SHIFT with Elena Agar

What do you call a strategic operator who isn’t a chief of staff or an ops director? Elliott Fisher calls it the executive operator.Elliott Fisher has spent about 10 years building and operating tech companies. He was the first finance and business hire at the agriculture startup Square Roots, has been a chief of staff three times, and has served as COO of an early-stage AI company. His Substack essay on the rise of the executive operator put words to a role many of us have been living without a name for.In this conversation, Elena and Elliott dig into:How Elliott went from startup finance to chief of staff to COOWhy the chief of staff role took off, and why a new operator role is emerging next to itChief of staff vs. executive operator: where the roles overlap and where they splitWhy the chief of staff is like “the product manager for the organization”How AI changes board decks, reporting and operating cadenceHow operators keep their value when AI does more of the workWhy you should add friction on purposeVelocity = Quality × Visibility: Elliott’s operating equationWhat to do if you want to step into this kind of roleWhy this role may deserve its own seat and headcount, and why organizational brand could be the new moatFollow ElliottSubstack: https://elliottfisher.substack.comThe article we discuss, “The rise of the Executive Operator”: https://elliottfisher.substack.com/p/the-rise-of-the-executive-operatorAdd his LinkedIn profile URL here, and I’ll slot it in if you send it.Chapters (these follow the raw recording; your edit cut the audio glitch around 21:30, so adjust after you check the final cut)0:00 Welcome0:55 Elliott’s background3:48 Why this role is emerging now7:58 Chief of staff vs. executive operator11:50 How to stay valuable in the AI era14:41 Why the human piece still matters15:58 Velocity = Quality × Visibility18:34 Advice for aspiring operators21:49 Why founders should consider an executive operator26:25 Where the role is going30:06 Elliott’s SubstackShift with Elena Agar is honest business conversations for founders and operators. New episodes every Monday.#executiveoperator #chiefofstaff #operations #AI #startups #podcast

Do you have to be paid to make money from speaking? Marta Spirk says no.Marta Spirk is a speaking strategist and TEDx speaker who helps women entrepreneurs turn their expertise into signature talks that actually bring in clients. She grew up in Brazil, built a career as a translator and interpreter, then became a mom to triplets and reinvented herself as an entrepreneur.In this conversation, Elena and Marta get practical about what it takes to land stages and turn them into business:How a translator and interpreter found her own voiceWhat holds smart, capable women back from speaking, and why it’s rarely the talentWhy “a stage” is any moment you open your mouth, including a podcastHow to build a signature talk, and how often to change itFree, paid, or pay-to-play stages: how to decideHow to sell from the stage by seeding your offer, with no hard pitchThe one low-hanging step to take todayAbout MartaWebsite and discovery calls: https://www.martaspirk.comThe Empowered Woman Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-empowered-woman-storytelling-women-empowerment/id1404493563Her book, The Empowered Woman, is on Amazon, and her music is on Spotify and Apple Music.Chapters (rounded to the transcript’s timestamps; the intro chatter runs to about 0:50, so adjust once you check the final cut)0:00 Welcome1:50 From interpreter to coach5:39 Why a niche can come naturally7:18 What holds women back from speaking11:45 Signature talks and when to change them16:19 Strategic speaking: free, paid, or pay-to-play22:00 How to sell without a pitch24:48 The Empowered Woman Podcast28:24 Your low-hanging fruitShift with Elena Agar is honest business conversations for founders and operators. New episodes every Monday.#speaking #publicspeaking #womeninbusiness #entrepreneurship #podcast

Precious Azurée has been an entrepreneur for 13 years, since the year she graduated college, which by her own account makes her an outlier. Most people find entrepreneurship later. She found it out of survival, and has been building, pivoting, and rebuilding ever since.In this episode of Shift, Elena and Precious trace that whole arc: from a fashion and design background, to social media management, to co-founding a data-equity nonprofit during the rise of Black Lives Matter, to founding The Clarity Coach Enterprises, now rebranding as CCE. Precious shares the personal legacy statement framework that anchors every major decision she makes, why she's turned away paying clients, and why 2025 became her intentional "rest reset" year instead of a growth year.They cover:Why she says "entrepreneurship chose me," not the other way aroundThe three-question framework behind her personal legacy statement, and how it filters every decisionWhy turning down clients is sometimes the most respectful thing you can do for themTrade-offs, boundaries, and why "having it all" is often the wrong goalWhy she took an intentional reset year instead of chasing growth in 2025Systems over tools: why AI and tech stacks don't fix a business that lacks foundational clarityGuest: Precious Azurée, Founder of The Clarity Coach Enterprises (CCE), author of The Faith Focus Formula, certified John Maxwell Team trainerWebsite: https://www.theclaritycoach.coBook: https://www.faithfocusformula.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/preciousazuree

Kate Aaby and Kelsey Do spent years in federal budgeting and CFO roles, Kate as CFO of the U.S. Small Business Administration, Kelsey as a senior advisor and budget director there, before deciding to build something of their own. The result is Kado Executive Operations: a fractional CFO/COO firm helping small businesses and nonprofits get the executive-level financial and operational expertise they need, without the cost of a full-time hire.In this episode of Shift, Elena talks with Kate and Kelsey about what it actually takes to build a two-person firm from scratch, the biggest misconceptions around "fractional" work, and the story behind their most defining business decision yet: proactively walking away from a client that made up a significant chunk of their revenue, because it no longer matched their values.They cover:Why "fractional" doesn't mean "whenever it's convenient," it's a strategic partnership modelThe real difference between needing a CFO and needing a controllerWhat size company is actually ready for fractional executive support (and what isn't)Why they walked away from a major client, and what happened to their business afterwardBuilding a company on shared values instead of hustle culture, including a hard stop at 5pmWhere AI fits into how they run their own operationsWhat they wish someone had told them before becoming business ownersGuests: Kate Aaby (CEO) and Kelsey Do (President), Co-Founders of Kado Executive OperationsWebsite: https://www.kadoexec.com/

Louai Alsaman fled the civil war in Syria as an architecture student in Damascus, rebuilt his path on a Fulbright scholarship in the US, and has since founded two companies: RENDEREXPO, a digital construction and AI-powered visualization studio, and DLA, an architecture practice built on what he calls "zero ego" client work.In this episode of Shift, Elena and Louai talk about what it actually costs to build something from nothing twice, why chasing cash flow beats chasing a perfect product, why he doesn't believe in a "Plan B," and why he thinks every founder's real product is the story they're willing to tell.They cover:Why fear of starting is a feature, not a bugCash flow first: the unglamorous priority most new founders skipWhy "Plan B" quietly sabotages "Plan A"Rebuilding an identity and a career from scratch after warGuest: Louai Alsaman, Founder of RENDEREXPO and DLAWebsite: https://www.renderexpo.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/louai-alsaman/

Burnout doesn't announce itself, it builds quietly, especially for the people leading. In this episode of Shift, Elena Agar talks with Sophie Theen, founder of The Burnout Detox Kit®, about the real cost of always-on leadership and how founders and operators can manage their energy instead of just gritting through exhaustion.They dig into what burnout looks like from the inside, why time management isn't the answer, and practical shifts for people driven to perform at a high level without breaking down.Take Sophie's free Burnout Test: https://www.burnoutdetoxkit.com/burnout-testSophie's website: https://www.sophietheen.com/Connect with Sophie on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sophietheen/Subscribe for weekly honest conversations on business, leadership, and performance.🔗 Work with Elena: elenaagar.com 📬 Speaking / advisory: [email protected]🎧 Podcasts available: Apple, Spotify, all major platforms📱 Follow: LinkedIn /in/elenaagaragimova Instagram @elenaagaragimovaX @elenaagaragi

Welcome to another inspiring episode of Shift with Elena Agar! Today, Elena sits down with Andy Storch, career development expert and author of “Own Your Career, Own Your Life” and “Own Your Brand, Own Your Career.” Together, they dig into the essential steps for taking charge of your professional journey, whether you’re navigating a big career change, considering your next move in the age of AI, or wondering how to build a meaningful personal brand—even within your current organization.In this episode, Andy Storch shares his personal story of finding fulfillment and purpose at work, reflects on the power of self-awareness, and reveals how asking for help—and giving help—can open new doors. You’ll hear actionable advice for HR professionals, managers, and anyone seeking practical ways to develop a reputation that opens opportunities. Plus, Elena and Andy Storch explore why authenticity and relationship-building are more important than ever in a rapidly changing professional world.If you’re ready to shift how you think about your career, leadership, and personal brand, this conversation is packed with wisdom and practical steps you won’t want to miss!Connect with Andy on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andystorch/Buy books: https://ownyourcareerownyourlife.com/Follow Elena: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elenaagaragimova/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/elenaagaragimova/Website: https://elenaagar.com/Listen on:Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/shift-with-elena-agar/id1530850914Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5UKh6dWcuQwJlmAOqD8wijIf you like this video, please like, subscribe, comment, and share! Your support is extremely valued! #careercoaching #careertips #careerresilience #futureofwork #careerstrategy

Welcome back to Shift with Elena Agar! In this episode, Elena sits down with Arshnoor Kohli, the dynamic founder of Grangu—a platform on a mission to foster real, meaningful connections in an increasingly disconnected world. From navigating the challenges of moving to a new city to reimagining the way we build friendships and professional networks, Arshnoor Kohli shares the inspiration behind Grangu and how sharing a meal can bridge communities and break the cycle of loneliness.Together, Elena and Arshnoor Kohli explore the hurdles Gen Z (and all of us!) face around making authentic connections—both in our personal lives and within organizations—and why belonging is essential for happiness and productivity. You’ll also hear behind-the-scenes stories of Grangu’s launch, plus thoughtful insights on startup life, building community, and lessons learned as a first-time founder. Whether you’re looking for new friendships, considering building something of your own, or just curious about the future of connection, this episode is packed with heart, inspiration, and actionable takeaways.Tune in for an honest, energizing conversation about why we all crave connection—and how Grangu is helping make it possible, one meal at a time.Connect with Arshnoor on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/arshnoor-kohli/Get Grangou: https://www.grangouapp.com/Follow Elena: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elenaagaragimova/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/elenaagaragimova/Website: https://elenaagar.com/Listen on:Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/shift-with-elena-agar/id1530850914Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5UKh6dWcuQwJlmAOqD8wijIf you like this video, please like, subscribe, comment, and share! Your support is extremely valued! #careercoaching #careertips #careerresilience #futureofwork #careerstrategy #entrepreneurship

Welcome back to the Shift with Elena Agar Podcast! In this episode, Elena sits down with Rebecca Macieira-Kaufmann, author of "FitCEO: Be the Leader of Your Life." Together, they dive into what it really means to be a holistic leader—touching on mental, physical, and even spiritual wellbeing. Rebecca Macieira-Kaufmann shares insights from an impressive global career leading teams across continents, and how her experiences (combined with her unique upbringing by two psychiatrist parents) shaped her perspective on bringing your whole self to work.From setting healthy boundaries in demanding environments to simple, practical habits that fuel energy and resilience, this conversation offers actionable advice for leaders, aspiring leaders, and anyone looking to thrive in an ever-changing workplace. Whether you’re in tech constantly struggling with remote boundaries or navigating back-to-back meetings, you’ll find plenty of tips and inspiration in this lively discussion. So get ready for stories, strategies, and a fresh perspective on what it means to truly lead yourself—and others—in today's fast-paced world.Connect with Rebecca on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/r-m-k/Buy book: https://www.amazon.com/FitCEO-Be-Leader-Your-Life/dp/1774581426Follow Elena: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elenaagaragimova/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/elenaagaragimova/Website: https://elenaagar.com/Listen on:Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/shift-with-elena-agar/id1530850914Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5UKh6dWcuQwJlmAOqD8wijIf you like this video, please like, subscribe, comment, and share! Your support is extremely valued! #careercoaching #careertips #careerresilience #futureofwork #careerstrategy

On this episode of the Shift with Elena Agar Podcast, Elena sits down with Lauren Roche, founder of The Naked Truth with Lauren, to explore the evolving landscape of workplace wellness and mental health. Lauren opens up about her journey from a fast-paced career in government consulting to launching her own wellness brand, driven by a passion to destigmatize mental health conversations and build supportive communities.Together, they unpack what’s really holding back well-being in today’s corporate world—from the realities of "hustle culture" and burnout to the staggering financial cost of absenteeism and turnover. Lauren shares powerful insights and tangible strategies from her experience and recent attendance at the Mental Health America Conference, emphasizing just how vital recognition, personalized routines, and resilience-building practices are for both newcomers and seasoned professionals.Whether you’re an HR leader, a young professional navigating your first job, or just striving for better balance in and out of the office, this episode is packed with actionable tools, inspiring perspectives, and a candid look at why investing in wellness isn’t just the right thing to do—it’s good business. Tune in and get ready to transform the way you think about work, well-being, and what it means to thrive.Connect with Lauren on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lauren-e-roche/Visit the website: https://www.thenakedtruthwithlauren.com/Follow The Naked Truth with Lauren on Linkedin here: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-naked-truth-with-lauren/Follow The Naked Truth with Lauren on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/thenakedtruth.pod/Follow Elena: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elenaagaragimova/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/elenaagaragimova/Website: https://elenaagar.com/Listen on:Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/shift-with-elena-agar/id1530850914Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5UKh6dWcuQwJlmAOqD8wijIf you like this video, please like, subscribe, comment, and share! Your support is extremely valued! #careercoaching #careertips #careerresilience #futureofwork #careerstrategy