Business Leaders of America Podcast

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Welcome to another episode of the Business Leaders of America Podcast. In this episode, I sit down with I sit down with Monica McKitterick-Smith, a Family Nurse Practitioner, entrepreneur, and the CEO of Impact Family Wellness. After more than a decade in traditional healthcare, Monica realized she wanted to build a different model, one that prioritized personal, connected care over rushed, insurance-driven visits. Starting with just $20,000 and a Craigslist exam table, she grew her first clinic into three thriving locations serving over 2,000 patients.

Monica also founded The DPC Formula, turning her experience into a roadmap to help other clinicians launch and scale their own Direct Primary Care practices. In this conversation, she shares the pivotal moment that pushed her to leave traditional healthcare, how Direct Primary Care is transforming patient and employer experiences, and what it really takes to build and grow a successful, patient-centered business. She also reflects on winning Season 18 of The Blox and offers actionable advice for clinicians and entrepreneurs ready to take bold steps.

If you’re interested in healthcare innovation, entrepreneurship, or scaling mission-driven businesses, this episode is full of insights you won’t want to miss.

Notable Awards and Recognitions

• Founder and CEO of Impact Family Wellness, a network of thriving Direct Primary Care clinics serving over 2,000 patients.

• Creator and principal coach of The DPC Formula, providing step-by-step guidance, courses, and resources for clinicians to launch and scale their own Direct Primary Care practices.

• Author of “DPC: Dream Job or Total Disaster” and creator of The DPC Launch Kit e-course, helping healthcare professionals navigate the complexities of starting a DPC clinic.

• Winner of Season 18 of The Blox, a national entrepreneurship competition recognizing innovative business leadership and growth.

• Over a decade of experience as a Family Nurse Practitioner, combining clinical expertise with entrepreneurial leadership to transform patient-centered care.

How to connect with Monica McKitterick-Smith

• https://www.linkedin.com/in/monicamckitterick/

• https://dpcformula.com/

• https://www.impactfamilywellness.com/

• https://www.linkedin.com/company/impact-family-wellness/

• https://www.instagram.com/impactfamilywellness/

• https://dpcformula.com/

• https://www.betablox.com/season/season-18

Show Notes

[1:42] Monica shares the pivotal moment that inspired her to leave traditional healthcare and launch Impact Family Wellness, ultimately leading to multiple successful DPC clinics and The DPC Formula.

[5:08] The early days of building her clinics with just $20K, sharing the mindset and determination that helped her overcome uncertainty and grow to serve over 2,000 patients.

[6:49] What Direct Primary Care is and how it’s transforming healthcare by restoring personal, connected relationships between providers and patients, benefiting both individuals and employers.

[12:38] What motivated her to create The DPC Formula, turning her own clinic success into a roadmap to help other clinicians build thriving Direct Primary Care practices.

[18:43] Monica reflects on winning Season 18 of The Blox, sharing how the experience shaped her approach to business, leadership, and entrepreneurial growth.

[23:23] How listeners can connect and learn more about Impact Family Wellness, The DPC Formula, and her book and course.

[24:42] Monica offers her top advice for clinicians and entrepreneurs looking to disrupt their industries and take that first bold step toward innovation and growth.

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Welcome to another episode of the Business Leaders of America Podcast. In this episode, I sit down with Jamie Lima, a former billion-dollar wealth manager at Morgan Stanley and Fidelity who left the traditional finance world to reinvent how people navigate the financial side of divorce.

Jamie’s journey is shaped by both professional expertise and deeply personal experience. After watching his parents struggle through divorce and later going through his own, he shifted his career toward helping others avoid the financial chaos, uncertainty, and stress that too often come with major life transitions.

In this conversation, Jamie shares what ultimately led him to launch Allegiant Divorce Solutions, the critical gap he saw in divorce financial planning, and how his AI-powered platform, SecureSplit, is transforming the way individuals, professionals, and even courts handle complex divorce financials. He also dives into how divorce can unexpectedly impact entrepreneurs and business owners, sometimes with devastating consequences, and what leaders can do to better protect themselves and their companies.

If you’re interested in financial clarity, smart leadership decisions, or the intersection of fintech and real-world problem solving, this episode is filled with insights you won’t want to miss.

Notable Awards and Recognitions

• Founder of Allegiant Divorce Solutions, a nationwide firm providing divorce financial planning, mediation support, and settlement strategy.

• Creator of SecureSplit, an AI-powered divorce fintech platform that automates complex financial analyses and generates court-ready reports for all 50 states.

• Former wealth management leader at Morgan Stanley and Fidelity, overseeing $1B+ in client assets across high-net-worth families.

• Nearly 20 years of experience as a financial professional, holding credentials as a CFP®, CDFA®, and Certified Mediator.

• Frequent speaker and consultant at the intersection of divorce, fintech, and client advocacy, advising leaders and organizations on better financial processes and systems.

How to connect with Jamie Lima

• https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamielima/

• https://allegiantds.com/

• https://securesplit.com/

• https://www.instagram.com/allegiantdivorce/

Show Notes

[1:34] Jamie explains the pivotal moment that led him to leave his billion-dollar wealth management career at Morgan Stanley and Fidelity to launch Allegiant Divorce Solutions, sharing what inspired the shift and the deeper purpose behind his new mission.

[4:28] How his own divorce transformed his perspective on money, relationships, and long-term planning, revealing how that experience ultimately reshaped his entire approach to guiding clients through major life transitions.

[5:40] The critical gap he recognized in the divorce and wealth-management space, explaining why he launched Allegiant Divorce Solutions to provide clearer guidance, better financial strategy, and more personalized support for people navigating one of life’s most difficult transitions.

[9:46] Jamie walks through how SecureSplit’s AI-driven, court-ready platform simplifies the financial side of divorce and the core problems it’s designed to solve.

[16:24] How he balances empathy with financial precision, ensuring clients feel supported emotionally while still making sound, strategic decisions during divorce.

[18:50] Highlighting a few financial pitfalls entrepreneurs often face during a divorce and explains why many don’t realize the potential impact on their business until it’s too late.

[24:28] The first critical financial steps business leaders should take to protect themselves and their company when navigating a separation.

[26:17] How listeners can connect with him, learn more about Allegiant Divorce Solutions, and explore the SecureSplit platform.

[27:50] Jamie offers his top advice for entrepreneurs navigating a divorce or looking to safeguard their assets during challenging times.

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Welcome to another episode of the Business Leaders of America Podcast. In this episode, I sit down with Vera Quinn, the first female President and CEO of Cydcor, a $300 million leader in outsourced face-to-face sales.

Vera’s journey is a true testament to resilience, determination, and people-first leadership. She began her career as a door-to-door sales representative and rose through the ranks to lead a company renowned for connecting brands with customers in meaningful ways.

In this conversation, Vera shares how early experiences in sales shaped her leadership style, the strategies behind Cydcor’s remarkable growth, and how she balances high performance with cultivating a strong, people-focused culture.

If you’re interested in leadership, growth, and building a thriving team, this episode is packed with insights you won’t want to miss.

Notable Awards and Recognitions

• First female President and CEO of Cydcor, a $300 million leader in outsourced face-to-face sales.

• Successfully led Cydcor through significant growth, including expanding retail and omnichannel capabilities and achieving over 100% revenue growth under her leadership.

• Executive Director of Liberty Children’s Home in Belize, demonstrating a commitment to philanthropy and community impact.

• Active member of the Young Presidents Organization (YPO), serving as Vice Membership Officer and Engagement Officer, connecting with and supporting global business leaders.

How to connect with Vera Quinn

• https://www.linkedin.com/in/veraquinn/

• https://www.instagram.com/veraquinn/

• https://www.cydcor.com/

• https://www.instagram.com/cydcor/

• https://www.linkedin.com/company/cydcor/

Show Notes

[1:28] Vera highlights how the foundational sales training, especially learning to face rejection head-on, built her resilience and ultimately propelled her entire career forward.

[3:40] How moving across multiple disciplines within Cydcor helped prepare her to step into the CEO role.

[7:11] Emphasizing how she approaches leadership as a people-first CEO by balancing strong performance expectations with a culture that prioritizes connection, engagement, and supporting employees so they can deliver their best work.

[11:52] The strategies and initiatives that have been most impactful in driving Cydcor’s 100% revenue growth during her leadership.

[13:56] How Cydcor is implementing AI and digital tools, even though the core of the business is still built on face-to-face selling.

[15:08] Cydcor’s approach to client acquisition and retention, especially in an era increasingly dominated by automation.

[19:23] How the next big goals for Cydcor and how the company is evolving under her leadership.

[22:15] Ways to connect with Vera, learn more about Cydcor, and follow the company’s work.

[26:30] Key advice from Vera for entrepreneurs and emerging leaders on building a business and leading with purpose.

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Welcome to another episode of the Business Leaders of America Podcast. In this episode, I sit down with JJ Birden, a former NFL wide receiver, motivational keynote speaker, and founder of Team X 88 Inc.

JJ overcame incredible odds to play nine seasons in the NFL as one of the smallest players on the field, catching passes from legends like Joe Montana and competing against stars like Deion Sanders. That journey shaped the mindset, discipline, and leadership principles he now shares with audiences around the world.

During our conversation, JJ talks about the mindset that allowed him to defy expectations, his “Beat The Coverage” framework and how it applies to business and leadership, and practical strategies leaders can use to help their teams perform under pressure and stay focused through challenges. We also explore how he integrates physical, mental, and financial wellness into long-term performance and personal growth.

If you’re interested in leadership, high performance under pressure, and turning opportunities into results, this episode is packed with insights you won’t want to miss.

Notable Awards and Recognitions

• Founder of Team X 88 Inc., a company focused on helping individuals live healthier, more balanced lives physically, mentally, and financially.

• Former NFL wide receiver who played nine seasons despite being one of the smallest players in league history at 5’10” and 157 pounds, consistently defying the odds.

• Author of When Opportunity Knocks: 8 Surefire Ways to Take Advantage, a guide for achieving excellence and seizing opportunities.

• Motivational keynote speaker who has delivered over 175 presentations for Fortune 500 companies, including MassMutual, Bank of America, Hershey’s, Orangetheory Fitness, Aflac, and O’Reilly Auto Parts.

• Inducted into the University of Oregon Athletics Hall of Fame.

How to connect with JJ Birden

• https://www.linkedin.com/in/jjbirden/

• https://www.jjbirden.com/

• https://www.instagram.com/jjbirden

• https://x.com/jjbirden

Show Notes

[1:37] JJ explaining the mindset that allowed him to overcome being overlooked in high school, enter the NFL as one of the smallest players, and sustain a nine-year career by consistently defying the odds.

[4:18] How competing alongside and against NFL legends like Joe Montana and Deion Sanders shaped his approach to preparation, discipline, and personal performance at the highest level.

[6:32] Practical strategies leaders can use to help their teams perform under pressure, stay focused amid distractions, and consistently execute at a high level.

[9:14] The “Beat The Coverage” framework and how its principles translate into business—helping teams rise above obstacles, adapt under pressure, and execute with consistency.

[16:43] Why a holistic approach to health, physical, mental, and financial, is at the core of Team X 88 Inc., and why integrating all three areas is essential for long-term wellbeing and performance.

[19:03] Highlighting key principles from When Opportunity Knocks and explaining how people can apply those strategies to recognize, prepare for, and seize opportunities in their everyday lives.

[25:01] How listeners can connect, learn more about speaking engagements, and pick up a copy of When Opportunity Knocks.

[26:30] JJ shares the one piece of advice that he’d give his younger self before stepping onto an NFL field for the first time.

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Welcome to another episode of the Business Leaders of America Podcast. In this episode, I sit down with Adam Brawer, a luxury real estate advisor, founder of Adam Brawer Estates at Compass, and the leader behind one of Los Angeles’ premier Sports & Entertainment divisions.

Before becoming a trusted guide to A-list actors, directors, athletes, and top executives, Adam spent years producing film and television for major studios. That experience shaped the service-driven, detail-oriented, and highly creative approach he’s now known for in the LA luxury market.

Our conversation dives into the pivotal moment that sparked his transition from entertainment to real estate, the mindset and skillset that helped him rise quickly in one of the most competitive markets in the country, and what it truly looks like to serve high-profile clients at the highest level. We also get into his unique “Spiritual Realtor” philosophy, from intentional living to energy clearing, and how service, authenticity, and purpose guide the way he builds relationships and runs his business.

If you’re interested in leadership, reinvention, high-performance client service, or building a career rooted in both excellence and intention, this is an episode you won’t want to miss.

Notable Awards and Recognitions

• Founder and President of Adam Brawer Estates at Compass, leading one of Los Angeles’ premier Sports & Entertainment real estate divisions.

• Trusted advisor to A-list actors, directors, producers, professional athletes, and senior entertainment executives, known for exceptional discretion and white-glove service.

• Known for integrating Hollywood-level storytelling and branding into property marketing, shaped by his decade-long career as a film and television producer.

• Former film producer who worked with major studios including Amazon, Netflix, Sony, Universal, and Lionsgate.

How to connect with Adam Brawer

• https://www.linkedin.com/in/adambrawer/

• https://www.instagram.com/adambrawer/

• https://www.youtube.com/@adambrawerestatesLA

• https://adambrawerestates.com/

Show Notes

[1:37] The moment Adam knew it was time to pivot from producing films to building a career in Los Angeles luxury real estate.

[3:06] The skill or mindset carried over from a career in entertainment that gave him a competitive edge when breaking into luxury real estate at the highest level.

[3:57] What it really looks like behind the scenes to serve high-profile, ultra-discerning clients such as actors, directors, athletes, and senior executives.

[9:17] Custom built team for every client, what that team typically includes, and why that level of tailored support is so important.

[11:45] Exploring the origins of the “Spiritual Realtor” approach, including practices like saging homes before showings and how clients typically respond to that unique style.

[13:13] What “Service is the rent we pay for our place in this world” means, and how service-based leadership shapes both business and life.

[15:11] One personal practice or habit Adam swears by, something he believes every listener should try to elevate both their success and their well-being.

[16:52] Where listeners can connect, learn more, or explore opportunities to work with him

[17:55] Offering advice to entrepreneurs on rising quickly in competitive markets by standing out through authenticity rather than pure hustle.

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Welcome to another episode of the Business Leaders of America Podcast. In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Robb Kelly, a world-renowned addiction expert, entrepreneur, and founder of a groundbreaking telehealth neuroscience coaching company that’s helping people transform their lives with an incredible 97% success rate.

Dr. Robb’s story is one of resilience, redemption, and the power of mindset. From performing alongside musical legends like Queen and David Bowie to facing homelessness and addiction, his journey led to a powerful realization — that the problem isn’t our circumstances or our habits, it’s our thinking.

Today, Dr. Robb has shared the stage with some of the world’s most influential leaders, including Tony Robbins, John Maxwell, and Ed Mylett, inspiring audiences to take control of their minds, their habits, and their lives.

In our conversation, he shares how that pivotal “Ah-Ha” moment on the streets of Manchester reshaped his philosophy on recovery and performance, how neuroscience-based methods like Brainspotting are helping thousands rewire their brains for success, and the practical daily habits anyone can use to create lasting transformation.

If you’re interested in the science of mindset, the psychology of success, and how one man turned his deepest struggles into a global mission to help others thrive, this episode is one you won’t want to miss.

Notable Awards and Recognitions

• Founder and CEO of Robb Kelly Recovery Group, a leading telehealth neuroscience coaching company achieving a 97% success rate in addiction recovery and performance transformation.

• World-renowned addiction expert known for pioneering neuroscience-based recovery methods, including Brainspotting and evidence-based coaching for long-term behavioral change.

• Keynote speaker and thought leader who has shared stages with Tony Robbins, John Maxwell, and Ed Mylett, inspiring global audiences on mindset, recovery, and leadership.

• Over two decades of impact, helping more than 11,000 individuals worldwide overcome addiction, rewire their mindset, and step into sustained recovery and optimal performance.

• Author and creator of multiple educational programs focused on business fundamentals, leadership mindset, and personal transformation for entrepreneurs and high achievers.

How to connect with Dr. Robb Kelly

• www.Robbkelly.com

• https://www.linkedin.com/in/the-addiction-doctor-749718210/

• https://www.instagram.com/addiction_doctor/

• https://x.com/robbkellygroup

• https://www.amazon.com/Daddy-Please-Stop-Drinking/dp/1702575861

Show Notes

[1:43] Dr. Robb shares his journey from homelessness and addiction to becoming a world-renowned addiction expert, highlighting the pivotal “Ah-Ha” moment on the streets of Manchester that shaped his recovery philosophy.

[3:21] The key insight in recovery: “The problem is not our drinking, it’s our thinking,” and how this principle applies to overcoming addiction as well as enhancing performance in business.

[7:00] How he has helped over 11,000 people recover using neuroscience-based approaches like Brainspotting, explaining what it is and why it’s so effective.

[10:34] How he measures success with clients and what a “97% success rate” looks like in practice at Robb Kelly Recovery Group.

[28:11] Specific daily exercises and routines he recommends for people who want to change their lives and sustain long-term transformation.

[36:01] How to connect with Dr. Robb Kelly, learn more about his programs, and get involved in his mentorship and educational initiatives.

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Welcome to another episode of the Business Leaders of America Podcast. In this episode, I sit down with Evan Shy, a seasoned entrepreneur and CEO whose journey spans wellness, education, and technology. As the CEO of Coding Temple, HTD Talent, and App Academy, Evan is leading three powerhouse organizations shaping the future of tech education and workforce development.

Evan’s story is one of continual evolution, from launching wellness startups to now driving large-scale innovation in how people learn, train, and transition into high-growth tech careers. In our conversation, he shares how his early entrepreneurial experiences shaped his leadership today, how his teams are using “digital twin” learning environments to mirror real-world work experience, and why integrating AI into education is critical to preparing the next generation of technical talent.

We also explore what it truly takes for a company to move from growth to scale, and the hard truths leaders must face to build organizations that endure.

If you’re interested in the intersection of innovation, workforce development, and technology and want to hear how one leader is building the bridge between education and employability, this episode is one you won’t want to miss.

Notable Awards and Recognitions

• CEO of Coding Temple, HTD Talent, and App Academy, leading three high-growth organizations shaping the future of workforce development and technical education

• Served as Entrepreneur-in-Residence at P33 Chicago where he launched the “Speed Round” initiative — helping early-stage founders raise over $35 M in its first nine months.

• Operating Partner at Vitamin Capital, supporting growth-stage companies across EdTech, digital health, software, and AI/data sectors

• Founder of multiple ventures including ShyTown Inc. and hiitide, with focus on wellness, technology and experiential learning.

How to connect with Evan Shy

• https://www.linkedin.com/in/evanshy25/

• https://www.instagram.com/evanshy/

• https://www.htdtalent.com/

• https://www.codingtemple.com/

• https://www.appacademy.io/

Show Notes

[1:36] Evan reflects on the early influences and experiences that sparked his entrepreneurial journey and shaped his path across wellness, education, and technology.

[4:44] The motivation behind transitioning from founding startups to leading scaling organizations like Coding Temple, HTD Talent, and App Academy and how that shift has influenced his perspective on growth and impact.

[9:23] How his team builds “digital twin” or real-work simulation environments within Coding Temple’s programs, and how this approach bridges the gap between education and real-world work experience.

[14:49] Integrating AI into its curriculum and the steps being taken to future-proof training programs in an ever-evolving tech landscape.

[16:57] The challenges faced while reducing ramp-up time for students and ensuring consistent value delivery during that process.

[19:06] How Evan views competition from traditional staffing agencies, outsourcing firms, and internal training programs as the demand for technical talent continues to rise.

[22:17] What he believes are the key indicators that a business is truly ready to scale, beyond just growing, based on his experience as both an operator and investor.

[25:56] How listeners can connect, learn more about Coding Temple and HTD Talent, and stay updated on his work shaping the future of tech education and workforce development.

[26:35] Evan’s toughest advice for those looking to start or scale an edtech, workforce, or impact-driven company.

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Welcome to another episode of the Business Leaders of America Podcast. In this episode, I sit down with Alakh Verma, a global AI and digital transformation leader with more than 20 years of experience helping organizations innovate, scale, and compete in a rapidly evolving technology landscape. Alakh has held senior roles at companies including Microsoft and Oracle, and today he leads Bcentriqe.ai while also serving as a strategic advisor at PwC, guiding enterprises through meaningful AI adoption.

With a career spanning Fortune 500 environments, high-growth ventures, and advanced emerging-tech strategy, Alakh brings a rare blend of technical depth and business vision. In our conversation, he shares his perspective on what truly drives competitive advantage in the age of intelligent automation, where leaders should begin when integrating AI into their organizations, and why execution speed has become a defining factor for business success.

We also touch on his journey across the global tech ecosystem and the mission behind Bcentriqe.ai, helping organizations move from exploration to real, measurable impact.

If you’re looking to understand AI not just as a tool but as a strategic catalyst for growth, culture, and leadership, this episode offers clarity and insight you won’t want to miss.

Notable Awards and Recognitions

• Founder & CEO of Bcentriqe.ai, enabling enterprises with AI, intelligent automation, and actionable business insights

• Strategic Advisor for AI and Digital Transformation at PwC, guiding organizations on emerging technology adoption

• Spent 20+ years at Oracle, including roles as Director, Cloud Services, Big Data & MSP Leader and Senior Manager, Platform Technology Solutions, leading global AI and cloud initiatives

• Previously Business Solution Manager at Microsoft, supporting strategy and partner engagements in telecom and media

• Adjunct Faculty at UCSC Silicon Valley Extension and Northeastern University, teaching emerging technologies

• Invited Global Speaker at the United Nations in Vienna for AI and digital transformation thought leadership

• Multiple-time recipient of Oracle’s “Excellence Achievers Award”

How to connect with Alakh Verma

• https://www.linkedin.com/in/alakh-verma-2351005/

• https://bcentriqe.ai/

• https://www.linkedin.com/company/bcentriqe-inc/

• Email: Alakh.verma@pwc.com

• Email: Alakh.verma@bcentriqe.ai

Show Notes

[1:45] Alakh shares his journey from leading global AI and cloud initiatives at Oracle to founding Bcentriqe.ai and serving as a strategic advisor at PwC, and why he chose to move deeper into emerging technology.

[3:39] Why rapid adoption has become a critical advantage for businesses looking to stay competitive in today’s accelerating technology landscape.

[5:38] Where organizations should truly begin with AI and which priorities drive real, measurable business impact

[13:32] What Bcentriqe.ai does in the AI and intelligent automation space and the types of organizations the company typically partners with.

[14:59] How AI can support PwC’s mission of building trust and solving important problems, particularly in industries where automation risks overshadowing the human element.

[18:27] Alakh shares how he helps organizations balance rapid AI innovation with strong governance, ethical frameworks, and accountability.

[23:01] The best ways for listeners to connect with him and learn more about his work at Bcentriqe.ai, PwC, and through his speaking engagements.

[23:59] Alakh shares advice for business leaders who fear being left behind in the digital transformation era, offering guidance on how to begin building an AI advantage today.

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Welcome to another episode of the Business Leaders of America Podcast. In this episode, I sit down with Jack Jackson, a seasoned tech executive and transformative leader with over two decades of experience driving growth, scaling companies, and leading successful exits. Jack has built a career on turning vision into execution—taking multiple organizations from under $1 million to over $100 million in revenue and raising more than $170 million in funding along the way.

Jack is also the author of The Reaction to Inaction, a powerful book that explores how empowering employees and fostering organizational trust can unlock a company’s full potential.

In our conversation, we discuss the mindset that’s fueled Jack’s success across industries, the evolving definition of great leadership in the age of AI, and the critical concept of “reaction to inaction” — and why understanding it is key to sustained business growth. We also dive into practical strategies for empowering teams, building trust, and scaling a business that performs at the highest level.

This episode is packed with insights on leadership, accountability, and what it truly takes to move from intention to action.

Notable Awards and Recognitions

• Author of The Reaction to Inaction, a leadership book focused on organizational health, empowerment, and performance.

• Scaled multiple companies from under $1 million to over $100 million in annual revenue.

• Raised more than $170 million in venture funding across multiple rounds.

• Successfully led several company exits and M&A transactions.

• Senior Vice President of Global Sales & Marketing at ShelterZoom, a blockchain-based cybersecurity and document control platform.

• Former CRO/SVP of Global Sales and Marketing at Aratum, where he oversaw international market expansion and channel development.

• Held senior sales leadership roles at Mindjet, Kofax, and Eastman Kodak, developing international markets and partner ecosystems.

• Expert in global sales enablement, performance management, and strategic growth planning.

How to connect with Jack Jackson

• https://www.linkedin.com/in/jack-jackson-4137894/

• www.theconsultingcompany.co

• https://thereactiontoinactionbook.com/

• https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0FQ328GWD?ref=cm_sw_r_ffobk_cp_ud_dp_6FVHZE5JQG6TJHDK8940&ref_=cm_sw_r_ffobk_cp_ud_dp_6FVHZE5JQG6TJHDK8940&social_share=cm_sw_r_ffobk_cp_ud_dp_6FVHZE5JQG6TJHDK8940&bestFormat=true

• Email: pr@theconsultingcompany.co

Show Notes

[1:24] Jack shares the mindset and approach that have consistently enabled him to scale companies from under $1M to over $100M in revenue and lead several successful exits.

[8:03] Some insight into Jack’s new book “The Reaction to Inaction”

[12:04] How AI is reshaping what great leadership looks like in today’s rapidly evolving business landscape.

[17:20] The concept of “reaction to inaction” and why understanding it is critical for achieving sustained business success.

[20:23] Practical ways leaders can begin empowering their employees and fostering a culture of trust within their organizations.

[30:40] How listeners can connect, learn more about his work, and stay updated on his upcoming book The Reaction to Inaction.

[31:32] Jack shares advice for entrepreneurs on scaling their business, attracting investors, and building strong, high-performing teams based on his experience leading multiple successful exits.

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Welcome to another episode of the Business Leaders of America Podcast. In this episode, I sit down with Ranjith Ravula, Founder and CEO of Raks Group LLC, one of the fastest-growing staffing and recruiting firms in the U.S., recently recognized on the 2024 Inc. 5000 list.

Ranjith’s story is one of resilience, reinvention, and relentless belief. Originally starting his career as an accountant in India, he eventually found his true calling in people—not numbers. After immigrating to the U.S. and working multiple jobs to make ends meet, Ranjith took a leap of faith and founded Raks Group in 2016, determined to build something of his own.

Under his leadership, Raks Group has partnered with companies like Vonage, ConvTec, and Express Scripts, helping them hire top talent with precision, clarity, and long-term success. Beyond staffing, Ranjith has also launched a suite of tech platforms, SociaM8, ChatM8.ai, and Roar.ai, each designed to make hiring smarter, faster, and more human.

In our conversation, we discuss Ranjith’s transformation from accountant to entrepreneur, the early challenges of building Raks Group, how he turned networking from a weakness into a superpower, and the powerful lessons he’s learned about persistence, people, and purpose along the way.

This episode is a masterclass in grit, growth, and building a business that truly makes an impact.

Notable Awards and Recognitions

• Founder and CEO of Raks Group LLC, a nationally recognized IT staffing and recruiting firm established in 2016.

• Ranked #1,136 on the 2024 Inc. 5000 list of America’s fastest-growing private companies and #14 in the Mid-Atlantic region on the Inc. Regionals list.

• Developed innovative tech platforms including SociaM8 (social media management), ChatM8.ai (AI chatbots and voice agents), and Roar.ai (AI-driven screening and hiring automation).

• Known for transforming networking and brand-building into a scalable business growth strategy.

• Partnered with major organizations such as Vonage, ConvTec, and Express Scripts to deliver high-quality talent solutions.

How to connect with Ranjith Ravula

• https://www.linkedin.com/in/ranjithravula/

• https://ranjithravula.com/

• https://www.sociam8.com/

• https://chatm8.ai/

Show Notes

[1:32] Ranjith shares the turning point when he realized he was more drawn to people than numbers, and how that realization shaped the trajectory of his career.

[6:25] What motivated him to launch Raks Group in 2016 despite skepticism and why he believed in his vision when others didn’t.

[9:22] What differentiates Raks Group from other staffing firms and the unique approach that has led to successful partnerships with major companies like Vonage and Express Scripts.

[13:47] How the recruiting landscape has evolved in recent years with the rise of AI tools and automation, and how those changes are shaping the future of staffing.

[16:52] The inspiration behind the creation of tech platforms like SociaM8, ChatM8.ai, and Roar.ai, and how each one supports his broader mission of helping founders, recruiters, and teams grow.

[23:00] How he turned networking from a challenge into a strength, along with the key strategies he used to build his personal brand and grow his professional network.

[30:39] Ranjith shares how listeners can connect with him and learn more about Raks Group.

[31:18] Advice for aspiring entrepreneurs on the mindset shift needed to move from hustling for survival to building something that truly thrives.

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