The Digital Executive

Revolutionizing Fireproofing and Sustainability: CEO Mike Francis’ Vision | Ep 981

Send us a textIn this episode of The Digital Executive, host Brian Thomas speaks with Mike Francis, a four-time founder and CEO of Nanotech Materials. Mike shares his remarkable journey from leading teams at Fortune 500 companies to launching startups. He delves into how his corporate experience shaped his entrepreneurial mindset and led to the founding of Nanotech Materials, a company pioneering innovative materials that reduce energy consumption, lower CO2 emissions, and enhance fireproofing for critical infrastructure.Mike reveals the inspiring personal moment that became his "why" for entrepreneurship and discusses the challenges and rewards of building a company from scratch, including crafting fireproof coatings in a garage-turned-lab. He highlights the cutting-edge technologies developed at Nanotech, such as patented particles that improve building sustainability and safety while fostering a culture of innovation within his teams.Looking ahead, Mike shares his strategic vision for Nanotech, including scaling across building envelopes and expanding fireproofing solutions in fire-prone states like California. With a mission-driven approach, Nanotech Materials is setting a new standard for sustainable innovation, making a tangible impact on communities and the environment. Don’t miss this inspiring conversation with a visionary leader committed to creating a safer, greener future.

Revolutionizing Warehousing: Ryan Chesterfield on Automation, Data Strategy, and the Future of Logistics | Ep 980

Send us a textIn this episode of The Digital Executive, Brian Thomas hosts Ryan Chesterfield, founder of Auto-FC, a leading consulting firm specializing in warehouse automation and supply chain optimization. With over 15 years of industry experience, Ryan discusses the transformative trends in warehouse automation, from the shift towards robotics and technology-driven solutions to the impact of e-commerce and labor shortages on operational strategies.Ryan shares his unique insights on navigating complex automation projects, emphasizing the importance of data strategy, understanding ROI, and the order of operations for successful implementation. He highlights how companies can future-proof their systems by adopting scalable, data-driven technologies and fostering in-house expertise.Listeners will gain actionable takeaways on aligning automation investments with business goals, managing labor challenges, and staying competitive in a rapidly evolving logistics landscape. Ryan’s practical and forward-thinking approach sheds light on the critical steps businesses must take to thrive in today’s on-demand economy.

Scaling Smarter: How CEO Asim Razzaq is Transforming Cloud Cost Management | Ep 979

Send us a textIn this episode of The Digital Executive, Brian Thomas sits down with Asim Razzaq, the co-founder and CEO of Yotascale, a leading platform in cloud cost management. Asim shares his journey from leading platform engineering at PayPal—where he navigated the complexities of massive-scale cloud infrastructure—to founding Yotascale, inspired by the need for actionable, data-driven insights in cloud operations.Asim discusses the critical gaps he identified in cloud cost optimization, emphasizing the importance of empowering engineering and finance teams with transparency, accountability, and precise recommendations. He explains how Yotascale bridges the divide between technical teams and financial stakeholders, providing tools to manage runaway costs, streamline cloud operations, and align cloud spending with business objectives.Listeners will gain valuable insights into scaling cloud infrastructure efficiently, fostering a cost-conscious culture, and the future of cloud optimization for enterprises. Asim’s blend of technical expertise and entrepreneurial spirit offers actionable advice for companies navigating the complexities of cloud operations in today's fast-paced digital landscape.

From Six Figures to Seven by 27: DJ Rutherford on Purpose-Driven Entrepreneurship | Ep 978

Send us a textIn this episode of The Digital Executive, Brian Thomas sits down with visionary entrepreneur DJ Rutherford to discuss his remarkable journey from a six-figure corporate role to achieving a seven-figure income by the age of 27. DJ shares candid insights into the pivotal moments that shaped his career, including leaving a secure job to follow his entrepreneurial spirit, learning hard lessons on infrastructure and leadership, and navigating challenges like a near-death health experience.From real estate ventures to collaborating with business legends like Kevin Harrington, DJ recounts how his bold decisions and resilience fueled his success. He also highlights the key takeaways from his upcoming book, "I F**ked Up So You Don’t Have To," aimed at helping others avoid common pitfalls in business.With wisdom on the importance of purpose over profit, clarity in leadership, and the value of sustainable, people-centered business practices, this conversation is a must-listen for aspiring entrepreneurs and seasoned business leaders alike.

Revolutionizing FinTech: Super Apps, AI, and Innovation with Chief Product Officer Donat Husjainov | Ep 977

Send us a textIn this episode of The Digital Executive, host Brian Thomas sits down with Donat Husjainov, Chief Product Officer of XData Group, to explore his transformative journey in fintech. With over a decade of experience spanning top European banks like Citadel and Swedbank, Donat shares how his enterprise expertise shapes his innovative approach at XData Group.Discover how Donat is spearheading the creation of "super apps" for European banks, inspired by China's WeChat, to consolidate diverse services under one platform. He also delves into XData’s strategic use of artificial intelligence to enhance product functionality, optimize development processes, and redefine competitor analysis.Lastly, Donat offers insights into staying ahead of fintech trends, emphasizing the importance of user experience and cross-industry inspiration from platforms like Instagram and Spotify. Tune in to learn how XData Group is paving the way for the next generation of financial technology!

Transforming Social Good: Chase Russell on Scaling Impact with Technology | Ep 976

Send us a textIn this episode of The Digital Executive, host Brian Thomas chats with Chase Russell, Senior Vice President of Product Strategy and Marketing at Bonterra, a social good tech company empowering nonprofits and philanthropists. Chase shares Bonterra’s mission of increasing charitable giving to 3% of US GDP by 2033 through innovative software solutions that connect donors, volunteers, and funders with nonprofits driving impact.Chase explores the biggest challenges nonprofits face, from engaging donors to demonstrating real-world impact, and how Bonterra's AI-driven tools help solve these problems. From predicting optimal donation amounts to creating volunteer networks and detecting corporate matching opportunities, Bonterra’s solutions foster a connected ecosystem that builds trust and maximizes generosity.Chase emphasizes the need for collaboration and advanced technology to ignite transformational change in the social good sector. Tune in to discover how Bonterra is unlocking the full potential of the nonprofit ecosystem to make a lasting impact on the world.

Revolutionizing Healthcare Efficiency with AI-Powered Solutions with CEO Jim Boswell | Ep 975

Send us a textIn this episode of The Digital Executive, host Brian Thomas sits down with Jim Boswell, CEO of OnPoint Healthcare, to explore how artificial intelligence is transforming healthcare operations. Jim shares insights into the development of Iris, OnPoint’s groundbreaking provider efficiency platform that integrates advanced AI with clinical expertise to streamline workflows, reduce administrative burdens, and improve patient care.With a 99% accuracy rate in clinical documentation, Iris exemplifies how technology can alleviate physician burnout while maintaining the high standards required in healthcare. Jim emphasizes OnPoint's unique approach of building technology "from the inside out," prioritizing clinician and patient needs before designing solutions.The conversation also highlights the importance of collaboration between healthcare leaders and tech innovators, ensuring that AI tools are not only efficient but also reliable and safe. Tune in to learn how OnPoint Healthcare is setting a new standard for operational excellence and innovation in the medical field.

Driving Global Innovation: Scaling a Unicorn Company to Industry Leadership with CEO Bill Powers | Ep 974

Send us a textIn this episode of The Digital Executive, host Brian Thomas interviews Bill Powers, Founder and CEO of Cambridge Mobile Telematics (CMT), the world's largest telematics service provider. Bill shares his journey from founding CMT as an MIT startup to achieving unicorn status, with the company now protecting over 40 million drivers across 110 global programs. He reflects on his leadership philosophy, emphasizing resilience, adaptability, and the importance of listening to diverse perspectives.Bill discusses the challenges of navigating regulatory and cultural complexities in global markets and how CMT tailors its telematics solutions to fit unique regional needs, from crash reconstruction to family safety. He also highlights the value of hybrid work environments for fostering both employee well-being and business efficiency. Drawing on decades of experience in leadership roles at Traffic.com and Swoop, Bill offers insights on making tough decisions, building effective teams, and maintaining a people-first approach to innovation. Tune in for an inspiring conversation with a leader shaping the future of mobility and road safety.

Building Resilient Teams Through Culture and Conflict: Insights from COO Meghan Trevorrow | Ep 973

Send us a textIn this episode of The Digital Executive, host Brian Thomas welcomes Meghan Trevorrow, Chief Operations Officer at This Week Health, to explore the intersection of leadership, culture, and operational efficiency. Meghan shares her innovative approach to fostering a thriving team culture by embracing discomfort and leveraging healthy conflict as tools for growth. She highlights how a collaborative and safe work environment directly impacts efficiency, eliminating internal drama and enabling teams to focus on their mission.Meghan also discusses her "Culture of Honor" framework, built on three core values: honoring individuals even in challenging circumstances, balancing mission and relationships to build camaraderie, and normalizing healthy conflict. Drawing from her leadership journey, Meghan emphasizes the importance of proactive team dynamics and collective ownership in staying ahead of the rapidly evolving healthcare IT landscape. Tune in to discover actionable insights on driving cultural excellence and operational success in high-stakes environments.

From $26K to Millionaire: Dr. Annie Cole’s Blueprint for Financial Freedom | Ep 972

Send us a textIn this episode of The Digital Executive, host Brian Thomas welcomes Dr. Annie Cole, a financial educator and expert money coach dedicated to helping women take charge of their finances. Founder of Money Essentials for Women and author of 101 Ways to Build Wealth in Your Thirties, Annie shares her incredible journey from a $26,000-a-year social worker to a self-made millionaire by her 30s.She discusses the strategies that helped her build wealth, such as the power of consistent investing, fostering a healthy money mindset, and practical advice for beginners looking to start their own financial journeys. Annie also delves into the art of negotiating raises and promotions, offering actionable tips to confidently advocate for one's worth. Don’t miss this inspiring episode packed with insights for anyone looking to achieve financial freedom.