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In this episode of Pushing the Envelope, host James Gilman is joined by Andy Murphy, a seasoned software engineer turned entrepreneur.

They delve into business intelligence (BI), analytics, and how data-driven decision-making can transform organizations.

Andy shares his journey, experiences, and insights, offering valuable takeaways for both tech-savvy and business-minded listeners.

• The Journey to Software and Business Intelligence

Andy recounts his early fascination with technology, influenced by his family and early exposure to computers.

His career began with a focus on coding but evolved into BI and problem-solving for businesses.

He highlights how working outside traditional engineering roles provided unique opportunities to solve real-world challenges.

• Bridging the Gap Between Data and Decisions

Andy explains the common problem businesses face with siloed data and discusses how BI tools like Tableau and Power BI help centralize and visualize information.

He emphasizes the importance of actionable insights over flashy dashboards to empower teams.

• Starting a Business with Integrity

Andy shares the story of founding Integrity Data Insights.

He highlights the value of authenticity and building trust in client relationships, noting that these qualities often drive long-term success more than technical expertise alone.

• The Power of Small Wins

Drawing on his consulting experience, Andy advises businesses to start small with clear, actionable goals.

He discusses how focusing on incremental improvements can build momentum and demonstrate value to stakeholders, making it easier to secure buy-in for larger initiatives.

• AI and the Modern Decision-Making Landscape

Andy and James discuss the impact of AI on the "answer economy," where businesses can now get immediate answers to complex questions.

Andy stresses the need for human oversight to ensure these technologies align with business goals and maintain data integrity.

This conversation with Andy Murphy showcases how a thoughtful approach to technology and data can help organizations evolve.

From navigating personal career transitions to helping companies embrace BI and analytics, Andy provides practical advice for anyone looking to make data-driven decisions.

His emphasis on authenticity, small wins, and actionable insights resonates in today’s fast-paced, tech-driven business world.

Remember, keep learning, thriving and pushing the envelope!

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In this episode of Pushing the Envelope, host James Gilman welcomes sales expert David Kurkjian for an engaging conversation on the evolving dynamics of sales and human connection.

Drawing from decades of experience, David shares practical insights into the challenges of sales and how to overcome them.

This episode offers listeners actionable advice to build meaningful relationships and embrace creativity in their professional and personal interactions.

• Why Sales is About Service

David reflects on his journey from industrial engineering to sales, explaining how a love for problem-solving and human connection led him to embrace the profession.

Sales, he asserts, is fundamentally about helping others solve problems, a perspective that shifts the focus from personal gains to serving others.

• Common Sales Pitfalls

David identifies three major mistakes salespeople make: oversharing, failing to communicate uniquely, and being too self-focused.

He emphasizes the importance of stepping into the prospect's shoes and making the conversation about their needs, not the product.

• The Power of Perspective and Creativity

David explains how adopting a “why-centered” approach can help professionals overcome challenges like cold calling or rejection.

He shares examples of using creativity in outreach, such as sending a pizza with a clever note to land a meeting, underscoring the importance of standing out in a saturated market.

The Role of AI in Sales

AI is revolutionizing many aspects of sales, from automating routine tasks to managing outreach campaigns.

David highlights that while AI will handle many operational responsibilities, the irreplaceable skill for salespeople will remain their ability to connect with others on a deeply human level.

• Building Trust Through Vulnerability

David advocates for transparency and vulnerability as critical tools in forging genuine connections.

He shares the value of admitting flaws and showing authenticity, particularly in a world dominated by curated social media personas.

This episode of Pushing the Envelope is a masterclass in modern sales strategies and the enduring power of human connection. David Kurkjian emphasizes that while technology reshapes industries, genuine relationships and creativity will always be at the core of successful interactions.

By adopting a service-oriented mindset and focusing on the "why" behind actions, professionals can overcome obstacles and create meaningful impact.

Remember, keep learning, thriving and pushing the envelope!

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In this episode of Pushing the Envelope, James Gilman sits down with Kane Smith, a seasoned leader in the modular building industry.

Kane shares his journey of resilience, leadership, and personal growth, offering practical advice for those navigating career challenges.

The conversation is filled with insights on embracing change, pushing through discomfort, and finding fulfillment in both professional and personal life.

• Entering the Modular Industry by Chance

Kane began his career as a sales rep for Satellite Shelters during the 2008 economic downturn.

What started as a temporary job evolved into a 17-year career where he now leads in a management role.

His story illustrates how persistence and adaptability can turn unexpected opportunities into long-term success.

• Overcoming Fear of Change

Kane emphasizes the importance of embracing change and stepping out of your comfort zone.

Drawing from personal experiences, he explains how even challenging situations can lead to personal growth and new opportunities, encouraging listeners to be proactive in seeking discomfort as a way to grow.

• Resilience Through Personal and Professional Challenges

Kane shares how dealing with his father's illness has taught him to find comfort in uncomfortable situations.

This experience, along with his career setbacks, reinforced his belief that challenges are opportunities for self-improvement, even if the outcomes are uncertain.

• The Evolution of the Modular Building Industry

Kane sheds light on how the modular construction industry has advanced over the past two decades.

He highlights improvements in quality and efficiency, such as modular components for large projects like airport concourses, which have shifted public perception of modular buildings from temporary structures to permanent, high-quality solutions.

• Building a Supportive and Dynamic Team

As a leader, Kane focuses on fostering a team culture where openness, differing opinions, and honest conversations thrive.

He believes that real growth comes from handling adversity together, which not only strengthens bonds but also uncovers authentic strengths in each team member.

This episode dives deep into the themes of resilience, change, and growth, both in the business world and in personal life.

Kane’s journey from a struggling sales rep to a leader in the modular industry is a testament to the power of persistence, adaptability, and pushing the envelope in every aspect of life.

Remember, keep learning, thriving and pushing the envelope!

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In this episode, host James Gilman welcomes Doug Stewart, a passionate advocate for self-development and mentorship.

The conversation dives into Doug's inspiring life story, from his struggles with learning disabilities in childhood to his transformative career experiences.

Together, they explore how Doug turned adversity into an opportunity to serve and lead, sharing insights on resilience, responsibility, and authentic human connection.

• The Burden of a Bad Hand

Doug opens up about growing up with severe learning disabilities, including dyslexia, ADHD, and a form of stress-induced narcolepsy.

He describes feeling like a victim of circumstances he didn’t choose, but a pivotal high school coach helped him separate fault from responsibility, igniting his journey toward self-improvement.

• From Victim to Responsible Leader

Doug explains how a college advisor named Sarah changed his life with unconventional teaching methods, like using crayons to help him understand material.

This unorthodox mentorship helped Doug pull his GPA from 1.4 to 3.4, teaching him the power of taking responsibility and shifting his mindset from victimhood to active self-betterment.

• Mentorship Misconceptions

Highlighting his search for guidance, Doug learned that waiting for a perfect mentor is futile.

Instead, he emphasizes that taking initiative attracts great mentors. He shares the wisdom that the best guides are drawn to people actively working on themselves, not those waiting passively for help.

• The Dale Carnegie Transformation

A chance encounter with a Dale Carnegie leadership course fundamentally altered Doug’s career trajectory.

Initially reluctant, Doug was inspired by the program's lessons and later became a facilitator himself, dedicating his life to helping others harness their potential through human connection and principled action.

• Authenticity in Practice

Doug discusses the meaning of true authenticity—not as acting based on immediate feelings but as aligning actions with one’s core values, even when it’s tough.

He stresses the importance of consistency, character strength, and controlling one’s attitude and actions to inspire change in both oneself and others.

Doug Stewart’s story illustrates the importance of taking personal responsibility and actively shaping your own path, even in the face of adversity.

Through persistence, self-awareness, and the right mentors, one can transform challenges into strengths and create a meaningful impact on others.

This episode encourages listeners to step out of their comfort zones, seek personal growth, and engage meaningfully with those around them.

Remember, keep learning, thriving and pushing the envelope!

This Show is sponsored by Perimeter Office Products

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In this episode of Pushing the Envelope, James Gilman interviews Sarah Fulton, a driven entrepreneur with experience in marketing.

Sarah shares her journey into entrepreneurship, starting from childhood ventures to making the bold leap into full-time self-employment after a tough corporate experience.

She talks about the challenges, growth, and learning moments that have shaped her path.

Her story reflects resilience, an emphasis on core values, and a deep commitment to creating authentic connections with her clients.

• Entrepreneurial Beginnings and Early Influences

Sarah’s entrepreneurial spirit was sparked early, drawing inspiration from her grandparents' work ethic and starting small businesses as a child.

This foundation helped shape her later confidence in building her own companies.

• Transitioning from Corporate Life to Entrepreneurship

After facing a difficult corporate experience, Sarah chose to pursue her passion for marketing independently.

She describes how the corporate challenges she faced fueled her motivation to take control of her career and invest in herself.

• Authentic Storytelling in Marketing

Sarah emphasizes a storytelling approach in marketing, focusing on genuine connections over hard selling.

She guides clients through defining their “who, what, and why” to craft messages that resonate deeply with audiences.

• Learning from Mistakes and Building Boundaries

Mistakes are inevitable, as Sarah illustrates with humorous anecdotes like missing delivery fees in her bakery business.

She advises that such lessons are essential for growth and stresses the importance of knowing one’s limits and setting boundaries.

• Trends in Consumer Engagement and Relationship-Building

Sarah highlights how modern consumers crave real connections with brands.

She believes that involving customers in the brand story—through social media engagement and user-generated content—builds loyalty and distinguishes a business in today’s competitive landscape.

Sarah’s journey underscores the importance of self-awareness, resilience, and a willingness to take risks.

Her insights offer inspiration to anyone looking to push past traditional career boundaries and embrace their unique path.

Remember, keep learning, thriving and pushing the envelope!

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In this episode of Pushing the Envelope, host James Gilman interviews John Noyd, a seasoned CFO and business advisor with over 40 years of experience in finance, mergers, and acquisitions.

John shares his insights on business strategy, particularly around preparing a business for sale.

His deep expertise in accounting, data analysis, and operational leadership, including Six Sigma black belt certification, provides listeners with practical advice on how to optimize their businesses, whether for growth or exit.

• The Expansive Role of a CFO

John explains that a CFO’s duties go far beyond accounting and financial reporting.

From overseeing operations to HR and IT, CFOs play a vital role in driving business improvement by using data to influence strategic decisions.

• Early Mentorship Shaped His Career

John highlights the importance of mentorship in his development, crediting a mentor from early in his career who pushed him to learn beyond accounting and gain a holistic understanding of business operations.

This foundation became key to his later success.

• Data-Driven Decision Making

A large focus of John’s expertise is in data analysis, particularly through Six Sigma methodologies.

He emphasizes how businesses should use data not only to report results but to find hidden insights that drive process improvements and scalability.

• Preparing a Business for Sale

John discusses the importance of planning for the sale of a business well in advance.

He advises business owners to start a pre-due diligence process, identifying and resolving potential “skeletons” such as tax liabilities or process inefficiencies, to increase the business's sale value.

• Documentation and Scalability are Key

John underscores the necessity of having documented processes and scalable systems in place.

He notes that many deals fall through or lose value because businesses are not adequately prepared with these systems, which potential buyers value highly.

In summary, John Noyd's discussion sheds light on the multifaceted role of the CFO in modern business and provides essential advice for business owners preparing for sale.

His practical tips about data use, planning, and mentorship are invaluable for anyone looking to improve or exit their business.

Remember, keep learning, thriving and pushing the envelope!

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In this episode of Pushing the Envelope, host James Gilman is joined by Marlo Prioleau, a South Carolina native and founder of Velocity Education Group.

They delve into Marlo's journey from humble beginnings in Sumter, SC, to becoming a passionate advocate for education and personal growth.

The discussion covers the challenges Marlo faced growing up, his transformative moments in school, and the vision behind his work with students through Velocity Education Group.

Marlo shares how overcoming adversity shaped his philosophy on resilience, success, and the importance of finding one's path.

• Finding Identity in Adversity

Marlo reflects on his childhood, sharing how small moments like wearing a trench coat in school inspired him to feel empowered and different.

He saw these experiences as signs of future success, even when the path ahead was unclear.

• The Power of Mentorship and Recognition

Marlo emphasizes the critical role that teachers and mentors played in his life, such as his high school teacher Miss Hampton, who saw his potential and gave him opportunities to lead.

These experiences shaped his belief in the importance of positive reinforcement and the transformative power of education.

• Education as a Gateway

Marlo shares the story of how a chance encounter with a mentor led him to visit South Carolina State University, changing his outlook on what was possible.

This visit was pivotal, allowing him to envision a future beyond his immediate environment and inspiring his later focus on helping others navigate similar transitions.

• Velocity Education Group: Bridging the Gap

The episode delves into Marlo’s work with Velocity Education Group, an initiative he founded to help students plan for life after high school.

The program emphasizes the importance of discovering individual strengths and interests, offering various pathways like college, trade programs, and entrepreneurial opportunities.

• A Message of Resilience and Trying New Things

Marlo highlights the value of perseverance and the importance of trying, even in the face of uncertainty.

He encourages listeners to embrace the process of failing and learning, emphasizing that the willingness to try can be the difference between success and missed opportunities.

Marlo Prioleau’s story is one of resilience and a deep commitment to helping young people find their way.

His belief in the power of education, combined with a never-give-up attitude, has driven his mission to empower students to discover their strengths and plan for a brighter future.

This episode is filled with insights into the importance of mentorship, the value of grit, and the transformative impact of a supportive community.

Remember, keep learning, thriving and pushing the envelope!

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In this episode of Pushing the Envelope, host James Gilman sits down with Chad Livsey, a passionate environmental activist from Atlanta, to discuss his inspiring work in cleaning up local neighborhoods and creating sustainable initiatives.

The episode explores Chad’s deep connection to his family’s land, his efforts to keep the community clean, and his project’s evolving impact on both the environment and local residents.

• A Legacy of Community Stewardship

Chad Livsey shares the story of his family’s land, "The Promised Land," which they have owned since 1920 in southern Gwinnett County.

Inspired by his grandfather’s commitment to maintaining the area, Chad took up the mantle of community care when he noticed an increase in litter, turning his personal mission into a community movement.

• From Trash to Treasure

Chad has developed an innovative approach to sustainability by turning trash collected during neighborhood cleanups into art and community resources.

His efforts have led to the creation of murals and a "community closet" where people donate clothes and other goods to be reused, helping to reduce waste in Atlanta.

• Building Community Through Cleanups

Chad's cleanup efforts have become more than just removing litter—they are events that bring people together.

His work includes collaborations with programs like the Georgia State RISE Program and involvement in Atlanta Sustainable Fashion Week, fostering a sense of pride and connection among participants.

• Overcoming Adversity

Chad reflects on the challenges he faced when his family’s land was threatened by eminent domain.

Through the support of the community and his ongoing work, they successfully preserved the property, which will soon become a national historic site, honoring both the history of African-American entrepreneurship and their personal family legacy.

• A Vision for the Future

Looking ahead, Chad envisions expanding his initiatives by creating sustainable hubs across communities where waste can be processed and repurposed.

He emphasizes the importance of collaboration and scaling efforts to create long-term environmental and social impact.

This episode underscores the power of individual and community action in creating lasting change.

Chad Livsey’s passion for environmental stewardship and his creative solutions to sustainability challenges are making a tangible difference in Atlanta.

Listen to the full episode to learn more about how you can get involved in Chad’s efforts to "Come Clean" and help transform your neighborhood.

Remember, keep learning, thriving and pushing the envelope!

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