Clare Purvis is a Stanford University-trained psychologist working at the intersection of mental health and technology. Clare's journey is inspiring, from holding leadership roles at Lantern, Headspace, and Mindcure to now being the founder of WELL, a leadership community for women in digital health. She shares insights on systemic leadership challenges, mentorship, balancing personal well-being, and driving sustainable healthcare innovations.In this episode, we explore:How structural inequities impact gender equality in leadershipWhat inspired Clare's mission at WELLWays to broaden support beyond the startup ecosystemShifting healthcare startups to problem-focused approachesThe critical role of mentorship for women leadersAdvice for male mentors to advance women's careersConnect with Clare Purvis on LinkedInClare’s WebsiteWELL’s WebsiteFind out more about The Berkeley Innovation Group: www.biginnovates.comConnect with Jeff Eyet on LinkedIn Follow The Berkeley Innovation Group Download The BIG Strategy Playbook for FREESubscribe to The Berkeley Innovation Group Youtube Channel 

Jennifer Gabel owns JK Crane, a crane rental company based in New Jersey. Beyond modernizing operations and driving profitability, she saw a glaring need for employee well-being. In 2021, she founded Construct Your Health, a wellness company targeted at the construction industry. Certified as an integrative nutrition health coach through the Institute for Integrative Nutrition, Jennifer also holds a 500-hour yoga teacher certification. In this episode, Jennifer shares her transition from corporate life to being an entrepreneur, following her father's footsteps, her approach to mental health and wellness, and the significance of nurturing personal passions outside of work for a balanced and fulfilling life.In this episode, we explore:Jennifer's career progression from corporate employee to business ownerNetworking from an introverted perspectiveHow to create a passion project like Construct Your HealthBuilding a community for mental well-beingBalancing professional life with roles as wife and motherConnect with Jennifer Gabel on LinkedInConstruct Your HealthJK CraneConnect with Jeff Eyet on LinkedIn Follow The Berkeley Innovation Group Download The BIG Strategy Playbook for FREESubscribe to The Berkeley Innovation Group Youtube Channel Find out more about The Berkeley Innovation Group: www.biginnovates.com 

Consultant Jennifer Drago brings her strategic planning and governance expertise to the nonprofit sector, particularly senior living. Jennifer’s insights span from her consulting role to innovative solutions in senior care, discussing CEO accountability, people-centric strategies, and technological integration. She emphasizes the importance of transparent communication and workforce investment for organizational success.In this episode, we explore:Annual CEO evaluations using a stoplight dashboard systemAligning individual performance with organizational goalsPeople-centric approaches to senior care servicesSmart integration of technology to supplement human careHow strategic planning is driven by a long-term vision narrativeLinks mentioned:Connect with Jennifer Drago on LinkedInPeak To ProfitFind out more about The Berkeley Innovation Group: www.biginnovates.com 

With 35 years in the space industry, Shelli Brunswick started in the US Air Force and now leads SB Global LLC. She discusses business opportunities in space, the role of innovation, and economic development. Shelli shares insights on leveraging space technology for Earth-based industries and future ventures.In this episode, we explore:Not in the space sector? Why you should consider space opportunitiesThe potential of space for economic development and job creationBecoming interplanetary: integrating Earth, Moon, and Mars economiesLeveraging government patents and incubators in the space industryRisks and rewards of space technology for everyday business operationsLinks mentioned:Connect with Shelli Brunswick on LinkedInVisit Shelli Brunswick’s WebsiteThe Cosmos Economy by Jack GreggTEDx Talk: What's Space Got To Do With It?Find out more about The Berkeley Innovation Group: www.biginnovates.com 

Whitney Jordan is a Fashion Strategist and Visiting Lecturer at Liverpool John Moores University. With experience at Macy's, J. Crew, and business school, Whitney speaks on overcoming career challenges, systemic issues, and her journey toward industry change, advocating for more inclusive merchandising and marketing practices. She also shares her family's legacy of resilience and her passion for diversity in fashion.In this episode, we explore:Facing and overcoming systemic racism in fashionStrategic decision to pursue an MBABlack American fashion historyInnovations in inclusive merchandising and marketingWhitney’s vision for a more inclusive fashion industryLinks mentioned:Connect with Whitney Jordan on LinkedInVisit Whitney's PortfolioFind out more about The Berkeley Innovation Group: www.biginnovates.com 

Product Marketing Coach and Advisor Yi Lin Pei empowers product marketers in startups to grow and thrive. A Haas School of Business alumni with a transportation engineering and tech product marketing background, Yi Lin's journey includes significant career shifts and insights on iterative progress, design thinking, and stakeholder engagement. Discover her holistic coaching approach and strategies for impactful career transitions.In this episode, we explore:Incremental steps in achieving big goalsSkills transfer from transportation consulting to product marketingThe art and science of problem-solving at workUsing design thinking for stakeholder engagementHandling emotional decisions in career transitionsThe role of intrinsic motivation in professional successConnect with Yi Lin Pei on LinkedInFind out more about The Berkeley Innovation Group: www.biginnovates.com 

Having spent nearly 20 years as a marketing leader, Jessica Wan knows a thing or two about building and managing teams. She is now a Certified Executive Coach for people managers and individual contributors and the host of the Ampersand Manifesto. Her previous career adventures include working for organizations like the San Francisco Opera, Apple, Smule, and Magoosh.In this episode, we explore:The balance between psychological safety and motivationWhy leaders should model growth and authenticityThe three themes of effective leadershipMaking a career pivot to executive coachingHaving an “ampersand” careerConnect with Jessica Wan on LinkedInVisit Jessica Wan’s WebsiteListen to the Ampersand ManifestoFind out more about The Berkeley Innovation Group: www.biginnovates.com 

Sabba Quidwai is the CEO of Designing Schools. She believes cultures of innovation begin with a culture of empathy. Her journey took her from being a high school teacher to an education executive at Apple. Dr Quidwai now works with organizations to design schools that give young people the mindset and skills to thrive in workplaces and as global citizens.In this episode, we explore:* The HIRE framework to help you assess the suitability of AI tools* Ensuring AI tools are aligned with an organization’s ethical values* Integrating multiple AI tools to leverage their individual strengths* Design thinking and AI collaboration* Why schools and organizations must teach responsible AI use* … and why we have been asking the wrong questions about AIConnect with Sabba Quidwai on LinkedInPre-order ‘Designing Schools: How Design Thinking Makes YOU Irreplaceable in the Age of AI’Visit Designing SchoolsFind out more about The Berkeley Innovation Group: www.biginnovates.com 

As the President and CEO of Panex Oil and Gas, RJ Burr is a third-generation oil industry leader. He joins the BIG Strategy Podcast to underscore the transformative impact of oil, highlighting its role in generating wealth, alleviating poverty, and significantly improving the human condition. Whether you're an investor, an industry enthusiast, or simply curious about oil, this episode is packed with invaluable insights. In this episode, we explore:* The oil industry's role in reducing CO2 emissions over the past 10 years* The upstream, midstream, and downstream processes in oil production* What economic geniuses do during crises* Panex’s diverse approach to investment* The critical role of a motivated and knowledgeable teamConnect with RJ Burr on LinkedInFind out more about The Berkeley Innovation Group: www.biginnovates.com 

Vic Shao, DC Grid CEO, unveils groundbreaking EV charging infrastructure. Bypassing slow utility upgrades, DC Grid deploys rapid charging solutions using off-grid renewable energy. This innovative approach promises faster, cleaner, and more cost-effective EV charging stations nationwide, accelerating electric vehicle adoption and transforming sustainable transportation.In this episode, we explore:* Scaling EV charging infrastructure* How utilities hinder EV adoption * Fast, clean, and cost-effective charging stations * Vic Shao's insights on entrepreneurshipConnect with Vic Shao on LinkedInFind out more about The Berkeley Innovation Group: www.biginnovates.com 

As the CEO of Soluna Holdings, John Belizaire leads the charge in shaping the future of renewable energy development using computing. Soluna is the leading developer of green data centers for batchable computing, powered by wasted renewable energy. Classically trained as a computer scientist, John began his professional journey at Intel, where he played a pivotal role in advancing the PC revolution. In this episode, we explore:* Sustainable data centers* Mental models and lateral thinking – including the "10 Ideas” exercise* The role of federal and state policy changes in fostering sustainable innovation* Key insights from John’s blog CEOPLAYBOOK* The importance of culture and continuously adapting to drive company successConnect with John Belizaire on LinkedInCheck out CEOPLAYBOOKFind out more about The Berkeley Innovation Group: www.biginnovates.com 

Kareem Dabbagh, co-founder of VoLo Earth Ventures, shares his perspective on combating climate change through venture capital and innovative investments. As a solar industry and 'cleantech 1.0' veteran, Kareem was an early employee and team leader at SolarCity (Tesla) and Sunrun – and then became part of the founding team with Aurora Solar. After that, he joined the electricity practice at the Rocky Mountain Institute. In this episode, we explore:* The value of doing one thing exceptionally well* Valuable lessons from the "cleantech 1.0" era * Why a data-driven approach is key to removing biases* How to make disciplined investment decisions* How VoLo Earth is making a tangible impact in the fight against climate changeConnect with Kareem Dabbagh on LinkedInFind out more about The Berkeley Innovation Group: www.biginnovates.com 

In this captivating episode, Scott Couchenour, founder of Fourth Quarter Coaching, shares his journey from corporate success to personal reinvention. After experiencing a devastating business collapse, Scott discovered the power of strategic living. He offers invaluable insights on crafting a purposeful life plan that transcends career setbacks and identity crises. Learn how to leverage both triumphs and challenges to fuel your personal growth and create a lasting legacy. Scott's six-point framework for a fantastic fourth quarter will inspire you to take control of your future and live life by design, not by default.Connect with Scott on LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottcouchenour/Find out more about The Berkeley Innovation Group: www.biginnovates.com

Alex Katzman unpacks his four-phase career strategy, from charting his path to optimizing outcomes. Learn how a health setback sparked a long-term vision, leading Alex to pivot from corporate roles to entrepreneurship. Gain valuable insights on making bold career moves, balancing family priorities, and pursuing impactful work in the face of adversity.Connect with Alex on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexkatzman/Find out more about The Berkeley Innovation Group: www.biginnovates.com

Discover how conservation and capitalism can align as Adam Joseph shares insights on biodiversity credits, soil health initiatives, and corporate sustainability trends. Learn about emerging opportunities at the intersection of business and environmental protection.Connect with Adam on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adam-p-joseph/Find out more about The Berkeley Innovation Group: www.biginnovates.com

Nersey Rastan shares lessons from leading a critical ERP crisis, revealing how empathy and cross-functional collaboration can overcome seemingly impossible challenges in global organizations. Discover how Nersey navigated cultural differences, built trust across teams, and turned a potential disaster into a career-defining moment. Learn strategies for effective change management and the importance of keeping humans in the loop during digital transformations.Connect with Nersey on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nerseyrastan/Find out more about The Berkeley Innovation Group: www.biginnovates.com

Vic Shao, a serial cleantech founder, takes us behind the scenes of his entrepreneurial journey. From his first project, funded with DOE grants, to acquisitions by Engie and BP and securing a $100 million supercharger deal with Tesla, he reveals strategies for overcoming setbacks and seizing opportunities. Hear his hard-won lessons in resilience, product-market fit, and navigating corporate acquisitions that apply to entrepreneurs and leaders across industries.

In this insightful recap of Season 1 of The BIG Strategy Podcast, host Jeff Eyet explores three critical themes from conversations with six diverse business leaders: mentorship and guidance, personal passions for professional success, and adaptability and resilience. Drawing from experiences shared by executives from Pete's Coffee, Mural, and Applied Materials, Jeff uncovers valuable lessons on navigating market changes, overcoming internal resistance, and leveraging personal interests for career growth. This episode offers a deep dive into how mentorship shapes leadership styles, personal passions drive innovation, and adaptability and resilience are crucial for success in today's dynamic business landscape. Whether you're a seasoned executive or an aspiring leader, this summary episode provides actionable insights and thought-provoking questions to enhance your strategic thinking and leadership skills.

Dive into the revolutionary mindset of Austin Lavin, a product leader disrupting the defense sector with cutting-edge AI solutions. From government service to spearheading game-changing initiatives, Austin leverages radical empathy, first principles thinking, and a contrarian approach to challenge tradition and achieve paradigm-shifting outcomes. Prepare for an eye-opening discussion as he discusses battle-tested strategies for navigating bureaucracy, fostering innovation, and staying ahead of evolving threats. Tune in for these invaluable insights for individuals looking to revolutionize their industries.

Tune into this episode as we sit down with Jared McGriff, a multifaceted individual who combines his talents as a self-taught painter and product marketer in the tech industry. Jared shares his journey driven by relentless curiosity and the risks he took to follow his passions. Discover how he integrates creativity into his professional life, offering a unique perspective on innovation and strategic thinking. Jared's story is a testament to the power of independence, individuality, and perseverance. Uncover a remarkable blend of ingenuity and professional prowess through this episode. Links and Images Website: jaredmcgriff.comIG: https://www.instagram.com/watercolorbrother/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jaredmcgriff/

In this episode, we sit down with Craig Hunter, the visionary founder and CEO of Covalent Metrology. Craig's journey is nothing short of extraordinary—from hearing strategy insights at the dinner table from his father, a key figure at Applied Materials, to navigating the challenging landscape of a services startup.Listen in as Craig shares valuable lessons on building a company from the ground up, the importance of resilience and curiosity, and the power of a strong support network. Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur or a seasoned business leader, Craig's story is packed with insights on innovation, strategic risk-taking, and the relentless pursuit of excellence.Join us for an engaging and inspiring conversation that highlights the significance of betting on yourself and the rewards of taking bold, calculated risks.

Join us as Craig Hunter shares Applied Materials' transformative journey from semiconductor equipment leadership into the new market of solar panel factories. His leadership in managing innovative projects and a demanding customer base to deliver results to a success-driven leadership team defined his tenure. Learn about the importance of curiosity, strategic risks, and bold moves in driving industry success.

Drawing upon years of human-centered design expertise, Ward Bullard shares his strategic insights from pivoting a visual collaboration startup, Mural, during the COVID-19 pandemic. Initially focused on large enterprises, the company swiftly adapted to meet the urgent needs of educators transitioning to remote learning. Ward emphasizes the importance of organizational resilience – assembling a top-tier team empowered to pursue customer-centric solutions. Despite being overlooked internally, their impact far outstripped expectations, enabling transformative growth by wowing customers with exceptional support during uncertain times. Ward's approach highlights the value of strategic talent acquisition, autonomy, and an unwavering commitment to delivering innovative solutions that create a better future through purposeful collaboration.