Unfazed Under Fire Podcast

How does an English major studying Chaucer and Milton become a visionary CFO? Join us on "Unfazed Under Fire" as Karen Demichelis, CFO of Superstore Industries, shares her remarkable journey. From her unexpected leap into finance to becoming a leader with over 25 years of experience, Karen's story is a beacon of adaptability and opportunity. Learn about the twists and turns of her career, including her spontaneous decision to take the GMAT and enter the Agribusiness Institute's MBA program.
Unlock the secrets to authentic leadership with insights from Karen on the importance of adaptability, resilience, and staying true to oneself. We explore how these attributes can fuel professional growth and foster a thriving organizational culture. From the enrichment of teaching in higher education to the impactful role of coaching and mentoring, Karen's experiences offer invaluable lessons for leaders at all levels. Discover how prioritizing human connection and transparency can drive success, and hear firsthand stories of overcoming challenges to build a strong FP&A team and drive innovation at Crystal Creamery.
In the realm of financial management, the future is unfolding with AI and technology at the forefront. Karen sheds light on how tools like ChatGPT and OCR are revolutionizing finance operations, making processes more efficient and decision-making more data-driven. We also dive into the pivotal role finance plays during mergers and acquisitions, emphasizing cultural integration and leadership involvement. As we wrap up, reflect on the power of purposeful leadership and the profound impact it can have on organizations and communities. Tune in for an episode brimming with actionable insights and inspiration!
To connect with Karen, go here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kdemichelis

Unfazed Under Fire Podcast - Host: David Craig Utts, Leadership Alchemist

Discover the transformative journey of Siva Balu, a visionary leader in business, technology, and healthcare, as he shares his captivating story with host David Craig Utz. From his beginnings in India to his impactful roles at Blue Cross Blue Shield and UnitedHealth Group, Siva's path is a testament to resilience and innovation. Hear firsthand how he navigated cultural shifts and harnessed the power of mentorship and self-reflection to thrive in a new country. His experiences provide a unique lens on the American Dream and the rapid advancements in India's landscape, offering a rich tapestry of insights for aspiring leaders.
Siva's approach to leadership is both pragmatic and profound, focusing on the pillars of trust, transparency, and teamwork. He offers a masterclass in problem-solving, drawing from his experiences in digital transformation and AI implementation across high-stakes industries like healthcare. Listen as he shares invaluable strategies for aligning organizational missions and fostering inclusive environments, highlighting the critical role of communication and collective decision-making. His insights on leveraging AI for business growth are particularly relevant in today's fast-paced world.
This episode also delves into the personal aspects of leadership and growth, emphasizing the power of staying present and purpose-driven. Siva's reflections on building a "personal board of directors" and engaging in self-reflection serve as a guide for those seeking to enhance their leadership impact. As the conversation unfolds, you'll find encouragement to embrace mindfulness and purposeful leadership in both personal and professional spheres. Immerse yourself in this inspiring narrative and let Siva's journey motivate you to pursue your own path with intention and impact.
To connect with Siva Balu: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sivabalus/

Unfazed Under Fire Podcast - Host: David Craig Utts, Leadership Alchemist

What if you could harness the power of empathy to navigate the turbulent waters of political influence and censorship? Join us as we explore this question with Gary Lamb, a YouTube creator and entrepreneur whose journey of resilience against censorship and political maneuvers underscores the fight for individual freedoms and the American dream. His story is not just about overcoming obstacles but about empowering others to do the same, especially as we approach the decisive moments of the upcoming US presidential election. Gary's insights invite us to challenge prevailing narratives and think critically about leadership in a complex political landscape.
Women's unique wisdom and emotional empathy take center stage as we delve into the nuanced perspectives they offer. We explore the dual nature of being driven and empathetic, unraveling the struggles of navigating emotions as an empath and the potential for both profound connections and manipulation. Our conversation finds its sweet spot where creativity and passion meet, highlighting the joy of the journey over the pursuit of recognition. Coupled with this are reflections on leadership disconnects, particularly between political figures and the communities they claim to represent, with a keen focus on the black community's viewpoint.
The episode culminates in a heartfelt discussion on family values, societal shifts, and the pressing need for leadership empowerment. By examining the effects of welfare on Black families and divorce on white families, we uncover the systemic issues that pervade our communities. Our dialogue emphasizes the crucial role of traditional family structures and the transformative power of embracing executive leadership. As we push boundaries and embrace empowerment, we underscore the importance of striving for social change and ensuring that the freedoms defining our society are employed to leave a positive impact.
Connect with Gary Lamb:
- https://www.youtube.com/@GaryLamb2020
Support Gary and His Work:
https://www.paypal.com/donate/?cmd=_s-xclick&hosted_button_id=AV74P8M6GW5KY&source=url&ssrt=1728310959075

Unfazed Under Fire Podcast - Host: David Craig Utts, Leadership Alchemist

What if we told you that the real battleground in the U.S. presidential election isn't just about policies but about leadership? Today on Unfazed Under Fire, David Craig Utts and Ryan Mcshane will help you navigate the politically charged atmosphere by examining the key qualities and experiences necessary for a U.S. President. We'll cut through the noise of identity politics and media sensationalism to focus on the fundamental issues we face as a nation—economic challenges, border security, international relations, and societal division. Expect to gain a fresh perspective that emphasizes unity and upholding America's foundational principles.
Ever wondered why some leaders inspire unity while others sow division? We'll uncover the leadership trends in modern politics, discussing the essential traits a president must possess to serve the highest and best of Americans. From the citizenry's desired outcomes to the importance of critical thinking and fact-checking media representations, this episode is structured to make you question your beliefs and the information fed to you. By drawing parallels between the principles enshrined in the U.S. Constitution and organizational values, we'll show how environments that foster autonomy lead to more significant innovation and productivity.
During the episode, we will help you filter your in the presidential election through the lens of leadership. We focus on Donald Trump's and Kamala Harris's vision, executive presence, demonstrated ability to execute, and whether the outcomes of their execution serve or go against the best interests of the American people. We also look at the teams they are building to support them. During the interaction, we look beneath the lies about both to reveal their authentic characters. We'll also explore the psychological impact of fear-based manipulation and how the media have consciously used it to hamper critical thinking and corrupt people's choices. Reflecting on actions and facts over words, we'll dissect recent political events and their implications. Join us for a thoughtful discussion that challenges conventional narratives and empowers you to make informed choices in the upcoming election.
Here is the webpage created to corroborate references made on the show:

• www.davidcraigutts.com/2024election

The co-host for this show is Ryan Mcshane, who is the co-host of HR Evolution. You can reach Ryan through these links:

• https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryan-mcshane-743382a/
• https://hrevolutionllc.com

Accessing the Unfazed Under Fire Podcast;
Our youtube outlet link: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLhGeNgV_9UWUEiY3FV-bi8ftGxCO1YbW4
To find a complete list of our podcast outlets, go here:
https://www.unfazedunderfirepodcast.online/

Unfazed Under Fire Podcast - Host: David Craig Utts, Leadership Alchemist

What if mastering resilience could transform not only your career but your entire approach to life? Join us on "Unfazed Under Fire" as we sit down with Mohamed Massaquoi, a former NFL player turned business leader, whose journey is nothing short of inspiring. Mohamed’s story is one of overcoming adversity, from the highs of professional sports to the challenges of life-changing physical injury, and how these experiences have sculpted his leadership philosophy.
This episode uncovers the secrets to building high-performance teams and leading with authenticity. Mohamed shares his insightful perspectives on maintaining consistent performance even in high-turnover environments, emphasizing the importance of clear mission and values. We dive deep into the strategies for fostering collaboration, overcoming resistance from siloed individuals, and the critical role transparent communication plays in creating a cohesive team. Mohamed’s passion for psychology and people-watching provides a unique lens through which he navigates organizational transformation and rapid growth.
As we wrap up, we reflect on the universal desires that drive us all—health, integrity, family, and a positive work environment. Mohamed’s personal anecdotes about adapting to significant physical changes underscore the emotional and mental resilience required for true transformation. Learn how structured schedules and effective systems can prevent burnout and why empathetic leadership is essential in today’s world. Tune in for a masterclass on leading with vision, heart, and a profound care for the people you work with.
How to contact Mo Massaquoi:
Linkedin Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mohamedmassaquoi/
Email: [email protected]

Unfazed Under Fire Podcast - Host: David Craig Utts, Leadership Alchemist