Second in Command: The Chief Behind the Chief with Cameron Herold

• Ep. 470 - Environmental Incentives COO, Andrew Alexandrovich

  In today's episode of the Second in Command podcast, co-host Sivana Brewer is joined by Andrew Alexandrovich, Chief Operating Officer of Environmental Incentives.During the conversation, Sivana and Andrew explore the complexities of navigating company growth and the unique challenges that arise when an organization scales rapidly. They explore the intricate balance between quality and quantity, particularly in a professional services environment, and discuss the difficulties that leadership teams face in maintaining high standards while managing a fast-paced, evolving business.You'll gain insights on the strategic processes employed by the EI executive team to prioritize and manage competing demands. Andrew reflects on the practical steps taken to ensure smooth collaboration, both internally and externally, while emphasizing the value of regular check-ins and clear agendas.This episode also offers lessons Andrew has learned about balancing careful planning with adaptability and the need for continuous learning. If you've enjoyed this episode of the Second in Command podcast, be sure to leave a review and subscribe today!Enjoy!In This Episode You'll Learn:Andrew's journey at Environmental Incentives, starting as one of three employees and growing to becoming the COO in 2020.The importance of maintaining a people-focused culture, with a focus on learning, adaptability, and continual improvement.The challenges of scaling systems from a small business to a mid-sized business operating globally. EI's strategic planning process, including a five-year strategy and annual strategy. The tactical steps taken to ensure executive team cohesion, including regular check-ins with clear agendas.And much more...Resources:Connect with Andrew: Website | LinkedInConnect with Cameron: Website | LinkedInGet Cameron’s latest book – "Second in Command: Unleash the Power of Your COO"Get Cameron’s online course – Invest In Your Leaders

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• Ep. 469 - Navigating the COO Landscape: Leadership in a Changing World

  In today's episode of the Second in Command podcast, Cameron dives into the unique dynamics between COOs and CEOs, comparing them to how men and women perceive the world differently. Cameron discusses the relatively short tenure of most COOs and how the role evolves as a company scales. He also touches on how the COO’s skill set may not always keep pace with the company’s growth, leading to frequent turnover.You'll learn about the changing gender dynamics within the COO position, noting how women now comprise a significant portion of COOs. With examples from well-known companies like Facebook, Cameron delves into the idea that the COO role is often misunderstood as a stepping stone to the CEO position, when in reality, many COOs don’t aspire to take on that higher-level responsibility.This episode offers insights into the evolving responsibilities of COOs in today’s business landscape, particularly their role in digital transformation and technological adaptation.If you've enjoyed this episode of the Second in Command podcast, be sure to leave a review and subscribe today!In This Episode You'll Learn:Why the role of a COO is often more dynamic and requires a broader set of skills compared to other functional heads. (2:19)The significant decrease in the gender gap in COO roles over the past 15 to 20 years. (2:44)Why compensation for a COO should be tied to strategic insight, P&L responsibility, and the number of partners brought into the company. (7:12)The role of the COO in project alignment and resource allocation (8:11)And much more...Resources:Connect with Cameron: Website | LinkedInGet Cameron’s latest book – "Second in Command: Unleash the Power of Your COO"Get Cameron’s online course – Invest In Your Leaders

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• Ep. 468 - The Beyond Collection COO, Tony Skowron

  In today's episode of the Second in Command podcast, Cameron is joined by COO Alliance Member Tony Skowron, COO of The Beyond Collection, a commission-free marketplace connecting meeting planners and luxury hospitality partners.During the conversation, Tony shares a compelling journey marked by growth, challenge, and intentionality. From navigating the complexities of entering an established but evolving team, to building trust and driving alignment, Tony reflects on the importance of listening first, learning deeply, and leading with clarity. The discussion touches on how transitions can be both delicate and powerful, especially when stepping into a high-stakes leadership role within a tight-knit organization.The conversation evolves into a powerful exploration of what it means to develop people—not just for the sake of productivity, but to elevate culture and long-term impact. You'll hear the story of how a bold leadership initiative was launched, which weaves together personal conviction and professional strategy, all within the backdrop of an industry that often overlooks these deeper developmental needs.This episode is a must-listen for anyone curious about what it takes to lead with purpose, align teams around vision, and grow leaders from the inside out.If you've enjoyed this episode of the Second in Command podcast, be sure to leave a review and subscribe today!Enjoy!In This Episode You'll Learn:The importance of ensuring the quality of planners, as they must meet specific criteria to be included in the Beyond Collection platform.Tony's experience with the Ritz Carlton Leadership Academy and his interest in leadership training and white glove service. The Beyond Collection's leadership training program, which aims to invest in the development of leaders within the hospitality industry. Tony's previous role as a COO and VP, the challenges of growing a company, and the importance of aligning values and vision.And much more...Resources:Connect with Tony: Website | LinkedInConnect with Cameron: Website | LinkedInGet Cameron’s latest book – "Second in Command: Unleash the Power of Your COO"Get Cameron’s online course – Invest In Your Leaders

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• Ep. 467 - Timely Triumphs in Team Dynamics

  In today's episode of the Second in Command podcast, Cameron reveals a fresh approach to team building and annual planning that goes beyond stale meeting rooms and rigid agendas. You'll discover a game-changing strategy that combines the camaraderie of cooking, the serenity of nature, and the power of collaborative goal-setting. Learn how swapping hotel conference rooms for an Airbnb retreat can transform your leadership team’s dynamic, fostering deeper connections through shared experiences. You'll also find out how timing and intentional preparation can set your organization up for a strong year ahead.Through real-life success stories, actionable insights, and frameworks like EOS, this conversation dives into the importance of vivid vision, setting clear three-year goals, and crafting actionable one-year plans. From establishing quarterly accountability to aligning staffing and budgeting with long-term objectives, this episode equips leaders with practical steps to energize their teams and maximize results. Whether you're planning your next annual retreat or seeking innovative ways to strengthen your organization, this discussion is your roadmap to success.If you've enjoyed this episode of the Second in Command podcast, be sure to leave a review and subscribe today!In This Episode You'll Learn:How simple activities like grocery shopping and cooking together can strengthen team bonds, create a family-like dynamic, and elevate your annual planning retreats. (1:04)Why hosting your planning sessions in an Airbnb instead of a hotel can foster creativity, relaxation, and stronger connections among team members, setting the stage for more effective collaboration. (2:58)The critical deadlines for locking in goals, budgets, and staffing plans to ensure a smooth transition into the new year. (5:06) How quarterly planning sessions can align your team’s priorities, leverage frameworks like EOS, and establish accountability with clear goals and review processes for every business area. (8:21)And much more...Resources:Connect with Cameron: Website | LinkedInGet Cameron’s latest book "Second in Command: Unleash the Power of Your COO"Get Cameron’s online course – Invest In Your Leaders

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• Ep. 466 - Neat Strategy and Operations Lead, Alicia Ramirez-Ingalls

  In today's episode of the Second in Command podcast, co-host Sivana Brewer is joined by Alicia Ramirez-Ingalls, Strategy and Operations Lead at Neat, a video communications device design company based in Oslo, Norway.Throughout the conversation, Sivana and Alicia explore the challenges and experiences of navigating high-pressure environments, particularly when self-doubt and imposter syndrome inevitably arise. Alicia shares insights on how to balance personal uncertainty with the need to contribute meaningfully in demanding professional settings.You'll hear about the concept of a "fail fast" mindset, which involves embracing failure as part of the learning process. Alicia explains how speed, agility, and a willingness to iterate can lead to breakthroughs, with real-world examples illustrating how this approach has shaped decision-making and growth within the company.This episode offers practical advice for those looking to build effective partnerships in any field.If you've enjoyed this episode of the Second in Command podcast, be sure to leave a review and subscribe today!Enjoy!In This Episode You'll Learn:Alicia's strong relationship with Janine Pelosi, the CEO of Neat, and her decision to join Neat after a career break.The importance of not shying away from new challenges and making the most of opportunities to learn and grow.Why leaders should provide a safe space for team members to communicate and learn from their mistakes. The importance of trusting oneself and the team and being willing to take on new challenges.And much more...Resources:Connect with Alicia: Website | LinkedInConnect with Cameron: Website | LinkedInGet Cameron’s latest book – "Second in Command: Unleash the Power of Your COO"Get Cameron’s online course – Invest In Your Leaders

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