In this conversation, Jim Haviland interviews Brian Adams, founder of Seven Hills Technology, as part of the Next25 recognition series. They discuss Brian's journey into technology, the vision behind his company, and the evolving landscape of software development. Brian emphasizes the importance of understanding both technical and business aspects in software engineering, the need for accountability, and the significance of building a community-focused business. They also touch on long-term thinking in entrepreneurship, the challenges of navigating future changes, and the value of mentorship.

Takeaways

Brian Adams transitioned from a passion for cars to technology.

The vision for Seven Hills Technology centers on understanding both technical and business needs.

Software development is evolving with AI, shifting the focus from coding to understanding user needs.

Accountability in software development is crucial for success.

Building a community-focused business can have a significant local impact.

Long-term thinking is essential for sustainable business growth.

Navigating future challenges in software development requires adaptability and innovation.

Doing the right thing in business often outweighs short-term financial gains.

Effective leadership involves finding the right balance between openness and professionalism.

Mentorship plays a vital role in personal and professional growth.

Mentions and Links
https://www.ohiotechnews.com/meet-next25-2025/
https://www.sevenhillstechnology.com/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/badams2527/
https://weeklyimpact.transistor.fm/become-a-guest-on-weekly-impact
https://www.linkedin.com/in/brad-gardner-sh/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/stevehennegan513/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jillian-ross-183404171/

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Brian Adams and Seven Hills Technology

03:22 The Evolution of Software Development

06:26 Navigating AI and Software Engineering

09:16 Community Impact and Local Development

11:41 Future Challenges and Strategic Vision

14:17 Leadership Lessons and Personal Growth

18:56 Mentorship and Acknowledgments

In this conversation, Jim Haviland speaks with Patty Starr from the Health Action Council about the evolving landscape of health and healthcare, emphasizing the importance of social determinants of health and the role of employers in fostering a healthy work environment. They discuss leadership lessons, the significance of listening, and the importance of team culture in achieving organizational goals.

Takeaways

• Health is more than just healthcare; it's about creating a healthy environment.
• Employers have a significant role in supporting employee health.
• Social determinants of health account for a large portion of healthcare costs.
• Listening is a crucial leadership skill.
• Long-term planning is essential for sustainable success.
• Team culture is vital for organizational effectiveness.
• Engaged employees contribute to better organizational outcomes.
• Collaboration within teams enhances productivity and morale.
• Investing in team development fosters a positive work culture.
• Understanding employee needs can help reduce healthcare costs.

Health Action Council, social determinants of health, employer responsibility, leadership lessons, employee health, workplace culture, health care evolution, health benefits, health engagement, organizational support

In this conversation, Shane Bigelow, founder of CHAMP Titles, discusses his journey from Wall Street to leading a successful business that leverages a growth-oriented team and blockchain technology. He emphasizes the importance of hiring smart talent, fostering a culture of fulfillment, and the lessons learned in leadership. The discussion also touches on the challenges of finding the right people in a high-growth environment and the significance of mentorship in shaping effective leaders.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/shanemcrannbigelow/

https://www.champtitles.com/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/johnchambersjc/

Takeaways

• Shane Bigelow emphasizes the importance of hiring smart people.
• Champ Titles is known for its challenging work environment.
• Blockchain technology plays a crucial role in Champ Title's operations.
• Leadership involves empowering talented individuals to excel.
• Finding the right talent for high-growth environments is essential.
• Fulfillment in the workplace is a key motivator for employees.
• Psychological analysis and cognitive testing aid in hiring decisions.
• Cleveland's low cost of living attracts diverse talent.
• The ethos of a company significantly impacts its success.
• Mentorship shapes effective leadership and company culture.

In this episode of Weekly Impact, Jim Haviland interviews Jeff Herzog from Nexus Engineering Group. They discuss Jeff's journey from education to a successful engineering career, the lessons learned in building a business, and the importance of partnerships. Jeff shares insights on Nexus Engineering's unique approach to connecting business needs with technical expertise, as well as valuable leadership lessons and the role of mentorship in personal and professional growth.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffrey-herzog-86835017/

https://nexusegroup.com/

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Standard_Oil_Company_(Ohio)

https://www.linkedin.com/in/marianne-corrao-5b69b615/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/brendan-shanley-1a30635a/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/neal-curran-1658271/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/emily-gambill-1676624/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/tony-smith-chpp-4011a61a/

Tony Raiche

Randy Fletcher

Takeaways

Finding a job you love is crucial for success.

Experience in managing teams without authority is valuable.

Partnerships require alignment on business vision.

Understanding the business driver behind projects is essential.

Nexus Engineering connects business needs with technical skills.

Growth in business brings both opportunities and challenges.

Leadership involves influencing others to achieve common goals.

Learning from mistakes is key to personal growth.

Mentorship plays a significant role in professional development.

A positive culture is vital for team success.

In this conversation, Jim Haviland speaks with Bradley Knapp, the leader of Clearstead, about the company's growth, the importance of culture in leadership, and the impact of mentorship in the business community. They discuss how Clearstead integrates various financial services to provide holistic advisory services to clients and the significance of a long-term focus in business strategy. Bradley shares insights on leadership lessons learned, the value of community involvement, and offers advice for aspiring entrepreneurs.

Links

https://www.linkedin.com/in/bradley-knapp-cfa-caia-a4a25a4/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/tomhartland/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/dfultoncfa/

https://clearstead.com/

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sam_Miller_(businessman)

https://www.linkedin.com/company/forest-city-realty-trust/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/william-b-summers-jr-bb40749/

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/McDonald_%26_Co.

https://www.layoftheland.fm/171-umberto-fedeli-round-ii-lifelong-learning-happiness-wealth-and-investing/

Takeaways

• Your assumptions are the problem.
• Culture is the most important aspect of leadership.
• Thinking multi-generational is crucial for long-term success.
• Continuous improvement mindset fosters innovation.
• Don't be afraid to fail; it's part of growth.
• Aligning culture among partners is essential.
• Ownership among employees enhances client focus.
• Mentorship plays a vital role in professional development.
• Community impact is as important as business success.
• Long-term focus leads to sustainable growth.

Keywords

Bradley Knapp, Clearstead, leadership, mentorship, financial services, culture, entrepreneurship, community impact, growth, business strategy

Sound bites

"Everyone takes ownership."

"It's all about the client."

"Don't be afraid to fail."

In this conversation, Jim Haviland interviews Matt Sobel, the founder of BrandDog, a B2B growth marketing agency. They discuss the unique model of BrandDog, which operates at the intersection of marketing and private equity. Matt shares his career journey, insights on leadership, the importance of relationships, and the challenges of growing a business. He emphasizes the need for motivation within teams and the significance of saying no to opportunities that don't align with their vision. The conversation concludes with acknowledgments to his team and family for their support.

https://www.linkedin.com/company/branddog/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/mwsoble/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/emily-muskin/

https://www.ghc-lp.com/

Takeaways

• BrandDog operates at the intersection of marketing and private equity.
• Matt Sobel has experience on both the agency and ownership sides.
• The agency tests products within its ecosystem before selling them externally.
• Companies undergoing transformational growth are ideal clients for BrandDog.
• Leadership involves building strong relationships and networks.
• Motivation cannot be created; it must be intrinsic.
• Saying no to opportunities is crucial for focused growth.
• Intentional culture is necessary in remote work environments.
• Mistakes are part of the learning process in business.
• Support from family and team is vital for success.

"If it's not a hell yes, it's a no."

In this conversation, Tim Dumphy from Home Genius Exteriors discusses the company's rapid growth and the importance of focusing on both customer and employee experiences. He emphasizes the need for effective communication, trust, and a strong company culture to drive success. Tim shares insights on talent acquisition, leadership, and the significance of giving back to the community, highlighting how these elements contribute to a thriving business environment.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/tim-dunphy/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/victoria-ogrizek/

https://homegeniusexteriors.com/

In this episode of Weekly Impact, Jim Haviland speaks with Nick Stroup from North Coast Community Homes. Nick shares his journey in the nonprofit housing sector, focusing on the intersection of technology and community support for individuals with developmental disabilities. He discusses the importance of leadership, team dynamics, and learning from mistakes, while also addressing the challenges of funding and community engagement. Stroup emphasizes the significance of having a just cause and encourages listeners to get involved in their communities.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicholas-stroup-13a6b38/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/erinmog/

https://ncch.org/

Takeaways

• Nick's career began in technology and evolved into nonprofit housing.
• The importance of technology in streamlining nonprofit operations.
• Leadership is about building a strong team to create impact.
• Delegation is crucial for effective management and leadership.
• Learning from mistakes is essential for growth and success.
• Mentorship plays a significant role in personal and professional development.
• Community engagement is vital for addressing funding challenges.
• A just cause motivates individuals to contribute to meaningful work.
• Engagement in work leads to greater satisfaction and impact.
• Everyone can contribute to the cause of supporting individuals with disabilities.