10x Your Team with Cam & Otis
How can you unlock your team’s untapped potential? Learn how to maximize your team’s performance from leaders who have really done it. From veterans, researchers, and high-powered entrepreneurs to pro athletes and CEOs of multi-million-dollar companies. Cam and Otis go through each guest’s story to pull the leadership lessons that they learned along the way. This father-son business podcast takes the philosophy of lifelong learning and applies it to leadership to help you learn how to lead a high-performing team. Otis is a former Green Beret and currently coaches high-performing business owners and their leadership teams, helping them imple...
When Military Leadership Meets Corporate America - Carl Sharperson Jr. | 10x Your Team Ep. #452
Ever wondered what happens when you take the leadership lessons from flying military helicopters and apply them to corporate America? In this conversation with Carl Sharperson Jr., author of "Sharp Leadership" and former Marine Corps pilot, Cam and Otis explore the fascinating transition from military service to business leadership.
"The plant ran better with us not being there than it did when we were there," Carl reveals, sharing a powerful story about what happened when all the managers went on a two-day retreat. This counterintuitive insight highlights one of Carl's core leadership principles: when you truly empower...
Operation New Uniform: Building Veteran Careers Beyond the Military - Michele McManamon | Ep. #450
Ever wondered what happens when sales training expertise meets veteran transition needs? In this conversation with Michele McManamon, CEO and Co-Founder of Operation New Uniform, Cam and Otis explore how a single scholarship offer evolved into a national movement helping veterans build meaningful civilian careers.
"We're not teaching them how to interview, we're teaching them how to sell," Michele explains, sharing how ONU helps veterans translate their military experience into success beyond service. What began as one scholarship to her Sandler sales program has grown into an organization that’s impacted over 700 servicemembers, veterans, and military spouses ac...
Balancing Innovation and Process - Courtney De Ronde | 10x Your Team Ep. #451
Ever wondered why some businesses successfully scale while others get stuck in startup mode? In this conversation with Courtney De Ronde, CEO of Forge Financial and creator of the Simple ScaleUp System™, Cam and Otis explore the delicate balance between innovation and process that growing organizations must navigate.
"Efficiency creates clarity, and clarity unlocks growth," Courtney explains, revealing how her background as a CPA evolved into helping businesses build systems that actually work. From discussing the COLBY assessment that measures cognitive strengths to explaining why some leaders struggle with implementing processes, this episode offers practical wisdom about sc...
When Afterthoughts Replace Commitments - Cam & Otis | 10x Your Team Ep. #449
Ever been stood up for a meeting that someone else requested? In this candid family episode, Cam and Otis get real about a frustration many professionals face but few discuss openly: the culture of no-shows and non-commitments in business.
"If you don't want to do something, then say it. If it's not a priority, then let us know," Otis states firmly, addressing the unnamed "no-showers" who've recently wasted their time. This father-son conversation dives into the psychology behind why people make commitments they don't intend to keep and the telltale signs that someone isn't being straightforward about...
Creating a Million Compassionate Leaders - Cal Riley | 10x Your Team Ep. #448
Ever wondered if compassion and decisive leadership can coexist? In this powerful conversation with Cal Riley, combat veteran, EOS Implementer, and author of "Entrepreneurial Compassion," Cam and Otis explore what it really means to lead with both strength and heart.
"It's not compassionate to hold on to somebody if they're not a good fit," Cal explains, challenging the common misconception that compassionate leadership means avoiding tough decisions. "You're doing them a disservice. You're in pain. They're in pain... The whole team sees it."
From discussing how EOS (Entrepreneurial Operating System) helps leaders understand that "not...
Finding Leadership Lessons in Nature - Philip Atkinson | 10x Your Team Ep. #447
Ever tried to escape work by picking up a hobby, only to discover it teaches you everything about your profession? In this fascinating conversation with Philip Atkinson, author of "BeeWise: 12 Leadership Lessons from Inside a Busy Hive," Cam and Otis explore how the complex world of beekeeping offers surprising insights into organizational leadership.
"I was looking in my private life to start a new hobby to do nothing to do with work," Philip explains about his beekeeping journey. "And it was all about complex organizations and decision making and communication and what the bees do. And of...
Adventure as a Catalyst for Business Breakthroughs - Sam Vandervalk | 10x Your Team Ep. #446
Ever wondered what happens when you take high-achieving entrepreneurs away from their screens and put them on a fishing boat in British Columbia? In this conversation with Sam Vandervalk, founder of ARC Trips, Cam and Otis explore how adventure-based experiences can transform leadership and purpose.
"I love helping other people," Sam shares, explaining his transition from running a successful fishing guide business to creating mastermind retreats. "It's seeing people really come alive and attach to their mission." This genuine passion for facilitating transformation is evident throughout the conversation as Sam describes how being in a completely new...
From Journalism to Sales Leadership: Creating Successful Outcomes - Hamish Knox | 10x Your Team Ep. #445
Ever wondered why some sales conversations feel manipulative while others feel like genuine problem-solving? In this conversation with Hamish Knox, founder of Sandler Calgary, Cam and Otis explore the fascinating intersection of journalism, communication, and sales leadership.
"Sales is communication and communication is sales," Hamish explains, revealing how his background in journalism shaped his approach to sales conversations. From discussing why it often takes three or more questions to get to the truth to exploring how to make buyers feel in control while still managing the conversation, this episode offers refreshing insights for anyone who communicates for...
The Art of Making Strategic Asks - Dia Bondi | 10x Your Team Ep. #444
Ever wondered what an auctioneering school could teach you about leadership communication? In this conversation with Dia Bondi, communications catalyst and author of "Ask Like an Auctioneer," Cam and Otis explore the fascinating connection between the rapid-fire world of auctions and the strategic art of asking for what you want.
"You're basically learning to sell something in a minute and a half," Dia explains about her auctioneering training, revealing how this condensed transaction moment contains powerful lessons for business leaders. From the illusion of fast-talking (it's actually about breath manipulation) to the courage required to "show up...
The Art of Vendor Management: Creating Consistent Event Experiences - Deana Mitchell | 10x Your Team Ep. #442
Ever wondered what it takes to design events that deliver specific outcomes—not just pretty decorations? In this conversation with Deana Brown Mitchell, award-winning entrepreneur and three-decade event professional, Cam and Otis explore the fascinating intersection of architecture, event planning, and team leadership.
"It was a creative challenge, kind of like architecture to me," Deana explains, revealing how her unconventional background prepared her for building a successful event company that served Fortune 100-500 clients. From managing custom proposals that were "always pretty intense" to building a team that became an extension of her vision, Deana shares the jo...
"I'd Be Sitting at Home with My Dog" - An Introvert's Guide to Networking - Ely Delaney | 10x Your Team Ep. #443
Ever had someone thank you for your marketing emails? In this conversation with Ely Delaney, "The People Whisperer" and creator of The Follow-Up Rockstar System, Cam and Otis explore the counterintuitive approach to follow-up that actually builds relationships instead of burning them.
"I'm an introvert," Ely reveals, surprising many who know him as a dynamic speaker and networking expert. "If I had my druthers, I'd be sitting at home hanging out with the dog all day long." It's this refreshing honesty that sets the tone for a conversation about authentic connection in a world of automated marketing.<...
When Leaders Don't Recognize Team Issues - Alex Cartmill | 10x Your Team Ep. #441
Ever wondered why it's so hard to get business leaders interested in team wellness? In this conversation with Alex Cartmill, operator of Vibrant Yoga, Cam and Otis explore the fascinating intersection of wellness and business leadership.
"If the leader doesn't have a personal issue, they're likely not going to recognize an issue in the team," Alex explains, revealing one of the biggest challenges in bringing yoga and wellness practices into corporate environments. From discussing how to "open the door" with skeptical executives to exploring what happens when team members discover their purpose (and sometimes leave), this episode...
The Human Side of Business Systems - Drew Lints | 10x Your Team Ep. #440
Ever worked with a leader who treated everything as "urgent" until nothing felt important anymore? In this conversation with Drew Lints, founder of Revflow Growth Partners, Cam and Otis explore the human side of business systems and how the right tools can actually help leaders care for their people better.
"At the end of the day, we want to accomplish the thing that I was so bad at early on—keeping track of everyone, making sure that they're cared for," Drew explains, revealing how his own leadership journey shaped his approach to CRM and business systems.
Breaking Through Revenue Ceilings - James R. Brown | 10x Your Team Ep. #439
Ever notice how some business owners keep hitting the same revenue ceiling year after year? In this episode with James R. Brown, founder of Business Accelerator Institute, we explore what's really happening when a business gets stuck at $950,000 and can't break through to seven figures.
"It's usually the owner's mindset," James reveals, sharing stories of breakthrough moments when clients finally see what's been holding them back. From walking away from his own successful $8 million law practice to helping over 350 business owners achieve significant growth, James brings both legal analytical thinking and practical business wisdom to the conversation.<...
Coffee with Purpose: The Renew Coffee Story - Hannah Stuart | 10x Your Team Ep. #438
Ever had that moment where you knew you had to leap or you'd never do it? For Hannah Stuart, co-owner of Renew Coffee, that moment came after a farmer's market when she told her husband, "If we don't spend this money on an espresso machine, we're never going to do this."
In this conversation with Cam and Otis, Hannah shares the journey of building a mobile coffee business that now serves luxury events nationwide. From turning down a sketchy "I'm leaving town, need to flip this" coffee cart offer to figuring out they can serve 80 drinks per...
The Transition from Near-Death to New Purpose - Tino Dietrich | 10x Your Team Ep. #437
Ever wondered what happens in that crucial moment between a life-changing experience and actually changing your life? In this powerful conversation with Tino Dietrich, founder of The Dietrich Institute, Cam and Otis explore the often-glossed-over transition from crisis to purpose.
"I did get that second chance, and that's what I'm doing now," Tino shares, reflecting on his near-death experience with COVID that transformed his perspective on life and business. But unlike many inspirational stories that skip straight to the triumph, this conversation dives into the messy middle—that space between trauma and transformation where the real work ha...
From High Potential to Optimal Performance - Matt Granados | 10x Your Team Ep. #436
Have you wondered why military teams have crystal clear expectations while business teams often operate in a "fricking void" of clarity? In this episode (complete with surprise appearances from Matt's son), Cam and Otis dive deep with Matt Granados, founder of Life Pulse Inc., on the missing link between expectations and performance.
"You have to articulate what the expectations are," Matt explains, "but then the key is you have to properly equip your people to be able to live up to them." It's this combination that's often missing in business leadership.
From the fascinating distinction...
Finding Your PR Sweet Spot: From Neighborhood Papers to National Media - Mickie Kennedy | 10x Your Team Ep. #435
Ever wondered why most press releases disappear into the void? In this episode, Cam and Otis sit down with Mickie Kennedy, founder of eReleases and a 25-year veteran of the PR industry.
"It's like a bank account," Mickie explains, revealing how successful PR professionals build relationships with journalists that pay dividends over time. From neighborhood papers to radio opportunities, he breaks down exactly where businesses should focus their PR efforts based on their specific needs and audience.
Mickie pulls back the curtain on the "duopoly of news wires" that makes it nearly impossible for smaller...
Breaking the Broken Recruiting Model - Ryan Hogan | 10x Your Team Ep. #434
Ever wondered why traditional recruiters seem more interested in their commission than in finding you the right person? Ryan Hogan did too—and it bugged him enough to build an entirely different model.
In this conversation with Cam and Otis, the Navy Reservist and serial entrepreneur shares how scaling Hunt A Killer to a $205M phenomenon exposed him to the broken incentives plaguing the recruiting industry. "I'm an anti-recruiter recruiter all day long," Ryan admits with a laugh, explaining why the commission-based headhunter approach just doesn't work for growing businesses.
From the controversial reality that "yo...
The Human in Human Capital - Tracy Noel | 10x Your Team Ep. #433
Ever wondered why that job you applied for needed FIVE interviews? Tracy Noel has some thoughts about that—and they might surprise you.
In this conversation with Cam and Otis, the Marine Corps veteran and founder of Aion Worldwide pulls back the curtain on what's happening in recruiting today. "The value is in the human," Tracy explains, challenging the transactional approach many companies take to hiring.
From balancing the needs of employers against the experience of candidates to making companies sign an ethics portfolio before she will work with them, Tracy's approach to recruiting is re...
Human Psychology Hasn't Changed (But Delivery Has) - Paul Glover | 10x Your Team Ep. #432
Ever wondered what it's like to work with a coach who refuses to sugarcoat the truth? In this episode, we sit down with Paul Glover, the self-proclaimed "No B.S. Executive Leadership Coach" who's built his practice on brutal honesty and genuine results.
"I'm not going to try to convince you," Paul tells us about his approach to potential clients. "If what we've done up to this point doesn't convince you, then you need to find somebody else." It's this refreshing directness that sets the tone for our entire conversation about what real leadership development looks like.<...
"If You Don't Prepare, You Create Your Own Crisis" - Cam & Otis | 10x Your Team Ep. #431
Have you ever noticed how some people always seem to be in crisis mode, while others handle the same situations with ease? In this impromptu family episode (complete with the authentic soundtrack of roofers overhead), Cam and Otis dive into what might be behind this difference.
"If that 10-year-old had been told every day for his entire life that he sucks, he could never have that belief to go do something beyond what he should be able to do," Otis reflects, as they explore how our past shapes our response to challenges.
From missed flights...
Why Most People Don't Care About Cybersecurity (Until It's Too Late) - Joshua Wathen | 10x Your Team Ep. #430
Ever wondered why it's so hard to get people to care about cybersecurity before disaster strikes? Joshua Wathen has a theory—and it might sound familiar to anyone who's tried to convince someone to buy insurance.
In this conversation with Cam and Otis (plus a surprise appearance from thunder rolling in the Houston sky), Joshua shares his journey from Special Forces Weapons Sergeant to COO of Triad Info Sec. "We are of service to the people that are our customers, to each other, to our families," he explains, revealing the core value that drives his approach to bo...
"We're a Family" and Other Business Traps - Stephen Bump | 10x Your Team Ep. #429
Ever worked somewhere that claimed "we're a family" but treated you like anything but? Stephen Bump has seen both sides—and he's building something different with Persperity.
In this conversation with Cam and Otis, Stephen shares his journey from Air Force leadership to founding a consultancy that's deliberately challenging the "always-on" culture of modern business. "They actually treated people really well and understood that people had a life outside of work," he reflects about a former employer that got it right.
From battling his own "shiny object syndrome" to making tough calls about which opportunities to...
The Science Behind Finding Your Perfect Hire - Dr. Reece Akhtar | 10x Your Team Ep. #428
Ever wonder why that "perfect on paper" hire turned out to be a complete disaster? Dr. Reece Akhtar might just have the answer.
In this episode, we dive deep with the CEO of Deeper Signals who's spent his career figuring out the science behind personality and how it affects workplace performance. "Cut me off if I go too far down the pointy head rabbit hole," Reece jokes, but his passion for personality assessment is exactly what makes this conversation so fascinating.
From explaining why traditional hiring methods only account for about 15% of what makes someone...
Building a Business That Doesn't Own You - Leslie Hassler | 10x Your Team Ep. #427
Ever had a client who just wouldn't take action no matter what? In this conversation with Leslie Hassler of Your Biz Rules, we dive into the real reasons some business owners stay stuck—and it's not what you think.
Leslie shares her 17 years of entrepreneurial wisdom on transforming small businesses from constant headaches into freedom-generating machines. From dealing with clients who think you're "becoming a hassle" to identifying the subtle signs someone isn't ready for growth, this episode gets refreshingly honest about the human side of business consulting.
"Even the most imperfect action is better th...
Creating Space for Life's Moments - Joey Mac Dizon | 10x Your Team Ep. #426
Ever wondered what happens when you create a space for people to slow down and connect? Joey Mac Dizon did exactly that with The Mobile Cigar Lounge, and the results have been magical.
In this conversation with Cam and Otis, Joey shares his journey from initial concept to creating a business that brings people together during life's most meaningful moments. "Don't rush a cigar. That's what cigarettes are for," Joey tells us, revealing his philosophy that some experiences deserve our full attention and time.
From gender reveals (no, not with colored smoke coming from cigars...
Strategic Thinking in Unpredictable Environments - Sean Quigley | 10x Your Team Ep. #425
In this episode of 10x Your Team, Camden and Otis McGregor sit down with Sean Quigley, a former Marine helicopter pilot with over 23 years of military experience who now applies his leadership expertise in the civilian sector. Sean shares insights from his journey from the Naval Academy to his current roles with PSI and Knighthawk Consulting. The conversation explores the differences between jet and helicopter pilots in entrepreneurship, the value of military training in business leadership, and how structured approaches can lead to success in unpredictable environments. Whether you're a veteran transitioning to civilian life or a business leader...
The Power of Levity in Leadership - Howard Miller | 10x Your Team Ep. #424
In this insightful episode of 10x Your Team, Camden McGregor sits down with Howard Miller, bestselling author of "Burdens & Blessings," to explore the transformative power of levity in both personal and professional settings. Howard shares his journey from caring for aging parents to discovering how the same principles of perspective-shifting can revolutionize workplace dynamics. The conversation delves into the distinction between humor and levity, practical applications for leaders, and how embracing vulnerability can strengthen connections. Whether you're navigating personal challenges or leading a team through difficult times, Howard's approach offers a refreshing framework for finding balance and resilience through...
The Art of Command - Les Fuller | 10x Your Team Ep. #423
In this episode of 10x Your Team, Camden and Otis McGregor are joined by General Les Fuller, a distinguished leader with over 40 years of executive experience in both military and civilian sectors. General Fuller shares invaluable insights from his remarkable career, including his time as Commanding General for Special Operations Command Europe and Chief of Staff for NATO Forces Afghanistan. The conversation explores the nuances of leadership in high-stakes environments, the importance of building relationships with senior leaders, and practical wisdom on navigating complex organizational structures. Whether you're a military veteran transitioning to civilian leadership or a business executive...
From Theory to Practice - Derek Beck | 10x Your Team Ep. #422
In this episode of 10x Your Team, Camden and Otis McGregor are joined by Derek Beck, a professional who brings a unique perspective on bridging academic knowledge with practical application. Derek shares his journey from traditional project management certification to developing real-world expertise that makes a difference. The conversation explores the value of standardized credentials versus hands-on experience, the challenges of implementing theoretical knowledge, and the importance of continuous experimentation and learning. Whether you're a project manager, a leader, or someone interested in professional development, this episode offers valuable insights on balancing education with practical application.
Chapter...
Adapting to Market Challenges - Craig Andrews | 10x Your Team Ep. #421
In this episode of 10x Your Team, Camden and Otis McGregor are joined by Craig Andrews to delve into the art of effective sales strategies and the importance of adaptability in business. Craig shares his insights on overcoming traditional sales challenges and the value of innovative approaches in today's competitive market. The conversation highlights the significance of strategic thinking, continuous learning, and the role of resilience in achieving success. Whether you're a seasoned sales professional or new to the field, this episode offers practical advice and fresh perspectives to enhance your sales techniques and business acumen.
Chapter...
Mastering the Customer Journey - Katie Smith | 10x Your Team Ep. #420
In this episode of 10x Your Team, Camden and Otis McGregor are joined by Katie Smith, the Queen of the Customer Journey, to explore the art of transforming chaos into strategic success. Katie shares her insights on crafting tailored marketing strategies that align with company goals and foster strong teams. With a background in environmental science and psychology, Katie's unique approach empowers businesses to connect with consumers and promote shared values. Whether you're a startup or an established company, this episode offers valuable lessons on driving sustainable growth and creating meaningful customer experiences.
More About Katie: Katie...
Grit and Duty in Leadership - Jan Rutherford | 10x Your Team Ep. #419
In this episode of 10x Your Team, Camden and Otis McGregor are joined by Jan Rutherford, a former Green Beret and founder of Self-Reliant Leadership®. Jan shares his unique insights on leadership, drawing from his experiences in the military and his work with executives and veterans. The conversation explores the importance of self-reliance, grit, and disciplined duty in forging indomitable teams. Jan discusses his wilderness expeditions, the lessons learned from nature, and how these experiences translate into effective leadership strategies. Whether you're an aspiring leader or a seasoned executive, this episode offers valuable perspectives on becoming a self-reliant leader.
Entrepreneurship: The True Rock Stars - Jose Berlanga | 10x Your Team Ep. #418
Jose Berlanga didn’t just build homes, he built a business. In this episode, we cover his journey from the founding of Tricon Homes to his disciplined approach to deals, leadership, and unlocking potential in every project.
About Jose:
Jose Miguel Berlanga is the co-founder of Tricon Homes, an industry leader with yearly revenues of $100 million. As CEO, he has structured deals, invested, and negotiated land acquisitions and sales transactions in excess of a billion dollars, while managing the day-to-day operations and building close to 2,000 homes to date. A graduate from the university of St. Thomas wi...
Aligning Team Values - Marc Fitzwater | 10x Your Team Ep. #417
In this episode of 10x Your Team, Camden and Otis McGregor are joined by Marc Fitzwater to explore the importance of values and grace in leadership. Marc shares his insights on how personal values shape leadership styles and the significance of allowing grace in professional relationships. The discussion delves into the challenges of aligning values within a team, the impact of diverse perspectives, and the role of open communication in fostering a collaborative environment. Whether you're a seasoned leader or just starting out, this episode offers valuable perspectives on building a cohesive and values-driven team.
More About...
The Secrets to Thriving Teams - Brett Hoogeveen | 10x Your Team Ep. #416
In this episode of 10x Your Team, Camden and Otis McGregor are joined by Brett Hoogeveen, co-founder of BetterCulture, to discuss the intricacies of building a thriving company culture. Brett shares his insights from over a decade of experience working with leaders and organizations to create stronger, more energized workplace environments. The conversation covers the importance of aligning leadership with cultural values, the pitfalls of superficial perks, and the keys to fostering genuine engagement and happiness within teams. Whether you're leading a startup or a Fortune 500 company, Brett's practical advice will help you elevate your leadership and transform your...
Scaling Success in Federal Markets - Rachael Lee | 10x Your Team Ep. #415
In this episode of 10x Your Team, Camden and Otis McGregor are joined by Rachael Lee, a powerhouse in government contracting and a trusted strategist for businesses aiming to scale within the federal marketplace. With over 20 years of experience and a track record of securing over $20 billion in awards, Rachael shares her insights on navigating the complexities of government contracts. From her beginnings with a $4.5 billion contract to helping clients secure multi-billion-dollar deals, Rachael discusses the strategies and processes that drive success in this high-stakes arena. Whether you're a small business looking to break into government contracting or an...
Building Resilient Leaders - Charles Browne | 10x Your Team Ep. #414
Join Camden and Otis McGregor as they sit down with Charles Browne to discuss the intricacies of leadership in high-stakes environments. Drawing from his experiences in nuclear engineering and corporate leadership, Charles shares valuable insights on the importance of collaboration, the pitfalls of relying solely on talent, and the role of strategic decision-making. This episode dives into the challenges of working with others, the significance of understanding potential, and how leaders can foster resilience and adaptability in their teams.
More About Charles:
Charles Browne is a high-stakes leadership coach specializing in executive presence, decisive leadership, and...
Listen, Learn, Lead - Mamie Lamley | 10x Your Team Ep. #413
In this insightful episode of 10x Your Team, Camden and Otis McGregor welcome Mamie Lamley, who shares her expertise on authentic public speaking and leadership through storytelling. Mamie reveals the power of being a lifelong learner and the importance of truly listening to your audience. Through engaging discussions about stage presence, connecting with diverse audiences, and finding your "big why," this episode offers valuable lessons on how to create meaningful connections through purposeful storytelling and authentic leadership.
More About Mamie:
Mamie Jean Lamley is an international award-winning author, dynamic speaker, and visionary leader who has empowered...