Confessions of an Implementer

Building Teams That Thrive: Hiring for Cultural Fit with Mitchell York

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 Mitchell York, a Certified EOS Implementer, to discuss the key to building successful teams and cultures. We explore hiring for cultural fit, navigating mergers, and leadership evolution. Mitchell shares lessons learned from running his family business, the importance of emotional intelligence in leadership, and how mentorship shaped his journey. Tune in for actionable advice on fostering accountability, creativity, and trust within your organization.Mitchell York is a Certified EOS Implementer® and an ICF Professional Certified Coach with over 15 years of experience facilitating strategy and planning meetings for leadership teams across diverse industries. Having led more than 500 full-day sessions, Mitchell specializes in maintaining objectivity, keeping teams focused, and ensuring clear accountability. He helps teams overcome challenges such as lack of trust, unclear objectives, and unresolved issues, ultimately driving results through effective collaboration, problem-solving, and fostering a culture of trust and commitment.Episode ResourcesMitchell York on LinkedInYork.Training WebsiteRyan Hogan on LinkedInTalent Harbor WebsiteThis episode is brought to you by Talent Harbor. Confessions of an Implementer is handcrafted by our friends over at fame.so

Mastering Mental Fitness: Mark Taylor on Positive Intelligence and Leadership

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 Mark Taylor, NYC Master Chair and CEO Coach at Vistage. Join us as we explore the profound impact of mental fitness on leadership and personal growth. Mark shares insights from his entrepreneurial journey, including lessons from failure and the pivotal role of community in professional success. We delve into the principles of positive intelligence, highlighting strategies to manage inner saboteurs and cultivate a resilient mindset. With actionable tips for integrating positive intelligence into daily life, this conversation offers valuable guidance for leaders seeking to elevate team dynamics, decision-making, and organizational culture.Mark Taylor is a Vistage Best Practice Chair, dedicated to empowering CEOs, executives, and business owners to achieve extraordinary success. After his first business failure, Mark gained invaluable experience in Corporate America before discovering Vistage, a global executive coaching organization. With peer support and insight, Mark’s second business thrived, becoming a top-60 fastest-growing company in his state. Now, overseeing 20+ Vistage groups in NYC, Mark uses innovative techniques like Triads to help leaders overcome challenges, embrace lifelong learning, and drive transformative growth.Episode ResourcesMark Taylor on LinkedInVistage WebsiteRyan Hogan on LinkedInTalent Harbor WebsiteThis episode is brought to you by Talent Harbor. Confessions of an Implementer is handcrafted by our friends over at fame.so

Vision, Values, and Victory: Building Teams that Thrive with Randy McDougal

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 Randy McDougal, an Expert EOS Implementer, to explore entrepreneurship, leadership, and personal growth. Randy reflects on his journey, from washing windows in high school to becoming an EOS implementer, sharing pivotal moments like starting a business while his wife was eight months pregnant and overcoming challenges like a fire at his facility. They discuss fostering creativity, aligning team vision, and balancing ownership and operations. Randy offers tactical advice on corporate governance, team motivation, and efficient management, emphasizing the value of clear goals and collaborative leadership to drive business success.Randy McDougal is an Expert EOS Implementer with over two decades of experience helping businesses boost profitability, build cohesive teams, and solve complex challenges. Randy launched his first business in high school, washing windows, where he quickly learned the power of strategic customer selection and efficient operations. A decade later, he scaled a graphic design and printing company to four locations, navigating personnel issues, financial crunches, and even a real-life fire before successfully selling to a national firm. As a co-founder of companies spanning seven industries—including a $500M Astrodome redevelopment project—Randy now empowers leaders to achieve their goals through EOS.Episode ResourcesRandy McDougal on LinkedInRandy McDougal on EOS WorldwideRyan Hogan on LinkedInTalent Harbor WebsiteThis episode is brought to you by Talent Harbor. Confessions of an Implementer is handcrafted by our friends over at fame.so

Vision Meets Execution: Mastering Team Dynamics and Leadership with Jim Bygland

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, Ryan Hogan interviews Jim Bygland, Certified Implementer, to explore his career and insights into leadership, teamwork, and the integrator role. Jim shares experiences from his time in a military-driven fintech startup, emphasizing the importance of vision, accountability, and trust. The conversation delves into organizational dynamics, healthy debate, and team prioritization. Jim offers practical strategies for aligning team efforts with core values, fostering productive discussions, and building cohesive teams. With lessons from his journey as an integrator and implementer, Jim provides actionable advice for visionaries and integrators aiming for organizational success.Jim Bygland is a Certified Implementer with EOS Worldwide, helping leadership teams transform their businesses using the Entrepreneurial Operating System (EOS). His career spans roles including CIO, COO, and a business coach. Jim has built high-performing teams and driven strategic success across the banking, fintech, and oil and gas industries. Passionate about creating the "EOS Life," Jim empowers organizations to align vision, foster teamwork, and solve frustrations, enabling them to achieve sustainable growth while pursuing what they love with purpose and clarity.Episode ResourcesJim Bygland on LinkedInJim Bygland on EOS WorldwideRyan Hogan on LinkedInTalent Harbor WebsiteThis episode is brought to you by Talent Harbor. Confessions of an Implementer is handcrafted by our friends over at fame.so

Apple’s Struggles to Success: Vision and Execution with Laurens van Hoorn

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, host Ryan Hogan is joined by the redoubtable Laurens van Hoorn, Certified Implementer, and formerly Apple. Now, Laurens is a seasoned entrepreneur himself and his is a remarkable story of scaling up one of Apple's first European distribution companies. Navigating the burgeoning tech landscape during Apple's uncertain early years was a formative time for Laurens, and in this episode, he spotlights the transformation that he noticed in Steve Jobs’ second tenure – what was different, what had he learned? Together, Ryan and Laurens get into the weeds of the visionary-integrator dynamic, lessons in diversification, and the critical elements of business success. Laurens also has some interesting points on team dynamics – he’s not interested in yes-people and is a firm believer in the constructive power of robust debate.Distribution may seem like the more unglamorous element of driving innovation, but it’s not something you can do without. This episode is bursting with good advice in that area, as well as insights into leadership and execution. Laurens’ journey underscores the importance of building complementary teams, maintaining adaptability, and staying client-focused amid any disruption.Laurens van Hoorn is an accomplished entrepreneur and business leader with decades of experience in distribution and system integration. His career really booted up when he was managing B2B Apple systems in the Netherlands and later he went on to co-pioneer Apple’s retail blueprint in Europe. This was a key part of helping the company lay the foundation for its global success. With his keen understanding of market dynamics and the power of strategic partnerships, Laurens has guided businesses through complex transformations. Episode ResourcesLaurens van Hoorn on LinkedInEOS WorldwideRyan Hogan on LinkedInTalent Harbor WebsiteThis episode is brought to you by Talent Harbor. Confessions of an Implementer is handcrafted by our friends over at fame.so

Visionary vs. Integrator: Balancing Both Worlds with Jon Weening

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, host Ryan Hogan sits down with Jon Weening, a Certified EOS Implementer, to explore his unique experiences navigating the roles of visionary and integrator in business, particularly within a family-owned enterprise. They dive deep into the challenges of partnerships, the importance of core values, and the dynamics of leadership teams. Jon shares his journey with the Entrepreneurial Operating System (EOS), offering practical advice on accountability, trust-building, and aligning goals in business partnerships. This insightful conversation delivers valuable lessons on achieving clarity, fostering collaboration, and driving success in entrepreneurial ventures.Jon Weening is a passionate Entrepreneurial Operating System (EOS) Implementer dedicated to helping business owners and leadership teams achieve clarity, traction, and fulfillment in their organizations. With over two decades of entrepreneurial experience—including ownership in four businesses across real estate, manufacturing, and dealerships—Jon understands the highs and challenges of leadership. After successfully scaling a manufacturing business 7X in ten years, he shifted his focus to coaching leaders and fostering workplaces where teams thrive. Based in Barrie, Ontario, Jon combines his hard-earned insights with the EOS framework to empower businesses to reach their full potential while creating engaging, purpose-driven cultures.Episode ResourcesJon Weening on LinkedInJon Weening on EOS WorldwideRyan Hogan on LinkedInTalent Harbor WebsiteThis episode is brought to you by Talent Harbor. Confessions of an Implementer is handcrafted by our friends over at fame.so

Building a Purpose-Driven Business with Richard Morris

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 of Confessions of an Implementer, host Ryan Hogan sits down with Richard Morris, an entrepreneur and Professional Implementer. Richard shares his remarkable journey, from co-founding Northpointe Communications and navigating its IPO to transitioning into nonprofit work. He discusses the importance of company culture, hiring for attitude, and leadership challenges during rapid growth. Richard also reflects on his post-IPO life, career shift, and creating a nonprofit that helps community organizations fundraise. This episode highlights the balance between business success and personal fulfillment and how purpose-driven work can make a lasting impact.Richard Morris is a visionary business leader, author, and digital entrepreneur with extensive experience in transforming innovative concepts into successful businesses. A Silicon Valley pioneer, he co-founded a tech startup that grew to over 1,200 employees and achieved a $2 billion NASDAQ listing. After returning to the UK, Richard turned his focus toward social impact, co-founding TheGivingMachine, a nonprofit enabling free, personalized giving to charities. His strategic expertise spans executive roles in both startups and blue-chip environments, with specialties in team-building, product development, and growth. Now an EOS implementer, Richard helps leaders build purpose-driven, resilient businesses.Episode Highlights00:00 - Introduction to Richard Morris02:05 - Startup Journey and IPO Experience07:59 - Leadership and Organizational Development10:20 - Hiring Philosophy and Organizational Culture15:59 - Looking for Cultural Fit in Candidates21:10 - A Framework for Right People in Right Seats23:37 - Hiring for a High-Growth Environment32:24 - Creation of a Nonprofit41:35 - Becoming an EOS ImplementerQuotes"The day we went public was surreal. I remember celebrating with my wife over a bucket of KFC and a bottle of champagne. You’d think it would be a grand feast, but in that moment, it was just about the two of us, realizing we had done something incredible. Sometimes it’s the simplest things that hold the most meaning, right?""Hiring isn't just about skills; it's about finding people who fit the culture. You can teach someone how to code, but you can't teach them a 'can-do' attitude. I’ve found that those who appreciate Monty Python humor tend to adapt better in high-stress environments. It's fascinating how humor can be a litmus test for resilience.""You hear about the success of liquidity events, but no one talks about the emotional fallout afterward. I felt lost and disconnected from my peers who were still climbing the corporate ladder. It was jarring to go from being a CEO to feeling like a ghost in my own community.""When I co-founded the nonprofit, I saw firsthand how small organizations struggle to raise funds. We’ve managed to raise around $3.5 million for community groups! It’s not just about the money; it’s about empowering these organizations with tools they never had access to. That’s where real impact happens.""For me, it’s crucial to align my work with my values. I don’t want to be part of a machine prioritizing profit over people. I believe organizations can succeed while also making a social impact. Profit should be a byproduct of doing the right things with the right people."Episode ResourcesRichard Morris on LinkedInRichard Morris on EOS WorldwideRyan Hogan on LinkedInTalent Harbor WebsiteThis episode is brought to you by Talent Harbor. Confessions of an Implementer is handcrafted by our friends over at fame.so

Beyond the To-Do List: Finding Purpose in Business with Robert Hartline

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, host Ryan Hogan talks with Robert Hartline, a Professional Implementer and entrepreneur, about integrating love, mindfulness, and emotional intelligence into business. Robert shares his journey with meditation, breathwork, and personal growth, highlighting techniques like visualization and breath control to shift from survival to creativity. They discuss overcoming imposter syndrome, aligning work with purpose, and fostering love-driven teams. Emphasizing conscious leadership, Robert encourages listeners to invest in their unique strengths for transformative impact. This conversation offers insights for those looking to enhance personal and professional fulfillment.Robert Hartline is a visionary entrepreneur and EOS expert known for scaling businesses and transforming organizations. Starting out in college selling wireless phones door-to-door, Robert went on to open his first store just four years later and eventually expanded to 11 locations. However, rapid growth led to disorganization and personal strain. Discovering EOS and the book Traction was transformative; within three years, he scaled his company from $11 million to nearly $100 million, with 78 locations and 450 employees. Now, Robert guides other entrepreneurs in building efficient teams and achieving work-life balance, fostering both business success and personal fulfillment.Episode Highlights00:00 - Introduction02:15 - Pride and Purpose in Entrepreneurship03:22 - Heart vs. Logic in Decision-Making11:19 - Meditation Techniques18:58 - Breathwork as a Tool for Change24:54 - Imposter Syndrome and Overcoming Challenges30:22 - The Role of Love in Business32:23 - Consciousness and Energy Management36:06 - Practical Applications of BreathworkQuotes"I take immense pride in Hytch Rewards because it’s not just about carpooling; it’s about fostering connections and reducing stress. When we help people connect, we're not just changing transportation— we're changing lives." "When we make decisions from a place of love instead of pure logic, we open ourselves to compassion. Difficult conversations become opportunities for connection rather than conflict." "I practice meditation that visualizes joyful memories, especially with my children. It’s transformative—I tap into that love and joy before any challenging situation.""Breathwork is a game-changer. It shifts your mindset from survival to creativity. When you control your breath, you control your emotional state, opening doors to better decision-making." "Imagine if businesses operated from a foundation of love. Teams that connect on that level are not just more productive; they’re happier and more cohesive. Love should be at the core of our workplace culture."Episode ResourcesRobert Hartline on LinkedInRobert Hartline on EOS WorldwideRyan Hogan on LinkedInTalent Harbor WebsiteThis episode is brought to you by Talent Harbor. Confessions of an Implementer is handcrafted by our friends over at fame.so

Building Connections: Integrating Structure in Life and Business with Ali Wendt Professional Implementer

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, Ryan welcomes Ali Wendt, a Professional Implementer and a Franchise Owner of Discover Strength. Ali shares her insights about integrating the Entrepreneurial Operating System (EOS) principles into her work and family life. Ali runs a coaching practice, a gym franchise, and a vacation rental while managing a bustling household of seven kids and pets. She discusses using tools like accountability charts and meetings to streamline responsibilities at home, emphasizing relationship management over sales. The conversation also covers aligning personal and business goals, fostering community connections, and maintaining routines to avoid burnout, all while highlighting the importance of evolving processes in achieving balance and success.Ali Wendt is a dynamic entrepreneur and business coach, co-founder of Wake Coaching, specializing in implementing effective management systems for businesses. Recently, she opened a gym franchise in partnership with her family and manages a vacation rental property in Wisconsin. Now based in Utah, Ali skillfully balances her professional endeavors with her personal life, raising seven children alongside three dogs and a cat. Committed to organization and accountability, she utilizes tools like Level 10 meetings and a comprehensive Vision/Traction Organizer (VTO) to streamline her business and family responsibilities, ensuring nothing falls through the cracks.Episode Highlights00:00 - Introduction to Ali Wendt03:30 - Integrating EOS in Family Life08:15 - Adapting the Accountability Chart12:45 - Evolving Roles and Responsibilities17:00 - Aligning Personal and Business Goals22:10 - The Importance of Community and Networking27:30 - Tracking Health and Wellness Goals32:00 - Establishing Routines to Prevent Burnout36:45 - Grounding Practices and Mental HealthQuotes"When we first started applying EOS in our household, it was a game-changer. We replaced traditional business roles with 'relationship management.' Suddenly, we weren’t just parents but a team with defined roles. It helped us communicate better and prioritize what truly matters to us as a family." "As our lives evolved, so did our roles. There were times when Jeff had to step up into more operational responsibilities. I had to transition into a visionary role, especially when we faced unexpected changes at the gym. It’s a continuous evolution, and being adaptable is key.""One of the biggest challenges is aligning personal aspirations with business goals. We’ve started using a Vision/Traction Organizer to merge both. It’s about creating harmony, not just juggling responsibilities. When our personal values align with our business, everything flows better." "Building genuine connections is essential for business growth. It’s about having an abundance mindset—seeking support rather than pretending to have it all figured out. When we lean on each other, we create a stronger community." "Establishing daily, weekly, and monthly routines is crucial for preventing burnout. Getting lost in the hustle is easy, but carving out time for health and relationships is non-negotiable. We need that rhythm to thrive." Episode ResourcesAli Wendt on LinkedInAndy Platt on EOS WorldwideRyan Hogan on LinkedInTalent Harbor WebsiteThis episode is brought to you by Talent Harbor. Confessions of an Implementer is handcrafted by our friends over at fame.so

From CIO to Professional Implementer: Andy Platt’s Strategic Journey

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, Ryan welcomes Andy Platt, the former CIO of Smuckers and currently a Professional Implementer. Andy shares his career journey at Smucker's, from internal audit to CIO, and how the book Traction helped him realize the company's success was rooted in strategic focus, core values, and vision. The conversation explores the principles of EOS, the importance of mentorship, and the differences between coaching and mentoring. Andy emphasizes the value of strategic focus at companies and putting the right people in the right roles to foster organizational growth and innovation.Andy Platt is a seasoned business leader with over 40 years of experience driving growth and transformation. During his tenure at Smucker’s, Andy played a key role in growing the company tenfold through strategic acquisitions and organizational development, ultimately achieving Fortune 500 status. His leadership roles spanned C-level positions focused on acquisition due diligence, integration, and building processes to foster discipline and accountability. After retiring, Andy transitioned into higher education, teaching Business Strategy at the University of Akron. Now an EOS Implementer, Andy leverages his extensive career experience to help business owners and leadership teams achieve their goals with clarity and focus.Episode Highlights00:00 - Introduction and Andy’s Background05:31 - Discovering EOS and "Traction"10:01 - Cultural Shifts and Strategic Decisions15:22 - Core Focus and Organizational Goals20:33 - The Value of Right People in the Right Seats25:11 - The Role of Mentorship in Professional Development30:36 - Creating a "Help First" Culture35:01 - Coaching vs. MentoringQuotes"The 'right people, right seat' approach isn't just about filling roles; it’s about understanding what needs to be done first. Too often, organizations rush to fit people into predefined structures. We should define the mission and then align the right individuals to those roles. This may mean rearranging current positions or even creating new ones. It's about strategic alignment, not just compliance.""Mentorship is critical for both individual and organizational development. I had mentors throughout my career at Smucker's who shaped my journey. It thrives in a 'help first' culture—where seeking help is encouraged. But here's the kicker: the responsibility lies with the mentee. They must be proactive, open, and ready to articulate their challenges. If they don’t take that step, the relationship struggles.""Many entrepreneurs resist implementing structure because they fear it will stifle creativity. But in reality, the right structure can enhance innovation! It provides clarity and focus, allowing teams to think creatively within a framework. Without that clarity, you risk chaos, which does not foster innovation; it hinders it.""Coaching is about skill development within a specific framework, like EOS. Mentoring, on the other hand, is more about leveraging experiences to navigate challenges. The mentee should drive the relationship, seeking insights rather than waiting for advice to come. It’s a dynamic interaction where both parties learn and grow, but the onus is largely on the mentee.""When Smucker's acquired brands like Jif and Crisco, it was a major cultural shift. We expanded our vision from just fruit spreads to being a broader branded food company. This change was crucial for realizing our full potential. Companies must regularly evaluate their vision and be willing to pivot. Stagnation is a risk no organization can afford."Episode ResourcesAndy Platt on LinkedInAndy Platt on EOS WorldwideRyan Hogan on LinkedInTalent Harbor WebsiteThis episode is brought to you by Talent Harbor. Confessions of an Implementer is handcrafted by our friends over at fame.so