The Path Less Traveled Podcast

Erin Cressy, Mickey Hay, and Anna McEachern discuss the founding and evolution of Cressy Leadership, which began in 2013. They emphasize their mission to build leadership capacity and transform businesses, guided by Simon Sinek's "Why" and "How." Their services include individual coaching, group training, and a Leadership Academy. They highlight success stories, such as a client that doubled in size and a CEO who shifted to a coaching culture. The team values collaboration, self-care, and continuous learning, often sharing free resources like an e-book and a blog. They stress the importance of being kind over being nice in the workplace.

Craig Heatherly, host of the "Path Less Traveled" podcast, is interviewed by a former podcast guest and President and Co-Founder of Senior1Care, Kyle Bossung. Craig discusses his journey from basketball to coaching, including his time at Davenport University, the University of North Dakota, and the University of Cincinnati. He transitioned to Gibson Insurance Agency, emphasizing the importance of family and faith. Craig highlights his leadership style, focusing on self-awareness, networking, and building genuine relationships. He shares his daily routines, including habit stacking, journaling, and devotional time. Craig stresses the significance of intentionality in personal and professional growth, aiming to leave a lasting legacy through his actions and values.

Scott Flagle, founder of Avero Talent, discusseS his entrepreneurial journey, starting the company in early 2018. Avero Talent is a recruiting agency based in South Bend, Indiana focusing on technical and professional roles, primarily in manufacturing but expanding to construction and banking. The company has grown from two to nine employees, serving clients nationally. Scott emphasizes the importance of impacting people positively, both professionally and personally. He highlighted challenges like wearing multiple hats and the need for defined processes. Scott advises aspiring entrepreneurs to gain experience, build a competitive team, and seek mentorship.

Dr. Marco Clark, President of Holy Cross College, discusses his leadership journey and the college's mission. Marco, who transitioned from Austin, Texas, to South Bend, Indiana, emphasizes Holy Cross's debt-free status, growing endowment, and focus on teaching over research. He highlights the college's history of supporting underserved students and its rapid growth. Marco also shares his underdog mentality, driven by a work ethic instilled from childhood. He stresses the importance of mentorship, continuous improvement, and leading with authenticity and integrity. Marco also reflects on the value of living in the moment and the impact of mentors on his career.

Shaun Phy, President/Integrator of C&S Machine, discusses the company's growth from a $15 million to a $36 million business in four years, with plans to reach $40 million. C&S Machine, founded in 1966, specializes in aerospace components and has grown to 150 employees. Shaun emphasizes the importance of investment in people, facilities, and equipment, with $30 million in CapEx over four years. He highlighted the need for leadership development, transparency, and continuous improvement. Shuan also shares his personal journey, stressing the importance of daily discipline, emotional intelligence, and the impact of leadership on team development and organizational success.

Max Yeakey, co-owner of Premium Services, shares his journey from being a fireman to building a successful business. Starting in 2004, Premium Services evolved from concrete services to offering excavation, asphalt paving, fencing, and building trades. Max emphasizes the importance of determination, loyalty, and a strong work ethic. He highlighted the challenges of balancing business growth with managing a large team. Max also discusses the impact of mentors and community support on his success. He stresses the value of perseverance, continuous improvement, and giving back to the community through initiatives like their academy for high school graduates.

Tom Downey, President & CEO of EVS, discusses the company's evolution from a 1993 startup to a market leader with over 90% of North American ambulances using their products. EVS, founded by Mike Harmon, initially created a child seat integrated into ambulance seats, which evolved into a comprehensive seating solution. Tom highlights the company's transition to a 100% employee-owned ESOP, which has quadrupled its size and improved morale and productivity. He emphasizes the importance of transparency, integrity, and employee ownership in leadership, sharing personal anecdotes and lessons learned from his career and family life.

Jeff Rea, the President and CEO of South Bend Regional Chamber of Commerce, discusses the chamber's role in economic development, tourism, and business advocacy. The chamber serves 1,300 companies employing 60,000 people. Jeff emphasizes the importance of balancing immediate needs with long-term strategies, citing past successes like improving US 31 and advocating for higher education. He highlights the chamber's versatility, combining different roles under one team. Jeff also reflects on his journey, including lessons from his family business and experiences as Mishawaka's mayor, stressing the importance of honesty, resilience, and community involvement.