness of Entrepreneurship
30:27 Building a Supportive Network
32:04 The Value of Peer Groups
34:14 Finding the Right Coach
35:03 Challenges of Self-Implementation
39:03 Overcoming Stagnation
44:01 Facilitating Difficult Conversations
49:10 Connecting with an Implementer
51:12 A Dream Collaboration
 
Episode Resources
 
Website: https://www.eosworldwide.com/chris-castillo
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chriscastillo-eos/
Phone: (916) 717-3332

S2E5 | Preserving Culture And Aligning Your Company With Its Values with Brian Brown

Welcome to Confessions of an Implementer, a podcast by Talent Harbor. We share unique stories of implementers and the companies they’ve transformed to give you a rare glimpse into the system's successes and challenges. I'm your host, Ryan Hogan.
 
Let’s dive in!
 
In this episode, I sit down with Brian Brown, the President and Partner at Ingredient Food Marketing, to learn more about why he wanted to use EOS at his company and how it has helped. He highlights how EOS helped him clarify his role, strengthen company culture, and integrate core values into every aspect of the business. Brian emphasizes the power of swift, consensus driven action and the importance of arranging people, clients, and decisions with a shared set of values.
 
03:21 The Early Days of Web Development
06:07 From Development to Agency Ownership
09:10 Embracing the Role of Visionary
12:31 The Need for Leadership Structure
15:06 Identifying Personal Strengths
17:40 Strengthening Company Culture with EOS
20:07 Living the Core Values
23:01 Navigating Growth and Transition
25:40 Embracing Core Values in Hiring
28:15 Navigating Client Relationships with Values
31:49 Turning Challenges into Opportunities
34:30 Implementing EOS: Lessons Learned
39:34 Overcoming Implementation Hurdles
42:56 The Right Time to Act
46:28 Understanding Ingredient: A Food Content Marketing Agency
 
Episode Resources
 
Website: https://ingredient.mn
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brian-brown

S2E4 | Helping Businesses Hit A Home Run with Evan J. Blumenthal

Welcome to Confessions of an Implementer, a podcast by Talent Harbor. We share unique stories of implementers and the companies they’ve transformed to give you a rare glimpse into the system's successes and challenges. I'm your host, Ryan Hogan.
 
Let’s dive in!
 
In this episode, I sit down with Evan J. Blumenthal, a Certified EOS Implementer, to learn about how growing up in a fifth-generation entrepreneurial family and working at Walmart shaped his passion for business, leadership, and growth. From transforming a family business with EOS to guiding others as an implementer and advisor, he breaks down lessons on communication, sales, and the balance between ownership and functional roles in building sustainable businesses.
 
00:27 Growing Up Entrepreneurial
02:09 Walmart Experience: A Learning Ground
05:34 Transitioning to the Family Business
09:06 Implementing EOS for Clarity and Growth
12:11 Navigating Family Business Dynamics
19:02 Courage to Embrace Change
27:56 Balancing Roles in Family Business
30:02 Wearing Different Hats in Leadership
33:00 Setting Up for Success: The Owner’s Role
36:00 The Communication Bridge: Owners and Management
44:00 Influence Beyond the Boardroom
46:00 Navigating Tactical Decisions with Boards
51:00 The Power of Genuine Connection in Sales
54:00 Swinging the Bat: Taking Action in Business
 
Episode Resources
 
Website: https://www.eosworldwide.com/evan-j-blumenthal
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/evanblumenthal

S2E3 | Hiring, Firing, and Better Leadership: Keys To A Successful Business with James Wisdom

Welcome to Confessions of an Implementer, a podcast by Talent Harbor. We share unique stories of implementers and the companies they’ve transformed to give you a rare glimpse into the system's successes and challenges. I'm your host, Ryan Hogan.
 
Let’s dive in!
 
In this episode, I sit down with James Wisdom, an experienced EOS Implementor, who shares about his experience with managing over large teams, hiring the right person, and how to fire someone that does not align with the company. Through breaking down his three strike rule, clarity breaks, being disciplined during the hiring process, and setting achievable goals for yourself and your business, James shows leaders what they need to do to build the high performing team that you need.
 
00:27 Right Person, Right Seat
01:51 The Three Strikes Framework
04:07 A Toxic Team Member
06:49 The Freedom to Leave
08:20 The Reality of Performance Changes
11:24 Documentation and Clarity
14:05 Addressing Issues Promptly
19:10 The Fear of Confrontation
23:26 The Art of Hiring
27:01 The Evolution of Hiring Practices
28:20 The Pressure of Hiring
29:49 Navigating the Resume Flood
31:07 The Power of Proactive Recruiting
32:48 A Journey Through Digital Marketing
37:43 Implementing EOS for Business Success
41:21 The Importance of Rocks in Business
46:14 Learning from Missed Goals
55:30 Finding the Right Fit for EOS Implementation
 
Episode Resources
 
Website: https://www.eosworldwide.com/james-wisdom
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jameswisdom