In this episode of Zero to CEO, I speak with Harvard serial founder Shirish Nimgaonkar about how his company, eBlissAI, is leading a new era of agentic AI through self-healing, autonomous systems. Shirish explains why today’s enterprise IT systems are falling short and how eBlissAI’s platform is transforming endpoint management by combining real-time analytics, predictive insights, and intelligent automation. We discuss how businesses can drastically reduce operational costs, improve user productivity, and gain a superior ROI by adopting AI that not only reacts but predicts and personalizes. With enterprise tech at a tipping point, this episode explores why now is the critical moment to embrace truly autonomous solutions.

In this episode of Zero to CEO, I speak with experience designer Geoff Thatcher about how AI is transforming storytelling and the future of immersive experiences. Geoff shares how tools like ChatGPT, Midjourney, and Grok are already changing how experience designers create, but the real revolution is just beginning. We dive into the new GAME ON! AI Experience at the College Football Hall of Fame, which puts guests directly into the story as players, coaches, and fans across 775 college football teams. Geoff explains how AI allows experiences to become more personal, interactive, and human, unlocking levels of immersion never before possible and shaping the next era of storytelling in theme parks, museums, and beyond.

In this episode of Zero to CEO, I speak with Paula Paul, Founder and Distinguished Engineer at Greyshore, about how companies can drive real value from open source software. With over four decades of experience in tech, Paula shares insights on open source supply chain security, the power of community, and how organizations can adopt cloud-native technologies more efficiently. We also explore the shift from “every company is a tech company” to “every company is a SaaS company,” and Paula reflects on her remarkable journey as a woman in tech since the 1980s. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in software innovation, digital transformation, and the future of technology.

In this episode of Zero to CEO I sit down with Paul Scribner, the visionary CEO of Raven Resources Corp whose innovative investment acumen is transforming how business deals are made. Scribner reveals the transformational business approaches that have helped partners multiply their facilities sixfold and increase revenue seven-X. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, investor, or business leader, you’ll gain invaluable insights into creative problem-solving and strategic deal-making from “the most integrity-filled man in business” who sees potential where others see problems.

In this episode of Zero to CEO, I speak with serial entrepreneur and marketer Chris LaMorte about how his company, Strictly AI, is helping small businesses and startups thrive in today’s fast-moving digital and AI-driven world. Chris shares insights on how AI is transforming marketing, why the future of the web is conversational, and how SMBs can stay ahead of the curve by embracing innovative tools and strategies. Whether you’re a startup founder, small business owner, or digital marketer, this episode offers practical advice on how to compete — and win — with AI in the modern marketplace.

In this episode of Zero to CEO, I speak with relentless legal trailblazer Lem Garcia, who turned just a few thousand dollars and a Craigslist desk into one of Southern California’s top personal injury law firms. Lem shares his journey of betting on himself, overcoming setbacks, and proving that success isn’t about where you start but how hard you’re willing to push forward. We dive into the challenges of building a business from scratch, the lessons he learned in leadership and growth, and his best advice for aspiring entrepreneurs looking to take control of their future. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, risk-taker, or simply looking for motivation, this episode is packed with powerful insights on grit, resilience, and turning ambition into success.

In this episode of Zero to CEO, I speak with independent compensation consultant Scott Trumpolt about growth-driven compensation strategies for startups and business leaders. We explore how a company’s compensation philosophy impacts its success and evolves over time, highlighting the importance of building flexibility into pay structures. Scott shares insights on market-based pay, the balance between fixed and variable compensation, and how to link salaries to career architecture and job classification systems. We also discuss pay transparency methods and the key principles behind an effective compensation strategy. Tune in to learn how to design a pay system that supports business growth while attracting and retaining top talent. Talk to Scott here.

In this episode of Strap on Your Boots, I dive into the harsh realities of startup failure and the critical mistakes that lead to it. With 90% of startups failing, I break down the biggest reasons why, from ignoring market demand and running out of money to co-founder conflicts and poor customer engagement. Using real-world examples, I highlight what went wrong and how you can avoid the same fate. I also share lessons from my own AI B2B SaaS startup, Vengo AI, on how to stay lean, validate ideas, and build a product people actually want. If you’re an entrepreneur looking to beat the odds, this episode is packed with no-nonsense advice to help you succeed.