[Top Giver Series] Crafting Winning Teams for Growth With Patrick Ropella

Patrick Ropella is the Founder and Chairman of Ropella 360, a global executive search and advisory firm specializing in connecting transformational leaders with private equity and mid-market companies. With over 35 years of experience, he has contributed to the growth of major global corporations such as Dow, General Electric, BASF, Nike, and Johnson & Johnson. As the author of The Right Hire and Pathways to Private Equity Partnerships, Patrick's C-suite and investor insights are featured in hundreds of publications worldwide. His strategic vision and expertise have made him a trusted advisor to leaders across industries. In this episode… The path to extraordinary success often starts in unexpected places — from humble beginnings to high-stakes boardrooms. Some people manage to rise without the usual credentials, building influence, trust, and transformative relationships along the way. What enables someone to become a connector who impacts leaders, industries, and entire organizations? According to Patrick Ropella, a renowned leadership strategist, the real advantage comes from mastering human connection rather than relying on traditional qualifications. He highlights how deep listening, specialization, and long-term trust outperform transactional sales and recruiting. This approach creates lasting impact by aligning the right leaders with the right missions. Over decades, he developed a system for identifying A-players, ensuring cultural fit, and supporting leadership transformation across complex industries. His stories — from helping global brands innovate to supporting frontier-technology teams — show how clarity, accountability, and relationship-building shape high-performance outcomes. In this episode of the Inspired Insider Podcast, Dr. Jeremy Weisz sits down with Patrick Ropella, Founder and Chairman of Ropella 360, to discuss building elite teams through authentic leadership. They explore how to identify A-players, the principles behind his Smart Search System, and what drives lasting transformation in organizations. Patrick also shares insights on trust, communication, and scaling through strong relationships.

Vikram Seth is the Co-founder and Product Visionary at Ducknowl, a talent-screening and assessment platform that helps employers make faster, smarter, and more data-driven hiring decisions. He is also a Co-founder of Simpalm, a company that provides software and services focused on IT and staffing solutions. With more than a decade of management and IT staffing experience and a master's degree from Georgetown University, he brings deep expertise to digital innovation in recruitment. Vikram also supports sustainable organic farming in the Chicagoland area. In this episode… Building better hiring systems isn't just about speed — it's about finding ways to truly understand talent, reduce bias, and streamline decision-making. Many leaders still struggle with outdated processes that overlook talented individuals and waste time and resources. So how can technology and smarter talent solutions transform the way companies hire? Vikram Seth, a leader in technology-driven hiring innovation, believes companies improve dramatically when they look beyond resumes and adopt structured, consistent evaluation methods. He highlights how video screening, skill-based assessments, and integrity-focused tools help hiring teams gain clearer insight into candidates while reducing costly misjudgments. The result is a more efficient, equitable, and data-informed hiring workflow that helps businesses scale with confidence. Vikram also emphasizes the power of global talent and why embracing modern staffing models opens new doors for growth. In this episode of the Inspired Insider Podcast, Dr. Jeremy Weisz speaks with Vikram Seth, Co-founder and Product Visionary at Ducknowl, to discuss building better hiring systems through technology and smarter talent solutions. They explore how structured assessments mitigate bias, how global talent enhances operations, and how real-world staffing challenges drive innovative solutions. Vikram also talks about the mindset that shaped his entrepreneurial journey.

Anderson Schoenrock is the Co-founder and CEO of Memory Ventures, a fast-growing portfolio of direct-to-consumer e-commerce brands and services specializing in digitization, wall art, gifting, and 3PL/logistics solutions. Paul Bigham is the President and Founder of Bigham Agency, a marketing, advertising, and strategic consulting firm specializing in nonprofit outreach, brand development, and omni-channel communications. Dale Castro is the Co-founder and Chief Creative & Strategy Officer at Overlap Interactive, a full-service digital marketing and development agency specializing in creative strategy, web design, SEO/paid media, and holistic omnichannel digital experiences.  Esther Kiss is the Founder & CEO of Born To Influence, the go-to PR firm for entrepreneurs, founders, and brands that aim to challenge the status quo through their innovative approach, products, and services. In this episode… Navigating the fast-paced, ever-changing world of business can feel overwhelming, especially when trying to stay ahead, grow sustainably, and make meaningful connections. What if there were smarter, more actionable ways to preserve memories, scale brands, enhance communication, and leverage cutting-edge tools — without the usual trial and error? Anderson Schoenrock, Paul Bigham, Dale Castro, and Esther Kiss reveal how they're redefining entrepreneurship, marketing, and personal branding with innovation, strategy, and practical insights. Anderson shares how Memory Ventures grows multiple direct-to-consumer brands and a 3PL business while introducing eco-friendly products like dissolvable wrapping paper and specialty coffee through Crema Coffee Products. Paul discusses mindset, communication, and strategies for raising funds for large-scale humanitarian initiatives. Dale highlights leadership lessons, agency growth strategies, and his favorite business books. Esther offers guidance on personal branding, media exposure, and using AI tools to create efficient, impactful content. In this episode of the Inspired Insider Podcast, Dr. Jeremy Weisz talks with Anderson Schoenrock, Paul Bigham, Dale Castro, and Esther Kiss about building sustainable businesses and achieving long-term growth. They share practical insights on emotional intelligence, copywriting, productivity, and modern tech adoption to help listeners sharpen their skills, innovate, and strengthen relationships.

Arto Minasyan is the Co-founder and President of Krisp, a company that provides AI-powered noise cancellation and voice optimization to improve clarity in virtual communication. He is also the Co-founder and CEO of 10Web, an AI-driven WordPress platform that automates website building, hosting, and performance optimization for businesses and agencies. Under his leadership, companies have raised $28 million, achieved profitability, seen Krisp named one of TIME's Best Inventions of 2020, and led 10Web to over one million websites. Arto holds a master's in physics, an MBA, and a PhD in mathematics and is also a partner at BigStory VC. In this episode… Voice technology is evolving faster than most people can track, redefining how we meet, collaborate, and build online. As AI becomes woven into everyday tools, tasks that once felt clunky or technical now feel surprisingly simple. So what happens when voice AI and automated web creation become powerful enough to feel effortless? For Arto Minasyan, a longtime innovator in AI-driven communication, real progress occurs when technology removes friction from the experience instead of adding to it. He explains that people don't embrace tools simply because they're sophisticated — they stick with the ones that make life easier within seconds. That thinking guided Krisp's expansion from basic noise reduction into transcription, meeting notes, and real-time accent conversion. His work on automated WordPress creation reflects the same principle: deliver immediate results through an API rather than forcing users to navigate a complex platform. By centering speed, clarity, and intuitive workflows, Arto sees AI reshaping the way people communicate and build online. In this episode of the Inspired Insider Podcast, Dr. Jeremy Weisz sits down with Arto Minasyan, Co-founder and President of Krisp, to discuss the rise of voice AI and next-generation WordPress automation. They explore Krisp's expansion beyond noise cancellation, the power of an API-first website builder, and how timing shapes startup success. Arto also talks about the future of human-to-computer voice interaction.

Rob Cromer is the CEO and Co-founder of Aisle³, an Amazon-first marketplace agency that helps founder-led, mission-driven brands scale across platforms like Amazon, Walmart, and Target. Under his leadership, Aisle³ has been recognized by Adweek as one of the fastest-growing agencies and has earned a spot on the Inc. 5000 list, supporting notable brands such as Nama, Caraway, and Ripple Foods. Known for championing founder mindset, intentional gifting, and agile operations, he is committed to building profitable companies that value relationships, creative storytelling, and sustainable long-term growth. In this episode… Founder-led brands often struggle to cut through the noise on massive marketplaces, where competition is fierce, and software tools alone aren't enough to guarantee success. Many agencies promise growth but deliver generic solutions that don't truly move the needle. How can these brands rise above the clutter and turn into household names? Rob Cromer, an expert in e-commerce marketing, explains how founder-led brands can overcome marketplace challenges by taking a human-centered, agile approach. Rob emphasizes building deep partnerships with brands through transparency, intentional communication, and continuous improvement. He shares actionable strategies to maintain consistent growth, prepare strategically for high-traffic sales events, weigh the pros and cons of FBA versus FBM, and use thoughtful gifting to make products stand out. Rob also highlights the importance of long-term relationships, profitability, and a dedicated full-time team in driving sustainable success. In this episode of the Inspired Insider Podcast, Dr. Jeremy Weisz sits down with Rob Cromer, Co-founder and CEO of Aisle³, to explore how founder-led brands can dominate marketplaces. Rob shares insights on inventory management, product assortment, and Black Friday/Cyber Monday prep, along with the impact of thoughtful gifting to help brands stand out.

Brian Halligan is Co-founder and Board Member at HubSpot, a software company that helps businesses with inbound marketing, sales, and customer service. He played a central role in pioneering inbound marketing, redefining how organizations grow in a digital-first world. As a longtime CEO, he guided HubSpot from a startup to a global platform serving hundreds of thousands of companies. Today, Brian continues to shape the future of modern business through his work as an advisor, educator, and thought leader. In this episode… Modern leaders face an era where customer expectations shift rapidly, technology evolves at breakneck speed, and companies must scale without losing their identity. How can founders refine their leadership approach while staying aligned with their teams and long-term vision? And what insights emerge when reflecting on the principles that drive sustainable growth? Brian Halligan's perspective highlights that strong leadership requires adaptability, clear communication, and a willingness to evolve as an organization grows. With deep experience scaling teams, he explains that leaders must transition from hands-on operators to culture architects who empower others through trust and clarity. He underscores the importance of candid feedback systems, thoughtful hiring, and balancing automation with authenticity in modern marketing. Together, these principles help companies build scalability, strengthen alignment, and maintain the customer-centric focus needed in a changing landscape. In this episode of the Inspired Insider Podcast, Dr. Jeremy Weisz, co-hosted by Tyler Lane, interviews the AI clone of Brian Halligan, Co-founder at HubSpot, to discuss essential leadership lessons. They explore how leaders evolve during scale, why authenticity matters in an AI-driven marketing world, and how strategic thinking shapes high-performing teams. Brian also shares insights on building strong sales organizations and evaluating acquisitions effectively.

Rishi Rana is the CEO of Cyara, a global leader in AI-powered customer experience assurance, helping top brands deliver seamless interactions across voice, digital, and AI channels. Under his leadership, Cyara has expanded testing to 135+ countries, partnered with 330+ carriers, won the 2024 Silver Stevie Award for CX Transformation, and serves clients like Microsoft, Salesforce, IBM, and Walmart. With 25+ years in enterprise SaaS — including over a decade at Microsoft — Rishi is passionate about using technology to enhance customer journeys and operational efficiency, with expertise in omnichannel assurance and generative AI. In this episode… Customer experience can make or break a brand, but delivering seamless interactions across every channel is easier said than done. How can companies ensure their customers always receive fast, accurate, and consistent service, no matter how they reach out? According to Rishi Rana, a seasoned SaaS leader with over 25 years of experience, the key lies in testing, monitoring, and continuously optimizing every customer interaction. He highlights the importance of understanding customer intent, reducing friction, and automating processes to reach where humans cannot. By leveraging AI and advanced testing tools, businesses can ensure omnichannel consistency, prevent failures before they happen, and create experiences that truly retain customers. This approach transforms not only operational efficiency but also customer trust and loyalty. In this episode of the Inspired Insider Podcast, host Dr. Jeremy Weisz sits down with Rishi Rana, CEO of Cyara, to talk about transforming customer experience with AI-powered solutions. They discuss automating contact center workflows, ensuring seamless omnichannel interactions, and leveraging generative AI for smarter service. He also shares his insights on enterprise implementation strategies and lessons from leading global teams.

Ali Mirza is the Founder and CEO of Rose Garden Consulting, renowned for guiding seven- and eight-figure founders in scaling their sales operations. Stacie Porter Bilger is the Founder and President of Proof Digital, a business growth-marketing agency that blends modern marketing tools with traditional sales funnel processes.  Geordie Wardman is the COO of Duxre, a broker-controlled operating system designed for commercial real estate professionals that empowers brokers to own their data, listings, and deal flow. Richard Hurley is the Founder and CEO of Highline Commerce, a technology-driven third-party logistics provider that specializes in warehousing & fulfillment services for e-commerce D2C start-ups. In this episode… Software, automation, and AI are transforming business—but with countless available tools, choosing the right ones can be overwhelming. What technologies are today's most effective entrepreneurs actually using to work smarter, innovate faster, and scale with less friction? Ali Mirza reveals how powerful ideas come from exploring divergent thinking through podcasts and books that challenge assumptions, helping leaders make sharper strategic decisions. Stacie Porter Bilger leans on project management systems, analytics platforms, and clean data fundamentals to drive clarity and high performance. Geordie Wardman uses AI-assisted coding and async communication tools to speed development and reduce meetings, while Richard Hurley builds custom internal tools and embraces robotics to transform warehouse efficiency. Together, they show that productivity and growth come from intentional tool adoption, curiosity, and a willingness to modernize outdated processes. In this episode of the Inspired Insider Podcast, Dr. Jeremy Weisz is joined by Ali Mirza, Stacie Porter Bilger, Geordie Wardman, and Richard Hurley to discuss the essential tools today's leaders rely on. They cover AI-powered development platforms, project management systems, and analytics-driven marketing tools. They also explore automation and robotics, shaping the future of operations. The guests also share practical advice for choosing tools that actually move the needle.

Leslie Danford is the Founder and CEO of Vitaminis, a clean-label functional food and beverage brand that delivers whole-food-based juice shots designed to support gut health and immunity. Laura Markewicz is the Founder of Lotza, a better-for-you beverage made for people who want to celebrate without the morning-after slump.  RJ Pire is the Founder of Service ID, a tech startup that uses AI-driven tools to help utilities and municipalities identify and remove lead service lines.  Bradley Will is the Founder and CEO of Mumbies, a Milwaukee-based company creating natural, sustainable chew toys and treats for dogs made from materials like coffee tree wood and coconut husk. In this episode… Meeting the needs of our health, celebrations, snacks, and essential utilities can feel complicated in a world full of choices and compromises. What if there were smarter, cleaner, and more enjoyable ways to nourish our bodies, celebrate mindfully, feed our pets, and modernize essential services — without the usual headaches? Leslie Danford, Laura Markewicz, Bradley Will, and RJ Pire reveal how they're redefining their industries with innovation, taste, and practicality. Leslie shares how Vitaminis delivers functional nutrients through fruit-based, no-sugar-added shots, making daily nutrition simple and guilt-free. Laura explains how Lotza reinvents soda with real fruit, low sugar, and functional benefits, allowing celebrations without the next-day slump. Bradley highlights Mumbies' approach to creating snacks that combine flavor, convenience, and nutrition for pets. RJ draws on nearly a decade of regulatory experience to demonstrate how Service ID enables utilities to modernize their infrastructure, enhance compliance, and better serve their communities. In this episode of the Inspired Insider Podcast, Dr. Jeremy Weisz talks with Leslie Danford, Laura Markewicz, Bradley Will, and RJ Pire about building functional food and beverage brands, creating healthier snacks for kids, and streamlining utility operations. They discuss innovation, practical solutions, and finding a balance between wellness and enjoyment. They also share insights on clean-label ingredients, functional benefits, and modernizing essential services.

Sanish Mondkar is the Founder and CEO of Legion Technologies, a company specializing in AI-powered workforce management solutions that optimize labor efficiency and enhance hourly employee engagement. Under his leadership, Legion has become a trusted platform for automating scheduling, forecasting, and communication across major industries. Before Legion, Sanish served as Executive Vice President and Chief Product Officer at SAP, and earlier at Ariba. He holds a bachelor's degree in computer engineering from the University of Pune and a master's in computer science from Cornell University. In this episode… In today's fast-paced world of retail, hospitality, and other hourly-based industries, companies are racing to balance efficiency with employee satisfaction. But as technology reshapes how businesses operate, can AI actually make hourly work more engaging, flexible, and fulfilling? Sanish Mondkar, a seasoned technology leader and AI innovator, believes it can. He explains that traditional workforce management systems were built to control labor costs, not empower people — and that's where AI can fundamentally shift the equation. By automating scheduling, predicting demand, and empowering employees with control over their work schedules, companies can reduce attrition while fostering a more motivated workforce. Sanish also points out that real transformation comes when AI is transparent, explainable, and trusted by both managers and frontline workers. In this episode of the Inspired Insider Podcast, Dr. Jeremy Weisz sits down with Sanish Mondkar, Founder and CEO of Legion Technologies, to discuss how AI can drive employee engagement and operational excellence. They talk about Legion's AI-powered scheduling innovations, the "trifecta" that reduces attrition, and how automation builds trust between employers and staff. Sanish also shares lessons from scaling Legion with major brands like Dollar General and Philz Coffee.