Pull the Chute - Grow your People, Grow your Company Podcast Podcast By Jeff Sesol and Janna Landry cover art

Pull the Chute - Grow your People, Grow your Company Podcast

Pull the Chute - Grow your People, Grow your Company Podcast

By: Jeff Sesol and Janna Landry
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The goal of this podcast is to interview business owners and/or C-level executives to get an understanding of how they built their culture, what worked, what failed, and what tips can they give new and upcoming business owners. Our goal over the next ten years is to help as many small to medium-sized businesses get to the next level by growing their people, which will grow their company. Through coaching and transformational leadership, Pull the Chute can guide company leaders to invest time to get to know their people and understand their roles, goals, and challenges to provide learning & growth opportunities - ultimately helping their people be the best they can be.

© 2026 Pull the Chute - Grow your People, Grow your Company Podcast
Economics Leadership Management Management & Leadership
Episodes
  • You are more than your job title Featuring Nick D' Ambrosio
    Apr 1 2026

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    In this premiere episode of Beyond the Title, we go deeper than job titles and org charts to uncover the real stories of the people leading today’s organizations. Our guest, Nick D'Ambrosio, founder of Nomadics, shares his journey from military intelligence and GIS mapping to building a business that balances high-level defense contracts with a deep passion for environmental conservation. Nick discusses the "moments of pause" that led him to pull the chute, the challenges of balancing a demanding career with family life, and why being your true, authentic self is the most powerful leadership tool you have.

    Key Takeaways

    • Beyond the Label: Leadership is about more than a title; it's about the challenges, breakthroughs, and intentional paths we choose when we "pull the chute."
    • The Diverse Leader: From military defense and GIS technology to environmental preservation, Nick highlights how disparate interests can coexist to create a fulfilling career.
    • Vulnerability and Authenticity: Nick shares personal stories—from dealing with family emergencies to the "stomach bug" chaos—proving that real leaders are human first.
    • Environmental Stewardship: Discover why Nick's commitment to ecological conservation is a vital part of his legacy and a driving force for future generations.
    • Intentional Pauses: Learn why it’s critical for leaders to occasionally stop, reflect, and ensure their path forward is aligned with their true values.

    What defines you once you step away from your desk? Tune in to the very first episode of Beyond the Title to hear Nick D'Ambrosio’s authentic story. Listen now and discover what it means to lead with intention!

    🎙️ Join the Conversation: Pull the Chute Podcast Discussion Group!


    Ever listen to an episode of Pull the Chute and wish you could dig deeper into those "aha!" moments with others who get it? Now you can.


    Join our Facebook Discussion Group
    here.

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    28 mins
  • Beyond The Title: Are you building a company or just a title? Featuring Shakir Hussein
    Mar 31 2026

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    In this episode of Beyond the Title, Jeff Sesol and John Zetler are joined by Shakir Hussein, the founder and CEO of Creative Scale. Shakir takes us through his fascinating career path, moving across continents and industries to master the art of digital transformation and creative scaling. We explore the human side of high-level leadership, the importance of continuous learning, and how to maintain a "growth mindset" while navigating the complexities of global business. Shakir shares his "heart for people" and explains why the most successful leaders are those who focus on the journey and the players, not just the score.

    Key Takeaways

    • The Global Perspective: Shakir discusses the advantages of a "coast-to-coast" career and how diverse environments shape a leader’s ability to solve complex problems.
    • Continuous Learning: Success isn’t a destination; it’s a process of constantly updating your skills and mindset to stay ahead of industry shifts.
    • The Human Element of Tech: As a leader in digital scaling, Shakir emphasizes that technology is only as effective as the people and culture behind it.
    • Leadership Through Service: Great leadership involves sharing your journey and insights with the next generation of emerging leaders.
    • Passion-Driven Leadership: Whether it’s business or following a favorite sports coach, passion is the fuel that drives consistency and long-term excellence.

    Are you building a company or just a title? Tune in to this episode of Beyond the Title to hear Shakir Hussein’s insights on creative scaling and intentional leadership. Listen now!

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    26 mins
  • Do you believe you can do it, or do you HAVE FAITH that you will? Featuring Chris Champion
    Mar 30 2026

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    In this episode of Pull the Chute, Jana and guest host Rob Facker sit down with Chris Champion, a high-performance coach and entrepreneur who has worked with everyone from elite athletes to top-tier executives. Chris shares his powerful "I am" philosophy and discusses why success isn't just about strategy—it's about the internal narrative we carry. From his work with the "School of Hard Knocks" to his insights on the difference between belief and faith, Chris provides a roadmap for anyone looking to break through their mental plateaus and achieve lasting excellence.

    Key Takeaways

    • The "I Am" Identity: Your results in life will never outperform your identity. To change your outcome, you must first change the way you define yourself.
    • Belief vs. Faith: There is a distinct difference between the two. Belief is thinking you can do something; faith is knowing you can do it.
    • The Power of Environment: Success is contagious. Chris discusses his work with the "School of Hard Knocks" and the importance of surrounding yourself with people who challenge your ceiling.
    • Managing Your Internal State: High performance isn't just about working harder; it's about mastering your internal state so you can perform under pressure.
    • Vulnerability in Leadership: Chris highlights why being real and authentic (even sharing the "critical" feedback) is essential for building a community that resonates with your message.


    Are you ready to stop thinking you can succeed and start knowing it? Tune in to the full episode to hear Chris Champion’s transformative insights on identity and high performance. Listen now and start shifting your "I am" today!

    🎙️ Join the Conversation: Pull the Chute Podcast Discussion Group!


    Ever listen to an episode of Pull the Chute and wish you could dig deeper into those "aha!" moments with others who get it? Now you can.


    Join our Facebook Discussion Group
    here.


    Show more Show less
    28 mins
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