Join us as we explore the future of business leadership and the integration of AI with special guest John Scott Dixon, CEO of Aidan Taylor Marketing. Discover practical strategies for upskilling your team and leveraging AI technologies to drive business success. Dixon shares insights from his course, 'Mastery of AI,' and discusses the transformative impact of AI on industries worldwide. Get ready to delve into the world of AI-driven innovation and learn how to position your business at the forefront of this technological revolution.

Join Steve Van Diest, co-host of the Sharpen Podcast, as he dives into the intricacies of business acquisition with Jeremy Hunka, a member of the Summit team in Colorado. Jeremy, a former chemistry major turned entrepreneur, shares his journey of buying and running Summit Cabinet Coatings, a cabinet refinishing business in Northern Colorado.

In this episode, Jeremy discusses the transition from commercial real estate to owning a small business, the challenges he faced, and the importance of building trust with his new team. He offers valuable insights for both aspiring business buyers and current business owners considering selling their companies.

Discover the key criteria Jeremy looked for when purchasing a business, the significance of operational systems and company culture, and the personal growth he experienced through this entrepreneurial journey. Whether you're thinking about buying a business or preparing to sell, this episode is packed with practical advice and inspiration.

In today's episode, Dan Cooper invites Ben Olsen of Tarsus CFO Services to delve into the often confusing world of financial roles within a business. We discuss the differences between a bookkeeper, a controller, and a CFO, and why understanding these distinctions is crucial for any business owner. With wit and expertise, Ben provides clear insights into how these roles contribute to a company's financial health and strategic growth.

We explore topics such as the typical responsibilities of each financial role, when and why a business might need a controller versus a CFO, and the impact of efficient financial management on business decisions. Ben also shares practical advice for businesses experiencing growth pains and offers tips on how to assess your current financial setup to determine if you need additional expertise.

Preston Poore joins Dan Cooper to explain his leadership thesis: how you lead matters more than what you achieve. Drawing on 30 years in consumer brands like Coca‑Cola and Hershey, Preston shares stories of failure, transformation, and practical steps—360 feedback, coaching, and self-awareness—to build healthier workplaces.

He also discusses integrating faith and humility into daily leadership, why results are table stakes, and how focusing on the "how" creates stronger teams, engagement, and lasting impact.

In this episode of the Sharpen Podcast, Steve Van Diest engages in an insightful conversation with Dan Glasser, a commercial litigator. Dan shares his journey of founding his own firm in 2009 and the invaluable people lessons he's learned along the way. As they delve into the highs and lows of business leadership, Dan reflects on the challenges of losing employees, the importance of investing in people's growth, and the rewarding experience of seeing former colleagues thrive.

Dan discusses the intersection of his deep-rooted faith and professional life, revealing how his spiritual journey has influenced his company's values and culture. Emphasizing the need for humility and genuine care in both personal and professional relationships, he describes the transformative impact of living authentically in one's beliefs while leading a business.

Tune in to explore the themes of trust-building, personal transformation, and the enduring power of fostering abundance in the business world.

In this episode, Dan sits down with Dustin Doll, the CEO of Accord Group and Founder of Doll Family Office, to explore the transition from achieving success to making a lasting impact. With over 20 years in the exterior industry, including roofing, siding, and storm restoration insurance work, Dustin shares his entrepreneurial journey from minority partner to leading a company reaching over half a billion in revenue across 35 states.

Dustin discusses his passion for integrating faith and business, highlighting the importance of stewardship, mentorship, and the eternal significance of our actions. Reflecting on personal experiences and biblical teachings, he emphasizes the value of utilizing one's time and talents for a greater purpose beyond financial success. Join the conversation as Dustin unveils strategic insights on how business leaders can invest in ministries and make a profound impact by sharing their expertise and resources.

Join us as we delve into the fascinating journey of Billy Hodes, who transformed Midland Industries from a distressed company to a platform of success. In this episode, we explore the stages of revenue growth from $5 to $150 million, discussing key strategies, challenges, and insights on scaling a business. Billy shares valuable experiences from his role as a CEO, his partnership with private equity, and the importance of cultivating a strong company culture.

Fred Jentgen is launching a new Acumen team in Phoenix, Arizona! Fred shares his journey from a technology leader to an EOS implementer and founder of Unleashed Consulting Group.

The conversation dives into the challenges and learning experiences Fred faced throughout his career, particularly leading through tragedy. He recounts the story of a key team member, Eric, who battled cancer at a young age, and how the team rallied together during this difficult time. Fred discusses the importance of role clarity, trust, and communication, and how these elements helped the team to persevere through adversity.

Fred also touches on his personal faith journey and how it integrates with his professional life, offering hope and guidance during life's toughest moments. This episode is a deep dive into how leaders can prepare for and navigate through unexpected challenges while supporting their teams with empathy and understanding.