Unmasked: The CEO Files

UNMASKED: The CEO Files. The mic is on. The masks are off. UNMASKED: The CEO Files explores the leadership journeys you don’t see on LinkedIn. The turning points, the real pivots, the moments that shaped who these leaders became beneath the title. We sit with executives as they talk candidly about building trust at scale, shaping culture, and staying visible without selling out who they are. Why it matters: In a world of curated content and algorithm-chasing brands, UNMASKED offers something rare: a human signal that resonates. These are the stories behind the success. The decisions made in un...

UNMASKED: The CEO Files. The mic is on. The masks are off. UNMASKED: The CEO Files explores the leadership journeys you don’t see on LinkedIn. The turning points, the real pivots, the moments that shaped who these leaders became beneath the title. We sit with executives as they talk candidly about building trust at scale, shaping culture, and staying visible without selling out who they are. Why it matters: In a world of curated content and algorithm-chasing brands, UNMASKED offers something rare: a human signal that resonates. These are the stories behind the success. The decisions made in un...

If you’re a CEO, founder, executive, or investor navigating growth and high-stakes decisions, this episode offers powerful insight into the invisible variables shaping leadership outcomes! 🔗 Connect with Kerry Siggins on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kerry-siggins/ Check out Kerry's books by visiting these two Amazon links: 📚Talk with Trust: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0GX7N175H 📚Ownership Mindset: https://www.amazon.com/Ownership-Mindset-Handbook-Transforming-Leadership/dp/1637554346/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1K46E50JIF2BT&keywords=9781637554340&qid=1686927353&sprefix=9781637554340%2Caps%2C59&sr=8-1 ____ UNMASKED: The CEO Files. The mic is on. The masks are off. UNMASKED: The CEO Files explores th...

In this episode of Unmasked the CEO Files, Alan McLaren sits down with Kevin Maney (journalist, author, and advisor) to unpack the art of category creation for CEOs. Kevin shares insights from his latest book, The Category Creation Formula, and explains how leaders can escape comparison, help markets see problems in new ways, and create lasting impact. Fun fact: Two years ago, one Maney hit the podcast… now the other brother is stepping in. World, are you ready for this? Whether you’re a CEO, entrepreneur, or innovator, this conversation is packed with actionable strategies to position your company uniquely and...

What if the fear holding you back was actually the fuel for your biggest breakthroughs? In this episode of Unmasked: The CEO Files, Alan McLaren sits down with Patrick Sweeney - Wall Street Journal bestselling author, investor, entrepreneur, world-record athlete and globally recognized fear expert known as “The Fear Guru”. Patrick shares his incredible journey from battling rare leukemia and crippling fear, to building and exiting multiple companies, investing in dozens more and helping hundreds of leaders transform fear into peak performance. He also breaks down the foundational ideas behind his upcoming book, The Founder’s Creed, including the belief-based BOODA...

In this episode of Unmasked: The CEO Files, host Alan McLaren sits down with entrepreneur and YPO leader Jeff Cullen for a deeply honest conversation about leadership, neurodiversity, trust and building a values-based business that lasts. Jeff shares his journey from founding a Canadian logistics company at 27 to scaling it into a multinational organization across 17 countries and navigating both a painful fire-sale exit and a later, highly successful acquisition. Along the way, he opens up about living with ADHD, managing impostor syndrome, surviving financial crisis, and why leadership is less about control and more about accountability, alignment, and trust. This...

In this episode of Unmasked: The CEO Files, host Alan McLaren chats with Richart Ruddie, Founder of Captain Compliance, to unpack the real journey behind building exiting and scaling businesses in fast-changing digital environments. From starting his career during the financial crisis to becoming an entrepreneur by accident, Richart shares how relentless learning shaped his leadership journey while discussing the emotional reality of exits, the pressure founders face to move fast without perfection and why privacy compliance has become one of the most critical (and overlooked!) risks for modern businesses. This conversation is a candid look at leadership under pressure...

In this episode of Unmasked: The CEO Files, host Alan McLaren sits down with Dusty Holcomb, a leadership advisor and YPO member for a deeply personal and insightful conversation on what it really takes to lead. From growing up homeschooled to building a 30-year career in leadership and corporate growth, Dusty shares the experiences that shaped his mindset and the lessons he learned from a retired colonel who became his greatest mentor. Together, Alan and Dusty unpack the difference between leadership and management, the power of clarity over chaos, and why self-awareness and authenticity are the foundation of sustainable leadership...

Join Alan McLaren as he chats with Pádraig Ó Céidigh (teacher, lawyer, accountant, entrepreneur, and former senator) who built a €150M airline from the ground up, is a former winner of Ireland EY Entrepreneur of the Year and represented Ireland at EY World Entrepreneur of the Year. Alan and Pádraig discuss the art of purposeful decision-making in leadership, exploring how to align personal values with business goals, balance immediate actions with long-term impact and lead with authenticity and integrity. Drawing on lessons from aviation, entrepreneurship, and his YPO experience, Pádraig shares practical frameworks and real-world insights that empower...

Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and hit the bell for more conversations with leaders shaping the future of business. Click the links below, hit that 'Follow' button, and let the journey towards a stronger, more authentic personal brand begin! Connect with us and learn more about how you can create your own authentic personal brand: Website: https://strataoriginals.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/8045398 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/strata_originals/?hl=en Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/StrataOG Don't forget to engage with us in the comments, sharing your thoughts, questions, and your own personal brand vi...

Running a family business is rewarding, but succession, buyouts, and leadership transitions are never simple. In this episode of STRATA Originals, Alan McLaren speaks with Chuck Phillips- CEO, board member, and family business consultant about the realities of keeping both businesses and families thriving across generations. Chuck unpacks the emotional, financial, and governance challenges that come with family enterprises. From buyouts that strain relationships to boards that lack outside oversight, he explains how to avoid common pitfalls, strengthen governance, and prevent conflict before it destroys both wealth and family ties. In this episode we explore: ➡️ Why family business buyouts are rare...

While he may not wield a lightsaber, this Mark Hamill is a force to be reckoned with when it comes to guiding executives through the next chapter of their leadership journey! Mark Hamill, founder of The Naked Headhunter, Virtual Advisory Board, and MyFractional, joins Alan McLaren to break down how high-level executives can navigate life after the C-suite - and find new purpose, relevance, and opportunity. With a global team of expert search professionals and advisors, Mark’s companies are on track to help over 1,000 of the world’s most passionate entrepreneurs make the No. 1 hire they need to achieve thei...

From the Streets to the C-Suite, Kevin Johnson, CEO of WPP Media Group, joins Leanne to unpack what it really takes to lead with bold inclusive leadership. In this episode, Kevin shares the personal story behind his leadership: how one teacher nearly broke him and another lit the fire that never went out. That fire led him to the C-Suite and to Launchpad, an internal WPP program that trains people from non-traditional backgrounds: single moms, crane operators, Uber drivers with PhDs and gives them opportunity to get hired. This isn’t theory. It’s lived experience. It’s legacy. It’s what h...

In this episode of STRATA Originals, Leanne Bucaro chats with Jeremy Sharpe, President of Sharpe Development Group on how he grew a multigenerational real estate and development company behind Rancho Sahuarita- a 3,000-acre award-winning master-planned community in Southern Arizona. Jeremy shares his passion for creating a better life for people through thoughtfully built communities. From residential development and commercial assets to water and community management operations, Jeremy discusses how his family company blends legacy with innovation, focusing on people, flexibility, and long-term impact. In this episode, we explore: ➡️ Jeremy’s role in leading operations and asset management at Sharpe Development Group...

In this STRATA Originals episode, Alan McLaren is joined by two industry leaders, David Tsubouchi and Marc Kealy, as they dive deep into their groundbreaking book, The Ripple Effect. Together, they explore how building authentic relationships, offering real value, and staying true to oneself can lead to long-term success and credibility in business and beyond. David Tsubouchi is an author, former politician, regulator, and Integrity Commissioner. He currently serves on several boards including OMERS and Tarion. David has received numerous awards and is an international keynote speaker on casino development, infrastructure, arts and culture, trade, politics, diversity, governance, networking, and...

In this episode of STRATA Originals, Alan McLaren chats with Smoke Wallin, YPO member and visionary entrepreneur who bridges business success with spiritual depth. Smoke discusses his pivotal moments and what it means to live consciously, rise above reactionary patterns, and lead with purpose. From supporting survivors of abuse to building solutions for homelessness, our guest opens up about two life-changing charities—Sacred and DignityMoves—and his mission to serve. Smoke shares his personal journey with poetry, podcasting, and what it means to truly connect with others on a soul level. If you're a leader navigating meaning, growth, and impact, this...

In this episode of STRATA Originals, Leanne Bucaro chats with Amanda Reali, a compassionate therapist and coach and the founder of Mindful Path Wellness as she shares her journey to emotional resilience—and how you can start building YOURS today. From navigating conflict with curiosity to helping her daughter understand boundaries, Amanda shares real-world wisdom on how to manage your reactions, reflect with intention, and show up in the world with confidence. Through powerful personal stories and insights from her work, Amanda reminds us of a crucial truth: "You're not your thoughts. Just because you think something doesn’t make it a...

In this episode, we explore: ➡️ The connection between childhood adversity and visionary leadership ➡️ How Justin and Patricia are helping entrepreneurs tell real stories ➡️ The danger of faking it—and the power of showing up authentically ➡️ What it means to build a personal legacy through relationships ➡️ Why inner work is the foundation for external success Connect with Justin Breen on LinkedIn by visiting: https://www.linkedin.com/in/justinbreen1/ Connect with Patricia Noelle on LinkedIn by visiting: https://www.linkedin.com/in/patriciannoelle1/ The music that Justin Breen references during this podcast can be found here: https://sunoai.ai/music/0d0b38b89002461098d466e

YOU are an Original. The Strata Originals Podcast is designed to provide valuable insights and inspiration in business and in life. All of our guests stand-out in their “uniqueness”. Whether you are on your own personal branding journey, or just curious to find out what it’s all about, there are always a few take-aways in every episode.

Culture isn’t just a buzzword—it’s the foundation of business success. In this episode of STRATA Originals, Alan McLaren chats with Hilton Barbour, a marketing and culture expert, to explore how businesses can align culture with strategy to drive real impact. From leadership and decision-making to the evolving workplace, Hilton shares insights that challenge conventional thinking and offer a fresh perspective on winning in today’s world. A lot of learning ahead, people! Let’s dive in. In this episode we explore: ➡️ Marketing vs. Culture: Why companies struggle to align them and what happens when they don’t. ➡️ The Emotional Side o...

Are you searching for more fulfillment, connection, and purpose in life? In this episode of the STRATA Originals podcast, Oliveyah Fisch (AKA Liv) goes into detail about the transformative power of radical living, intuitive decision-making, and self-empowerment. She shares her personal journey growing up in a cult-like environment and how it shaped her understanding of authenticity, personal growth, and inner strength. Liv Fisch is a master coach, #1 best-selling author, and an expert in facilitating impactful change within individuals and teams. With over 15 years of experience, she has helped professionals and organizations enhance communication, resolve conflicts, and achieve peak performance. She...

🔗 Download the attachment mentioned in the podcast: https://www.fraserinstitute.org/sites/default/files/2025-02/trouble-with-canada-and-the-return-to-prosperity.pdf

 Explore more at the Fraser Institute: https://www.fraserinstitute.org/about-us Read the rest of Niels Veldhuis profile and connect with him on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/nielsveldhuis/overlay/photo/

Don't forget to engage with us in the comments, sharing your thoughts, questions, and your own personal brand victories. Together, let's create a community that thrives on empowerment and success. Elevate your personal brand– follow us on Strata Originals Podcast today!

Ready to immerse yourself in a world of personal branding wisdom? Click the links below, hit that 'Follow' button, and let the journey towards a stronger, more authentic personal brand begin! Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast... Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1x3WaLG... Pandora: https://www.pandora.com/podcast/strat... Amazon: https://music.amazon.ca/podcasts/7d19... Google: https://podcastsmanager.google.com/sh... Connect with us and learn more about how you can create your own authentic personal brand: Website: www.strataoriginals.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/stra... Don't forget to engage with us...

YOU are an Original. The Strata Originals Podcast is designed to provide valuable insights and inspiration in business and in life. All of our guests stand-out in their “uniqueness”. Whether you are on your own personal branding journey, or just curious to find out what it’s all about, there are always a few take-aways in every episode. Ready to immerse yourself in a world of personal branding wisdom? Click the links below, hit that 'Follow' button, and let the journey towards a stronger, more authentic personal brand begin! 

 

YOU are an Original. The Strata Originals Podcast is designed to provide valuable insights and inspiration in business and in life. All of our guests stand-out in their “uniqueness”. Whether you are on your own personal branding journey, or just curious to find out what it’s all about, there are always a few take-aways in every episode. Ready to immerse yourself in a world of personal branding wisdom? Click the links below, hit that 'Follow' button, and let the journey towards a stronger, more authentic personal brand begin!

YOU are an Original. The Strata Originals Podcast is designed to provide valuable insights and inspiration in business and in life. All of our guests stand-out in their “uniqueness”. Whether you are on your own personal branding journey, or just curious to find out what it’s all about, there are always a few take-aways in every episode. 

Ready to immerse yourself in a world of personal branding wisdom? Click the links below, hit that 'Follow' button, and let the journey towards a stronger, more authentic personal brand begin!

Be sure to check out Ajay Sood's LinkedIn here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/akssecure/ The Strata Originals Podcast is designed to provide valuable insights and inspiration in business and in life. All of our guests stand-out in their “uniqueness”. Whether you are on your own personal branding journey, or just curious to find out what it’s all about, there are always a few take-aways in every episode. Ready to immerse yourself in a world of personal branding wisdom? Click the links below, hit that 'Follow' button, and let the journey towards a stronger, more authentic personal brand begin...

The Strata Originals Podcast is designed to provide valuable insights and inspiration in business and in life. All of our guests stand-out in their “uniqueness”. Whether you are on your own personal branding journey, or just curious to find out what it’s all about, there are always a few take-aways in every episode. Ready to immerse yourself in a world of personal branding wisdom? Click the links below, hit that 'Follow' button, and let the journey towards a stronger, more authentic personal brand begin! 

 

In our latest episode of STRATA Originals, Alan McLaren sits down with Adrienne Stevens, a trailblazer with a remarkable journey spanning leadership roles as a five-time president and CEO across various industries, including private companies and divisions of Fortune 200 corporations. Adrienne is not only a powerhouse in the boardroom, but also a former commercial pilot, champion powerlifter, and passionate advocate for female empowerment! In this episode, we explore: - Adrienne's journey from a military upbringing to becoming a fearless leader - Her unique experience as a female pilot in a male-dominated industry - The transformative power of discipline, resilience, and...

Dr. Ken Druck is one of the world’s foremost experts on grief and resilience. Having worked with leaders globally, he provides invaluable insights into the challenges and opportunities that help us become better versions of ourselves. Dr. Ken emphasizes that how we treat ourselves and others allows us the freedom to navigate the WHAT NOW moments in our lives. In this podcast, you’ll learn directly from Dr. Ken Druck as he shares strategies for overcoming fear, anxiety, imposter syndrome, trauma, and grief. Since the tragic loss of his daughter, and through his work with families affected by 9/11, Sandy Hook...

Host Leanne Bucaro has an unbelievable conversation about taking risks, near-death experiences and how to win in life. Meet David Jassan, an entrepreneur unlike any other who lives life in the fast lane! A fast lane that has delivered THREE near-death experiences. Hear all about this risk-takers journey and how these experiences help shape his life in business. In this episode we learn: ➡️ David’s entrepreneurial journey as an innovator. ➡️ The importance of BEING with the curve, not just ahead of it. ➡️ Life lessons learned from several near-death experiences. ➡️ Finding your true passion in life, regardless of the chapter you’re in. ➡️ Creative...

The Strata Originals Podcast is designed to provide valuable insights and inspiration in business and in life. All of our guests stand-out in their “uniqueness”. Whether you are on your own personal branding journey, or just curious to find out what it’s all about, there are always a few take-aways in every episode. Ready to immerse yourself in a world of personal branding wisdom? Click the links below, hit that 'Follow' button, and let the journey towards a stronger, more authentic personal brand begin! Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast... Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1x3WaLG...

In our latest episode, Leanne Bucaro speaks with Cristian Frunze, an extraordinary entrepreneur who started making waves at 14-years-old (yes you read that correctly - only 14!) Cristian shares his creative process with the companies he founded, detailing the journey to his current success. In this episode we learn: - The advantages of being an avid bookworm - How Cristian became an entrepreneur at 14 - Cristian reflects on his journey to acceptance at Minerva University - Cristian's business model process as a young innovator - Integrating AI and humans into his business strategy - Oh, and did we mention Cristian's still...

In this episode we learn about: ➡️ The story behind the The Accidental Rule Breaker / How Hard Can It Be Woman ➡️ Where the name Next Catapult came from ➡️ Uncovering the WHY for your actions ➡️ Host Leanne Bucaro speaks with Sherry Orel The Strata Originals Podcast is designed to provide valuable insights and inspiration in business and in life. All of our guests stand-out in their “uniqueness”. Whether you are on your own personal branding journey, or just curious to find out what it’s all about, there are always a few take-aways in every episode. Ready to immerse yourself in a world of personal bran...

In this episode we learn about: ➡️ What is 440 Hertz and why is it important? ➡️ Adapting communication for different cultures ➡️ Sustainable development and investment and why it’s important ➡️ Middle child influence and how it had a role in what Yassy is today Host Leanne Bucaro speaks to Yassamin (Yassy) Issapour, who is unlike any other 30-year-old we have ever met! Yassy is a dynamic and driven individual, embodying the essence of a powerhouse in all things business, communication and sustainability investment. Aside from her ability to navigate the complexities of todays business world and make sound investment decisions, she is a music genius and...

In this episode, Leanne Bucaro speaks with Doug Larson, the President of XFD Real Estate Partners, a prestigious family-owned real estate enterprise. ➡️ Learn how Doug propelled the company to new heights, with a diverse portfolio spanning student housing all the way to elder care. ➡️ Learn how Doug gets 39 years of learning in one week! ➡️ Listen to some of the crazy stories that happen in student housing and why a strong operations team is key! But Doug's influence doesn't end there and you'll have to tune in to gain insights from this industry trailblazer. The Strata Originals Podcast is designed to provide valu...

In this episode: Leanne Bucaro speaks to Berna Rusagara from Women for Women Rwanda. Get a cool drink and fasten your seatbelt. There is a lot of learning and awareness coming your way! Berna’s passion is Gender Equality for sustainable development AND designing and delivering impactful, educational and inclusive programs. We learn about: - Cultural and systemic barriers in Rwanda and surrounding areas - How to help women “have agency” over themselves - Financial literacy and inclusion - The journey from education to opening up a shop or growing a crop - Current opportunities

This is the happiest episode of Strata Originals to date! Leanne speaks with Scott White, the happiest guy around. What makes Scott so happy? Have a listen to find out! Scott White is a prolific author, with his book "The Life is Too Short Guy: Strategies to Make Every Day the Best Day Ever" topping the charts as a #1 bestseller and earning critical acclaim. As a motivational speaker, he spreads happiness and positivity, inspiring teams, organizations, and companies to reach new heights. Scott is also a highly accomplished CEO and Chairman with a proven track record of driving growth and...

In this episode you will hear about Mouna Aouri's journey to entrepreneurship which began amidst personal struggles and the first Arab Spring. Fleeing with her new family and as a new mother, she found herself in an unfamiliar country, jobless and dependent on her spouse. Once there, she confronted a stark new reality: the loss of her professional independence and self-confidence. The shift from an autonomous career woman to a state of financial reliance stripped her of control over even basic life decisions. She soon realized that the struggle with financial independence and caregiving was a widespread issue among women...