https://cohostpodcasting.com <![CDATA[Rethink Change]]> en 85631479-d21c-4077-80ef-8c1d456bfca3 Fri, 23 May 2025 02:39:44 -0500 Fri, 29 May 2026 21:05:39 -0500 https://pennebaker.com/podcast <![CDATA[Rethink Change]]> https://files.cohostpodcasting.com/quill-file-prod/badf5e39-99b0-41aa-9580-5f1669dcc648/shows/85631479-d21c-4077-80ef-8c1d456bfca3/cover-art/original_fae3e040361cc3c637351c4f4737eb5a.jpg https://pennebaker.com/podcast episodic false https://feeds.cohostpodcasting.com/tVzMFNiW podcast@pennebaker.com <![CDATA[Commercializing Science That Changes Patient Outcomes with Dr. Westbrook Weaver, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Tempo Therapeutics Inc]]> How do you get people to believe in something they can’t yet see? It starts with conviction, an unshakable belief in the problem you are solving and the future you are building. When you pour that clarity into one meaningful problem at a time, selling the vision becomes less about persuasion and more about helping others recognize what is possible, especially in fields where progress directly affects people’s health and quality of life. Our guest this week brings that kind of focus to every stage of innovation.


In this episode of Rethink Change, Matt and Ward chat with Westbrook Weaver, PhD, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Tempo Therapeutics. Dr. Weaver brings more than 7 years of executive management experience and 15 years of life sciences R&D experience to Tempo. He is an inventor of the microporous annealed particle (MAP) core technology that is the basis of Tempo’s product pipeline. With deep expertise in tissue engineering, regenerative medicine, and biomaterials, Westbrook brings a unique capability critical to Tempo’s mission at the intersection of materials, medicine, and immunology.


Throughout their conversation, Dr. Weaver reflects on what it truly takes to lead a medtech company built on breakthrough science and unrelenting uncertainty. He explains how he translates complex biomaterial technology into clear value for clinicians, investors, and regulators, and how staying disciplined around a single real-world problem became the turning point for Tempo’s growth. 


He also shares why embracing risk, listening deeply, and surrounding yourself with experienced operators are essential skills for anyone looking to lead in a highly regulated, innovation-driven industry.


CHAPTERS:

00:00 Intro to Guest: Dr. Westbrook Weaver and Tempo Therapeutics

02:30 Challenges in Biotech: Finding the Right Problem to Solve

04:03 Simplifying Tempo's Mission: Improving Lives of Skin Cancer Survivors

06:10 Tempo's Innovative Solution: Synthetic Biomaterials

07:28 Commercialization Strategy and Market Challenges

11:27 Expanding Applications: Future Directions for Tempo's Technology

19:05 Lessons Learned: Imposter Syndrome and Team Building

22:40 Navigating Change: From Scientist to CEO

35:30 The Importance of Regulatory Bodies and FDA

37:02 Final Thoughts and Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs


Topics Discussed: 

  • Focusing on solving one problem at a time
  • Getting clear on identifying problems and finding the right solutions
  • Why imposter syndrome never truly goes away as a Founder and CEO
  • Finding the right people who are willing to take on big risks with you
  • How to sell a vision that means something (to both doctors and their patients)
  • The biggest risks in early startups and learning how to pivot overnight

Connect with Dr. Westbrook Weaver: 


About Rethink Change:


When growth is stagnant, culture’s a mess, the brand’s adrift, and the board wants miracles by Monday, Pennebaker’s podcast, Rethink Change, is where innovators and disruptors go for clarity.


Hosted by Founder Ward Pennebaker and President Matt Pennebaker, this podcast delivers sharp insights from battle-tested leaders who’ve navigated chaos and turned challenge into momentum. You’ll hear from executives from startups to global behemoths, from a wide range of industries. No fluff. All results. These conversations reveal what actually works, enabling you to think differently and act smarter.


Get Connected with Rethink Change:


]]> Tue, 30 Dec 2025 06:00:00 -0600 https://pennebaker.com/podcast 39:04 How do you get people to believe in something they can’t yet see? It starts with conviction, an unshakable belief in the problem you are solving and the future you are building. When you pour that clarity into one meaningful problem at a time, selling the vision becomes less about persuasion and more about helping others recognize what is possible, especially in fields where progress directly affects people’s health and quality of life. Our guest this week brings that kind of focus to every stage of innovation.


In this episode of Rethink Change, Matt and Ward chat with Westbrook Weaver, PhD, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Tempo Therapeutics. Dr. Weaver brings more than 7 years of executive management experience and 15 years of life sciences R&D experience to Tempo. He is an inventor of the microporous annealed particle (MAP) core technology that is the basis of Tempo’s product pipeline. With deep expertise in tissue engineering, regenerative medicine, and biomaterials, Westbrook brings a unique capability critical to Tempo’s mission at the intersection of materials, medicine, and immunology.


Throughout their conversation, Dr. Weaver reflects on what it truly takes to lead a medtech company built on breakthrough science and unrelenting uncertainty. He explains how he translates complex biomaterial technology into clear value for clinicians, investors, and regulators, and how staying disciplined around a single real-world problem became the turning point for Tempo’s growth. 


He also shares why embracing risk, listening deeply, and surrounding yourself with experienced operators are essential skills for anyone looking to lead in a highly regulated, innovation-driven industry.


CHAPTERS:

00:00 Intro to Guest: Dr. Westbrook Weaver and Tempo Therapeutics

02:30 Challenges in Biotech: Finding the Right Problem to Solve

04:03 Simplifying Tempo's Mission: Improving Lives of Skin Cancer Survivors

06:10 Tempo's Innovative Solution: Synthetic Biomaterials

07:28 Commercialization Strategy and Market Challenges

11:27 Expanding Applications: Future Directions for Tempo's Technology

19:05 Lessons Learned: Imposter Syndrome and Team Building

22:40 Navigating Change: From Scientist to CEO

35:30 The Importance of Regulatory Bodies and FDA

37:02 Final Thoughts and Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs


Topics Discussed: 

  • Focusing on solving one problem at a time
  • Getting clear on identifying problems and finding the right solutions
  • Why imposter syndrome never truly goes away as a Founder and CEO
  • Finding the right people who are willing to take on big risks with you
  • How to sell a vision that means something (to both doctors and their patients)
  • The biggest risks in early startups and learning how to pivot overnight

Connect with Dr. Westbrook Weaver: 


About Rethink Change:


When growth is stagnant, culture’s a mess, the brand’s adrift, and the board wants miracles by Monday, Pennebaker’s podcast, Rethink Change, is where innovators and disruptors go for clarity.


Hosted by Founder Ward Pennebaker and President Matt Pennebaker, this podcast delivers sharp insights from battle-tested leaders who’ve navigated chaos and turned challenge into momentum. You’ll hear from executives from startups to global behemoths, from a wide range of industries. No fluff. All results. These conversations reveal what actually works, enabling you to think differently and act smarter.


Get Connected with Rethink Change:


]]> How do you get people to believe in something they can’t yet see? It starts with conviction, an unshakable belief in the problem you are solving and the future you are building. When you pour that clarity into one meaningful problem at a time, selling the vision becomes less about persuasion and more about helping others recognize what is possible, especially in fields where progress directly affects people’s health and quality of life. Our guest this week brings that kind of focus to every stage of innovation.


In this episode of Rethink Change, Matt and Ward chat with Westbrook Weaver, PhD, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Tempo Therapeutics. Dr. Weaver brings more than 7 years of executive management experience and 15 years of life sciences R&D experience to Tempo. He is an inventor of the microporous annealed particle (MAP) core technology that is the basis of Tempo’s product pipeline. With deep expertise in tissue engineering, regenerative medicine, and biomaterials, Westbrook brings a unique capability critical to Tempo’s mission at the intersection of materials, medicine, and immunology.


Throughout their conversation, Dr. Weaver reflects on what it truly takes to lead a medtech company built on breakthrough science and unrelenting uncertainty. He explains how he translates complex biomaterial technology into clear value for clinicians, investors, and regulators, and how staying disciplined around a single real-world problem became the turning point for Tempo’s growth. 


He also shares why embracing risk, listening deeply, and surrounding yourself with experienced operators are essential skills for anyone looking to lead in a highly regulated, innovation-driven industry.


CHAPTERS:

00:00 Intro to Guest: Dr. Westbrook Weaver and Tempo Therapeutics

02:30 Challenges in Biotech: Finding the Right Problem to Solve

04:03 Simplifying Tempo's Mission: Improving Lives of Skin Cancer Survivors

06:10 Tempo's Innovative Solution: Synthetic Biomaterials

07:28 Commercialization Strategy and Market Challenges

11:27 Expanding Applications: Future Directions for Tempo's Technology

19:05 Lessons Learned: Imposter Syndrome and Team Building

22:40 Navigating Change: From Scientist to CEO

35:30 The Importance of Regulatory Bodies and FDA

37:02 Final Thoughts and Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs


Topics Discussed: 

  • Focusing on solving one problem at a time
  • Getting clear on identifying problems and finding the right solutions
  • Why imposter syndrome never truly goes away as a Founder and CEO
  • Finding the right people who are willing to take on big risks with you
  • How to sell a vision that means something (to both doctors and their patients)
  • The biggest risks in early startups and learning how to pivot overnight

Connect with Dr. Westbrook Weaver: 


About Rethink Change:


When growth is stagnant, culture’s a mess, the brand’s adrift, and the board wants miracles by Monday, Pennebaker’s podcast, Rethink Change, is where innovators and disruptors go for clarity.


Hosted by Founder Ward Pennebaker and President Matt Pennebaker, this podcast delivers sharp insights from battle-tested leaders who’ve navigated chaos and turned challenge into momentum. You’ll hear from executives from startups to global behemoths, from a wide range of industries. No fluff. All results. These conversations reveal what actually works, enabling you to think differently and act smarter.


Get Connected with Rethink Change:


]]> false full 25 <![CDATA[Leading Change  at the Intersection of Science, Strategy, and Transformation with Julia Chapman, Vice President of Program and Portfolio Management at Latigo Biotherapeutics]]> Some leaders grow through intention. Others grow through fire. And then there are leaders like Julia Chapman, who evolve through a rare combination of curiosity, serendipity, and the willingness to tackle problems most people would run from. Our guest this week doesn’t shy away from the hard stuff. She uses her engineering mindset to run full force into challenges and leads her team to do the same. 


In this episode of Rethink Change, Julia Chapman, Vice President of Program and Portfolio Management at Latigo Biotherapeutics, takes us inside a career shaped by unexpected pivots, from filing records in a Novartis plant to designing pandemic response frameworks that later influenced global vaccine development. 


Throughout their conversation, Julia talks openly about what it takes to lead in an industry filled with uncertainty. She explains how she breaks down complex scientific challenges, how she communicates value to investors who expect clear direction, and how she’s learned to step back as a leader so her team can step forward. She also shares why understanding the problems above your role is one of the most important skills you can develop, no matter where you are in your career.


CHAPTERS:

00:00 Intro to Guest: Julia Chapman: Using Science and Strategy to Lead Change 

01:19 From Duke & Med School Dreams to Novartis Records Room

04:48 Serendipity & Sponsorship: How Chance and Mentors Shape a Career

06:50 Pandemic Planning, mRNA, and Biotech Innovations at Novartis

12:02 Inside Latigo Biotherapeutics: Non-Opioid Pain and Nav1.8

15:13 Why Pain Is So Hard to Treat—and Where Current Drugs Fall Short

17:09 Making the Case: Communicating Value to Investors and Pharma Partners

23:48 Why This Team Will Win: Expertise, Vision, and Smarter Clinical Design

32:03 Scaling Yourself: Letting Go of the Details and Building Strong Teams

37:04 Career Advice for Emerging Leaders: Don’t Fear Hard Problems

42:04 Final Thoughts on Key Leadership Lessons


Topics Discussed: 

  • The difference between thinking like a C-Suite leader and a VP
  • Leveraging serendipity, curiosity, and relationships to accelerate your career
  • Breaking down complex scientific challenges into clear, actionable strategies
  • De-risking innovation and making smarter, faster decisions in uncertain environments
  • Communicating value with clarity to investors, partners, and internal teams
  • Learning to scale yourself as a leader and let go of the details
  • Creating a sustainable culture that reduces pressure and strengthens trust


Connect with Julia Chapman: 


About Rethink Change:


When growth is stagnant, culture’s a mess, the brand’s adrift, and the board wants miracles by Monday, Pennebaker’s podcast, Rethink Change, is where innovators and disruptors go for clarity.


Hosted by Founder Ward Pennebaker and President Matt Pennebaker, this podcast delivers sharp insights from battle-tested leaders who’ve navigated chaos and turned challenge into momentum. You’ll hear from executives from startups to global behemoths, from a wide range of industries. No fluff. All results. These conversations reveal what actually works, enabling you to think differently and act smarter.


Get Connected with Rethink Change:


]]> Tue, 23 Dec 2025 06:00:00 -0600 https://pennebaker.com/podcast 45:27 Some leaders grow through intention. Others grow through fire. And then there are leaders like Julia Chapman, who evolve through a rare combination of curiosity, serendipity, and the willingness to tackle problems most people would run from. Our guest this week doesn’t shy away from the hard stuff. She uses her engineering mindset to run full force into challenges and leads her team to do the same. 


In this episode of Rethink Change, Julia Chapman, Vice President of Program and Portfolio Management at Latigo Biotherapeutics, takes us inside a career shaped by unexpected pivots, from filing records in a Novartis plant to designing pandemic response frameworks that later influenced global vaccine development. 


Throughout their conversation, Julia talks openly about what it takes to lead in an industry filled with uncertainty. She explains how she breaks down complex scientific challenges, how she communicates value to investors who expect clear direction, and how she’s learned to step back as a leader so her team can step forward. She also shares why understanding the problems above your role is one of the most important skills you can develop, no matter where you are in your career.


CHAPTERS:

00:00 Intro to Guest: Julia Chapman: Using Science and Strategy to Lead Change 

01:19 From Duke & Med School Dreams to Novartis Records Room

04:48 Serendipity & Sponsorship: How Chance and Mentors Shape a Career

06:50 Pandemic Planning, mRNA, and Biotech Innovations at Novartis

12:02 Inside Latigo Biotherapeutics: Non-Opioid Pain and Nav1.8

15:13 Why Pain Is So Hard to Treat—and Where Current Drugs Fall Short

17:09 Making the Case: Communicating Value to Investors and Pharma Partners

23:48 Why This Team Will Win: Expertise, Vision, and Smarter Clinical Design

32:03 Scaling Yourself: Letting Go of the Details and Building Strong Teams

37:04 Career Advice for Emerging Leaders: Don’t Fear Hard Problems

42:04 Final Thoughts on Key Leadership Lessons


Topics Discussed: 

  • The difference between thinking like a C-Suite leader and a VP
  • Leveraging serendipity, curiosity, and relationships to accelerate your career
  • Breaking down complex scientific challenges into clear, actionable strategies
  • De-risking innovation and making smarter, faster decisions in uncertain environments
  • Communicating value with clarity to investors, partners, and internal teams
  • Learning to scale yourself as a leader and let go of the details
  • Creating a sustainable culture that reduces pressure and strengthens trust


Connect with Julia Chapman: 


About Rethink Change:


When growth is stagnant, culture’s a mess, the brand’s adrift, and the board wants miracles by Monday, Pennebaker’s podcast, Rethink Change, is where innovators and disruptors go for clarity.


Hosted by Founder Ward Pennebaker and President Matt Pennebaker, this podcast delivers sharp insights from battle-tested leaders who’ve navigated chaos and turned challenge into momentum. You’ll hear from executives from startups to global behemoths, from a wide range of industries. No fluff. All results. These conversations reveal what actually works, enabling you to think differently and act smarter.


Get Connected with Rethink Change:


]]> Some leaders grow through intention. Others grow through fire. And then there are leaders like Julia Chapman, who evolve through a rare combination of curiosity, serendipity, and the willingness to tackle problems most people would run from. Our guest this week doesn’t shy away from the hard stuff. She uses her engineering mindset to run full force into challenges and leads her team to do the same. 


In this episode of Rethink Change, Julia Chapman, Vice President of Program and Portfolio Management at Latigo Biotherapeutics, takes us inside a career shaped by unexpected pivots, from filing records in a Novartis plant to designing pandemic response frameworks that later influenced global vaccine development. 


Throughout their conversation, Julia talks openly about what it takes to lead in an industry filled with uncertainty. She explains how she breaks down complex scientific challenges, how she communicates value to investors who expect clear direction, and how she’s learned to step back as a leader so her team can step forward. She also shares why understanding the problems above your role is one of the most important skills you can develop, no matter where you are in your career.


CHAPTERS:

00:00 Intro to Guest: Julia Chapman: Using Science and Strategy to Lead Change 

01:19 From Duke & Med School Dreams to Novartis Records Room

04:48 Serendipity & Sponsorship: How Chance and Mentors Shape a Career

06:50 Pandemic Planning, mRNA, and Biotech Innovations at Novartis

12:02 Inside Latigo Biotherapeutics: Non-Opioid Pain and Nav1.8

15:13 Why Pain Is So Hard to Treat—and Where Current Drugs Fall Short

17:09 Making the Case: Communicating Value to Investors and Pharma Partners

23:48 Why This Team Will Win: Expertise, Vision, and Smarter Clinical Design

32:03 Scaling Yourself: Letting Go of the Details and Building Strong Teams

37:04 Career Advice for Emerging Leaders: Don’t Fear Hard Problems

42:04 Final Thoughts on Key Leadership Lessons


Topics Discussed: 

  • The difference between thinking like a C-Suite leader and a VP
  • Leveraging serendipity, curiosity, and relationships to accelerate your career
  • Breaking down complex scientific challenges into clear, actionable strategies
  • De-risking innovation and making smarter, faster decisions in uncertain environments
  • Communicating value with clarity to investors, partners, and internal teams
  • Learning to scale yourself as a leader and let go of the details
  • Creating a sustainable culture that reduces pressure and strengthens trust


Connect with Julia Chapman: 


About Rethink Change:


When growth is stagnant, culture’s a mess, the brand’s adrift, and the board wants miracles by Monday, Pennebaker’s podcast, Rethink Change, is where innovators and disruptors go for clarity.


Hosted by Founder Ward Pennebaker and President Matt Pennebaker, this podcast delivers sharp insights from battle-tested leaders who’ve navigated chaos and turned challenge into momentum. You’ll hear from executives from startups to global behemoths, from a wide range of industries. No fluff. All results. These conversations reveal what actually works, enabling you to think differently and act smarter.


Get Connected with Rethink Change:


]]> false full 24 <![CDATA[Heart-Led Leadership: Why Mission and Values Come Before Systems with Pierce Bush, President and CEO of Big Brothers Big Sisters Lone Star]]> Navigating financial strain, organizational change, and the isolation of leadership demands courage and clarity. The strongest leaders pivot quickly, stay grounded in their values, and act rather than wait for circumstances to shift. 


Growth often emerges in seasons of pressure, when optimism, resilience, and strong relationships become essential tools for navigating the unknown. Our guest this week shares how these exact principles shaped his leadership journey. In this episode of Rethink Change, Hosts Matt and Ward chat with Pierce Bush, President and CEO of Big Brothers Big Sisters Lone Star. 


Pierce Bush is an Experienced Chief Executive Officer with a demonstrated history in non-profit organization management, with skills in Organizational Leadership, Open Book Management Systems, Fundraising, Business Development, and Team Building. Pierce is also a strong results-oriented professional with a BA focused in American Studies from The University of Texas at Austin. 


Throughout their conversation, Pierce explains that leadership starts with heart, values, and mission, long before systems or processes come into play. He reflects on how his early experiences as a volunteer shaped the way he leads today, emphasizing that clarity of purpose is the anchor for every decision. 


From unifying fragmented teams across Texas to stabilizing an organization facing serious financial strain, Pierce shows how values-first leadership creates alignment even in moments of uncertainty.


He also discusses the importance of empowering staff with information, embracing transparency, and simplifying complex missions into language anyone can understand. His approach highlights how a clear, consistent message not only strengthens internal culture but also helps donors and volunteers see themselves as central to the mission.


CHAPTERS:

00:00 Intro to Guest: Pierce Bush on Becoming a Big Brother

04:06 Transitioning from Volunteer to CEO

09:31 Implementing the Great Game of Business

15:17 Navigating Major Changes and Building Consensus

17:20 Reflections on Leadership and Mentorship

20:04 Conviction, Challenges, and Values in Nonprofit Leadership

21:06 The Great Game of Business

24:42 Communicating Value to Donors and Simplicity in Messaging

28:05 Empowering Donors and Volunteers and Lessons Learned in the Nonprofit World

35:38 Final Thoughts on Looking Forward to New Challenges and Gratitude


Topics Discussed: 

  • Incorporating a clear set of values before creating systems
  • Building a culture between various entities around excellence
  • Why having a strong network is vital to leadership
  • How to pivot and seize the challenges in business
  • Breaking down a “complex” mission into simple language 
  • How to differentiate yourself during tough times 
  • Learning to pivot and take quick action vs. “thumbsucking” 


Connect with Pierce Bush: 


About Rethink Change:


When growth is stagnant, culture’s a mess, the brand’s adrift, and the board wants miracles by Monday, Pennebaker’s podcast, Rethink Change, is where innovators and disruptors go for clarity.


Hosted by Founder Ward Pennebaker and President Matt Pennebaker, this podcast delivers sharp insights from battle-tested leaders who’ve navigated chaos and turned challenge into momentum. You’ll hear from executives from startups to global behemoths, from a wide range of industries. No fluff. All results. These conversations reveal what actually works, enabling you to think differently and act smarter.


Get Connected with Rethink Change:


]]> Tue, 16 Dec 2025 06:00:00 -0600 https://pennebaker.com/podcast 37:45 Navigating financial strain, organizational change, and the isolation of leadership demands courage and clarity. The strongest leaders pivot quickly, stay grounded in their values, and act rather than wait for circumstances to shift. 


Growth often emerges in seasons of pressure, when optimism, resilience, and strong relationships become essential tools for navigating the unknown. Our guest this week shares how these exact principles shaped his leadership journey. In this episode of Rethink Change, Hosts Matt and Ward chat with Pierce Bush, President and CEO of Big Brothers Big Sisters Lone Star. 


Pierce Bush is an Experienced Chief Executive Officer with a demonstrated history in non-profit organization management, with skills in Organizational Leadership, Open Book Management Systems, Fundraising, Business Development, and Team Building. Pierce is also a strong results-oriented professional with a BA focused in American Studies from The University of Texas at Austin. 


Throughout their conversation, Pierce explains that leadership starts with heart, values, and mission, long before systems or processes come into play. He reflects on how his early experiences as a volunteer shaped the way he leads today, emphasizing that clarity of purpose is the anchor for every decision. 


From unifying fragmented teams across Texas to stabilizing an organization facing serious financial strain, Pierce shows how values-first leadership creates alignment even in moments of uncertainty.


He also discusses the importance of empowering staff with information, embracing transparency, and simplifying complex missions into language anyone can understand. His approach highlights how a clear, consistent message not only strengthens internal culture but also helps donors and volunteers see themselves as central to the mission.


CHAPTERS:

00:00 Intro to Guest: Pierce Bush on Becoming a Big Brother

04:06 Transitioning from Volunteer to CEO

09:31 Implementing the Great Game of Business

15:17 Navigating Major Changes and Building Consensus

17:20 Reflections on Leadership and Mentorship

20:04 Conviction, Challenges, and Values in Nonprofit Leadership

21:06 The Great Game of Business

24:42 Communicating Value to Donors and Simplicity in Messaging

28:05 Empowering Donors and Volunteers and Lessons Learned in the Nonprofit World

35:38 Final Thoughts on Looking Forward to New Challenges and Gratitude


Topics Discussed: 

  • Incorporating a clear set of values before creating systems
  • Building a culture between various entities around excellence
  • Why having a strong network is vital to leadership
  • How to pivot and seize the challenges in business
  • Breaking down a “complex” mission into simple language 
  • How to differentiate yourself during tough times 
  • Learning to pivot and take quick action vs. “thumbsucking” 


Connect with Pierce Bush: 


About Rethink Change:


When growth is stagnant, culture’s a mess, the brand’s adrift, and the board wants miracles by Monday, Pennebaker’s podcast, Rethink Change, is where innovators and disruptors go for clarity.


Hosted by Founder Ward Pennebaker and President Matt Pennebaker, this podcast delivers sharp insights from battle-tested leaders who’ve navigated chaos and turned challenge into momentum. You’ll hear from executives from startups to global behemoths, from a wide range of industries. No fluff. All results. These conversations reveal what actually works, enabling you to think differently and act smarter.


Get Connected with Rethink Change:


]]> Navigating financial strain, organizational change, and the isolation of leadership demands courage and clarity. The strongest leaders pivot quickly, stay grounded in their values, and act rather than wait for circumstances to shift. 


Growth often emerges in seasons of pressure, when optimism, resilience, and strong relationships become essential tools for navigating the unknown. Our guest this week shares how these exact principles shaped his leadership journey. In this episode of Rethink Change, Hosts Matt and Ward chat with Pierce Bush, President and CEO of Big Brothers Big Sisters Lone Star. 


Pierce Bush is an Experienced Chief Executive Officer with a demonstrated history in non-profit organization management, with skills in Organizational Leadership, Open Book Management Systems, Fundraising, Business Development, and Team Building. Pierce is also a strong results-oriented professional with a BA focused in American Studies from The University of Texas at Austin. 


Throughout their conversation, Pierce explains that leadership starts with heart, values, and mission, long before systems or processes come into play. He reflects on how his early experiences as a volunteer shaped the way he leads today, emphasizing that clarity of purpose is the anchor for every decision. 


From unifying fragmented teams across Texas to stabilizing an organization facing serious financial strain, Pierce shows how values-first leadership creates alignment even in moments of uncertainty.


He also discusses the importance of empowering staff with information, embracing transparency, and simplifying complex missions into language anyone can understand. His approach highlights how a clear, consistent message not only strengthens internal culture but also helps donors and volunteers see themselves as central to the mission.


CHAPTERS:

00:00 Intro to Guest: Pierce Bush on Becoming a Big Brother

04:06 Transitioning from Volunteer to CEO

09:31 Implementing the Great Game of Business

15:17 Navigating Major Changes and Building Consensus

17:20 Reflections on Leadership and Mentorship

20:04 Conviction, Challenges, and Values in Nonprofit Leadership

21:06 The Great Game of Business

24:42 Communicating Value to Donors and Simplicity in Messaging

28:05 Empowering Donors and Volunteers and Lessons Learned in the Nonprofit World

35:38 Final Thoughts on Looking Forward to New Challenges and Gratitude


Topics Discussed: 

  • Incorporating a clear set of values before creating systems
  • Building a culture between various entities around excellence
  • Why having a strong network is vital to leadership
  • How to pivot and seize the challenges in business
  • Breaking down a “complex” mission into simple language 
  • How to differentiate yourself during tough times 
  • Learning to pivot and take quick action vs. “thumbsucking” 


Connect with Pierce Bush: 


About Rethink Change:


When growth is stagnant, culture’s a mess, the brand’s adrift, and the board wants miracles by Monday, Pennebaker’s podcast, Rethink Change, is where innovators and disruptors go for clarity.


Hosted by Founder Ward Pennebaker and President Matt Pennebaker, this podcast delivers sharp insights from battle-tested leaders who’ve navigated chaos and turned challenge into momentum. You’ll hear from executives from startups to global behemoths, from a wide range of industries. No fluff. All results. These conversations reveal what actually works, enabling you to think differently and act smarter.


Get Connected with Rethink Change:


]]> true full 23 <![CDATA[Finding Opportunity in Every Corner with Lily Isham, General Manager, Financial Solutions at Conduent]]> What does it really take to simplify complex systems in a world where financial services, customer expectations, and technology evolve faster than most teams can keep up? And as AI unlocks real-time insights and new opportunities, how do leaders balance speed, strategy, and the courage to rethink what’s always been done? 


In this episode of Rethink Change, Lily Isham, General Manager, Financial Solutions at Conduent, explains how understanding the full process gives leaders the power to simplify it, move faster, and create better outcomes for both clients and employees. She takes us inside the evolving world of financial services, where customer expectations shift overnight, and AI offers unprecedented clarity through real-time data. 


Lily also reveals how generalists uncover hidden opportunities, why hiring people who think differently expands your blind spots, and how due diligence builds the credibility needed to drive meaningful change. Her story is ultimately about embracing constant evolution and learning to see change not as a disruption, but as your most reliable competitive advantage.


Lily Isham is an adaptable and results-driven general manager who leads two software businesses managing technology, data, and client outcomes. Currently overseeing an $80M portfolio at Conduent—including Legal eDiscovery, Cyber Data Triage, and Loan Servicing—Lily oversees all financial management, product, go-to-market strategy, and operational scale across industries, including banking, automotive, law firms, and start-ups. 


Her leadership also includes large-scale transformation, project and portfolio management, global operational teams, and complex cross-functional initiatives. Lily has a proven track record of developing and executing strategic initiatives that unlock savings, new revenue streams, expand partnerships, and accelerate product innovation in CX, Financial Services, and Government.


CHAPTERS:

00:00 - Intro to Guest: Lily Isham

01:17 Understanding Conduet and Lily’s Role in Supporting This Industry

02:37 Challenges in Financial Services and Customer Expectations

05:03 Simplifying Complex Processes

07:29 Different Types of Competitors and Secret Sauce of Conduet

10:14 The Value in Being a Generalist and Finding Opportunities

17:43 Navigating Change and AI Implementation

21:43 Leadership and Team Dynamics

28:29 The Major Differences Between Mentorship and Sponsors

31:25 Final Thoughts on Value Proposition and Relevant Branding


Topics Discussed: 

  • Earned media and UVP (Unique Value Proposition): Telling your brand story
  • Why Lily defines success as continual education through new opportunities 
  • Moving quickly and embracing change as a competitive advantage
  • How AI can support customer experience using real-time data 
  • The challenges between large & small organizations in driving change
  • How due diligence builds your credibility
  • Why hiring someone different from you helps you overcome blind spots


Connect with Lily Isham: 


About Rethink Change:


When growth is stagnant, culture’s a mess, the brand’s adrift, and the board wants miracles by Monday, Pennebaker’s podcast, Rethink Change, is where innovators and disruptors go for clarity.


Hosted by Founder Ward Pennebaker and President Matt Pennebaker, this podcast delivers sharp insights from battle-tested leaders who’ve navigated chaos and turned challenge into momentum. You’ll hear from executives from startups to global behemoths, from a wide range of industries. No fluff. All results. These conversations reveal what actually works, enabling you to think differently and act smarter.


Get Connected with Rethink Change:


]]> Tue, 09 Dec 2025 06:00:00 -0600 https://pennebaker.com/podcast 33:28 What does it really take to simplify complex systems in a world where financial services, customer expectations, and technology evolve faster than most teams can keep up? And as AI unlocks real-time insights and new opportunities, how do leaders balance speed, strategy, and the courage to rethink what’s always been done? 


In this episode of Rethink Change, Lily Isham, General Manager, Financial Solutions at Conduent, explains how understanding the full process gives leaders the power to simplify it, move faster, and create better outcomes for both clients and employees. She takes us inside the evolving world of financial services, where customer expectations shift overnight, and AI offers unprecedented clarity through real-time data. 


Lily also reveals how generalists uncover hidden opportunities, why hiring people who think differently expands your blind spots, and how due diligence builds the credibility needed to drive meaningful change. Her story is ultimately about embracing constant evolution and learning to see change not as a disruption, but as your most reliable competitive advantage.


Lily Isham is an adaptable and results-driven general manager who leads two software businesses managing technology, data, and client outcomes. Currently overseeing an $80M portfolio at Conduent—including Legal eDiscovery, Cyber Data Triage, and Loan Servicing—Lily oversees all financial management, product, go-to-market strategy, and operational scale across industries, including banking, automotive, law firms, and start-ups. 


Her leadership also includes large-scale transformation, project and portfolio management, global operational teams, and complex cross-functional initiatives. Lily has a proven track record of developing and executing strategic initiatives that unlock savings, new revenue streams, expand partnerships, and accelerate product innovation in CX, Financial Services, and Government.


CHAPTERS:

00:00 - Intro to Guest: Lily Isham

01:17 Understanding Conduet and Lily’s Role in Supporting This Industry

02:37 Challenges in Financial Services and Customer Expectations

05:03 Simplifying Complex Processes

07:29 Different Types of Competitors and Secret Sauce of Conduet

10:14 The Value in Being a Generalist and Finding Opportunities

17:43 Navigating Change and AI Implementation

21:43 Leadership and Team Dynamics

28:29 The Major Differences Between Mentorship and Sponsors

31:25 Final Thoughts on Value Proposition and Relevant Branding


Topics Discussed: 

  • Earned media and UVP (Unique Value Proposition): Telling your brand story
  • Why Lily defines success as continual education through new opportunities 
  • Moving quickly and embracing change as a competitive advantage
  • How AI can support customer experience using real-time data 
  • The challenges between large & small organizations in driving change
  • How due diligence builds your credibility
  • Why hiring someone different from you helps you overcome blind spots


Connect with Lily Isham: 


About Rethink Change:


When growth is stagnant, culture’s a mess, the brand’s adrift, and the board wants miracles by Monday, Pennebaker’s podcast, Rethink Change, is where innovators and disruptors go for clarity.


Hosted by Founder Ward Pennebaker and President Matt Pennebaker, this podcast delivers sharp insights from battle-tested leaders who’ve navigated chaos and turned challenge into momentum. You’ll hear from executives from startups to global behemoths, from a wide range of industries. No fluff. All results. These conversations reveal what actually works, enabling you to think differently and act smarter.


Get Connected with Rethink Change:


]]> What does it really take to simplify complex systems in a world where financial services, customer expectations, and technology evolve faster than most teams can keep up? And as AI unlocks real-time insights and new opportunities, how do leaders balance speed, strategy, and the courage to rethink what’s always been done? 


In this episode of Rethink Change, Lily Isham, General Manager, Financial Solutions at Conduent, explains how understanding the full process gives leaders the power to simplify it, move faster, and create better outcomes for both clients and employees. She takes us inside the evolving world of financial services, where customer expectations shift overnight, and AI offers unprecedented clarity through real-time data. 


Lily also reveals how generalists uncover hidden opportunities, why hiring people who think differently expands your blind spots, and how due diligence builds the credibility needed to drive meaningful change. Her story is ultimately about embracing constant evolution and learning to see change not as a disruption, but as your most reliable competitive advantage.


Lily Isham is an adaptable and results-driven general manager who leads two software businesses managing technology, data, and client outcomes. Currently overseeing an $80M portfolio at Conduent—including Legal eDiscovery, Cyber Data Triage, and Loan Servicing—Lily oversees all financial management, product, go-to-market strategy, and operational scale across industries, including banking, automotive, law firms, and start-ups. 


Her leadership also includes large-scale transformation, project and portfolio management, global operational teams, and complex cross-functional initiatives. Lily has a proven track record of developing and executing strategic initiatives that unlock savings, new revenue streams, expand partnerships, and accelerate product innovation in CX, Financial Services, and Government.


CHAPTERS:

00:00 - Intro to Guest: Lily Isham

01:17 Understanding Conduet and Lily’s Role in Supporting This Industry

02:37 Challenges in Financial Services and Customer Expectations

05:03 Simplifying Complex Processes

07:29 Different Types of Competitors and Secret Sauce of Conduet

10:14 The Value in Being a Generalist and Finding Opportunities

17:43 Navigating Change and AI Implementation

21:43 Leadership and Team Dynamics

28:29 The Major Differences Between Mentorship and Sponsors

31:25 Final Thoughts on Value Proposition and Relevant Branding


Topics Discussed: 

  • Earned media and UVP (Unique Value Proposition): Telling your brand story
  • Why Lily defines success as continual education through new opportunities 
  • Moving quickly and embracing change as a competitive advantage
  • How AI can support customer experience using real-time data 
  • The challenges between large & small organizations in driving change
  • How due diligence builds your credibility
  • Why hiring someone different from you helps you overcome blind spots


Connect with Lily Isham: 


About Rethink Change:


When growth is stagnant, culture’s a mess, the brand’s adrift, and the board wants miracles by Monday, Pennebaker’s podcast, Rethink Change, is where innovators and disruptors go for clarity.


Hosted by Founder Ward Pennebaker and President Matt Pennebaker, this podcast delivers sharp insights from battle-tested leaders who’ve navigated chaos and turned challenge into momentum. You’ll hear from executives from startups to global behemoths, from a wide range of industries. No fluff. All results. These conversations reveal what actually works, enabling you to think differently and act smarter.


Get Connected with Rethink Change:


]]> false full 22 <![CDATA[Scaling Purpose Beyond Profit with Jason Jennaro, CEO of FrontierGen]]> There’s something powerful about watching someone lead with both courage and calm, especially when everything around them feels uncertain. The kind of leader who doesn’t chase recognition or perfection, but instead stays anchored to purpose, faith, and the people they serve. Because when you’re building something that’s never been done before, doubt is inevitable, but so is growth. True leadership isn’t about having all the answers or never taking risks; it’s about having the vision to keep going when no one else can see the path forward.


In this episode of Rethink Change, Jason Jennaro shares what it truly takes to scale a vision bigger than yourself. He opens up about the challenges of leading through crisis when the future is uncertain, how to keep moving when everyone else doubts your vision, and finding the right partners who can take your mission even further. From weathering a 95% revenue drop during COVID-19 to navigating cultural integration post-acquisition, Jason’s journey shows us what true leadership looks like under pressure.


But beyond the strategy and success stories, Jason reflects on faith as his compass, the responsibility leaders have to the people who trust them, and the conviction that business should always serve something larger than profit. 


Whether you’re an entrepreneur, executive, or builder of any kind, this episode will challenge how you think about growth, risk, and purpose in a rapidly changing world.


CHAPTERS:

00:00 - Intro to Guest: Jason Jennaro

02:05 - The Art of Selling a Company

04:13 - Protecting Culture During Acquisition

07:33 - Passion Over Profit and Leadership Philosophy

11:30 - Learning Through Crisis: COVID-19’s Impact

1​​6:44 - FrontierGen: Building the Future of Infrastructure

27:38 - Why Texas Is Ground Zero for AI Development

37:12 - Faith, Purpose, and the Bigger Picture


Topics Discussed: 

  • How passion and purpose drive sustainable success far beyond financial gain
  • The critical role of surrounding yourself with complementary talent
  • Why mistakes and failures are necessary lessons of innovation
  • How Jason Jennaro navigated uncertainty during COVID-19
  • Recognizing the importance of taking risks as an entrepreneur
  • The role of faith in Jason’s entrepreneurial journey
  • Turning rejection into momentum when you’re building something new

Connect with Jason Jennaro: 


About Rethink Change:


When growth is stagnant, culture’s a mess, the brand’s adrift, and the board wants miracles by Monday, Pennebaker’s podcast, Rethink Change, is where innovators and disruptors go for clarity.


Hosted by Founder Ward Pennebaker and President Matt Pennebaker, this podcast delivers sharp insights from battle-tested leaders who’ve navigated chaos and turned challenge into momentum. You’ll hear from executives from startups to global behemoths, from a wide range of industries. No fluff. All results. These conversations reveal what actually works, enabling you to think differently and act smarter.


Get Connected with Rethink Change:


]]> Tue, 02 Dec 2025 06:00:00 -0600 https://pennebaker.com/podcast 39:02 There’s something powerful about watching someone lead with both courage and calm, especially when everything around them feels uncertain. The kind of leader who doesn’t chase recognition or perfection, but instead stays anchored to purpose, faith, and the people they serve. Because when you’re building something that’s never been done before, doubt is inevitable, but so is growth. True leadership isn’t about having all the answers or never taking risks; it’s about having the vision to keep going when no one else can see the path forward.


In this episode of Rethink Change, Jason Jennaro shares what it truly takes to scale a vision bigger than yourself. He opens up about the challenges of leading through crisis when the future is uncertain, how to keep moving when everyone else doubts your vision, and finding the right partners who can take your mission even further. From weathering a 95% revenue drop during COVID-19 to navigating cultural integration post-acquisition, Jason’s journey shows us what true leadership looks like under pressure.


But beyond the strategy and success stories, Jason reflects on faith as his compass, the responsibility leaders have to the people who trust them, and the conviction that business should always serve something larger than profit. 


Whether you’re an entrepreneur, executive, or builder of any kind, this episode will challenge how you think about growth, risk, and purpose in a rapidly changing world.


CHAPTERS:

00:00 - Intro to Guest: Jason Jennaro

02:05 - The Art of Selling a Company

04:13 - Protecting Culture During Acquisition

07:33 - Passion Over Profit and Leadership Philosophy

11:30 - Learning Through Crisis: COVID-19’s Impact

1​​6:44 - FrontierGen: Building the Future of Infrastructure

27:38 - Why Texas Is Ground Zero for AI Development

37:12 - Faith, Purpose, and the Bigger Picture


Topics Discussed: 

  • How passion and purpose drive sustainable success far beyond financial gain
  • The critical role of surrounding yourself with complementary talent
  • Why mistakes and failures are necessary lessons of innovation
  • How Jason Jennaro navigated uncertainty during COVID-19
  • Recognizing the importance of taking risks as an entrepreneur
  • The role of faith in Jason’s entrepreneurial journey
  • Turning rejection into momentum when you’re building something new

Connect with Jason Jennaro: 


About Rethink Change:


When growth is stagnant, culture’s a mess, the brand’s adrift, and the board wants miracles by Monday, Pennebaker’s podcast, Rethink Change, is where innovators and disruptors go for clarity.


Hosted by Founder Ward Pennebaker and President Matt Pennebaker, this podcast delivers sharp insights from battle-tested leaders who’ve navigated chaos and turned challenge into momentum. You’ll hear from executives from startups to global behemoths, from a wide range of industries. No fluff. All results. These conversations reveal what actually works, enabling you to think differently and act smarter.


Get Connected with Rethink Change:


]]> There’s something powerful about watching someone lead with both courage and calm, especially when everything around them feels uncertain. The kind of leader who doesn’t chase recognition or perfection, but instead stays anchored to purpose, faith, and the people they serve. Because when you’re building something that’s never been done before, doubt is inevitable, but so is growth. True leadership isn’t about having all the answers or never taking risks; it’s about having the vision to keep going when no one else can see the path forward.


In this episode of Rethink Change, Jason Jennaro shares what it truly takes to scale a vision bigger than yourself. He opens up about the challenges of leading through crisis when the future is uncertain, how to keep moving when everyone else doubts your vision, and finding the right partners who can take your mission even further. From weathering a 95% revenue drop during COVID-19 to navigating cultural integration post-acquisition, Jason’s journey shows us what true leadership looks like under pressure.


But beyond the strategy and success stories, Jason reflects on faith as his compass, the responsibility leaders have to the people who trust them, and the conviction that business should always serve something larger than profit. 


Whether you’re an entrepreneur, executive, or builder of any kind, this episode will challenge how you think about growth, risk, and purpose in a rapidly changing world.


CHAPTERS:

00:00 - Intro to Guest: Jason Jennaro

02:05 - The Art of Selling a Company

04:13 - Protecting Culture During Acquisition

07:33 - Passion Over Profit and Leadership Philosophy

11:30 - Learning Through Crisis: COVID-19’s Impact

1​​6:44 - FrontierGen: Building the Future of Infrastructure

27:38 - Why Texas Is Ground Zero for AI Development

37:12 - Faith, Purpose, and the Bigger Picture


Topics Discussed: 

  • How passion and purpose drive sustainable success far beyond financial gain
  • The critical role of surrounding yourself with complementary talent
  • Why mistakes and failures are necessary lessons of innovation
  • How Jason Jennaro navigated uncertainty during COVID-19
  • Recognizing the importance of taking risks as an entrepreneur
  • The role of faith in Jason’s entrepreneurial journey
  • Turning rejection into momentum when you’re building something new

Connect with Jason Jennaro: 


About Rethink Change:


When growth is stagnant, culture’s a mess, the brand’s adrift, and the board wants miracles by Monday, Pennebaker’s podcast, Rethink Change, is where innovators and disruptors go for clarity.


Hosted by Founder Ward Pennebaker and President Matt Pennebaker, this podcast delivers sharp insights from battle-tested leaders who’ve navigated chaos and turned challenge into momentum. You’ll hear from executives from startups to global behemoths, from a wide range of industries. No fluff. All results. These conversations reveal what actually works, enabling you to think differently and act smarter.


Get Connected with Rethink Change:


]]> false full 21 <![CDATA[Leading Different: Building Business on Bold Decisions with Charles Tate, Chairman of Arva Intelligence]]> Some leaders build companies. Others build legacies. Charles Tate did both. From investment banking to outdoor hospitality, his story isn’t about following a formula. It’s about trusting your instincts, taking bold risks, and choosing to lead differently when the easy option would be to stay the same.


Throughout his career, Charles has shown that doing things differently isn’t just about innovation. It’s about connection. Whether navigating Wall Street or creating new kinds of businesses from the ground up, his success comes from asking better questions: What emotion is my business solving for? How does this decision actually serve people, not just numbers?


For Charles, business is deeply human. The most successful companies, he says, don’t just sell a product; they solve an emotional need. Think of FedEx restoring trust, Starbucks creating community, or Buc-ee’s redefining comfort in the most unexpected way. When you understand the emotions that drive people, you start building something that lasts.


In this episode of Rethink Change, Charles chats with Ward about what it really means to lead differently. You’ll hear how clarity, courage, and emotional connection come together to build not just great businesses but meaningful ones, as well as how to surround yourself with the right people who can take your business to the next level. When it comes to entrepreneurship, it takes a lot of grit to keep pushing through challenges. But it also takes a lot of heart to create something impactful for your ideal audience.


CHAPTERS:

00:00 – Passion, Persistence, and the Entrepreneurial Mindset

02:15 – Doing Things Differently: The Power of Bold Decisions

05:10 – Reinvention: Pivoting Toward New Opportunities

08:00 – Innovating Capital: Rethinking Private Equity Strategy

11:00 – Building Beyond Yourself: Transition and Legacy

14:00 – Strategy Through Emotion: Rethinking What Business Solves For

17:00 – FedEx, Starbucks, and Buc-ee’s: Lessons in Emotional Strategy

20:00 – Newton Nurseries: Turning Insight Into Competitive Advantage

24:00 – Time as Currency: Building Around Customer Efficiency

27:00 – Outdoor Hospitality: Designing Emotion Into Experience

31:00 – Leadership Clarity: Focus, Management, and Purpose


Topics Discussed: 

  • Making a difference in entrepreneurship
  • Constructing your company as solving an emotional problem 
  • Balancing persistence and passion in leading a business
  • Navigating the plateaus of business by trying something new 
  • Why having good management is the difference maker


About Rethink Change:


When growth is stagnant, culture’s a mess, the brand’s adrift, and the board wants miracles by Monday, Pennebaker’s podcast, Rethink Change, is where innovators and disruptors go for clarity.


Hosted by Founder Ward Pennebaker and President Matt Pennebaker, this podcast delivers sharp insights from battle-tested leaders who’ve navigated chaos and turned challenge into momentum. You’ll hear from executives from startups to global behemoths, from a wide range of industries. No fluff. All results. These conversations reveal what actually works, enabling you to think differently and act smarter.


Get Connected with Rethink Change:



]]> Tue, 25 Nov 2025 06:00:00 -0600 https://pennebaker.com/podcast 43:02 Some leaders build companies. Others build legacies. Charles Tate did both. From investment banking to outdoor hospitality, his story isn’t about following a formula. It’s about trusting your instincts, taking bold risks, and choosing to lead differently when the easy option would be to stay the same.


Throughout his career, Charles has shown that doing things differently isn’t just about innovation. It’s about connection. Whether navigating Wall Street or creating new kinds of businesses from the ground up, his success comes from asking better questions: What emotion is my business solving for? How does this decision actually serve people, not just numbers?


For Charles, business is deeply human. The most successful companies, he says, don’t just sell a product; they solve an emotional need. Think of FedEx restoring trust, Starbucks creating community, or Buc-ee’s redefining comfort in the most unexpected way. When you understand the emotions that drive people, you start building something that lasts.


In this episode of Rethink Change, Charles chats with Ward about what it really means to lead differently. You’ll hear how clarity, courage, and emotional connection come together to build not just great businesses but meaningful ones, as well as how to surround yourself with the right people who can take your business to the next level. When it comes to entrepreneurship, it takes a lot of grit to keep pushing through challenges. But it also takes a lot of heart to create something impactful for your ideal audience.


CHAPTERS:

00:00 – Passion, Persistence, and the Entrepreneurial Mindset

02:15 – Doing Things Differently: The Power of Bold Decisions

05:10 – Reinvention: Pivoting Toward New Opportunities

08:00 – Innovating Capital: Rethinking Private Equity Strategy

11:00 – Building Beyond Yourself: Transition and Legacy

14:00 – Strategy Through Emotion: Rethinking What Business Solves For

17:00 – FedEx, Starbucks, and Buc-ee’s: Lessons in Emotional Strategy

20:00 – Newton Nurseries: Turning Insight Into Competitive Advantage

24:00 – Time as Currency: Building Around Customer Efficiency

27:00 – Outdoor Hospitality: Designing Emotion Into Experience

31:00 – Leadership Clarity: Focus, Management, and Purpose


Topics Discussed: 

  • Making a difference in entrepreneurship
  • Constructing your company as solving an emotional problem 
  • Balancing persistence and passion in leading a business
  • Navigating the plateaus of business by trying something new 
  • Why having good management is the difference maker


About Rethink Change:


When growth is stagnant, culture’s a mess, the brand’s adrift, and the board wants miracles by Monday, Pennebaker’s podcast, Rethink Change, is where innovators and disruptors go for clarity.


Hosted by Founder Ward Pennebaker and President Matt Pennebaker, this podcast delivers sharp insights from battle-tested leaders who’ve navigated chaos and turned challenge into momentum. You’ll hear from executives from startups to global behemoths, from a wide range of industries. No fluff. All results. These conversations reveal what actually works, enabling you to think differently and act smarter.


Get Connected with Rethink Change:



]]> Some leaders build companies. Others build legacies. Charles Tate did both. From investment banking to outdoor hospitality, his story isn’t about following a formula. It’s about trusting your instincts, taking bold risks, and choosing to lead differently when the easy option would be to stay the same.


Throughout his career, Charles has shown that doing things differently isn’t just about innovation. It’s about connection. Whether navigating Wall Street or creating new kinds of businesses from the ground up, his success comes from asking better questions: What emotion is my business solving for? How does this decision actually serve people, not just numbers?


For Charles, business is deeply human. The most successful companies, he says, don’t just sell a product; they solve an emotional need. Think of FedEx restoring trust, Starbucks creating community, or Buc-ee’s redefining comfort in the most unexpected way. When you understand the emotions that drive people, you start building something that lasts.


In this episode of Rethink Change, Charles chats with Ward about what it really means to lead differently. You’ll hear how clarity, courage, and emotional connection come together to build not just great businesses but meaningful ones, as well as how to surround yourself with the right people who can take your business to the next level. When it comes to entrepreneurship, it takes a lot of grit to keep pushing through challenges. But it also takes a lot of heart to create something impactful for your ideal audience.


CHAPTERS:

00:00 – Passion, Persistence, and the Entrepreneurial Mindset

02:15 – Doing Things Differently: The Power of Bold Decisions

05:10 – Reinvention: Pivoting Toward New Opportunities

08:00 – Innovating Capital: Rethinking Private Equity Strategy

11:00 – Building Beyond Yourself: Transition and Legacy

14:00 – Strategy Through Emotion: Rethinking What Business Solves For

17:00 – FedEx, Starbucks, and Buc-ee’s: Lessons in Emotional Strategy

20:00 – Newton Nurseries: Turning Insight Into Competitive Advantage

24:00 – Time as Currency: Building Around Customer Efficiency

27:00 – Outdoor Hospitality: Designing Emotion Into Experience

31:00 – Leadership Clarity: Focus, Management, and Purpose


Topics Discussed: 

  • Making a difference in entrepreneurship
  • Constructing your company as solving an emotional problem 
  • Balancing persistence and passion in leading a business
  • Navigating the plateaus of business by trying something new 
  • Why having good management is the difference maker


About Rethink Change:


When growth is stagnant, culture’s a mess, the brand’s adrift, and the board wants miracles by Monday, Pennebaker’s podcast, Rethink Change, is where innovators and disruptors go for clarity.


Hosted by Founder Ward Pennebaker and President Matt Pennebaker, this podcast delivers sharp insights from battle-tested leaders who’ve navigated chaos and turned challenge into momentum. You’ll hear from executives from startups to global behemoths, from a wide range of industries. No fluff. All results. These conversations reveal what actually works, enabling you to think differently and act smarter.


Get Connected with Rethink Change:



]]> false full 19 <![CDATA[Burning the Boats and Betting on Culture with Charlie Reith, Chairman at Solomon Associates]]> What does it really take to transform a company that’s stuck in old habits and resistant to change? How do you guide people through a shift they may not fully believe in while keeping culture, clarity, and courage at the center? 


Leading through that kind of tension doesn’t happen overnight. But when you get honest with your team about the necessity of creating a new type of culture, rebuilding relationships, and redefining what’s possible when the stakes are high, that’s when true transformation really begins.


Our guest, Charlie Reith, is the Chairman at Solomon Associates and is experienced in providing high-level support to energy industry clients to assist with the performance improvement of their existing facilities, with projects having been completed in most major regions of the world in refining, petrochemicals, logistics, and power generation sectors. 


In this conversation with Matt and Ward, Charlie shares what it was like to confront deep internal resistance, navigate leadership denial, and make bold decisions that forced the organization to stop operating in silos. He talks openly about the stress and uncertainty that come with real change, including the tough calls required to put people at ease while still pushing the company forward. 


Charlie also explains why customer intimacy, executive engagement, and a willingness to “rip the bandaid off” became non-negotiable parts of the transformation and how partnering with the Pennebaker team and moving through the Guardrails process helped create alignment, rebuild trust, and reshape the company into a more connected, future-focused business.


CHAPTERS:

00:00 Highlights from our Conversation with Charlie Reith

00:43 Meet Charlie Reith: Transformation Leader

02:00 Challenges of Leadership and Transformation

03:15 Resistance to Change and Benchmarking Culture

07:41 Voice of Customer Research and Organizational Denial

10:43 Redefining the Company and Cultural Transformation

15:51 Executive Engagement and Guardrails Process

21:30 The Importance of Change Management

22:37 Reflections on Leadership, Technology, and Transformation

27:35 The Role of AI and Data Security

31:34 Advice for Emerging Leaders

33:05 Future of Solomon and Rebranding Insights

35:22 Final Thoughts and Reflections


Topics Discussed: 

  • Why struggling companies need more than new resources to move forward
  • Breaking down the structure of the guardrails process
  • How true transformation requires redefining the company from the inside out
  • Rebuilding trust and restoring customer intimacy through intentional leadership
  • Embracing the challenges behind culture and organizational shifts
  • Using communications as a strategic competitive advantage


Connect with Charlie Reith: 


About Rethink Change:


When growth is stagnant, culture’s a mess, the brand’s adrift, and the board wants miracles by Monday, Pennebaker’s podcast, Rethink Change, is where innovators and disruptors go for clarity.


Hosted by Founder Ward Pennebaker and President Matt Pennebaker, this podcast delivers sharp insights from battle-tested leaders who’ve navigated chaos and turned challenge into momentum. You’ll hear from executives from startups to global behemoths, from a wide range of industries. No fluff. All results. These conversations reveal what actually works, enabling you to think differently and act smarter.


Get Connected with Rethink Change:

]]> Tue, 18 Nov 2025 06:00:00 -0600 https://pennebaker.com/podcast 38:30 What does it really take to transform a company that’s stuck in old habits and resistant to change? How do you guide people through a shift they may not fully believe in while keeping culture, clarity, and courage at the center? 


Leading through that kind of tension doesn’t happen overnight. But when you get honest with your team about the necessity of creating a new type of culture, rebuilding relationships, and redefining what’s possible when the stakes are high, that’s when true transformation really begins.


Our guest, Charlie Reith, is the Chairman at Solomon Associates and is experienced in providing high-level support to energy industry clients to assist with the performance improvement of their existing facilities, with projects having been completed in most major regions of the world in refining, petrochemicals, logistics, and power generation sectors. 


In this conversation with Matt and Ward, Charlie shares what it was like to confront deep internal resistance, navigate leadership denial, and make bold decisions that forced the organization to stop operating in silos. He talks openly about the stress and uncertainty that come with real change, including the tough calls required to put people at ease while still pushing the company forward. 


Charlie also explains why customer intimacy, executive engagement, and a willingness to “rip the bandaid off” became non-negotiable parts of the transformation and how partnering with the Pennebaker team and moving through the Guardrails process helped create alignment, rebuild trust, and reshape the company into a more connected, future-focused business.


CHAPTERS:

00:00 Highlights from our Conversation with Charlie Reith

00:43 Meet Charlie Reith: Transformation Leader

02:00 Challenges of Leadership and Transformation

03:15 Resistance to Change and Benchmarking Culture

07:41 Voice of Customer Research and Organizational Denial

10:43 Redefining the Company and Cultural Transformation

15:51 Executive Engagement and Guardrails Process

21:30 The Importance of Change Management

22:37 Reflections on Leadership, Technology, and Transformation

27:35 The Role of AI and Data Security

31:34 Advice for Emerging Leaders

33:05 Future of Solomon and Rebranding Insights

35:22 Final Thoughts and Reflections


Topics Discussed: 

  • Why struggling companies need more than new resources to move forward
  • Breaking down the structure of the guardrails process
  • How true transformation requires redefining the company from the inside out
  • Rebuilding trust and restoring customer intimacy through intentional leadership
  • Embracing the challenges behind culture and organizational shifts
  • Using communications as a strategic competitive advantage


Connect with Charlie Reith: 


About Rethink Change:


When growth is stagnant, culture’s a mess, the brand’s adrift, and the board wants miracles by Monday, Pennebaker’s podcast, Rethink Change, is where innovators and disruptors go for clarity.


Hosted by Founder Ward Pennebaker and President Matt Pennebaker, this podcast delivers sharp insights from battle-tested leaders who’ve navigated chaos and turned challenge into momentum. You’ll hear from executives from startups to global behemoths, from a wide range of industries. No fluff. All results. These conversations reveal what actually works, enabling you to think differently and act smarter.


Get Connected with Rethink Change:

]]> What does it really take to transform a company that’s stuck in old habits and resistant to change? How do you guide people through a shift they may not fully believe in while keeping culture, clarity, and courage at the center? 


Leading through that kind of tension doesn’t happen overnight. But when you get honest with your team about the necessity of creating a new type of culture, rebuilding relationships, and redefining what’s possible when the stakes are high, that’s when true transformation really begins.


Our guest, Charlie Reith, is the Chairman at Solomon Associates and is experienced in providing high-level support to energy industry clients to assist with the performance improvement of their existing facilities, with projects having been completed in most major regions of the world in refining, petrochemicals, logistics, and power generation sectors. 


In this conversation with Matt and Ward, Charlie shares what it was like to confront deep internal resistance, navigate leadership denial, and make bold decisions that forced the organization to stop operating in silos. He talks openly about the stress and uncertainty that come with real change, including the tough calls required to put people at ease while still pushing the company forward. 


Charlie also explains why customer intimacy, executive engagement, and a willingness to “rip the bandaid off” became non-negotiable parts of the transformation and how partnering with the Pennebaker team and moving through the Guardrails process helped create alignment, rebuild trust, and reshape the company into a more connected, future-focused business.


CHAPTERS:

00:00 Highlights from our Conversation with Charlie Reith

00:43 Meet Charlie Reith: Transformation Leader

02:00 Challenges of Leadership and Transformation

03:15 Resistance to Change and Benchmarking Culture

07:41 Voice of Customer Research and Organizational Denial

10:43 Redefining the Company and Cultural Transformation

15:51 Executive Engagement and Guardrails Process

21:30 The Importance of Change Management

22:37 Reflections on Leadership, Technology, and Transformation

27:35 The Role of AI and Data Security

31:34 Advice for Emerging Leaders

33:05 Future of Solomon and Rebranding Insights

35:22 Final Thoughts and Reflections


Topics Discussed: 

  • Why struggling companies need more than new resources to move forward
  • Breaking down the structure of the guardrails process
  • How true transformation requires redefining the company from the inside out
  • Rebuilding trust and restoring customer intimacy through intentional leadership
  • Embracing the challenges behind culture and organizational shifts
  • Using communications as a strategic competitive advantage


Connect with Charlie Reith: 


About Rethink Change:


When growth is stagnant, culture’s a mess, the brand’s adrift, and the board wants miracles by Monday, Pennebaker’s podcast, Rethink Change, is where innovators and disruptors go for clarity.


Hosted by Founder Ward Pennebaker and President Matt Pennebaker, this podcast delivers sharp insights from battle-tested leaders who’ve navigated chaos and turned challenge into momentum. You’ll hear from executives from startups to global behemoths, from a wide range of industries. No fluff. All results. These conversations reveal what actually works, enabling you to think differently and act smarter.


Get Connected with Rethink Change:

]]> false full <![CDATA[Building a Unified Global Brand with Bob Westendarp, CEO Americas at Griffin Global Group]]> What do handwritten airline tickets, offshore oil rigs, and a mythical Greek creature have in common? They’re all a part of Bob Westendarp’s journey building Griffin Global Group into the world’s largest marine travel agency.


When Bob first stepped into the travel business, it wasn’t as a seasoned executive; it was as an accountant looking for free flights. But what started as a small side project with his wife quickly grew into a pioneering venture that redefined global crew logistics. 


By spotting an untapped niche in marine and offshore travel, Bob helped transform Griffin into a 22-country operation with 32 offices, moving nearly a quarter of the world’s ship crews across oceans. 


In this conversation, CEO Americas at Griffin Global Group, Bob Westendarp sits down with Matt and Ward to share the lessons learned from decades of reinvention. He explains why trust and communication matter more than hierarchy, how cultural differences can derail — or define — international partnerships, and why a unified global brand became the secret to Griffin’s explosive growth. 


Bob also reflects on navigating succession planning, managing shareholder rivalries across continents, and ultimately selling Griffin to its largest competitor.


CHAPTERS:

00:00 Building Trust and Communication in Business

00:56 Introducing Bob: From Accountant to Travel Agency Leader

02:11 The Journey of Griffin Global Group

04:59 Challenges and Growth in the Marine Travel Industry

10:25 Global Expansion and Branding

12:18 The Importance of a Global Brand and Unified Vision

14:32 Cultural Differences in Global Business

22:45 The Sale and Legacy of Griffin

24:52 Lessons Learned and Advice for Future Executives

32:44 Conclusion and Final Thoughts


Topics Discussed: 

  • Honing the skill of creativity and making lemonade out of lemons
  • Challenges of unifying different cultures and nationalities into one strong brand 
  • Why trust and communication are keys to a successful company
  • Finding a common vision and mission for the company
  • Learning how to negotiate internally under one global company structure
  • Why you need to know the values of global partners and get on the same wavelength


Connect with Bob Westendarp: 


About Rethink Change:


When growth is stagnant, culture’s a mess, the brand’s adrift, and the board wants miracles by Monday, Pennebaker’s podcast, Rethink Change, is where innovators and disruptors go for clarity.


Hosted by Founder Ward Pennebaker and President Matt Pennebaker, this podcast delivers sharp insights from battle-tested leaders who’ve navigated chaos and turned challenge into momentum. You’ll hear from executives from startups to global behemoths, from a wide range of industries. No fluff. All results. These conversations reveal what actually works, enabling you to think differently and act smarter.


Get Connected with Rethink Change:


]]> Tue, 11 Nov 2025 10:35:00 -0600 https://pennebaker.com/podcast 32:53 What do handwritten airline tickets, offshore oil rigs, and a mythical Greek creature have in common? They’re all a part of Bob Westendarp’s journey building Griffin Global Group into the world’s largest marine travel agency.


When Bob first stepped into the travel business, it wasn’t as a seasoned executive; it was as an accountant looking for free flights. But what started as a small side project with his wife quickly grew into a pioneering venture that redefined global crew logistics. 


By spotting an untapped niche in marine and offshore travel, Bob helped transform Griffin into a 22-country operation with 32 offices, moving nearly a quarter of the world’s ship crews across oceans. 


In this conversation, CEO Americas at Griffin Global Group, Bob Westendarp sits down with Matt and Ward to share the lessons learned from decades of reinvention. He explains why trust and communication matter more than hierarchy, how cultural differences can derail — or define — international partnerships, and why a unified global brand became the secret to Griffin’s explosive growth. 


Bob also reflects on navigating succession planning, managing shareholder rivalries across continents, and ultimately selling Griffin to its largest competitor.


CHAPTERS:

00:00 Building Trust and Communication in Business

00:56 Introducing Bob: From Accountant to Travel Agency Leader

02:11 The Journey of Griffin Global Group

04:59 Challenges and Growth in the Marine Travel Industry

10:25 Global Expansion and Branding

12:18 The Importance of a Global Brand and Unified Vision

14:32 Cultural Differences in Global Business

22:45 The Sale and Legacy of Griffin

24:52 Lessons Learned and Advice for Future Executives

32:44 Conclusion and Final Thoughts


Topics Discussed: 

  • Honing the skill of creativity and making lemonade out of lemons
  • Challenges of unifying different cultures and nationalities into one strong brand 
  • Why trust and communication are keys to a successful company
  • Finding a common vision and mission for the company
  • Learning how to negotiate internally under one global company structure
  • Why you need to know the values of global partners and get on the same wavelength


Connect with Bob Westendarp: 


About Rethink Change:


When growth is stagnant, culture’s a mess, the brand’s adrift, and the board wants miracles by Monday, Pennebaker’s podcast, Rethink Change, is where innovators and disruptors go for clarity.


Hosted by Founder Ward Pennebaker and President Matt Pennebaker, this podcast delivers sharp insights from battle-tested leaders who’ve navigated chaos and turned challenge into momentum. You’ll hear from executives from startups to global behemoths, from a wide range of industries. No fluff. All results. These conversations reveal what actually works, enabling you to think differently and act smarter.


Get Connected with Rethink Change:


]]> What do handwritten airline tickets, offshore oil rigs, and a mythical Greek creature have in common? They’re all a part of Bob Westendarp’s journey building Griffin Global Group into the world’s largest marine travel agency.


When Bob first stepped into the travel business, it wasn’t as a seasoned executive; it was as an accountant looking for free flights. But what started as a small side project with his wife quickly grew into a pioneering venture that redefined global crew logistics. 


By spotting an untapped niche in marine and offshore travel, Bob helped transform Griffin into a 22-country operation with 32 offices, moving nearly a quarter of the world’s ship crews across oceans. 


In this conversation, CEO Americas at Griffin Global Group, Bob Westendarp sits down with Matt and Ward to share the lessons learned from decades of reinvention. He explains why trust and communication matter more than hierarchy, how cultural differences can derail — or define — international partnerships, and why a unified global brand became the secret to Griffin’s explosive growth. 


Bob also reflects on navigating succession planning, managing shareholder rivalries across continents, and ultimately selling Griffin to its largest competitor.


CHAPTERS:

00:00 Building Trust and Communication in Business

00:56 Introducing Bob: From Accountant to Travel Agency Leader

02:11 The Journey of Griffin Global Group

04:59 Challenges and Growth in the Marine Travel Industry

10:25 Global Expansion and Branding

12:18 The Importance of a Global Brand and Unified Vision

14:32 Cultural Differences in Global Business

22:45 The Sale and Legacy of Griffin

24:52 Lessons Learned and Advice for Future Executives

32:44 Conclusion and Final Thoughts


Topics Discussed: 

  • Honing the skill of creativity and making lemonade out of lemons
  • Challenges of unifying different cultures and nationalities into one strong brand 
  • Why trust and communication are keys to a successful company
  • Finding a common vision and mission for the company
  • Learning how to negotiate internally under one global company structure
  • Why you need to know the values of global partners and get on the same wavelength


Connect with Bob Westendarp: 


About Rethink Change:


When growth is stagnant, culture’s a mess, the brand’s adrift, and the board wants miracles by Monday, Pennebaker’s podcast, Rethink Change, is where innovators and disruptors go for clarity.


Hosted by Founder Ward Pennebaker and President Matt Pennebaker, this podcast delivers sharp insights from battle-tested leaders who’ve navigated chaos and turned challenge into momentum. You’ll hear from executives from startups to global behemoths, from a wide range of industries. No fluff. All results. These conversations reveal what actually works, enabling you to think differently and act smarter.


Get Connected with Rethink Change:


]]> false full 18 <![CDATA[Keeping Culture at the Heart of Global Expansion with Chris Williams, Chairman of International Business at the Tokio Marine]]> What do Frank Sinatra’s bulletproof vest, the Rolling Stones’ backstage doctor, and a Japanese insurance giant have in common? They’re all part of Chris Williams’ journey leading Tokio Marine’s international business across 40+ countries.


When Chris Williams took on the challenge of leading Tokio Marine’s international business, he stepped into a role that would reshape one of the world’s most respected insurance organizations. From navigating billion-dollar acquisitions to managing across global markets, Chris brings a rare perspective on how to unify cultures, retain leadership after mergers, and build long-term trust in a global framework.


In this conversation, Chris sits down with Ward and Matt to share hard-earned lessons from decades of transformation. He explains what happens when you ignore your gut instinct, why culture fit can make or break an acquisition, and how international experience builds credibility in a world of unpredictable risks. Chris also opens up about the importance of nurturing rising stars, addressing talent mismatches quickly, and why keeping local leadership empowered is crucial to sustaining growth.


Whether you’re preparing your business for the next acquisition, learning how to strengthen global teams, or simply looking for ways to futureproof your strategy, Chris’s insights reveal why clarity, consistency, and communication matter more than ever in times of change.


CHAPTERS:

00:00:00 – Important Thoughts on Growing Your Business

00:00:36 – Meet Chris Williams of Tokio Marine

00:01:29 – Explaining Specialty Insurance and Unique Polices

00:07:04 – How an Australian Became a Global Insurance Leader

00:07:22 – Tokio Marine’s Expansion and Diversification, HCC Acquisition

00:11:12 – Breaking Silos, Retaining Leaders, and Building Global Connection

00:16:03 – Understanding Japanese Business Culture 

00:18:04 – Post-Merger Integration and Employee Trust

00:21:08 – Building Local Leadership with Global Support

00:23:09 – Leadership Lesson: Following Your Gut

00:26:47 – Advice for Future Leaders: International Experience

00:32:40 – The Guardrails Process and Messaging with Ward

00:35:17 – Keeping Japan at the Heart of Global Strategy

00:38:30 – Biggest International Risks and Challenges Ahead

00:40:36 – Closing Reflections


Topics Discussed: 

  • Trusting your instincts and following your gut (what happens when you don’t)
  • What do when the culture or leadership is no longer the right fit for the company
  • How to maintain local management within a global framework 
  • Understanding the people you’re working with, both internally and globally
  • Why international experience is important to understanding diverse cultures 
  • Nurturing rising stars with structured training (and how to navigate talent mismatches)
  • Futureproofing your business and global relations to prepare for unforeseen challenges


About Rethink Change:


When growth is stagnant, culture’s a mess, the brand’s adrift, and the board wants miracles by Monday, Pennebaker’s podcast, Rethink Change, is where innovators and disruptors go for clarity.


Hosted by Founder Ward Pennebaker and President Matt Pennebaker, this podcast delivers sharp insights from battle-tested leaders who’ve navigated chaos and turned challenge into momentum. You’ll hear from executives from startups to global behemoths, from a wide range of industries. No fluff. All results. These conversations reveal what actually works, enabling you to think differently and act smarter.


Get Connected with Rethink Change:


]]> Tue, 04 Nov 2025 06:00:00 -0600 https://pennebaker.com/podcast 41:50 What do Frank Sinatra’s bulletproof vest, the Rolling Stones’ backstage doctor, and a Japanese insurance giant have in common? They’re all part of Chris Williams’ journey leading Tokio Marine’s international business across 40+ countries.


When Chris Williams took on the challenge of leading Tokio Marine’s international business, he stepped into a role that would reshape one of the world’s most respected insurance organizations. From navigating billion-dollar acquisitions to managing across global markets, Chris brings a rare perspective on how to unify cultures, retain leadership after mergers, and build long-term trust in a global framework.


In this conversation, Chris sits down with Ward and Matt to share hard-earned lessons from decades of transformation. He explains what happens when you ignore your gut instinct, why culture fit can make or break an acquisition, and how international experience builds credibility in a world of unpredictable risks. Chris also opens up about the importance of nurturing rising stars, addressing talent mismatches quickly, and why keeping local leadership empowered is crucial to sustaining growth.


Whether you’re preparing your business for the next acquisition, learning how to strengthen global teams, or simply looking for ways to futureproof your strategy, Chris’s insights reveal why clarity, consistency, and communication matter more than ever in times of change.


CHAPTERS:

00:00:00 – Important Thoughts on Growing Your Business

00:00:36 – Meet Chris Williams of Tokio Marine

00:01:29 – Explaining Specialty Insurance and Unique Polices

00:07:04 – How an Australian Became a Global Insurance Leader

00:07:22 – Tokio Marine’s Expansion and Diversification, HCC Acquisition

00:11:12 – Breaking Silos, Retaining Leaders, and Building Global Connection

00:16:03 – Understanding Japanese Business Culture 

00:18:04 – Post-Merger Integration and Employee Trust

00:21:08 – Building Local Leadership with Global Support

00:23:09 – Leadership Lesson: Following Your Gut

00:26:47 – Advice for Future Leaders: International Experience

00:32:40 – The Guardrails Process and Messaging with Ward

00:35:17 – Keeping Japan at the Heart of Global Strategy

00:38:30 – Biggest International Risks and Challenges Ahead

00:40:36 – Closing Reflections


Topics Discussed: 

  • Trusting your instincts and following your gut (what happens when you don’t)
  • What do when the culture or leadership is no longer the right fit for the company
  • How to maintain local management within a global framework 
  • Understanding the people you’re working with, both internally and globally
  • Why international experience is important to understanding diverse cultures 
  • Nurturing rising stars with structured training (and how to navigate talent mismatches)
  • Futureproofing your business and global relations to prepare for unforeseen challenges


About Rethink Change:


When growth is stagnant, culture’s a mess, the brand’s adrift, and the board wants miracles by Monday, Pennebaker’s podcast, Rethink Change, is where innovators and disruptors go for clarity.


Hosted by Founder Ward Pennebaker and President Matt Pennebaker, this podcast delivers sharp insights from battle-tested leaders who’ve navigated chaos and turned challenge into momentum. You’ll hear from executives from startups to global behemoths, from a wide range of industries. No fluff. All results. These conversations reveal what actually works, enabling you to think differently and act smarter.


Get Connected with Rethink Change:


]]> What do Frank Sinatra’s bulletproof vest, the Rolling Stones’ backstage doctor, and a Japanese insurance giant have in common? They’re all part of Chris Williams’ journey leading Tokio Marine’s international business across 40+ countries.


When Chris Williams took on the challenge of leading Tokio Marine’s international business, he stepped into a role that would reshape one of the world’s most respected insurance organizations. From navigating billion-dollar acquisitions to managing across global markets, Chris brings a rare perspective on how to unify cultures, retain leadership after mergers, and build long-term trust in a global framework.


In this conversation, Chris sits down with Ward and Matt to share hard-earned lessons from decades of transformation. He explains what happens when you ignore your gut instinct, why culture fit can make or break an acquisition, and how international experience builds credibility in a world of unpredictable risks. Chris also opens up about the importance of nurturing rising stars, addressing talent mismatches quickly, and why keeping local leadership empowered is crucial to sustaining growth.


Whether you’re preparing your business for the next acquisition, learning how to strengthen global teams, or simply looking for ways to futureproof your strategy, Chris’s insights reveal why clarity, consistency, and communication matter more than ever in times of change.


CHAPTERS:

00:00:00 – Important Thoughts on Growing Your Business

00:00:36 – Meet Chris Williams of Tokio Marine

00:01:29 – Explaining Specialty Insurance and Unique Polices

00:07:04 – How an Australian Became a Global Insurance Leader

00:07:22 – Tokio Marine’s Expansion and Diversification, HCC Acquisition

00:11:12 – Breaking Silos, Retaining Leaders, and Building Global Connection

00:16:03 – Understanding Japanese Business Culture 

00:18:04 – Post-Merger Integration and Employee Trust

00:21:08 – Building Local Leadership with Global Support

00:23:09 – Leadership Lesson: Following Your Gut

00:26:47 – Advice for Future Leaders: International Experience

00:32:40 – The Guardrails Process and Messaging with Ward

00:35:17 – Keeping Japan at the Heart of Global Strategy

00:38:30 – Biggest International Risks and Challenges Ahead

00:40:36 – Closing Reflections


Topics Discussed: 

  • Trusting your instincts and following your gut (what happens when you don’t)
  • What do when the culture or leadership is no longer the right fit for the company
  • How to maintain local management within a global framework 
  • Understanding the people you’re working with, both internally and globally
  • Why international experience is important to understanding diverse cultures 
  • Nurturing rising stars with structured training (and how to navigate talent mismatches)
  • Futureproofing your business and global relations to prepare for unforeseen challenges


About Rethink Change:


When growth is stagnant, culture’s a mess, the brand’s adrift, and the board wants miracles by Monday, Pennebaker’s podcast, Rethink Change, is where innovators and disruptors go for clarity.


Hosted by Founder Ward Pennebaker and President Matt Pennebaker, this podcast delivers sharp insights from battle-tested leaders who’ve navigated chaos and turned challenge into momentum. You’ll hear from executives from startups to global behemoths, from a wide range of industries. No fluff. All results. These conversations reveal what actually works, enabling you to think differently and act smarter.


Get Connected with Rethink Change:


]]> false full 17 <![CDATA[Change-Driven Leadership: Doing Things Differently with Charlie Cosad, Strategist at TOTALTEC Guyana]]> When you’ve worked across more than 15 countries, led through multiple acquisitions, and helped steer one of the largest oilfield service companies in the world with over 4 decades under your belt, you learn a few things about change. 


For Charlie, change wasn’t something to fear; it was the through line of his 38-year career with Schlumberger. From competitive threats that forced him into new roles to acquisitions that brought tens of thousands of employees under a $10 billion a year business, he discovered that the difference between chaos and clarity often comes down to how you tell the story.


In this conversation, Charlie sits down with Matt and Ward to reflect on the pivotal moments of his career, sharing candid stories about the challenges of simplifying complex ideas, the competitive threats that jump-started his career in the oil and gas industry, and the aha moments in marketing he learned along the way. 


Charlie also discusses the importance of making your client the hero in their story and why talent identification and strong staff support are critical for navigating change, driving integration, and sustaining long-term growth.


CHAPTERS:

00:00 Introduction to Effective Communication and Marketing

00:36 Charlie's Career Journey: From Engineering to Oil Industry

01:24 Navigating Career Changes and Global Experiences

02:37 Challenges and Opportunities in the Oil Industry

08:38 The Importance of Online Engagement and Marketing

10:27 Acquisitions and Brand Integration Strategies

20:57 The Role of External Consultants in Business Strategy

23:53 The Role of Brand Identity Guidelines

24:56 Implementing Field-Level Identity Guidelines

26:03 Challenges and Successes in Mergers

27:08 Napoleon's Thirds: Managing Change

28:29 Focusing on Key Stakeholders

31:53 The Importance of Competence in Marketing

37:41 Differentiation and Positioning Strategies

42:28 Talent Identification and AI

44:20 Conclusion and Final Thoughts


Topics Discussed: 

  • Why having a diverse portfolio creates credibility in your career
  • Simplifying your brand story into concise language for your audience
  • Telling the story of your company so your employees & clients can see themselves in it
  • Removing emotions and adding practical tools for business decisions
  • How challenges and accountability strengthen your natural skillset
  • Why your website matters in retaining attention (and how inconsistencies lose it)
  • Practical advice for leaders navigating mergers, acquisitions, and large-scale transformations


Connect with Charlie Cossad: 


About Rethink Change:


When growth is stagnant, culture’s a mess, the brand’s adrift, and the board wants miracles by Monday, Pennebaker’s podcast, Rethink Change, is where innovators and disruptors go for clarity.


Hosted by Founder Ward Pennebaker and President Matt Pennebaker, this podcast delivers sharp insights from battle-tested leaders who’ve navigated chaos and turned challenge into momentum. You’ll hear from executives from startups to global behemoths, from a wide range of industries. No fluff. All results. These conversations reveal what actually works, enabling you to think differently and act smarter.


Get Connected with Rethink Change:



]]> Tue, 28 Oct 2025 06:00:00 -0500 https://pennebaker.com/podcast 45:28 When you’ve worked across more than 15 countries, led through multiple acquisitions, and helped steer one of the largest oilfield service companies in the world with over 4 decades under your belt, you learn a few things about change. 


For Charlie, change wasn’t something to fear; it was the through line of his 38-year career with Schlumberger. From competitive threats that forced him into new roles to acquisitions that brought tens of thousands of employees under a $10 billion a year business, he discovered that the difference between chaos and clarity often comes down to how you tell the story.


In this conversation, Charlie sits down with Matt and Ward to reflect on the pivotal moments of his career, sharing candid stories about the challenges of simplifying complex ideas, the competitive threats that jump-started his career in the oil and gas industry, and the aha moments in marketing he learned along the way. 


Charlie also discusses the importance of making your client the hero in their story and why talent identification and strong staff support are critical for navigating change, driving integration, and sustaining long-term growth.


CHAPTERS:

00:00 Introduction to Effective Communication and Marketing

00:36 Charlie's Career Journey: From Engineering to Oil Industry

01:24 Navigating Career Changes and Global Experiences

02:37 Challenges and Opportunities in the Oil Industry

08:38 The Importance of Online Engagement and Marketing

10:27 Acquisitions and Brand Integration Strategies

20:57 The Role of External Consultants in Business Strategy

23:53 The Role of Brand Identity Guidelines

24:56 Implementing Field-Level Identity Guidelines

26:03 Challenges and Successes in Mergers

27:08 Napoleon's Thirds: Managing Change

28:29 Focusing on Key Stakeholders

31:53 The Importance of Competence in Marketing

37:41 Differentiation and Positioning Strategies

42:28 Talent Identification and AI

44:20 Conclusion and Final Thoughts


Topics Discussed: 

  • Why having a diverse portfolio creates credibility in your career
  • Simplifying your brand story into concise language for your audience
  • Telling the story of your company so your employees & clients can see themselves in it
  • Removing emotions and adding practical tools for business decisions
  • How challenges and accountability strengthen your natural skillset
  • Why your website matters in retaining attention (and how inconsistencies lose it)
  • Practical advice for leaders navigating mergers, acquisitions, and large-scale transformations


Connect with Charlie Cossad: 


About Rethink Change:


When growth is stagnant, culture’s a mess, the brand’s adrift, and the board wants miracles by Monday, Pennebaker’s podcast, Rethink Change, is where innovators and disruptors go for clarity.


Hosted by Founder Ward Pennebaker and President Matt Pennebaker, this podcast delivers sharp insights from battle-tested leaders who’ve navigated chaos and turned challenge into momentum. You’ll hear from executives from startups to global behemoths, from a wide range of industries. No fluff. All results. These conversations reveal what actually works, enabling you to think differently and act smarter.


Get Connected with Rethink Change:



]]> When you’ve worked across more than 15 countries, led through multiple acquisitions, and helped steer one of the largest oilfield service companies in the world with over 4 decades under your belt, you learn a few things about change. 


For Charlie, change wasn’t something to fear; it was the through line of his 38-year career with Schlumberger. From competitive threats that forced him into new roles to acquisitions that brought tens of thousands of employees under a $10 billion a year business, he discovered that the difference between chaos and clarity often comes down to how you tell the story.


In this conversation, Charlie sits down with Matt and Ward to reflect on the pivotal moments of his career, sharing candid stories about the challenges of simplifying complex ideas, the competitive threats that jump-started his career in the oil and gas industry, and the aha moments in marketing he learned along the way. 


Charlie also discusses the importance of making your client the hero in their story and why talent identification and strong staff support are critical for navigating change, driving integration, and sustaining long-term growth.


CHAPTERS:

00:00 Introduction to Effective Communication and Marketing

00:36 Charlie's Career Journey: From Engineering to Oil Industry

01:24 Navigating Career Changes and Global Experiences

02:37 Challenges and Opportunities in the Oil Industry

08:38 The Importance of Online Engagement and Marketing

10:27 Acquisitions and Brand Integration Strategies

20:57 The Role of External Consultants in Business Strategy

23:53 The Role of Brand Identity Guidelines

24:56 Implementing Field-Level Identity Guidelines

26:03 Challenges and Successes in Mergers

27:08 Napoleon's Thirds: Managing Change

28:29 Focusing on Key Stakeholders

31:53 The Importance of Competence in Marketing

37:41 Differentiation and Positioning Strategies

42:28 Talent Identification and AI

44:20 Conclusion and Final Thoughts


Topics Discussed: 

  • Why having a diverse portfolio creates credibility in your career
  • Simplifying your brand story into concise language for your audience
  • Telling the story of your company so your employees & clients can see themselves in it
  • Removing emotions and adding practical tools for business decisions
  • How challenges and accountability strengthen your natural skillset
  • Why your website matters in retaining attention (and how inconsistencies lose it)
  • Practical advice for leaders navigating mergers, acquisitions, and large-scale transformations


Connect with Charlie Cossad: 


About Rethink Change:


When growth is stagnant, culture’s a mess, the brand’s adrift, and the board wants miracles by Monday, Pennebaker’s podcast, Rethink Change, is where innovators and disruptors go for clarity.


Hosted by Founder Ward Pennebaker and President Matt Pennebaker, this podcast delivers sharp insights from battle-tested leaders who’ve navigated chaos and turned challenge into momentum. You’ll hear from executives from startups to global behemoths, from a wide range of industries. No fluff. All results. These conversations reveal what actually works, enabling you to think differently and act smarter.


Get Connected with Rethink Change:



]]> false full 16 <![CDATA[Flipping the Script in Marketing Your Story With Michael Cheek, Senior Marketing Manager at Dräger]]> What makes someone stop, listen, and ultimately buy from you? Is it the specs, the price, or is it the story behind the product? In this episode, marketing leader Michael Cheek dives into why storytelling is the key to emotional buying decisions, even in technical, B2B industries. 


From flooring and flame-resistant fabrics to firefighter breathing technology, he’s mastered the art of transforming complex products into compelling narratives that resonate with buyers and end users alike.


With over 20 years of experience, Michael Cheek is a visionary marketing executive who has turned strategy into execution and storytelling into market leadership. Known for his ability to translate market intelligence into revenue-driving plans and award-winning omnichannel campaigns, he has built immersive brand experiences that inspire loyal and measurable growth. 


Passionate about brand clarity, sales enablement, and strategic agility, Michael continues to shape B2B marketing across safety equipment, technical fabrics, and industrial manufacturing. 


In this conversation, Michael shares how bold, outside-the-box campaigns, like building immersive trade show “towns” and qualifying leaders' thorough hands-on experiences, shifted brand perspective and elevated Dräger from a quiet player to a market leader. 


He also hones in on the importance of aligning internal teams, instilling trust, and pacing change in a way that keeps sales engaged while also laying the groundwork for long-term growth. His “varsity level marketing” approach challenges leaders to balance the dual mindset of driving results today while preparing the brand for further growth. 


CHAPTERS:

00:00 Introduction to Storytelling in Marketing

01:04 Michael Cheek's Career Journey

02:22 Transition to Marketing and First Major Role

03:33 Innovative Marketing Strategies in the Flooring Industry

07:25 Disruptive Campaigns and Wild Ideas

09:05 Marketing Flame Resistant Fabrics

11:04 Challenges and Strategies at Dräger

16:41 Creating Impactful Trade Show Experiences

28:55 Working with Pennebaker for Marketing Outside of the Box

36:00 Advice for Navigating Change in Marketing

37:00 Finding Space to Create an Environment of Trust

39:20 Getting Alignment with Throughout Your Organization

43:41 Conclusion and Final Thoughts


Topics Discussed: 

  • Why storytelling drives emotional buying decisions 
  • Creating marketing experiences that qualify leads, not just attract them
  • Qualities of a successful agency and how they help future-proof your marketing
  • Instilling trust within your team and building a strong coalition alignment 
  • Thinking outside of the box and leading with bold, innovative moves 
  • Varsity-Level Marketing: Why marketers need to balance the Now and the Next


Connect with Michael Cheek: 


About Rethink Change:


When growth is stagnant, culture’s a mess, the brand’s adrift, and the board wants miracles by Monday, Pennebaker’s podcast, Rethink Change, is where innovators and disruptors go for clarity.


Hosted by Founder Ward Pennebaker and President Matt Pennebaker, this podcast delivers sharp insights from battle-tested leaders who’ve navigated chaos and turned challenge into momentum. You’ll hear from executives from startups to global behemoths, from a wide range of industries. No fluff. All results. These conversations reveal what actually works, enabling you to think differently and act smarter.


Get Connected with Rethink Change:


]]> Tue, 21 Oct 2025 06:00:00 -0500 https://pennebaker.com/podcast 44:44 What makes someone stop, listen, and ultimately buy from you? Is it the specs, the price, or is it the story behind the product? In this episode, marketing leader Michael Cheek dives into why storytelling is the key to emotional buying decisions, even in technical, B2B industries. 


From flooring and flame-resistant fabrics to firefighter breathing technology, he’s mastered the art of transforming complex products into compelling narratives that resonate with buyers and end users alike.


With over 20 years of experience, Michael Cheek is a visionary marketing executive who has turned strategy into execution and storytelling into market leadership. Known for his ability to translate market intelligence into revenue-driving plans and award-winning omnichannel campaigns, he has built immersive brand experiences that inspire loyal and measurable growth. 


Passionate about brand clarity, sales enablement, and strategic agility, Michael continues to shape B2B marketing across safety equipment, technical fabrics, and industrial manufacturing. 


In this conversation, Michael shares how bold, outside-the-box campaigns, like building immersive trade show “towns” and qualifying leaders' thorough hands-on experiences, shifted brand perspective and elevated Dräger from a quiet player to a market leader. 


He also hones in on the importance of aligning internal teams, instilling trust, and pacing change in a way that keeps sales engaged while also laying the groundwork for long-term growth. His “varsity level marketing” approach challenges leaders to balance the dual mindset of driving results today while preparing the brand for further growth. 


CHAPTERS:

00:00 Introduction to Storytelling in Marketing

01:04 Michael Cheek's Career Journey

02:22 Transition to Marketing and First Major Role

03:33 Innovative Marketing Strategies in the Flooring Industry

07:25 Disruptive Campaigns and Wild Ideas

09:05 Marketing Flame Resistant Fabrics

11:04 Challenges and Strategies at Dräger

16:41 Creating Impactful Trade Show Experiences

28:55 Working with Pennebaker for Marketing Outside of the Box

36:00 Advice for Navigating Change in Marketing

37:00 Finding Space to Create an Environment of Trust

39:20 Getting Alignment with Throughout Your Organization

43:41 Conclusion and Final Thoughts


Topics Discussed: 

  • Why storytelling drives emotional buying decisions 
  • Creating marketing experiences that qualify leads, not just attract them
  • Qualities of a successful agency and how they help future-proof your marketing
  • Instilling trust within your team and building a strong coalition alignment 
  • Thinking outside of the box and leading with bold, innovative moves 
  • Varsity-Level Marketing: Why marketers need to balance the Now and the Next


Connect with Michael Cheek: 


About Rethink Change:


When growth is stagnant, culture’s a mess, the brand’s adrift, and the board wants miracles by Monday, Pennebaker’s podcast, Rethink Change, is where innovators and disruptors go for clarity.


Hosted by Founder Ward Pennebaker and President Matt Pennebaker, this podcast delivers sharp insights from battle-tested leaders who’ve navigated chaos and turned challenge into momentum. You’ll hear from executives from startups to global behemoths, from a wide range of industries. No fluff. All results. These conversations reveal what actually works, enabling you to think differently and act smarter.


Get Connected with Rethink Change:


]]> What makes someone stop, listen, and ultimately buy from you? Is it the specs, the price, or is it the story behind the product? In this episode, marketing leader Michael Cheek dives into why storytelling is the key to emotional buying decisions, even in technical, B2B industries. 


From flooring and flame-resistant fabrics to firefighter breathing technology, he’s mastered the art of transforming complex products into compelling narratives that resonate with buyers and end users alike.


With over 20 years of experience, Michael Cheek is a visionary marketing executive who has turned strategy into execution and storytelling into market leadership. Known for his ability to translate market intelligence into revenue-driving plans and award-winning omnichannel campaigns, he has built immersive brand experiences that inspire loyal and measurable growth. 


Passionate about brand clarity, sales enablement, and strategic agility, Michael continues to shape B2B marketing across safety equipment, technical fabrics, and industrial manufacturing. 


In this conversation, Michael shares how bold, outside-the-box campaigns, like building immersive trade show “towns” and qualifying leaders' thorough hands-on experiences, shifted brand perspective and elevated Dräger from a quiet player to a market leader. 


He also hones in on the importance of aligning internal teams, instilling trust, and pacing change in a way that keeps sales engaged while also laying the groundwork for long-term growth. His “varsity level marketing” approach challenges leaders to balance the dual mindset of driving results today while preparing the brand for further growth. 


CHAPTERS:

00:00 Introduction to Storytelling in Marketing

01:04 Michael Cheek's Career Journey

02:22 Transition to Marketing and First Major Role

03:33 Innovative Marketing Strategies in the Flooring Industry

07:25 Disruptive Campaigns and Wild Ideas

09:05 Marketing Flame Resistant Fabrics

11:04 Challenges and Strategies at Dräger

16:41 Creating Impactful Trade Show Experiences

28:55 Working with Pennebaker for Marketing Outside of the Box

36:00 Advice for Navigating Change in Marketing

37:00 Finding Space to Create an Environment of Trust

39:20 Getting Alignment with Throughout Your Organization

43:41 Conclusion and Final Thoughts


Topics Discussed: 

  • Why storytelling drives emotional buying decisions 
  • Creating marketing experiences that qualify leads, not just attract them
  • Qualities of a successful agency and how they help future-proof your marketing
  • Instilling trust within your team and building a strong coalition alignment 
  • Thinking outside of the box and leading with bold, innovative moves 
  • Varsity-Level Marketing: Why marketers need to balance the Now and the Next


Connect with Michael Cheek: 


About Rethink Change:


When growth is stagnant, culture’s a mess, the brand’s adrift, and the board wants miracles by Monday, Pennebaker’s podcast, Rethink Change, is where innovators and disruptors go for clarity.


Hosted by Founder Ward Pennebaker and President Matt Pennebaker, this podcast delivers sharp insights from battle-tested leaders who’ve navigated chaos and turned challenge into momentum. You’ll hear from executives from startups to global behemoths, from a wide range of industries. No fluff. All results. These conversations reveal what actually works, enabling you to think differently and act smarter.


Get Connected with Rethink Change:


]]> false full 15 <![CDATA[Branding Bootcamp: How to Build a Brand That Sells Itself with Becky Escott, Senior Director, Corporate Communications at BKV Corporation]]> If you’ve ever felt like your business is stuck hiding behind a pretty logo or a catchy tagline, you’re not alone. Branding isn’t just surface-level polish; it’s the soul-searching work of figuring out who you are, what you stand for, and how to share that story in a way people actually believe. 


Think of it less like a quick elevator pitch and more like a bootcamp for your business: tough at times, but designed to give you clarity, consistency, and the kind of confidence that earns trust. 


Today, our guest, Becky Escott, Senior Director of Corporate Communications at BKV Corporation, guides us through the core steps every entrepreneur needs to overhaul their brand and ultimately build something that feels authentic, aligned, and ready for growth.


Starting with six different logos and a misunified brand, Becky Escott led BKV through a transformation with the help of the guardrails process to define a clear story and vision. She launched the “Back to Our Values” campaign to build pride and employee ownership, turning the brand into something people could truly believe in. 


As BKV grew and prepared for an IPO, she maintained consistent and credible messaging through campaigns like “It’s on” and “Innovating the Invisible,” proving that even complex ideas, such as decarbonization, could be made simple and relatable. Today, BKV stands as a unified brand that reflects alignment, belief, and long-term growth.


CHAPTERS: 

0:00 Introduction: Building a Flexible Plan

00:37 Meet Becky Escot: The Brand Architect

01:20 Journey to BKV: A New Adventure

02:39 Building the BKV Brand

05:37 Strategic Guardrails: Defining Identity

09:20 Communicating the Brand Internally in a Way They Can See Themselves in It

19:05 Sustainability and Carbon Neutral Goals for BKV

24:07 Challenges and Growth: Pre and Post IPO

30:23 Leadership and Communication Strategy

39:06 Conclusion: The Importance of Genuine Storytelling and Brand Alignment


Topics Discussed: 

  • Seeing the whole ecosystem, not just a fancy logo or tagline
  • Why you need to live and breathe your story so others believe in your vision too
  • The hard but necessary work of clarifying who you are vs. who you aren’t
  • Why branding feels like a soul-searching bootcamp (and why that’s a good thing)
  • How guardrails keep your brand on track beyond a quick elevator pitch
  • Why your internal and external communication must align to build credibility
  • Creating brand pride through launch moments, storytelling, and shared wins


Connect with Becky Escott: 


About Rethink Change:


When growth is stagnant, culture’s a mess, the brand’s adrift, and the board wants miracles by Monday, Pennebaker’s podcast, Rethink Change, is where innovators and disruptors go for clarity.


Hosted by Founder Ward Pennebaker and President Matt Pennebaker, this podcast delivers sharp insights from battle-tested leaders who’ve navigated chaos and turned challenge into momentum. You’ll hear from executives from startups to global behemoths, from a wide range of industries. No fluff. All results. These conversations reveal what actually works, enabling you to think differently and act smarter.


Get Connected with Rethink Change:


]]> Tue, 14 Oct 2025 06:00:00 -0500 https://pennebaker.com/podcast 41:07 If you’ve ever felt like your business is stuck hiding behind a pretty logo or a catchy tagline, you’re not alone. Branding isn’t just surface-level polish; it’s the soul-searching work of figuring out who you are, what you stand for, and how to share that story in a way people actually believe. 


Think of it less like a quick elevator pitch and more like a bootcamp for your business: tough at times, but designed to give you clarity, consistency, and the kind of confidence that earns trust. 


Today, our guest, Becky Escott, Senior Director of Corporate Communications at BKV Corporation, guides us through the core steps every entrepreneur needs to overhaul their brand and ultimately build something that feels authentic, aligned, and ready for growth.


Starting with six different logos and a misunified brand, Becky Escott led BKV through a transformation with the help of the guardrails process to define a clear story and vision. She launched the “Back to Our Values” campaign to build pride and employee ownership, turning the brand into something people could truly believe in. 


As BKV grew and prepared for an IPO, she maintained consistent and credible messaging through campaigns like “It’s on” and “Innovating the Invisible,” proving that even complex ideas, such as decarbonization, could be made simple and relatable. Today, BKV stands as a unified brand that reflects alignment, belief, and long-term growth.


CHAPTERS: 

0:00 Introduction: Building a Flexible Plan

00:37 Meet Becky Escot: The Brand Architect

01:20 Journey to BKV: A New Adventure

02:39 Building the BKV Brand

05:37 Strategic Guardrails: Defining Identity

09:20 Communicating the Brand Internally in a Way They Can See Themselves in It

19:05 Sustainability and Carbon Neutral Goals for BKV

24:07 Challenges and Growth: Pre and Post IPO

30:23 Leadership and Communication Strategy

39:06 Conclusion: The Importance of Genuine Storytelling and Brand Alignment


Topics Discussed: 

  • Seeing the whole ecosystem, not just a fancy logo or tagline
  • Why you need to live and breathe your story so others believe in your vision too
  • The hard but necessary work of clarifying who you are vs. who you aren’t
  • Why branding feels like a soul-searching bootcamp (and why that’s a good thing)
  • How guardrails keep your brand on track beyond a quick elevator pitch
  • Why your internal and external communication must align to build credibility
  • Creating brand pride through launch moments, storytelling, and shared wins


Connect with Becky Escott: 


About Rethink Change:


When growth is stagnant, culture’s a mess, the brand’s adrift, and the board wants miracles by Monday, Pennebaker’s podcast, Rethink Change, is where innovators and disruptors go for clarity.


Hosted by Founder Ward Pennebaker and President Matt Pennebaker, this podcast delivers sharp insights from battle-tested leaders who’ve navigated chaos and turned challenge into momentum. You’ll hear from executives from startups to global behemoths, from a wide range of industries. No fluff. All results. These conversations reveal what actually works, enabling you to think differently and act smarter.


Get Connected with Rethink Change:


]]> If you’ve ever felt like your business is stuck hiding behind a pretty logo or a catchy tagline, you’re not alone. Branding isn’t just surface-level polish; it’s the soul-searching work of figuring out who you are, what you stand for, and how to share that story in a way people actually believe. 


Think of it less like a quick elevator pitch and more like a bootcamp for your business: tough at times, but designed to give you clarity, consistency, and the kind of confidence that earns trust. 


Today, our guest, Becky Escott, Senior Director of Corporate Communications at BKV Corporation, guides us through the core steps every entrepreneur needs to overhaul their brand and ultimately build something that feels authentic, aligned, and ready for growth.


Starting with six different logos and a misunified brand, Becky Escott led BKV through a transformation with the help of the guardrails process to define a clear story and vision. She launched the “Back to Our Values” campaign to build pride and employee ownership, turning the brand into something people could truly believe in. 


As BKV grew and prepared for an IPO, she maintained consistent and credible messaging through campaigns like “It’s on” and “Innovating the Invisible,” proving that even complex ideas, such as decarbonization, could be made simple and relatable. Today, BKV stands as a unified brand that reflects alignment, belief, and long-term growth.


CHAPTERS: 

0:00 Introduction: Building a Flexible Plan

00:37 Meet Becky Escot: The Brand Architect

01:20 Journey to BKV: A New Adventure

02:39 Building the BKV Brand

05:37 Strategic Guardrails: Defining Identity

09:20 Communicating the Brand Internally in a Way They Can See Themselves in It

19:05 Sustainability and Carbon Neutral Goals for BKV

24:07 Challenges and Growth: Pre and Post IPO

30:23 Leadership and Communication Strategy

39:06 Conclusion: The Importance of Genuine Storytelling and Brand Alignment


Topics Discussed: 

  • Seeing the whole ecosystem, not just a fancy logo or tagline
  • Why you need to live and breathe your story so others believe in your vision too
  • The hard but necessary work of clarifying who you are vs. who you aren’t
  • Why branding feels like a soul-searching bootcamp (and why that’s a good thing)
  • How guardrails keep your brand on track beyond a quick elevator pitch
  • Why your internal and external communication must align to build credibility
  • Creating brand pride through launch moments, storytelling, and shared wins


Connect with Becky Escott: 


About Rethink Change:


When growth is stagnant, culture’s a mess, the brand’s adrift, and the board wants miracles by Monday, Pennebaker’s podcast, Rethink Change, is where innovators and disruptors go for clarity.


Hosted by Founder Ward Pennebaker and President Matt Pennebaker, this podcast delivers sharp insights from battle-tested leaders who’ve navigated chaos and turned challenge into momentum. You’ll hear from executives from startups to global behemoths, from a wide range of industries. No fluff. All results. These conversations reveal what actually works, enabling you to think differently and act smarter.


Get Connected with Rethink Change:


]]> false full 14 <![CDATA[Leading Through Grit, Resilience, and Vision with Brian Reinsborough, President and CEO ReconAfrica]]> A visionary executive with over 35 years of experience, Brian Reinsborough has established an exceptional record of strategic, leadership, and management success across the energy industry. But you don’t get that from playing small. 


Throughout his career, he has developed and executed multiple business plans, including the launch of two Deepwater ventures in the Gulf of Mexico that have grown into industry-recognized programs. His expertise and forward-thinking leadership have resulted in the discovery of over 2.4 billion barrels of oil equivalent (BOE), shaping the future of exploration and production in some of the world’s most challenging environments. 


Brian Reinsborough holds a PMD from Harvard Business School, an M.S. in Geology from the University of Texas at Austin, and a B.S. in Geology from Mount Allison University. A finalist for the EY Entrepreneur of the Year National Award in 2014, he has also successfully raised more than $2.5 billion in private equity funding, fueling innovation and growth within the sector. 


Brian’s career is defined by his rare combination of scientific expertise, business acumen, and visionary leadership that continues to leave a lasting impact on the industry. 


His secret? Having the drive to push through uncertainty, bouncing back from adversity, and betting on yourself even if you’re the only person in the room. 


CHAPTERS: 

00:00 Introduction and Welcome

01:16 Brian's Background and Career Journey

03:27 Challenges and Turnarounds at Recon

06:41 Navigating Uncertainty and Leadership

10:17 ReconAfrica's Business Model and Strategy

11:32 Focus on Namibia and Community Engagement

15:48 ESG Initiatives and Community Impact

19:14 Future Vision and Growth

20:22 Navigating ESG and Community Involvement

21:07 Commitment to Transparency and Environmental Responsibility

22:10 Defining Business Philosophy and Strategy

22:59 The Guardrails Process: A Deep Dive

24:04 The Need for External Help

26:18 Embracing Change and Rebranding

29:17 Leadership and High Performance Teams

32:48 Advice for Aspiring Leaders

34:42 Personal Stories and Career Lessons

40:09 Conclusion and Final Thoughts


Topics Discussed: 

  • Why grit and resilience are key factors to a long, successful career
  • Believing in yourself, even if everyone doubts you
  • Not letting your isolated failures dictate your bigger vision
  • Setting high expectations for yourself and holding your team accountable
  • How transparency, accountability, and adaptability set you apart from competition
  • Having the courage to ask the hard questions and blaze your own path 


Connect with Brian Reinsborough: 


About Rethink Change:


When growth is stagnant, culture’s a mess, the brand’s adrift, and the board wants miracles by Monday, Pennebaker’s podcast, Rethink Change, is where innovators and disruptors go for clarity.


Hosted by Founder Ward Pennebaker and President Matt Pennebaker, this podcast delivers sharp insights from battle-tested leaders who’ve navigated chaos and turned challenge into momentum. You’ll hear from executives from startups to global behemoths, from a wide range of industries. No fluff. All results. These conversations uncover what actually works, so you can think differently and act smarter.


Get Connected with Rethink Change:


]]> Tue, 07 Oct 2025 06:00:00 -0500 https://pennebaker.com/podcast 41:44 A visionary executive with over 35 years of experience, Brian Reinsborough has established an exceptional record of strategic, leadership, and management success across the energy industry. But you don’t get that from playing small. 


Throughout his career, he has developed and executed multiple business plans, including the launch of two Deepwater ventures in the Gulf of Mexico that have grown into industry-recognized programs. His expertise and forward-thinking leadership have resulted in the discovery of over 2.4 billion barrels of oil equivalent (BOE), shaping the future of exploration and production in some of the world’s most challenging environments. 


Brian Reinsborough holds a PMD from Harvard Business School, an M.S. in Geology from the University of Texas at Austin, and a B.S. in Geology from Mount Allison University. A finalist for the EY Entrepreneur of the Year National Award in 2014, he has also successfully raised more than $2.5 billion in private equity funding, fueling innovation and growth within the sector. 


Brian’s career is defined by his rare combination of scientific expertise, business acumen, and visionary leadership that continues to leave a lasting impact on the industry. 


His secret? Having the drive to push through uncertainty, bouncing back from adversity, and betting on yourself even if you’re the only person in the room. 


CHAPTERS: 

00:00 Introduction and Welcome

01:16 Brian's Background and Career Journey

03:27 Challenges and Turnarounds at Recon

06:41 Navigating Uncertainty and Leadership

10:17 ReconAfrica's Business Model and Strategy

11:32 Focus on Namibia and Community Engagement

15:48 ESG Initiatives and Community Impact

19:14 Future Vision and Growth

20:22 Navigating ESG and Community Involvement

21:07 Commitment to Transparency and Environmental Responsibility

22:10 Defining Business Philosophy and Strategy

22:59 The Guardrails Process: A Deep Dive

24:04 The Need for External Help

26:18 Embracing Change and Rebranding

29:17 Leadership and High Performance Teams

32:48 Advice for Aspiring Leaders

34:42 Personal Stories and Career Lessons

40:09 Conclusion and Final Thoughts


Topics Discussed: 

  • Why grit and resilience are key factors to a long, successful career
  • Believing in yourself, even if everyone doubts you
  • Not letting your isolated failures dictate your bigger vision
  • Setting high expectations for yourself and holding your team accountable
  • How transparency, accountability, and adaptability set you apart from competition
  • Having the courage to ask the hard questions and blaze your own path 


Connect with Brian Reinsborough: 


About Rethink Change:


When growth is stagnant, culture’s a mess, the brand’s adrift, and the board wants miracles by Monday, Pennebaker’s podcast, Rethink Change, is where innovators and disruptors go for clarity.


Hosted by Founder Ward Pennebaker and President Matt Pennebaker, this podcast delivers sharp insights from battle-tested leaders who’ve navigated chaos and turned challenge into momentum. You’ll hear from executives from startups to global behemoths, from a wide range of industries. No fluff. All results. These conversations uncover what actually works, so you can think differently and act smarter.


Get Connected with Rethink Change:


]]> A visionary executive with over 35 years of experience, Brian Reinsborough has established an exceptional record of strategic, leadership, and management success across the energy industry. But you don’t get that from playing small. 


Throughout his career, he has developed and executed multiple business plans, including the launch of two Deepwater ventures in the Gulf of Mexico that have grown into industry-recognized programs. His expertise and forward-thinking leadership have resulted in the discovery of over 2.4 billion barrels of oil equivalent (BOE), shaping the future of exploration and production in some of the world’s most challenging environments. 


Brian Reinsborough holds a PMD from Harvard Business School, an M.S. in Geology from the University of Texas at Austin, and a B.S. in Geology from Mount Allison University. A finalist for the EY Entrepreneur of the Year National Award in 2014, he has also successfully raised more than $2.5 billion in private equity funding, fueling innovation and growth within the sector. 


Brian’s career is defined by his rare combination of scientific expertise, business acumen, and visionary leadership that continues to leave a lasting impact on the industry. 


His secret? Having the drive to push through uncertainty, bouncing back from adversity, and betting on yourself even if you’re the only person in the room. 


CHAPTERS: 

00:00 Introduction and Welcome

01:16 Brian's Background and Career Journey

03:27 Challenges and Turnarounds at Recon

06:41 Navigating Uncertainty and Leadership

10:17 ReconAfrica's Business Model and Strategy

11:32 Focus on Namibia and Community Engagement

15:48 ESG Initiatives and Community Impact

19:14 Future Vision and Growth

20:22 Navigating ESG and Community Involvement

21:07 Commitment to Transparency and Environmental Responsibility

22:10 Defining Business Philosophy and Strategy

22:59 The Guardrails Process: A Deep Dive

24:04 The Need for External Help

26:18 Embracing Change and Rebranding

29:17 Leadership and High Performance Teams

32:48 Advice for Aspiring Leaders

34:42 Personal Stories and Career Lessons

40:09 Conclusion and Final Thoughts


Topics Discussed: 

  • Why grit and resilience are key factors to a long, successful career
  • Believing in yourself, even if everyone doubts you
  • Not letting your isolated failures dictate your bigger vision
  • Setting high expectations for yourself and holding your team accountable
  • How transparency, accountability, and adaptability set you apart from competition
  • Having the courage to ask the hard questions and blaze your own path 


Connect with Brian Reinsborough: 


About Rethink Change:


When growth is stagnant, culture’s a mess, the brand’s adrift, and the board wants miracles by Monday, Pennebaker’s podcast, Rethink Change, is where innovators and disruptors go for clarity.


Hosted by Founder Ward Pennebaker and President Matt Pennebaker, this podcast delivers sharp insights from battle-tested leaders who’ve navigated chaos and turned challenge into momentum. You’ll hear from executives from startups to global behemoths, from a wide range of industries. No fluff. All results. These conversations uncover what actually works, so you can think differently and act smarter.


Get Connected with Rethink Change:


]]> false full 13 <![CDATA[The Future of Talent Management and Company Succession with Laura Sorrell, Practice Leader at Sorrell]]> What if your biggest career breakthrough came not from knowing the answer, but from daring to step into the unknown?


In business, it’s easy to think success comes from following the rules and sticking to what’s already been defined. But the real breakthroughs happen when you step into the undefined, when you’re willing to chart a course no one else has mapped yet. That’s where growth lives: in the courage to embrace ambiguity instead of resisting it.


Laura Sorrell learned this lesson early. At just 23, she was handed an assignment no one could explain and, armed with nothing but a roll of butcher paper, sketched out a framework that helped a global firm see its path forward. 


From Houston’s oil boom to Silicon Valley’s biotech wave, she built a career on asking better questions, translating vision into action, and mentoring the next generation of leaders. Her story is proof that the future isn’t something you wait to be handed, it’s something you help design. 


As Laura puts it, lasting change doesn’t come from the top or the bottom alone. It happens “when leadership and teams stay in constant conversation, building the future together.”


CHAPTERS: 

00:00 Introduction and Quotes and Mentorship Around Leadership

00:35 Meet Laura Sorell: The Change Whisperer

00:58 Laura's Career Journey and Early Experiences

04:11 The Impact of Mentorship and Career Growth

07:51 Navigating Change in Various Industries

19:54 Identifying Ideal Candidates and Clients

22:47 Challenges in Articulating Future Goals

23:29 The Newton Nurseries Case Study

25:52 Defining Talent Management

26:53 Navigating Cultural Alignment

28:11 Leadership's Role in Culture

29:41 Hybrid and Remote Work Challenges

31:38 The Importance of Succession Planning Beyond a Growth Plan

33:51 Embracing AI in How to Utilize in Your Business

40:07 Laura’s Advice for Future Leaders

43:20 Conclusion and Final Thoughts


Topics Discussed: 

  • Treating your candidates as you would treat your customers
  • Reworking Talent Acquisition into Talent Management and Career Progression
  • Why leadership needs to participate in the complete conversation around culture
  • The main components in aligning with a cohesive culture
  • Helping organizations get “unstuck” and learn a clear language
  • Viewing potential candidates as a long-term source of growth for the business
  • Why language matters in setting yourself apart from the competition 


Connect with Laura Sorrell: 


About Rethink Change:


When growth is stagnant, culture’s a mess, the brand’s adrift, and the board wants miracles by Monday, Pennebaker’s podcast, Rethink Change, is where innovators and disruptors go for clarity.


Hosted by Founder Ward Pennebaker and President Matt Pennebaker, this podcast delivers sharp insights from battle-tested leaders who’ve navigated chaos and turned challenge into momentum. You’ll hear from executives from startups to global behemoths, from a wide range of industries. No fluff. All results. These conversations uncover what actually works, so you can think differently and act smarter.


Get Connected with Rethink Change:


]]> Tue, 30 Sep 2025 05:00:00 -0500 https://pennebaker.com/podcast 44:18 What if your biggest career breakthrough came not from knowing the answer, but from daring to step into the unknown?


In business, it’s easy to think success comes from following the rules and sticking to what’s already been defined. But the real breakthroughs happen when you step into the undefined, when you’re willing to chart a course no one else has mapped yet. That’s where growth lives: in the courage to embrace ambiguity instead of resisting it.


Laura Sorrell learned this lesson early. At just 23, she was handed an assignment no one could explain and, armed with nothing but a roll of butcher paper, sketched out a framework that helped a global firm see its path forward. 


From Houston’s oil boom to Silicon Valley’s biotech wave, she built a career on asking better questions, translating vision into action, and mentoring the next generation of leaders. Her story is proof that the future isn’t something you wait to be handed, it’s something you help design. 


As Laura puts it, lasting change doesn’t come from the top or the bottom alone. It happens “when leadership and teams stay in constant conversation, building the future together.”


CHAPTERS: 

00:00 Introduction and Quotes and Mentorship Around Leadership

00:35 Meet Laura Sorell: The Change Whisperer

00:58 Laura's Career Journey and Early Experiences

04:11 The Impact of Mentorship and Career Growth

07:51 Navigating Change in Various Industries

19:54 Identifying Ideal Candidates and Clients

22:47 Challenges in Articulating Future Goals

23:29 The Newton Nurseries Case Study

25:52 Defining Talent Management

26:53 Navigating Cultural Alignment

28:11 Leadership's Role in Culture

29:41 Hybrid and Remote Work Challenges

31:38 The Importance of Succession Planning Beyond a Growth Plan

33:51 Embracing AI in How to Utilize in Your Business

40:07 Laura’s Advice for Future Leaders

43:20 Conclusion and Final Thoughts


Topics Discussed: 

  • Treating your candidates as you would treat your customers
  • Reworking Talent Acquisition into Talent Management and Career Progression
  • Why leadership needs to participate in the complete conversation around culture
  • The main components in aligning with a cohesive culture
  • Helping organizations get “unstuck” and learn a clear language
  • Viewing potential candidates as a long-term source of growth for the business
  • Why language matters in setting yourself apart from the competition 


Connect with Laura Sorrell: 


About Rethink Change:


When growth is stagnant, culture’s a mess, the brand’s adrift, and the board wants miracles by Monday, Pennebaker’s podcast, Rethink Change, is where innovators and disruptors go for clarity.


Hosted by Founder Ward Pennebaker and President Matt Pennebaker, this podcast delivers sharp insights from battle-tested leaders who’ve navigated chaos and turned challenge into momentum. You’ll hear from executives from startups to global behemoths, from a wide range of industries. No fluff. All results. These conversations uncover what actually works, so you can think differently and act smarter.


Get Connected with Rethink Change:


]]> What if your biggest career breakthrough came not from knowing the answer, but from daring to step into the unknown?


In business, it’s easy to think success comes from following the rules and sticking to what’s already been defined. But the real breakthroughs happen when you step into the undefined, when you’re willing to chart a course no one else has mapped yet. That’s where growth lives: in the courage to embrace ambiguity instead of resisting it.


Laura Sorrell learned this lesson early. At just 23, she was handed an assignment no one could explain and, armed with nothing but a roll of butcher paper, sketched out a framework that helped a global firm see its path forward. 


From Houston’s oil boom to Silicon Valley’s biotech wave, she built a career on asking better questions, translating vision into action, and mentoring the next generation of leaders. Her story is proof that the future isn’t something you wait to be handed, it’s something you help design. 


As Laura puts it, lasting change doesn’t come from the top or the bottom alone. It happens “when leadership and teams stay in constant conversation, building the future together.”


CHAPTERS: 

00:00 Introduction and Quotes and Mentorship Around Leadership

00:35 Meet Laura Sorell: The Change Whisperer

00:58 Laura's Career Journey and Early Experiences

04:11 The Impact of Mentorship and Career Growth

07:51 Navigating Change in Various Industries

19:54 Identifying Ideal Candidates and Clients

22:47 Challenges in Articulating Future Goals

23:29 The Newton Nurseries Case Study

25:52 Defining Talent Management

26:53 Navigating Cultural Alignment

28:11 Leadership's Role in Culture

29:41 Hybrid and Remote Work Challenges

31:38 The Importance of Succession Planning Beyond a Growth Plan

33:51 Embracing AI in How to Utilize in Your Business

40:07 Laura’s Advice for Future Leaders

43:20 Conclusion and Final Thoughts


Topics Discussed: 

  • Treating your candidates as you would treat your customers
  • Reworking Talent Acquisition into Talent Management and Career Progression
  • Why leadership needs to participate in the complete conversation around culture
  • The main components in aligning with a cohesive culture
  • Helping organizations get “unstuck” and learn a clear language
  • Viewing potential candidates as a long-term source of growth for the business
  • Why language matters in setting yourself apart from the competition 


Connect with Laura Sorrell: 


About Rethink Change:


When growth is stagnant, culture’s a mess, the brand’s adrift, and the board wants miracles by Monday, Pennebaker’s podcast, Rethink Change, is where innovators and disruptors go for clarity.


Hosted by Founder Ward Pennebaker and President Matt Pennebaker, this podcast delivers sharp insights from battle-tested leaders who’ve navigated chaos and turned challenge into momentum. You’ll hear from executives from startups to global behemoths, from a wide range of industries. No fluff. All results. These conversations uncover what actually works, so you can think differently and act smarter.


Get Connected with Rethink Change:


]]> false full 12 <![CDATA[From Concert Halls to Capital Markets with Alison Moss, CEO at Paul Comstock Partners]]> In business, one of the hardest skills to master, especially in a fast-moving capital market, isn’t knowing when to say yes; it’s knowing when to say no. Opportunities come knocking, and it’s tempting to answer every call, convinced that growth means grabbing at everything in reach. But more often than not, saying yes to the wrong things clutters your calendar, dilutes your value, and slows your momentum.


The real magic happens when you get clear on who you are, what you do best, and who you serve, and then have the courage to turn away from everything else. Every “no” becomes a way of protecting your time, energy, and resources for the work that truly matters. And every “yes” carries more weight because it’s intentional.


That’s exactly what Alison Moss and her team at Comstock Partners discovered. Once they gave themselves the license to say no, they cut out the distractions, doubled down on the right clients, and created the space to move forward with clarity and confidence. 


As Alison puts it, the right strategy doesn’t just point you in the right direction; it’s “the key that unlocks the door” so you can push past whatever wall you’ve been running up against.


CHAPTERS: 

00:00 Introduction to Comstock's Legacy

00:38 Meet Alison Moss: Artist, Advisor, and Industry Disruptor

01:07 What Comstock Partners Does—and Who They Serve

01:27 How Wealth Advisory Services Have Evolved

03:24 Alison’s Unexpected Path into Finance

04:47 Redesigning the Comstock Client Experience

05:32 Competing in a Crowded Wealth Market

07:29 Setting Strategic Guardrails for Smarter Growth

12:13 A Marketing Makeover That Changed the Game

16:29 Expanding the Client Portfolio Without Losing Focus

18:47 Comstock’s Unique Value in the Marketplace

20:20 Winning the War for Top Talent

25:37 Looking Ahead: Growth, Tech, and the Future of Wealth Advisory

31:13 How Cultural Alignment Fuels Performance

34:46 Conclusion and Final Thoughts


Topics Discussed: 

  • What’s it really like taking over a family business & still being a strong family unit
  • Hiring new talent and the strategy behind setting strong standards
  • The hardships behind creating new habits around presentations and deliverables
  • Setting a reasonable pace for you and your team while also pushing yourself
  • Using the guardrails as a culture perspective rather than a marketing strategy
  • How to utilize AI and technology while keeping the human value alive


Connect with Alison Moss: 


About Rethink Change:


When growth is stagnant, culture’s a mess, the brand’s adrift, and the board wants miracles by Monday, Pennebaker’s podcast, Rethink Change, is where innovators and disruptors go for clarity.


Hosted by Founder Ward Pennebaker and President Matt Pennebaker, this podcast delivers sharp insights from battle-tested leaders who’ve navigated chaos and turned challenge into momentum. You’ll hear from executives from startups to global behemoths, from a wide range of industries. No fluff. All results. These conversations uncover what actually works, so you can think differently and act smarter.


Get Connected with Rethink Change:


]]> Tue, 16 Sep 2025 05:00:00 -0500 https://pennebaker.com/podcast 35:28 In business, one of the hardest skills to master, especially in a fast-moving capital market, isn’t knowing when to say yes; it’s knowing when to say no. Opportunities come knocking, and it’s tempting to answer every call, convinced that growth means grabbing at everything in reach. But more often than not, saying yes to the wrong things clutters your calendar, dilutes your value, and slows your momentum.


The real magic happens when you get clear on who you are, what you do best, and who you serve, and then have the courage to turn away from everything else. Every “no” becomes a way of protecting your time, energy, and resources for the work that truly matters. And every “yes” carries more weight because it’s intentional.


That’s exactly what Alison Moss and her team at Comstock Partners discovered. Once they gave themselves the license to say no, they cut out the distractions, doubled down on the right clients, and created the space to move forward with clarity and confidence. 


As Alison puts it, the right strategy doesn’t just point you in the right direction; it’s “the key that unlocks the door” so you can push past whatever wall you’ve been running up against.


CHAPTERS: 

00:00 Introduction to Comstock's Legacy

00:38 Meet Alison Moss: Artist, Advisor, and Industry Disruptor

01:07 What Comstock Partners Does—and Who They Serve

01:27 How Wealth Advisory Services Have Evolved

03:24 Alison’s Unexpected Path into Finance

04:47 Redesigning the Comstock Client Experience

05:32 Competing in a Crowded Wealth Market

07:29 Setting Strategic Guardrails for Smarter Growth

12:13 A Marketing Makeover That Changed the Game

16:29 Expanding the Client Portfolio Without Losing Focus

18:47 Comstock’s Unique Value in the Marketplace

20:20 Winning the War for Top Talent

25:37 Looking Ahead: Growth, Tech, and the Future of Wealth Advisory

31:13 How Cultural Alignment Fuels Performance

34:46 Conclusion and Final Thoughts


Topics Discussed: 

  • What’s it really like taking over a family business & still being a strong family unit
  • Hiring new talent and the strategy behind setting strong standards
  • The hardships behind creating new habits around presentations and deliverables
  • Setting a reasonable pace for you and your team while also pushing yourself
  • Using the guardrails as a culture perspective rather than a marketing strategy
  • How to utilize AI and technology while keeping the human value alive


Connect with Alison Moss: 


About Rethink Change:


When growth is stagnant, culture’s a mess, the brand’s adrift, and the board wants miracles by Monday, Pennebaker’s podcast, Rethink Change, is where innovators and disruptors go for clarity.


Hosted by Founder Ward Pennebaker and President Matt Pennebaker, this podcast delivers sharp insights from battle-tested leaders who’ve navigated chaos and turned challenge into momentum. You’ll hear from executives from startups to global behemoths, from a wide range of industries. No fluff. All results. These conversations uncover what actually works, so you can think differently and act smarter.


Get Connected with Rethink Change:


]]> In business, one of the hardest skills to master, especially in a fast-moving capital market, isn’t knowing when to say yes; it’s knowing when to say no. Opportunities come knocking, and it’s tempting to answer every call, convinced that growth means grabbing at everything in reach. But more often than not, saying yes to the wrong things clutters your calendar, dilutes your value, and slows your momentum.


The real magic happens when you get clear on who you are, what you do best, and who you serve, and then have the courage to turn away from everything else. Every “no” becomes a way of protecting your time, energy, and resources for the work that truly matters. And every “yes” carries more weight because it’s intentional.


That’s exactly what Alison Moss and her team at Comstock Partners discovered. Once they gave themselves the license to say no, they cut out the distractions, doubled down on the right clients, and created the space to move forward with clarity and confidence. 


As Alison puts it, the right strategy doesn’t just point you in the right direction; it’s “the key that unlocks the door” so you can push past whatever wall you’ve been running up against.


CHAPTERS: 

00:00 Introduction to Comstock's Legacy

00:38 Meet Alison Moss: Artist, Advisor, and Industry Disruptor

01:07 What Comstock Partners Does—and Who They Serve

01:27 How Wealth Advisory Services Have Evolved

03:24 Alison’s Unexpected Path into Finance

04:47 Redesigning the Comstock Client Experience

05:32 Competing in a Crowded Wealth Market

07:29 Setting Strategic Guardrails for Smarter Growth

12:13 A Marketing Makeover That Changed the Game

16:29 Expanding the Client Portfolio Without Losing Focus

18:47 Comstock’s Unique Value in the Marketplace

20:20 Winning the War for Top Talent

25:37 Looking Ahead: Growth, Tech, and the Future of Wealth Advisory

31:13 How Cultural Alignment Fuels Performance

34:46 Conclusion and Final Thoughts


Topics Discussed: 

  • What’s it really like taking over a family business & still being a strong family unit
  • Hiring new talent and the strategy behind setting strong standards
  • The hardships behind creating new habits around presentations and deliverables
  • Setting a reasonable pace for you and your team while also pushing yourself
  • Using the guardrails as a culture perspective rather than a marketing strategy
  • How to utilize AI and technology while keeping the human value alive


Connect with Alison Moss: 


About Rethink Change:


When growth is stagnant, culture’s a mess, the brand’s adrift, and the board wants miracles by Monday, Pennebaker’s podcast, Rethink Change, is where innovators and disruptors go for clarity.


Hosted by Founder Ward Pennebaker and President Matt Pennebaker, this podcast delivers sharp insights from battle-tested leaders who’ve navigated chaos and turned challenge into momentum. You’ll hear from executives from startups to global behemoths, from a wide range of industries. No fluff. All results. These conversations uncover what actually works, so you can think differently and act smarter.


Get Connected with Rethink Change:


]]> false full 11 <![CDATA[Transforming Organizations Through Conversation with Hilary Ware, Strategic Advisor and Executive Coach ]]> What if the secret to lasting change wasn’t bold new strategies, but a return to the basics: clarity, focus, and genuine human connection?


In business, it’s tempting to think transformation happens through sweeping initiatives and complex processes. But the leaders who succeed don’t try to change everything at once. They know that real impact comes from slowing down, listening more than you speak, and building cultures where values guide decisions and accountability fuels performance.


Hilary Ware has seen it across industries and boardrooms: when leaders overcomplicate change, they lose people. But when they keep it simple, set clear expectations, communicate consistently, and focus on what not to do, the organization finds its footing. 


Her approach is equal parts rigor and empathy. By spending more time talking with employees, appreciating the chaos they face, and aligning around enduring values, Hilary shows that transformation doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. It just has to feel human.


CHAPTERS: 

00:00 Introduction to Change Management

00:35 Meet Hillary Ware: The Change Whisperer

00:59 Hillary's Career Journey

01:34 Transforming BP: The Outsourcing Journey

04:03 Challenges and Strategies at Bristow Helicopters

05:58 Lessons Learned in Change Management

12:31 Personal and Corporate Transformation

16:32 The Importance of Values and Behaviors in Organizations

37:38 Final Thoughts and Reflections


Topics Discussed: 

  • Why simplicity, purpose, and accountability drive sustainable change
  • Connecting values to clear, observable behaviors that set expectations
  • The importance of meeting employees where they are in times of transition
  • How communication anchors the change management process
  • Why empathy and clarity are critical in retaining and engaging employees
  • How disciplined leadership means knowing what not to do
  • The role of enduring values in shaping culture and guiding long-term success


Connect with Hilary Ware: 


About Rethink Change:


When growth is stagnant, culture’s a mess, the brand’s adrift, and the board wants miracles by Monday, Pennebaker’s podcast, Rethink Change, is where innovators and disruptors go for clarity.


Hosted by Founder Ward Pennebaker and President Matt Pennebaker, this podcast delivers sharp insights from battle-tested leaders who’ve navigated chaos and turned challenge into momentum. You’ll hear from executives from startups to global behemoths, from a wide range of industries. No fluff. All results. These conversations uncover what actually works, so you can think differently and act smarter.


Get Connected with Rethink Change:


]]> Tue, 02 Sep 2025 06:00:00 -0500 https://pennebaker.com/podcast 40:43 What if the secret to lasting change wasn’t bold new strategies, but a return to the basics: clarity, focus, and genuine human connection?


In business, it’s tempting to think transformation happens through sweeping initiatives and complex processes. But the leaders who succeed don’t try to change everything at once. They know that real impact comes from slowing down, listening more than you speak, and building cultures where values guide decisions and accountability fuels performance.


Hilary Ware has seen it across industries and boardrooms: when leaders overcomplicate change, they lose people. But when they keep it simple, set clear expectations, communicate consistently, and focus on what not to do, the organization finds its footing. 


Her approach is equal parts rigor and empathy. By spending more time talking with employees, appreciating the chaos they face, and aligning around enduring values, Hilary shows that transformation doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. It just has to feel human.


CHAPTERS: 

00:00 Introduction to Change Management

00:35 Meet Hillary Ware: The Change Whisperer

00:59 Hillary's Career Journey

01:34 Transforming BP: The Outsourcing Journey

04:03 Challenges and Strategies at Bristow Helicopters

05:58 Lessons Learned in Change Management

12:31 Personal and Corporate Transformation

16:32 The Importance of Values and Behaviors in Organizations

37:38 Final Thoughts and Reflections


Topics Discussed: 

  • Why simplicity, purpose, and accountability drive sustainable change
  • Connecting values to clear, observable behaviors that set expectations
  • The importance of meeting employees where they are in times of transition
  • How communication anchors the change management process
  • Why empathy and clarity are critical in retaining and engaging employees
  • How disciplined leadership means knowing what not to do
  • The role of enduring values in shaping culture and guiding long-term success


Connect with Hilary Ware: 


About Rethink Change:


When growth is stagnant, culture’s a mess, the brand’s adrift, and the board wants miracles by Monday, Pennebaker’s podcast, Rethink Change, is where innovators and disruptors go for clarity.


Hosted by Founder Ward Pennebaker and President Matt Pennebaker, this podcast delivers sharp insights from battle-tested leaders who’ve navigated chaos and turned challenge into momentum. You’ll hear from executives from startups to global behemoths, from a wide range of industries. No fluff. All results. These conversations uncover what actually works, so you can think differently and act smarter.


Get Connected with Rethink Change:


]]> What if the secret to lasting change wasn’t bold new strategies, but a return to the basics: clarity, focus, and genuine human connection?


In business, it’s tempting to think transformation happens through sweeping initiatives and complex processes. But the leaders who succeed don’t try to change everything at once. They know that real impact comes from slowing down, listening more than you speak, and building cultures where values guide decisions and accountability fuels performance.


Hilary Ware has seen it across industries and boardrooms: when leaders overcomplicate change, they lose people. But when they keep it simple, set clear expectations, communicate consistently, and focus on what not to do, the organization finds its footing. 


Her approach is equal parts rigor and empathy. By spending more time talking with employees, appreciating the chaos they face, and aligning around enduring values, Hilary shows that transformation doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. It just has to feel human.


CHAPTERS: 

00:00 Introduction to Change Management

00:35 Meet Hillary Ware: The Change Whisperer

00:59 Hillary's Career Journey

01:34 Transforming BP: The Outsourcing Journey

04:03 Challenges and Strategies at Bristow Helicopters

05:58 Lessons Learned in Change Management

12:31 Personal and Corporate Transformation

16:32 The Importance of Values and Behaviors in Organizations

37:38 Final Thoughts and Reflections


Topics Discussed: 

  • Why simplicity, purpose, and accountability drive sustainable change
  • Connecting values to clear, observable behaviors that set expectations
  • The importance of meeting employees where they are in times of transition
  • How communication anchors the change management process
  • Why empathy and clarity are critical in retaining and engaging employees
  • How disciplined leadership means knowing what not to do
  • The role of enduring values in shaping culture and guiding long-term success


Connect with Hilary Ware: 


About Rethink Change:


When growth is stagnant, culture’s a mess, the brand’s adrift, and the board wants miracles by Monday, Pennebaker’s podcast, Rethink Change, is where innovators and disruptors go for clarity.


Hosted by Founder Ward Pennebaker and President Matt Pennebaker, this podcast delivers sharp insights from battle-tested leaders who’ve navigated chaos and turned challenge into momentum. You’ll hear from executives from startups to global behemoths, from a wide range of industries. No fluff. All results. These conversations uncover what actually works, so you can think differently and act smarter.


Get Connected with Rethink Change:


]]> false full 10 <![CDATA[Disrupting a Competitive Market with Brett Haugh, Executive Committee Member of Lockton-Dunning Benefits]]> What happens when a company stops chasing every lead and starts focusing only on the clients that truly fit? 


In this episode, Brett Haugh shares how Employee Benefit Solutions (EBS) went from a small firm without a clear market position to an industry disruptor with a 75% close rate on competitive deals. When personal relationships could no longer sustain growth, Brett and his partner turned to Pennebaker to help them define exactly who they were, and who they weren’t, in the marketplace.


The turning point came with the creation of strategic “guardrails”, three non-negotiable criteria every prospective client had to meet: a professional HR leader, a CEO with a clear vision, and a business in significant change or disruption. That focus not only transformed their sales results but also aligned the entire team around shared priorities, measurable values, and a culture built for efficiency.


The results spoke for themselves. Retention jumped to 95%, competitors admitted they’d never seen anything like EBS’s market shake-up, and clients embraced their role as the “ass-bailing business,” helping companies solve urgent, complex problems. 


Brett also shares his thoughts on the future, including how AI could revolutionize data analysis and the opportunity to simplify the healthcare system for employers and employees alike.


CHAPTERS: 

00:00 Introduction: The Importance of Guardrails in Business

00:39 The EBS Story: Building the Boat While Sailing

00:49 Aligning Sales and Core Values

01:09 Early Days of EBS: Inflection Points and Growth

03:42 Challenges in Client Acquisition and Retention

07:37 Reinventing and Innovating for Continued Growth

09:03 The Role of Guardrails in Internal Operations

11:48 Improving Sales Efficiency and Client Fit

17:14 The Ass Bailing Business: Helping Clients in Crisis

21:24 Competitor Reactions and Market Disruption

29:32 Transitioning to a New Firm: Challenges and Opportunities

34:20 Future Opportunities and the Role of AI

39:57 Final Thoughts and Advice for Leaders


Topics Discussed: 

  • How implementing clear guardrails transforms sales strategy and close rates
  • Recognizing change as the best time to capture market opportunity
  • The key role that team alignment plays in reducing inefficiencies and distractions
  • Why Brett believes external expertise is essential when facing a crossroads
  • How AI could redefine data analysis, client engagement, and industry efficiency
  • Helping experts navigate the complexities of healthcare


Connect with Brett Haugh: 


About Rethink Change:


When growth is stagnant, culture’s a mess, the brand’s adrift, and the board wants miracles by Monday, Pennebaker’s podcast, Rethink Change, is where innovators and disruptors go for clarity.


Hosted by Founder Ward Pennebaker and President Matt Pennebaker, this podcast delivers sharp insights from battle-tested leaders who’ve navigated chaos and turned challenge into momentum. You’ll hear from executives from startups to global behemoths, from a wide range of industries. No fluff. All results. These conversations uncover what actually works, so you can think differently and act smarter.


Get Connected with Rethink Change:


]]> Tue, 19 Aug 2025 05:00:00 -0500 https://pennebaker.com/podcast 42:36 What happens when a company stops chasing every lead and starts focusing only on the clients that truly fit? 


In this episode, Brett Haugh shares how Employee Benefit Solutions (EBS) went from a small firm without a clear market position to an industry disruptor with a 75% close rate on competitive deals. When personal relationships could no longer sustain growth, Brett and his partner turned to Pennebaker to help them define exactly who they were, and who they weren’t, in the marketplace.


The turning point came with the creation of strategic “guardrails”, three non-negotiable criteria every prospective client had to meet: a professional HR leader, a CEO with a clear vision, and a business in significant change or disruption. That focus not only transformed their sales results but also aligned the entire team around shared priorities, measurable values, and a culture built for efficiency.


The results spoke for themselves. Retention jumped to 95%, competitors admitted they’d never seen anything like EBS’s market shake-up, and clients embraced their role as the “ass-bailing business,” helping companies solve urgent, complex problems. 


Brett also shares his thoughts on the future, including how AI could revolutionize data analysis and the opportunity to simplify the healthcare system for employers and employees alike.


CHAPTERS: 

00:00 Introduction: The Importance of Guardrails in Business

00:39 The EBS Story: Building the Boat While Sailing

00:49 Aligning Sales and Core Values

01:09 Early Days of EBS: Inflection Points and Growth

03:42 Challenges in Client Acquisition and Retention

07:37 Reinventing and Innovating for Continued Growth

09:03 The Role of Guardrails in Internal Operations

11:48 Improving Sales Efficiency and Client Fit

17:14 The Ass Bailing Business: Helping Clients in Crisis

21:24 Competitor Reactions and Market Disruption

29:32 Transitioning to a New Firm: Challenges and Opportunities

34:20 Future Opportunities and the Role of AI

39:57 Final Thoughts and Advice for Leaders


Topics Discussed: 

  • How implementing clear guardrails transforms sales strategy and close rates
  • Recognizing change as the best time to capture market opportunity
  • The key role that team alignment plays in reducing inefficiencies and distractions
  • Why Brett believes external expertise is essential when facing a crossroads
  • How AI could redefine data analysis, client engagement, and industry efficiency
  • Helping experts navigate the complexities of healthcare


Connect with Brett Haugh: 


About Rethink Change:


When growth is stagnant, culture’s a mess, the brand’s adrift, and the board wants miracles by Monday, Pennebaker’s podcast, Rethink Change, is where innovators and disruptors go for clarity.


Hosted by Founder Ward Pennebaker and President Matt Pennebaker, this podcast delivers sharp insights from battle-tested leaders who’ve navigated chaos and turned challenge into momentum. You’ll hear from executives from startups to global behemoths, from a wide range of industries. No fluff. All results. These conversations uncover what actually works, so you can think differently and act smarter.


Get Connected with Rethink Change:


]]> What happens when a company stops chasing every lead and starts focusing only on the clients that truly fit? 


In this episode, Brett Haugh shares how Employee Benefit Solutions (EBS) went from a small firm without a clear market position to an industry disruptor with a 75% close rate on competitive deals. When personal relationships could no longer sustain growth, Brett and his partner turned to Pennebaker to help them define exactly who they were, and who they weren’t, in the marketplace.


The turning point came with the creation of strategic “guardrails”, three non-negotiable criteria every prospective client had to meet: a professional HR leader, a CEO with a clear vision, and a business in significant change or disruption. That focus not only transformed their sales results but also aligned the entire team around shared priorities, measurable values, and a culture built for efficiency.


The results spoke for themselves. Retention jumped to 95%, competitors admitted they’d never seen anything like EBS’s market shake-up, and clients embraced their role as the “ass-bailing business,” helping companies solve urgent, complex problems. 


Brett also shares his thoughts on the future, including how AI could revolutionize data analysis and the opportunity to simplify the healthcare system for employers and employees alike.


CHAPTERS: 

00:00 Introduction: The Importance of Guardrails in Business

00:39 The EBS Story: Building the Boat While Sailing

00:49 Aligning Sales and Core Values

01:09 Early Days of EBS: Inflection Points and Growth

03:42 Challenges in Client Acquisition and Retention

07:37 Reinventing and Innovating for Continued Growth

09:03 The Role of Guardrails in Internal Operations

11:48 Improving Sales Efficiency and Client Fit

17:14 The Ass Bailing Business: Helping Clients in Crisis

21:24 Competitor Reactions and Market Disruption

29:32 Transitioning to a New Firm: Challenges and Opportunities

34:20 Future Opportunities and the Role of AI

39:57 Final Thoughts and Advice for Leaders


Topics Discussed: 

  • How implementing clear guardrails transforms sales strategy and close rates
  • Recognizing change as the best time to capture market opportunity
  • The key role that team alignment plays in reducing inefficiencies and distractions
  • Why Brett believes external expertise is essential when facing a crossroads
  • How AI could redefine data analysis, client engagement, and industry efficiency
  • Helping experts navigate the complexities of healthcare


Connect with Brett Haugh: 


About Rethink Change:


When growth is stagnant, culture’s a mess, the brand’s adrift, and the board wants miracles by Monday, Pennebaker’s podcast, Rethink Change, is where innovators and disruptors go for clarity.


Hosted by Founder Ward Pennebaker and President Matt Pennebaker, this podcast delivers sharp insights from battle-tested leaders who’ve navigated chaos and turned challenge into momentum. You’ll hear from executives from startups to global behemoths, from a wide range of industries. No fluff. All results. These conversations uncover what actually works, so you can think differently and act smarter.


Get Connected with Rethink Change:


]]> false full 9 <![CDATA[Leading Change That Builds Momentum with Kathleen Margolis, Client Account Manager at Black & Veatch]]> When it comes to leading transformation, Kathleen Margolis, Client Account Manager at Black & Veatch, shows that real change doesn’t require a top-down mandate; it requires clarity, influence, and a relentless focus on the customer. In this episode, she shares how a legacy architecture firm moved from a dated identity to a purpose-driven brand rooted in trust and long-term vision. What started as a simple rebrand quickly became a cultural reset.


Transformation doesn’t stick unless it’s lived from the inside out. Through deep customer research and internal alignment, her team uncovered their strengths and doubled down. Narrowing their focus not only clarified their value but also sparked creativity, growth, and renewed confidence across the organization.


But as business owners and leaders, we know that change is never one-and-done, and the work is continuous. Kathleen reflects on a later failure where internal alignment was skipped, and the results were costly. It’s a reminder that successful change is built on evidence, buy-in, and humility. When done right, transformation is more than a logo rebrand; it’s one that sustains through the ever-evolving needs of your clients, your culture, and your market.


CHAPTERS:

00:00 Introduction to Scientific Methods in Business

00:35 Kathleen's Career Journey

01:53 Driving Change in Organizations

02:51 The Role of Branding and Rebranding

05:51 Voice of the Customer and Its Impact

08:09 Implementing Change and Overcoming Challenges

16:45 The Importance of Internal Buy-In

26:50 Lessons Learned and Final Thoughts

39:58 Conclusion and Call to Action




Topics Discussed:

  • How Kathleen used influence, not authority, to align her team
  • The difference between presenting a new image & embodying a new identity
  • Why customer feedback is your most valuable brand strategy tool
  • How narrowing your focus can lead to exponential growth
  • Curating a brand identity that stands out from competition
  • Making big change feel human, approachable, and aligned


Connect with Kathleen Margolis: 


About Rethink Change:


When growth is stagnant, culture’s a mess, the brand’s adrift, and the board wants miracles by Monday, Pennebaker’s podcast, Rethink Change, is where innovators and disruptors go for clarity.


Hosted by Founder Ward Pennebaker and President Matt Pennebaker, this podcast delivers sharp insights from battle-tested leaders who’ve navigated chaos and turned challenge into momentum. You’ll hear from executives from startups to global behemoths, from a wide range of industries. No fluff. All results. These conversations uncover what actually works, so you can think differently and act smarter.


Get Connected with Rethink Change:




]]> Mon, 11 Aug 2025 04:00:00 -0500 https://pennebaker.com/podcast 40:40 When it comes to leading transformation, Kathleen Margolis, Client Account Manager at Black & Veatch, shows that real change doesn’t require a top-down mandate; it requires clarity, influence, and a relentless focus on the customer. In this episode, she shares how a legacy architecture firm moved from a dated identity to a purpose-driven brand rooted in trust and long-term vision. What started as a simple rebrand quickly became a cultural reset.


Transformation doesn’t stick unless it’s lived from the inside out. Through deep customer research and internal alignment, her team uncovered their strengths and doubled down. Narrowing their focus not only clarified their value but also sparked creativity, growth, and renewed confidence across the organization.


But as business owners and leaders, we know that change is never one-and-done, and the work is continuous. Kathleen reflects on a later failure where internal alignment was skipped, and the results were costly. It’s a reminder that successful change is built on evidence, buy-in, and humility. When done right, transformation is more than a logo rebrand; it’s one that sustains through the ever-evolving needs of your clients, your culture, and your market.


CHAPTERS:

00:00 Introduction to Scientific Methods in Business

00:35 Kathleen's Career Journey

01:53 Driving Change in Organizations

02:51 The Role of Branding and Rebranding

05:51 Voice of the Customer and Its Impact

08:09 Implementing Change and Overcoming Challenges

16:45 The Importance of Internal Buy-In

26:50 Lessons Learned and Final Thoughts

39:58 Conclusion and Call to Action




Topics Discussed:

  • How Kathleen used influence, not authority, to align her team
  • The difference between presenting a new image & embodying a new identity
  • Why customer feedback is your most valuable brand strategy tool
  • How narrowing your focus can lead to exponential growth
  • Curating a brand identity that stands out from competition
  • Making big change feel human, approachable, and aligned


Connect with Kathleen Margolis: 


About Rethink Change:


When growth is stagnant, culture’s a mess, the brand’s adrift, and the board wants miracles by Monday, Pennebaker’s podcast, Rethink Change, is where innovators and disruptors go for clarity.


Hosted by Founder Ward Pennebaker and President Matt Pennebaker, this podcast delivers sharp insights from battle-tested leaders who’ve navigated chaos and turned challenge into momentum. You’ll hear from executives from startups to global behemoths, from a wide range of industries. No fluff. All results. These conversations uncover what actually works, so you can think differently and act smarter.


Get Connected with Rethink Change:




]]> When it comes to leading transformation, Kathleen Margolis, Client Account Manager at Black & Veatch, shows that real change doesn’t require a top-down mandate; it requires clarity, influence, and a relentless focus on the customer. In this episode, she shares how a legacy architecture firm moved from a dated identity to a purpose-driven brand rooted in trust and long-term vision. What started as a simple rebrand quickly became a cultural reset.


Transformation doesn’t stick unless it’s lived from the inside out. Through deep customer research and internal alignment, her team uncovered their strengths and doubled down. Narrowing their focus not only clarified their value but also sparked creativity, growth, and renewed confidence across the organization.


But as business owners and leaders, we know that change is never one-and-done, and the work is continuous. Kathleen reflects on a later failure where internal alignment was skipped, and the results were costly. It’s a reminder that successful change is built on evidence, buy-in, and humility. When done right, transformation is more than a logo rebrand; it’s one that sustains through the ever-evolving needs of your clients, your culture, and your market.


CHAPTERS:

00:00 Introduction to Scientific Methods in Business

00:35 Kathleen's Career Journey

01:53 Driving Change in Organizations

02:51 The Role of Branding and Rebranding

05:51 Voice of the Customer and Its Impact

08:09 Implementing Change and Overcoming Challenges

16:45 The Importance of Internal Buy-In

26:50 Lessons Learned and Final Thoughts

39:58 Conclusion and Call to Action




Topics Discussed:

  • How Kathleen used influence, not authority, to align her team
  • The difference between presenting a new image & embodying a new identity
  • Why customer feedback is your most valuable brand strategy tool
  • How narrowing your focus can lead to exponential growth
  • Curating a brand identity that stands out from competition
  • Making big change feel human, approachable, and aligned


Connect with Kathleen Margolis: 


About Rethink Change:


When growth is stagnant, culture’s a mess, the brand’s adrift, and the board wants miracles by Monday, Pennebaker’s podcast, Rethink Change, is where innovators and disruptors go for clarity.


Hosted by Founder Ward Pennebaker and President Matt Pennebaker, this podcast delivers sharp insights from battle-tested leaders who’ve navigated chaos and turned challenge into momentum. You’ll hear from executives from startups to global behemoths, from a wide range of industries. No fluff. All results. These conversations uncover what actually works, so you can think differently and act smarter.


Get Connected with Rethink Change:




]]> false full 8 <![CDATA[From the Ground Up: Lessons in Leadership with Bill Chiles, Managing Partner at Pelican Energy Partners]]> What does it take to lead a company through a legal crisis, cultural chaos, and strategic drift—and come out stronger on the other side? And what really happens behind the scenes when you’re brought in to clean up the mess you didn’t create? If you’ve ever stepped into a leadership role mid-firestorm or wondered how to get an entire organization aligned around a single vision, this episode is for you.


Our guest, Bill Chiles, is no stranger to turbulence. From rebuilding offshore drilling businesses to turning Bristow Helicopters into a values-driven global brand, Bill has made a career out of guiding companies through high-stakes transformation. But he’s not the kind of leader who shouts from the top—he rolls up his sleeves, builds trust, and brings teams together through shared values and clear direction. Now, as a partner at Pelican Energy Partners, he helps founders scale their businesses by leveraging culture as a competitive advantage.


Whether you're a founder preparing for a private equity investment, a CEO managing culture post-merger, or simply a leader looking to rebuild after burnout or misalignment, Bill’s approach is a playbook for leading with humility, clarity, and conviction. He doesn’t pretend to be perfect—but he’s mastered the art of assembling the right team, utilizing the proper guardrails, and letting execution take care of itself.


In this episode, you’ll learn how core values and strategy aren’t just motivational posters on a wall but tools that guide hard decisions. You’ll hear how rebranding became a culture shift, why “Target Zero” wasn’t just a safety program but a mindset, and how private equity can be people-first without sacrificing performance.


CHAPTERS:

00:00 Introduction and Setting the Stage

01:03 Bill Chiles' Early Career and Family Business

03:05 Challenges and Resilience in the Oil Industry

04:15 Rebuilding and Strategic Moves

07:09 Joining Bristow Helicopters and Initial Challenges

08:43 Establishing Core Values and Strategy

11:30 Implementing Safety and Compliance

17:42 Cultural Alignment and Target Zero Initiative

20:13 The Bristow and Air Logistics Merger

21:19 Introduction to Pelican and Its Founders

22:03 Pelican's Investment Strategy

26:29 Case Study: Gordon Technology

28:28 Building Trust and Leadership

36:42 Navigating Unpopular Decisions

40:11 Personal Growth and Vulnerability

40:49 Conclusion and Final Thoughts


Topics Discussed:

  • The clash of company cultures and how to turn chaos into alignment
  • Why servant leadership starts with getting your hands dirty
  • How core values and “guardrails” drive strategic clarity
  • How to navigate a business crisis with transparency
  • Rebranding as a cultural reset, not just a cosmetic update
  • Building trust in private equity by investing in people, not just profit
  • Focusing on safety as a leadership mindset


Connect with Bill Chiles: 



About Rethink Change:


When growth is stagnant, culture’s a mess, the brand’s adrift, and the board wants miracles by Monday, Pennebaker’s podcast, Rethink Change, is where innovators and disruptors go for clarity.


Hosted by Founder Ward Pennebaker and President Matt Pennebaker, this podcast delivers sharp insights from battle-tested leaders who’ve navigated chaos and turned challenge into momentum. You’ll hear from executives from startups to global behemoths, from a wide range of industries. No fluff. All results. These conversations uncover what actually works, so you can think differently and act smarter.


Get Connected with Rethink Change:


]]> Mon, 04 Aug 2025 04:00:00 -0500 https://pennebaker.com/podcast 41:16 What does it take to lead a company through a legal crisis, cultural chaos, and strategic drift—and come out stronger on the other side? And what really happens behind the scenes when you’re brought in to clean up the mess you didn’t create? If you’ve ever stepped into a leadership role mid-firestorm or wondered how to get an entire organization aligned around a single vision, this episode is for you.


Our guest, Bill Chiles, is no stranger to turbulence. From rebuilding offshore drilling businesses to turning Bristow Helicopters into a values-driven global brand, Bill has made a career out of guiding companies through high-stakes transformation. But he’s not the kind of leader who shouts from the top—he rolls up his sleeves, builds trust, and brings teams together through shared values and clear direction. Now, as a partner at Pelican Energy Partners, he helps founders scale their businesses by leveraging culture as a competitive advantage.


Whether you're a founder preparing for a private equity investment, a CEO managing culture post-merger, or simply a leader looking to rebuild after burnout or misalignment, Bill’s approach is a playbook for leading with humility, clarity, and conviction. He doesn’t pretend to be perfect—but he’s mastered the art of assembling the right team, utilizing the proper guardrails, and letting execution take care of itself.


In this episode, you’ll learn how core values and strategy aren’t just motivational posters on a wall but tools that guide hard decisions. You’ll hear how rebranding became a culture shift, why “Target Zero” wasn’t just a safety program but a mindset, and how private equity can be people-first without sacrificing performance.


CHAPTERS:

00:00 Introduction and Setting the Stage

01:03 Bill Chiles' Early Career and Family Business

03:05 Challenges and Resilience in the Oil Industry

04:15 Rebuilding and Strategic Moves

07:09 Joining Bristow Helicopters and Initial Challenges

08:43 Establishing Core Values and Strategy

11:30 Implementing Safety and Compliance

17:42 Cultural Alignment and Target Zero Initiative

20:13 The Bristow and Air Logistics Merger

21:19 Introduction to Pelican and Its Founders

22:03 Pelican's Investment Strategy

26:29 Case Study: Gordon Technology

28:28 Building Trust and Leadership

36:42 Navigating Unpopular Decisions

40:11 Personal Growth and Vulnerability

40:49 Conclusion and Final Thoughts


Topics Discussed:

  • The clash of company cultures and how to turn chaos into alignment
  • Why servant leadership starts with getting your hands dirty
  • How core values and “guardrails” drive strategic clarity
  • How to navigate a business crisis with transparency
  • Rebranding as a cultural reset, not just a cosmetic update
  • Building trust in private equity by investing in people, not just profit
  • Focusing on safety as a leadership mindset


Connect with Bill Chiles: 



About Rethink Change:


When growth is stagnant, culture’s a mess, the brand’s adrift, and the board wants miracles by Monday, Pennebaker’s podcast, Rethink Change, is where innovators and disruptors go for clarity.


Hosted by Founder Ward Pennebaker and President Matt Pennebaker, this podcast delivers sharp insights from battle-tested leaders who’ve navigated chaos and turned challenge into momentum. You’ll hear from executives from startups to global behemoths, from a wide range of industries. No fluff. All results. These conversations uncover what actually works, so you can think differently and act smarter.


Get Connected with Rethink Change:


]]> What does it take to lead a company through a legal crisis, cultural chaos, and strategic drift—and come out stronger on the other side? And what really happens behind the scenes when you’re brought in to clean up the mess you didn’t create? If you’ve ever stepped into a leadership role mid-firestorm or wondered how to get an entire organization aligned around a single vision, this episode is for you.


Our guest, Bill Chiles, is no stranger to turbulence. From rebuilding offshore drilling businesses to turning Bristow Helicopters into a values-driven global brand, Bill has made a career out of guiding companies through high-stakes transformation. But he’s not the kind of leader who shouts from the top—he rolls up his sleeves, builds trust, and brings teams together through shared values and clear direction. Now, as a partner at Pelican Energy Partners, he helps founders scale their businesses by leveraging culture as a competitive advantage.


Whether you're a founder preparing for a private equity investment, a CEO managing culture post-merger, or simply a leader looking to rebuild after burnout or misalignment, Bill’s approach is a playbook for leading with humility, clarity, and conviction. He doesn’t pretend to be perfect—but he’s mastered the art of assembling the right team, utilizing the proper guardrails, and letting execution take care of itself.


In this episode, you’ll learn how core values and strategy aren’t just motivational posters on a wall but tools that guide hard decisions. You’ll hear how rebranding became a culture shift, why “Target Zero” wasn’t just a safety program but a mindset, and how private equity can be people-first without sacrificing performance.


CHAPTERS:

00:00 Introduction and Setting the Stage

01:03 Bill Chiles' Early Career and Family Business

03:05 Challenges and Resilience in the Oil Industry

04:15 Rebuilding and Strategic Moves

07:09 Joining Bristow Helicopters and Initial Challenges

08:43 Establishing Core Values and Strategy

11:30 Implementing Safety and Compliance

17:42 Cultural Alignment and Target Zero Initiative

20:13 The Bristow and Air Logistics Merger

21:19 Introduction to Pelican and Its Founders

22:03 Pelican's Investment Strategy

26:29 Case Study: Gordon Technology

28:28 Building Trust and Leadership

36:42 Navigating Unpopular Decisions

40:11 Personal Growth and Vulnerability

40:49 Conclusion and Final Thoughts


Topics Discussed:

  • The clash of company cultures and how to turn chaos into alignment
  • Why servant leadership starts with getting your hands dirty
  • How core values and “guardrails” drive strategic clarity
  • How to navigate a business crisis with transparency
  • Rebranding as a cultural reset, not just a cosmetic update
  • Building trust in private equity by investing in people, not just profit
  • Focusing on safety as a leadership mindset


Connect with Bill Chiles: 



About Rethink Change:


When growth is stagnant, culture’s a mess, the brand’s adrift, and the board wants miracles by Monday, Pennebaker’s podcast, Rethink Change, is where innovators and disruptors go for clarity.


Hosted by Founder Ward Pennebaker and President Matt Pennebaker, this podcast delivers sharp insights from battle-tested leaders who’ve navigated chaos and turned challenge into momentum. You’ll hear from executives from startups to global behemoths, from a wide range of industries. No fluff. All results. These conversations uncover what actually works, so you can think differently and act smarter.


Get Connected with Rethink Change:


]]> false full 7 <![CDATA[Why Brand Clarity Is the Competitive Edge You Can’t Ignore with Sue Holub, Executive Consultant at Xirgo Technologies]]> What does it take to turn seven separate acquisitions into one unified, AI-powered brand? And what's the real ROI of a rebrand when the stakes are this high? If you've ever wondered whether your brand is holding your company back or what it truly takes to lead a transformation that sticks, this episode is for you. 


Our guest, Sue Holub, is a trailblazing growth strategist and brand architect whose leadership helped transform OnSolve into the engine behind every Amber Alert, paving the way for a successful exit. But Sue is more than a marketing executive; she's a transformation architect. With a background spanning other major players like BellSouth and Lexmark International, among others, Sue has built a career reimagining how businesses operate, communicate, and grow. 


Whether you're sitting in the C-suite or leading the transformation from behind the scenes, and find yourself asking the hardest (and most valuable) question: Who are we, really?, Sue's change playbook is rocket fuel for any business ready to scale with clarity and purpose. 


In this episode, you’ll learn why a rebrand isn’t about logos or taglines but about building a unified identity that scales your business with clarity and purpose. You'll also learn how data integrity can uncover what's really happening in your business, why internal alignment is the key to external credibility, and how brand clarity can unlock sales performance and market trust to ensure your boldest business moves drive long-term growth. 


For anyone navigating complexity at scale, this conversation is a masterclass in turning chaos into clarity. Because when you can clearly articulate what makes your company worth investing in, your clients choose you, your team rallies behind you, and your competitors start paying attention.



CHAPTERS:

00:00 Introduction: The Importance of Differentiation

00:59 Meet Sue Holub: A Trailblazer's Journey

02:03 Career Highlights and Key Roles

03:31 The OnSolve Challenge: Rebranding and Unification

05:24 Executing a Successful Rebrand

12:51 The Role of Data in Optimizing Sales

22:49 The Future of the CMO Role and AI

28:35 Leadership and Change Management

30:51 Sue's Career Philosophy and Future Plans

36:38 Conclusion and Final Thoughts


Topics Discussed:

  • The major difference between a simple rebrand vs. redefining your company’s identity
  • AI’s impact on leadership, productivity, and customer experience
  • How to lead through transformation at scale
  • The intersection of branding, culture, and change management
  • Why you need to create internal alignment before external exposure
  • Sales enablement through actionable data (and how to read between the lines)


Connect with Sue Holub:

 

About Rethink Change:


When growth is stagnant, culture’s a mess, the brand’s adrift, and the board wants miracles by Monday, Pennebaker’s podcast, Rethink Change, is where innovators and disruptors go for clarity.


Hosted by Founder Ward Pennebaker and President Matt Pennebaker, this podcast delivers sharp insights from battle-tested leaders who’ve navigated chaos and turned challenge into momentum. You’ll hear from executives from startups to global behemoths, from a wide range of industries. No fluff. All results. These conversations uncover what actually works, so you can think differently and act smarter.


Get Connected with Rethink Change:


]]> Mon, 28 Jul 2025 04:00:00 -0500 https://pennebaker.com/podcast 37:28 What does it take to turn seven separate acquisitions into one unified, AI-powered brand? And what's the real ROI of a rebrand when the stakes are this high? If you've ever wondered whether your brand is holding your company back or what it truly takes to lead a transformation that sticks, this episode is for you. 


Our guest, Sue Holub, is a trailblazing growth strategist and brand architect whose leadership helped transform OnSolve into the engine behind every Amber Alert, paving the way for a successful exit. But Sue is more than a marketing executive; she's a transformation architect. With a background spanning other major players like BellSouth and Lexmark International, among others, Sue has built a career reimagining how businesses operate, communicate, and grow. 


Whether you're sitting in the C-suite or leading the transformation from behind the scenes, and find yourself asking the hardest (and most valuable) question: Who are we, really?, Sue's change playbook is rocket fuel for any business ready to scale with clarity and purpose. 


In this episode, you’ll learn why a rebrand isn’t about logos or taglines but about building a unified identity that scales your business with clarity and purpose. You'll also learn how data integrity can uncover what's really happening in your business, why internal alignment is the key to external credibility, and how brand clarity can unlock sales performance and market trust to ensure your boldest business moves drive long-term growth. 


For anyone navigating complexity at scale, this conversation is a masterclass in turning chaos into clarity. Because when you can clearly articulate what makes your company worth investing in, your clients choose you, your team rallies behind you, and your competitors start paying attention.



CHAPTERS:

00:00 Introduction: The Importance of Differentiation

00:59 Meet Sue Holub: A Trailblazer's Journey

02:03 Career Highlights and Key Roles

03:31 The OnSolve Challenge: Rebranding and Unification

05:24 Executing a Successful Rebrand

12:51 The Role of Data in Optimizing Sales

22:49 The Future of the CMO Role and AI

28:35 Leadership and Change Management

30:51 Sue's Career Philosophy and Future Plans

36:38 Conclusion and Final Thoughts


Topics Discussed:

  • The major difference between a simple rebrand vs. redefining your company’s identity
  • AI’s impact on leadership, productivity, and customer experience
  • How to lead through transformation at scale
  • The intersection of branding, culture, and change management
  • Why you need to create internal alignment before external exposure
  • Sales enablement through actionable data (and how to read between the lines)


Connect with Sue Holub:

 

About Rethink Change:


When growth is stagnant, culture’s a mess, the brand’s adrift, and the board wants miracles by Monday, Pennebaker’s podcast, Rethink Change, is where innovators and disruptors go for clarity.


Hosted by Founder Ward Pennebaker and President Matt Pennebaker, this podcast delivers sharp insights from battle-tested leaders who’ve navigated chaos and turned challenge into momentum. You’ll hear from executives from startups to global behemoths, from a wide range of industries. No fluff. All results. These conversations uncover what actually works, so you can think differently and act smarter.


Get Connected with Rethink Change:


]]> What does it take to turn seven separate acquisitions into one unified, AI-powered brand? And what's the real ROI of a rebrand when the stakes are this high? If you've ever wondered whether your brand is holding your company back or what it truly takes to lead a transformation that sticks, this episode is for you. 


Our guest, Sue Holub, is a trailblazing growth strategist and brand architect whose leadership helped transform OnSolve into the engine behind every Amber Alert, paving the way for a successful exit. But Sue is more than a marketing executive; she's a transformation architect. With a background spanning other major players like BellSouth and Lexmark International, among others, Sue has built a career reimagining how businesses operate, communicate, and grow. 


Whether you're sitting in the C-suite or leading the transformation from behind the scenes, and find yourself asking the hardest (and most valuable) question: Who are we, really?, Sue's change playbook is rocket fuel for any business ready to scale with clarity and purpose. 


In this episode, you’ll learn why a rebrand isn’t about logos or taglines but about building a unified identity that scales your business with clarity and purpose. You'll also learn how data integrity can uncover what's really happening in your business, why internal alignment is the key to external credibility, and how brand clarity can unlock sales performance and market trust to ensure your boldest business moves drive long-term growth. 


For anyone navigating complexity at scale, this conversation is a masterclass in turning chaos into clarity. Because when you can clearly articulate what makes your company worth investing in, your clients choose you, your team rallies behind you, and your competitors start paying attention.



CHAPTERS:

00:00 Introduction: The Importance of Differentiation

00:59 Meet Sue Holub: A Trailblazer's Journey

02:03 Career Highlights and Key Roles

03:31 The OnSolve Challenge: Rebranding and Unification

05:24 Executing a Successful Rebrand

12:51 The Role of Data in Optimizing Sales

22:49 The Future of the CMO Role and AI

28:35 Leadership and Change Management

30:51 Sue's Career Philosophy and Future Plans

36:38 Conclusion and Final Thoughts


Topics Discussed:

  • The major difference between a simple rebrand vs. redefining your company’s identity
  • AI’s impact on leadership, productivity, and customer experience
  • How to lead through transformation at scale
  • The intersection of branding, culture, and change management
  • Why you need to create internal alignment before external exposure
  • Sales enablement through actionable data (and how to read between the lines)


Connect with Sue Holub:

 

About Rethink Change:


When growth is stagnant, culture’s a mess, the brand’s adrift, and the board wants miracles by Monday, Pennebaker’s podcast, Rethink Change, is where innovators and disruptors go for clarity.


Hosted by Founder Ward Pennebaker and President Matt Pennebaker, this podcast delivers sharp insights from battle-tested leaders who’ve navigated chaos and turned challenge into momentum. You’ll hear from executives from startups to global behemoths, from a wide range of industries. No fluff. All results. These conversations uncover what actually works, so you can think differently and act smarter.


Get Connected with Rethink Change:


]]> false full 6 <![CDATA[There's Riches in the Niches with Amy Shepley, Director of Innovation at Birkman]]> How does a B-17 bomber shot down over Belgium become the catalyst for one of the world's highest-caliber personality assessment tools? Meet Amy Shepley, third-generation president of Birkman International. From hand-scored Scantrons to AI-powered insights, she's turning her grandfather's war-zone revelation into a modern science of fixing people problems before they explode.


Amy brings over two decades of strategic leadership, sharpened at Fortune 500 companies and honed steering Birkman into the AI era. As president, she’s leading the rollout of the new enterprise‑wide Birkman platform, democratizing and decentralizing personality insights so every level of an organization can tap into behavioral science, not just the C‑suite. Her mission? Empower every individual to bring their whole self to work. In this episode, Amy unpacks how she’s scaling a 70‑year‑old legacy through modern tech, reimagining conflict resolution, and lighting the path for workplaces to truly see and leverage what makes us all different. 


https://birkman.com/

]]> Mon, 21 Jul 2025 03:09:00 -0500 https://pennebaker.com/podcast 29:48 How does a B-17 bomber shot down over Belgium become the catalyst for one of the world's highest-caliber personality assessment tools? Meet Amy Shepley, third-generation president of Birkman International. From hand-scored Scantrons to AI-powered insights, she's turning her grandfather's war-zone revelation into a modern science of fixing people problems before they explode.


Amy brings over two decades of strategic leadership, sharpened at Fortune 500 companies and honed steering Birkman into the AI era. As president, she’s leading the rollout of the new enterprise‑wide Birkman platform, democratizing and decentralizing personality insights so every level of an organization can tap into behavioral science, not just the C‑suite. Her mission? Empower every individual to bring their whole self to work. In this episode, Amy unpacks how she’s scaling a 70‑year‑old legacy through modern tech, reimagining conflict resolution, and lighting the path for workplaces to truly see and leverage what makes us all different. 


https://birkman.com/

]]> How does a B-17 bomber shot down over Belgium become the catalyst for one of the world's highest-caliber personality assessment tools? Meet Amy Shepley, third-generation president of Birkman International. From hand-scored Scantrons to AI-powered insights, she's turning her grandfather's war-zone revelation into a modern science of fixing people problems before they explode.


Amy brings over two decades of strategic leadership, sharpened at Fortune 500 companies and honed steering Birkman into the AI era. As president, she’s leading the rollout of the new enterprise‑wide Birkman platform, democratizing and decentralizing personality insights so every level of an organization can tap into behavioral science, not just the C‑suite. Her mission? Empower every individual to bring their whole self to work. In this episode, Amy unpacks how she’s scaling a 70‑year‑old legacy through modern tech, reimagining conflict resolution, and lighting the path for workplaces to truly see and leverage what makes us all different. 


https://birkman.com/

]]> false full 5 <![CDATA[Nobody Likes Change — Until It Works with Brett Cope, Chairman and CEO of Powell Industries]]> Ever wonder how the kid who swore he’d never sell a thing became the CEO who fires up 3,400 people to out-hustle the market and draft a blueprint to be the next Westinghouse? Meet Brett Cope—ex-ABB deal-maker turned Powell Industries power-broker who bet big on innovation, ditched customers from hell, and made culture his secret weapon. Hold on — change is his comfort zone. 


Brett is Chairman and CEO of Powell Industries—the Houston-based maker of high-reliability power-control gear for energy, utility, and data-center projects. Brett joined Powell in 2010 after two decades with ABB, rose from VP Sales to COO, and has run the company since 2016, steering it to record growth. Few leaders know the global switchgear game like Brett, and he’s here to talk electrification, leadership, innovation, and scaling a 75-year-old brand for the next energy cycle.


https://www.powellind.com


]]> Mon, 07 Jul 2025 03:00:00 -0500 https://pennebaker.com/podcast 34:01 Ever wonder how the kid who swore he’d never sell a thing became the CEO who fires up 3,400 people to out-hustle the market and draft a blueprint to be the next Westinghouse? Meet Brett Cope—ex-ABB deal-maker turned Powell Industries power-broker who bet big on innovation, ditched customers from hell, and made culture his secret weapon. Hold on — change is his comfort zone. 


Brett is Chairman and CEO of Powell Industries—the Houston-based maker of high-reliability power-control gear for energy, utility, and data-center projects. Brett joined Powell in 2010 after two decades with ABB, rose from VP Sales to COO, and has run the company since 2016, steering it to record growth. Few leaders know the global switchgear game like Brett, and he’s here to talk electrification, leadership, innovation, and scaling a 75-year-old brand for the next energy cycle.


https://www.powellind.com


]]> Ever wonder how the kid who swore he’d never sell a thing became the CEO who fires up 3,400 people to out-hustle the market and draft a blueprint to be the next Westinghouse? Meet Brett Cope—ex-ABB deal-maker turned Powell Industries power-broker who bet big on innovation, ditched customers from hell, and made culture his secret weapon. Hold on — change is his comfort zone. 


Brett is Chairman and CEO of Powell Industries—the Houston-based maker of high-reliability power-control gear for energy, utility, and data-center projects. Brett joined Powell in 2010 after two decades with ABB, rose from VP Sales to COO, and has run the company since 2016, steering it to record growth. Few leaders know the global switchgear game like Brett, and he’s here to talk electrification, leadership, innovation, and scaling a 75-year-old brand for the next energy cycle.


https://www.powellind.com


]]> false full 4 <![CDATA[Change is a Constant with Maggie Montaigne, Strategic and Board-Level Advisor]]> What happens when a geoscientist-turned-executive carves $1 billion from a super-major’s budget in six months, turns helicopter chaos on four continents into record margins, and converts the loudest anti-sponsors into frontline evangelists? Meet Maggie Montaigne - the strategist who treats resistance like rocket fuel. Strap in; this episode is your masterclass in profitable disruption.


Maggie Montaigne is a Houston-based strategist and board-level advisor with 30+ years of experience leading growth and transformation across E&P, oil-field services, aviation logistics, and digital consulting. She spent nearly 15 years at Halliburton, rising to Vice President of the ExxonMobil Account and Senior Director of Deepwater Solution. After steering worldwide marketing and BD at Bristow Group, she joined ConocoPhillips, where she directed global subsurface, well-operations supply chain, and IT improvement programs. Most recently, a Senior Advisor at Accenture, Maggie is a force for transformational change.



]]> Mon, 23 Jun 2025 03:00:00 -0500 https://pennebaker.com/podcast 44:43 What happens when a geoscientist-turned-executive carves $1 billion from a super-major’s budget in six months, turns helicopter chaos on four continents into record margins, and converts the loudest anti-sponsors into frontline evangelists? Meet Maggie Montaigne - the strategist who treats resistance like rocket fuel. Strap in; this episode is your masterclass in profitable disruption.


Maggie Montaigne is a Houston-based strategist and board-level advisor with 30+ years of experience leading growth and transformation across E&P, oil-field services, aviation logistics, and digital consulting. She spent nearly 15 years at Halliburton, rising to Vice President of the ExxonMobil Account and Senior Director of Deepwater Solution. After steering worldwide marketing and BD at Bristow Group, she joined ConocoPhillips, where she directed global subsurface, well-operations supply chain, and IT improvement programs. Most recently, a Senior Advisor at Accenture, Maggie is a force for transformational change.



]]> What happens when a geoscientist-turned-executive carves $1 billion from a super-major’s budget in six months, turns helicopter chaos on four continents into record margins, and converts the loudest anti-sponsors into frontline evangelists? Meet Maggie Montaigne - the strategist who treats resistance like rocket fuel. Strap in; this episode is your masterclass in profitable disruption.


Maggie Montaigne is a Houston-based strategist and board-level advisor with 30+ years of experience leading growth and transformation across E&P, oil-field services, aviation logistics, and digital consulting. She spent nearly 15 years at Halliburton, rising to Vice President of the ExxonMobil Account and Senior Director of Deepwater Solution. After steering worldwide marketing and BD at Bristow Group, she joined ConocoPhillips, where she directed global subsurface, well-operations supply chain, and IT improvement programs. Most recently, a Senior Advisor at Accenture, Maggie is a force for transformational change.



]]> false full 3 <![CDATA[We're the Ones They Call When It's a Mess with Jim Watt, Founder and CEO of Ascendent Partners]]> Imagine a Canadian expat who moved to Texas and started a new business by faxing a five-page proposal to Chesapeake Energy. He got a yes in 15 minutes — then leveraged that success to scale his employee benefits startup into one of the nation’s fastest-growing firms. Meet Jim Watt—turnaround addict, “ass-bailing” specialist, and killer of the long sales cycle. Watch out—benefits just went full beast mode.


Jim is the founder and CEO of Ascendent Partners and a 35-year force in employee-benefit and insurance consulting. He built Employee Benefit Solutions, sold it to EPIC while running Southwest operations, then led global distribution growth at Cigna. A former chair of the Worldwide Broker Network and active Houston philanthropist, Jim turns complex benefit strategy into bottom-line advantage. 


Learn more about Ascendent Partners. 


https://www.ascendent.com

]]> Mon, 09 Jun 2025 03:00:00 -0500 https://pennebaker.com/podcast 39:21 Imagine a Canadian expat who moved to Texas and started a new business by faxing a five-page proposal to Chesapeake Energy. He got a yes in 15 minutes — then leveraged that success to scale his employee benefits startup into one of the nation’s fastest-growing firms. Meet Jim Watt—turnaround addict, “ass-bailing” specialist, and killer of the long sales cycle. Watch out—benefits just went full beast mode.


Jim is the founder and CEO of Ascendent Partners and a 35-year force in employee-benefit and insurance consulting. He built Employee Benefit Solutions, sold it to EPIC while running Southwest operations, then led global distribution growth at Cigna. A former chair of the Worldwide Broker Network and active Houston philanthropist, Jim turns complex benefit strategy into bottom-line advantage. 


Learn more about Ascendent Partners. 


https://www.ascendent.com

]]> Imagine a Canadian expat who moved to Texas and started a new business by faxing a five-page proposal to Chesapeake Energy. He got a yes in 15 minutes — then leveraged that success to scale his employee benefits startup into one of the nation’s fastest-growing firms. Meet Jim Watt—turnaround addict, “ass-bailing” specialist, and killer of the long sales cycle. Watch out—benefits just went full beast mode.


Jim is the founder and CEO of Ascendent Partners and a 35-year force in employee-benefit and insurance consulting. He built Employee Benefit Solutions, sold it to EPIC while running Southwest operations, then led global distribution growth at Cigna. A former chair of the Worldwide Broker Network and active Houston philanthropist, Jim turns complex benefit strategy into bottom-line advantage. 


Learn more about Ascendent Partners. 


https://www.ascendent.com

]]> false full 1 <![CDATA[Don’t Let the Cement Set with Sam Veselka]]> Ever wonder what it takes to yank a bleeding Baker Hughes division out of the mothership —in the middle of Covid—flip it to profit in four months, and then aim the same playbook at nuclear energy? Meet Sam Veselka: corporate insider-turned-private equity sharpshooter who runs toward chaos, scales founder-run firms, and proves culture beats capital – every time. Buckle up — change just got weaponized.


Sam is the Managing Director at Pelican Energy Partners. Since joining Pelican in 2018, Sam has orchestrated multiple buy-and-sell transactions and now sits on numerous boards and several other portfolio companies. Before private equity, he steered Cameron’s North-American aftermarket business for the Valves & Measurement division and cut his teeth helping scale a Houston-based manufacturing firm.


Learn more about Pelican Energy. 


https://www.pelicanenergypartners.com

]]> Mon, 09 Jun 2025 03:00:00 -0500 https://pennebaker.com/podcast 44:09 Ever wonder what it takes to yank a bleeding Baker Hughes division out of the mothership —in the middle of Covid—flip it to profit in four months, and then aim the same playbook at nuclear energy? Meet Sam Veselka: corporate insider-turned-private equity sharpshooter who runs toward chaos, scales founder-run firms, and proves culture beats capital – every time. Buckle up — change just got weaponized.


Sam is the Managing Director at Pelican Energy Partners. Since joining Pelican in 2018, Sam has orchestrated multiple buy-and-sell transactions and now sits on numerous boards and several other portfolio companies. Before private equity, he steered Cameron’s North-American aftermarket business for the Valves & Measurement division and cut his teeth helping scale a Houston-based manufacturing firm.


Learn more about Pelican Energy. 


https://www.pelicanenergypartners.com

]]> Ever wonder what it takes to yank a bleeding Baker Hughes division out of the mothership —in the middle of Covid—flip it to profit in four months, and then aim the same playbook at nuclear energy? Meet Sam Veselka: corporate insider-turned-private equity sharpshooter who runs toward chaos, scales founder-run firms, and proves culture beats capital – every time. Buckle up — change just got weaponized.


Sam is the Managing Director at Pelican Energy Partners. Since joining Pelican in 2018, Sam has orchestrated multiple buy-and-sell transactions and now sits on numerous boards and several other portfolio companies. Before private equity, he steered Cameron’s North-American aftermarket business for the Valves & Measurement division and cut his teeth helping scale a Houston-based manufacturing firm.


Learn more about Pelican Energy. 


https://www.pelicanenergypartners.com

]]> false full 2 <![CDATA[Introducing Rethink Change Presented by Pennebaker]]> Think transformation is just a buzzword? Not here. Rethink Change is where battle-tested leaders spill what really works when culture’s a mess, the brand’s adrift, or the board wants magic by Monday. No fluff. All results. Hosted by CEO Ward Pennebaker and President Matt Pennebaker.

]]> Sat, 31 May 2025 09:51:26 -0500 https://pennebaker.com/podcast 46 Think transformation is just a buzzword? Not here. Rethink Change is where battle-tested leaders spill what really works when culture’s a mess, the brand’s adrift, or the board wants magic by Monday. No fluff. All results. Hosted by CEO Ward Pennebaker and President Matt Pennebaker.

]]> Think transformation is just a buzzword? Not here. Rethink Change is where battle-tested leaders spill what really works when culture’s a mess, the brand’s adrift, or the board wants magic by Monday. No fluff. All results. Hosted by CEO Ward Pennebaker and President Matt Pennebaker.

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