[Private Equity Series] Building Success and Diverse Leadership With Vivian Gonzalez

Joshua B. Lee is the Founder and CEO of StandOut Authority, a company dedicated to humanizing marketing by helping entrepreneurs and executives grow their brands through the power of LinkedIn. Known as “The Dopamine Dealer of LinkedIn,” Joshua has managed nearly $1 billion in ad spend and driven over 35 trillion online impressions, building influence for high-powered professionals in a noisy digital world. With over 20 years of experience, he has founded 16 companies, worked with platforms such as MySpace and Google, and continues to transform how professionals create genuine human connections online. In this episode… In an era where automation and spam dominate digital platforms, professionals struggle to build meaningful relationships online. How do you create real impact, stand out from the noise, and build trust in a world that’s more disconnected than ever? Joshua B. Lee, known as the "Dopamine Dealer of LinkedIn," shares how to shift from selling to connecting by humanizing your brand. With two decades of digital marketing experience and a deep understanding of the LinkedIn algorithm, Joshua emphasizes authentic connection over automation. He outlines practical tactics such as using engagement triggers, optimizing LinkedIn profiles for emotional resonance, and leveraging LinkedIn Events for lead generation. All of these strategies are centered around building advocates instead of cold leads.  In this episode of the Inspired Insider Podcast, Dr. Jeremy Weisz interviews Joshua B. Lee, Founder and CEO of StandOut Authority. They discuss crafting a powerful LinkedIn presence, fixing common mistakes, and building trust in a skeptical world. Joshua explains how to grow authority, attract opportunities without hard selling, and use LinkedIn to create meaningful, lasting connections.

Dr. Matthew Loop is the President of DCincome, the world’s largest social media training company tailored for chiropractors, and the Founder of Profit 365, where he and his team help small businesses and entrepreneurs scale using social strategies. Since 2005, he has trained over 43,000 professionals in 25 countries, authored the international bestseller Social Media Made Me Rich, and spoken at renowned venues, including Harvard and NASDAQ. A former chiropractor deeply in debt, Matthew turned to social media marketing — starting on MySpace — to transform his career, eventually generating hundreds of millions in client revenue. Today, as an investor, philanthropist, bestselling author, and top‑paid social media strategist in North America, he continues to empower business owners to multiply their influence and income online. In this episode… Many entrepreneurs and service-based professionals find themselves stuck trading time for money, relying too heavily on one income stream. While their expertise may be top-notch, they often lack systems, positioning, or modern tools to scale their businesses or diversify revenue. How can they multiply their income and establish greater long-term financial freedom? Dr. Matthew Loop, a social media strategist and investor, shares practical strategies for building multiple streams of income, starting with affiliate marketing and expanding into online courses, product sales, and business acquisitions. Matthew emphasizes the importance of targeting, positioning, and consistent content distribution across platforms like TikTok, Facebook, and YouTube. He encourages entrepreneurs to amplify their reach with paid ads, craft compelling stories to cut through digital noise, and use automation tools to streamline operations and training. In this episode of the Inspired Insider Podcast, Dr. Jeremy Weisz interviews Dr. Matthew Loop, President of DCincome and Founder of Profit 365, about building scalable revenue through digital marketing and acquisitions. Matthew discusses the power of affiliate marketing, why positioning is key to trust and visibility, and how business owners can scale faster by acquiring profitable companies.

Alice Chen is the Partner & U.S. Leader at Pender Hastings Capital, a private equity firm specializing in niche, high‑return land development and real estate strategies. A former corporate and M&A lawyer, she pivoted into private equity and has built, operated, and exited multiple businesses across international trade, financial services, CPG, and technology. Named a “Top 40 Under 40” and featured in publications such as The Wall Street Journal, Forbes, and Success Magazine, Alice regularly shares her expertise through thought leadership and podcasts. She is deeply engaged in scaling U.S. land developers with strategic capital and advancing the firm’s mission to partner with founders driving long‑term value. In this episode… Many investors struggle to find real estate opportunities that balance risk, scalability, and meaningful returns — especially in a volatile interest rate environment. Traditional multifamily strategies have become saturated or unstable, and it’s hard to identify truly differentiated theses. How can investors uncover high-return niches that are both under-the-radar and backed by strong fundamentals? Alice Chen, an investor and private equity expert, shares how her firm navigated away from unstable multifamily deals and toward land development — an overlooked segment with a high barrier to entry. Alice explains how land development offers a built-in moat due to long-standing relationships and operational expertise that are hard to replicate. She advises investors to pursue strategies aligned with macroeconomic tailwinds, like the U.S. housing shortage, and stresses the importance of timing, mentorship, and relationship-building in achieving sustained success. In this episode of the Inspired Insider Podcast, Dr. Jeremy Weisz interviews Alice Chen, Partner at Pender Hastings Capital, about seizing overlooked investment opportunities. Alice discusses how to evaluate land development as a private equity strategy, the importance of choosing the right co-founders, and the role personal routines play in professional success. She also shares insights on portfolio diversification, healthy habits, and early career lessons from M&A law.

Nick Loise is the Founder and Chief Sales Officer of Sales Performance Team, a company dedicated to helping small and midsize businesses enhance their sales leadership, processes, and systems. With a background as a salesperson, sales leader, entrepreneur, marketing executive, and President's Club winner, he brings a wealth of experience to his clients. Nick has authored and co-authored several books on sales and marketing, including Moving the Sales Needle in Your Business and The Ultimate Guide to Managing Your Sales Team. He is also a sought-after speaker who has shared the stage with industry leaders such as Dan Kennedy, Russell Brunson, and Barbara Corcoran. In this episode… Many businesses struggle with low sales conversion rates despite having a steady stream of leads. Sales teams often lack structured processes, fail to properly follow up, and lose opportunities due to ineffective recruiting and inadequate onboarding. How can companies create scalable sales systems, hire the right people, and consistently close deals? Nick Loise, an expert in building high-performing sales teams and developing sales systems, provides actionable strategies to overcome these challenges. He emphasizes the importance of building proven, repeatable sales processes rather than relying on individual salesperson styles. He highlights key tools like CRMs, follow-up automation, and AI-driven pipeline analysis to streamline operations. Nick also stresses that active listening is a critical, often overlooked skill in sales, and he recommends using flowcharts instead of rigid scripts to guide sales calls. He shares proven methods for recruiting top sales talent using direct response techniques and detailed screening processes to avoid costly hiring mistakes. In this episode of the Inspired Insider Podcast, Dr. Jeremy Weisz interviews Nick Loise, Founder of Sales Performance Team, about building effective sales teams and systems. Nick shares insights on sales process design, sales team recruiting, and using technology to improve pipeline management. He also discusses active listening, overcoming constraints in the sales cycle, and the differences between selling and closing.

Mike Palmer is the CEO of Sigma Computing, a company that makes data exploration, analysis, and business intelligence accessible to all. Under his leadership, Sigma has experienced remarkable growth, going from $2 million to $100 million in IRR over three years and raising a $200 million funding round. Mike's expertise in business transformation and customer experience has been a driving force behind Sigma's success. He specializes in scaling enterprise solutions and driving innovation across product, marketing, and operations. In this episode… Many businesses struggle to unlock the full potential of their data, especially when complex systems limit access to only technical teams. This creates bottlenecks that slow decision-making and restrict company-wide collaboration. How can organizations make data accessible, actionable, and manageable for everyone, regardless of technical skill? Mike Palmer, an expert in scaling technology solutions and driving enterprise growth, shares how to break down these barriers by focusing on user-friendly, no-code platforms that allow non-technical users to analyze and act on live data. He emphasizes starting with mid-market customers to perfect the user experience and building scalable, intuitive products that eliminate complexity. He suggests prioritizing real-time collaboration, developing features like instant data write-back, and continuously collecting customer feedback to drive product evolution. Mike also highlights the importance of growing strategically by securing the right investors, resisting distracting acquisitions, and building a team culture that values direct feedback and long-term development. In this episode of the Inspired Insider Podcast, Dr. Jeremy Weisz interviews Mike Palmer, CEO of Sigma Computing, about creating accessible, scalable data solutions. Mike discusses how rebuilding their product from scratch led to exponential growth, why a mid-market focus sharpened their user experience, and how his team strategically expanded to enterprise clients. He also shares lessons on fundraising, product-led growth, and sales team evolution.

Bruce Eckfeldt is a Strategic Coach and Master Facilitator at Eckfeldt & Associates, where he works with CEOs and leadership teams to scale their businesses. As a former Inc. 500 Founder and CEO, he successfully scaled and sold his business. Bruce focuses on developing leadership skills, optimizing companies for transactions, and navigating mergers and acquisitions. In this episode… Many business owners dream of a profitable exit, but few are prepared for the emotional, strategic, and operational complexities that come with selling a company. Beyond valuation, sellers often overlook the personal identity challenges, the intricacies of deal structures, and what life will look like post-exit. So, how can founders approach their business exits in a way that minimizes regret and maximizes future opportunities? Leadership coach and former tech CEO Bruce Eckfeldt emphasizes the importance of reverse-engineering the exit process to align with long-term personal and professional goals. He advises founders to confront their emotional attachment to their businesses early and to develop networks and interests outside of work. He recommends proactively organizing company information and sharing all potential risks upfront to build buyer trust and streamline transactions. Bruce also highlights the need to carefully evaluate earnouts, deferred payments, and non-compete clauses to ensure the deal supports the seller’s next venture. In this episode of the Inspired Insider Podcast, Dr. Jeremy Weisz interviews Bruce Eckfeldt, Founder of Eckfeldt & Associates, about planning business exits as a launchpad for future success. Bruce shares why treating exits as springboards leads to more fulfilling outcomes. He also discusses the pitfalls to avoid, how to prepare for post-sale life, and the psychology behind successful transitions.

Vivian Gonzalez is the President of Park Capital Search, a global finance and accounting executive search firm that helps organizations — from private equity-backed companies to public corporations — build senior leadership teams in areas like finance, accounting, data science, and business analytics. With a focus on retained, C-suite and functional leadership assignments, Vivian spearheads senior-level placements that shape the operational health and strategic direction of client organizations. Vivian is a recognized member of CHIEF and contributes thought leadership on efficient and transformative hiring practices for today’s rapidly evolving economy. In this episode… Executives stepping into private equity roles often face overwhelming expectations, vague performance goals, and high-pressure environments. Many leaders don’t receive clear guidance on negotiating equity or navigating the cultural shift that comes with PE-backed companies. At the same time, firms risk costly mis-hires by failing to define tactical needs during the hiring process. How can both sides align to build strong leadership teams that scale effectively? According to Vivian Gonzalez, a seasoned executive recruiter, success begins with clarity, communication, and advocacy on both ends of the hiring table. Firms must set expectations early and look beyond credentials to assess mindset, humility, and grit. Candidates, meanwhile, benefit from partners who help them package their experience, position their value, and negotiate for long-term upside, including equity. With the right match and support, executives can step into transformative roles that accelerate both personal and business growth. In this episode of the Inspired Insider Podcast, Dr. Jeremy Weisz interviews Vivian Gonzalez, President of Park Capital Search, to explore how executive search drives successful outcomes in private equity-backed companies. They discuss what sponsors really want in C-suite talent, how candidates can break through career ceilings, and why humility and grit are often stronger indicators of success than titles. Vivian also shares stories of executives who turned career stagnation into seven-figure exits — and how her immigrant upbringing and background as a competitive gymnast shaped her leadership journey.

Andy Ruben is the Founder and Executive Chairman of Trove, a re-commerce technology company that powers branded resale programs for major labels like Patagonia, Lululemon, REI, and Levi’s. Before Trove, he spent a decade at Walmart as the company’s first Chief Sustainability Officer, where he launched global sustainability efforts, led omnichannel and private-brand strategies, and integrated e‑commerce — including the rollout of grocery delivery.  Ruben founded Trove (originally Yerdle) in 2012 and introduced the first branded resale platform with Patagonia’s Worn Wear in 2017, helping advance the circular economy across more than 150 global brands. He advises BCG and Earthshot Ventures, serves as Lead Independent Director and ESG Committee Chair at Zevia, and has been featured on NPR, TED, and testified before Congress on sustainable business practices. In this episode… Most brands sell products once and lose the customer until their next full-price purchase — often years later. In today’s economy, that leaves businesses vulnerable to rising acquisition costs, volatile supply chains, and growing consumer demand for sustainability. So, how can companies reclaim the value of their products, strengthen customer relationships, and stay competitive in the circular economy? Andy Ruben, a sustainability expert and retail pioneer, shares how brands can tap into the hidden inventory in customers’ closets by implementing buy-back and resale systems. He explains how branded resale builds loyalty and trust, reduces acquisition costs, and attracts new customers. He emphasizes the importance of starting small, using technology to streamline trade-ins, and designing programs that reinforce the brand's core values. Andy also reflects on his entrepreneurial journey, including hard-earned lessons about building a startup, pivoting business models, and executing founder-led sales in the early stages. In this episode of the Inspired Insider Podcast, Dr. Jeremy Weisz interviews Andy Ruben, Founder and Executive Chairman of Trove, about transforming retail through branded resale and the circular economy. Andy shares his startup origin story, the evolution from peer-to-peer to B2B, and insights on customer retention. He also discusses business development missteps, his leadership experience at Walmart, and why speed and focus matter most when launching a new venture.

Mike Agugliaro is the Founder and CEO of FuDog Group, a training and coaching company specializing in personal growth and development. He blends ancient wisdom, neuroscience, and modern performance strategies to help entrepreneurs and individuals design lives rich in health, wealth, relationships, and impact. Mike is a self-made entrepreneur and martial arts expert who began his career as an electrician and scaled a home services company to $32 million in annual revenue before selling it to private equity in 2017. He then founded CEO Warrior, the largest coaching organization for home‑service businesses globally, helping clients generate over half a billion dollars in additional revenue in six countries. A sought‑after speaker, author of more than 20 books, and multi‑black‑belt martial artist, he’s on a mission to transform one million lives across 100 countries within 10 years. In this episode… Many entrepreneurs pour themselves into their business success while silently sacrificing their health, relationships, and personal fulfillment. When success comes at the cost of disconnection or burnout, the real question becomes, can you build wealth and live a deeply fulfilling life? Mike Agugliaro, business strategist and mindset expert, shares how to break this cycle by focusing on holistic growth — across life, business, and legacy. He emphasizes the importance of growing together in relationships, mastering one’s mindset, and designing a movement rather than just a business. Mike offers tactical advice around breaking through limiting beliefs, healing sales trauma, and reshaping habits that sabotage success. His framework, the Parthenon, integrates leadership, marketing, business, health, wealth, and relationships into one life-by-design blueprint. In this episode of the Inspired Insider Podcast, Dr. Jeremy Weisz interviews Mike Agugliaro, Founder and CEO of FuDog Group, about building a purpose-driven life and business. Mike explores the power of immersive learning, why curiosity strengthens relationships, and the importance of mastering your inner dialogue. He also discusses what happens after exiting a business, creating movement-based companies, and rewiring your mindset for lasting success.

Phil Randazzo is the Founder of American Dream U, a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping military service members transition into successful civilian careers or launch their businesses. Since its founding in 2003, American Dream U has provided educational programs and mentorship to over 16,000 veterans and their families, featuring guidance from top entrepreneurs and business leaders.  Beyond his nonprofit work, Phil has authored several books, including Mission Next, Funding Your Bigger Future, and Shark Talk. As an entrepreneur, he maintains business interests across healthcare, compliance, and franchising industries. He has been recognized for his service with honors like the key to the City of Las Vegas and a commission on Nevada’s Veterans Services Commission. In this episode… Many veterans struggle with transitioning from military to civilian life, facing uncertainty, emotional upheaval, and misaligned career paths. Standard programs often push veterans into roles that mirror their service jobs without exploring their passions or personal growth. But what if the transition could be a transformative opportunity to rediscover purpose and design a life that truly fits? Social impact entrepreneur and leadership mentor Phil Randazzo shares how identity challenges, suppressed emotions, and outdated belief systems can hinder veterans from fully integrating personal growth. He offers insights into shifting from seeking external relief to practicing internal integration — through tools like meditation, storytelling, journaling, and self-reflection. Phil emphasizes the importance of releasing inherited emotional patterns, cultivating awareness, and building community for sustained change. His journey of emotional awakening, marriage transformation, and helping over 19,000 service members provides a roadmap for creating lasting impact and self-discovery. In this episode of the Inspired Insider Podcast, Dr. Jeremy Weisz interviews Phil Randazzo, Founder of American Dream U, about empowering veterans through personal transformation and entrepreneurship. Phil discusses his turning point, strategies for sustainable change, and the power of community. He also explores childhood belief systems, how transition impacts family dynamics, and the importance of integrating lessons rather than chasing relief.