Real Leadership

Chrissy Dunlap, Chief Revenue Officer at BirdieBox: Resilience, Innovation, and the Future of Corporate Gifting

From navigating a high-stakes maternity leave during the pandemic to stepping in as interim CEO during a health crisis, Chrissy Dunlap, Chief Revenue Officer at BirdieBox, knows what it means to lead with heart and grit. Her journey is a masterclass in balancing personal adversity with professional leadership, and she shares it all on this week’s episode of Real Leadership.
From her start in the sports industry to leading one of the most innovative players in a $250 billion gifting industry, Chrissy’s story is packed with insights for leaders across all sectors.
In this episode, Chrissy dives into how BirdieBox scaled its unique gifting model, built partnerships with industry giants like the Dallas Cowboys, and navigated pivotal moments, including the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic.
With humor, candor, and actionable insights, Chrissy shares stories about overcoming challenges and building a people-first company culture. 
Episode Highlights:
The Power of Personalization: How BirdieBox is redefining corporate gifting by blending psychology with curated, high-end products.
Leadership in Crisis: Chrissy’s journey navigating COVID-19, balancing maternity leave with professional responsibilities, and leading a team through uncertainty.
Scaling with Intention: The pivotal moments that propelled BirdieBox from a small startup to a leader in corporate gifting, including a key partnership with the Dallas Cowboys.
Sales with a Purpose: Chrissy’s philosophy on active listening, staying curious, and creating authentic connections in sales.
Timestamps:
00:01:47 – Chrissy’s serendipitous start in the sports industry and her rise to leadership.
01:28:57 – What makes BirdieBox a standout in the $250 billion gifting industry.
14:10:24 – How BirdieBox pivoted during COVID-19 with “COVID care packages.”
25:03:79 – A meeting with the Dallas Cowboys that changed everything for BirdieBox.
35:12:70 – Chrissy’s advice for leaders on active listening and staying curious.
Call to Action:
Love this episode? Don’t forget to subscribe to Real Leadership for more candid conversations with leaders who make, move, and process. Stay inspired—follow us on LinkedIn for updates on upcoming episodes and actionable insights.
Connect with Chrissy Dunlap on LinkedIn or explore BirdieBox’s unique gifting solutions at BirdieBox.com.

Building Resilience and Culture with Mike Porter, President & COO of New Horizons Baking Company

How do you rise above a challenging start to lead one of the top companies in the baking industry? In this episode, Jim Weaver sits down with Mike Porter, President and COO of New Horizons Baking Company, to discuss his inspiring journey from a troubled adolescence to industry leadership. Mike shares how resilience, mentorship, and a people-first mindset have been key to his success.
From implementing flexible work schedules to producing enough buns and muffins to circle the globe eight times in a year, Mike reveals the strategies that have driven New Horizons’ growth. He also offers invaluable leadership insights, including how empathy and trust can transform team performance and drive innovation.
If you’re navigating leadership challenges, looking to foster a strong company culture, or simply searching for inspiration to tackle adversity head-on, this episode is packed with actionable lessons and real-world wisdom from one of the industry’s most impactful leaders.
Why You Need to Listen Now:
Discover the Power of Resilience: Learn how Mike overcame personal and professional obstacles to build a successful career and a thriving company.
Embrace Empathy as a Leadership Tool: Hear how Mike’s people-first approach has created a culture of trust, empowerment, and collaboration at New Horizons.
Unlock Innovation Through Flexibility: Explore how creative solutions like alternative work schedules can reduce turnover and boost productivity.
Build a High-Performing Team: Mike shares practical advice on developing future leaders and creating an environment where everyone can thrive.
Key Takeaways:
Empathy is a Leadership Superpower: Learn why understanding your team’s needs is the foundation of a successful organization.
Flexibility Drives Retention: Discover how offering employees options can dramatically improve loyalty and reduce turnover.
Resilience Fuels Growth: Hear how a commitment to self-belief and continuous improvement can propel leaders and teams to new heights.
Chapters:
00:00 - Mike Porter's Journey: From Adversity to Leadership
14:05 - The Power of Mentorship and Support Systems
20:17 - Leadership and Culture: The Foundation of Success
25:35 - Empowering People: The Heart of Leadership
32:42 - Advice for the Next Generation: Mindset and Belief
37:44 - Connecting with New Horizons: Opportunities and Resources
Ready to elevate your leadership and embrace the power of resilience? Tune in to hear Mike Porter’s inspiring journey and actionable strategies for building trust, fostering innovation, and leading with empathy. Don’t miss this episode—hit play and start transforming your leadership approach today!

Real Leadership featuring Drew Herpich, Chief Commercial Officer of Nolan Transportation Group

How do you lead in an industry with over 20,000 competitors, all vying for the same freight loads? In this episode, Jim Weaver sits down with Drew Herpich, Chief Commercial Officer at Nolan Transportation Group (NTG), one of the largest freight brokerages in the U.S. Drew brings a wealth of experience from his 14 years at Coyote Logistics and shares how NTG is navigating an evolving logistics landscape—from potential East Coast port strikes to the role of AI in transportation. Plus, Drew offers deep insights into why transparency and communication are the keys to effective leadership in today’s fast-paced world.
If you’re leading through industry disruptions, interested in leveraging technology for efficiency, or simply looking to sharpen your leadership edge, this episode is filled with real-world, actionable insights from one of the top leaders in logistics today.
Why You Need to Listen Now: 
Learn to Navigate Industry Disruptions: Discover actionable strategies for keeping your supply chain running smoothly, even in the face of potential crises. Drew shares how NTG stays ahead of disruptions before they happen.
Unlock the Power of Technology in Logistics: Gain insights into how automation and AI can give your company a competitive edge.
Master Leadership Through Radical Transparency: Find out how fostering open, direct communication can strengthen your leadership. Drew’s approach to radical transparency builds trust and enhances team performance, offering lessons you can apply immediately.
Build a Winning Company Culture: Get insider advice on scaling a business and creating a strong, cohesive culture. Drew reflects on his experience at Coyote Logistics, offering practical lessons for building a high-performing team, whether you’re leading 15 people or 5,000.
Key Takeaways:
Technology isn’t a luxury—it's essential: Discover how AI and automation are transforming freight brokerage, making it crucial for staying competitive.
Radical transparency builds stronger teams: Drew shares how being open, honest, and direct is not just good leadership—it’s the key to sustained success.
Learn how the right company culture can drive growth, from Drew’s journey of scaling Coyote Logistics to 3,300 employees.
Chapters:
00:01 – Welcome & Introduction to Drew Herpich
01:12 – What NTG Does: A Deep Dive into Freight Brokerage
03:32 – Managing Real-Time Disruptions: The East Coast Port Strike Threat
05:08 – The Future of Logistics: Technology, AI, and Industry Consolidation
11:40 – Building Coyote Logistics: Lessons on Culture, Growth, and Leadership
20:47 – Radical Transparency: Why Over-Communicating is a Leadership Superpower
26:21 – Setting Organizational Goals: NTG’s Playbook for Success
33:52 – Why You Should Consider Working at NTG
35:56 – Where to Find NTG and Opportunities to Partner
Call to Action:
Ready to strengthen your leadership and tackle the biggest challenges in logistics? Tune in to hear Drew Herpich share his insider strategies for navigating disruptions, leveraging technology, and building a culture of radical transparency at NTG. Don’t miss this episode—hit play and start transforming your leadership approach today!

Lead with Purpose: Carolyn Comer, CEO of Shell Energy North America, on Navigating the Energy Transition and Transforming Leadership

What does it take to lead a global powerhouse like Shell through history's most critical energy transition? Carolyn Comer, President and CEO of Shell Energy North America, knows exactly how to turn big challenges into big opportunities—and she’s sharing her playbook in this must-listen episode of Real Leadership.
Carolyn pulls back the curtain on the energy industry’s biggest hurdles: reliability, affordability, and the urgent shift to cleaner energy. But this episode goes far beyond industry talk. Carolyn delivers raw, actionable insights on what it takes to lead—how empathy, curiosity, and bravery drive success at the highest levels. From overcoming self-doubt to taking bold risks, she shares the exact strategies that have shaped her career and transformed leadership at Shell.
In an era of evolving leadership, Carolyn shows why Emotional Intelligence (EQ) isn’t just a buzzword—it’s a competitive edge. She also looks candidly at how Shell is driving diversity and inclusion in leadership, creating opportunities for women to thrive in one of the most complex industries.
If you’re serious about leadership, growth, and the future of energy, this episode is packed with the real-world lessons you need to hear. Don't miss your chance to learn from one of the most influential leaders in energy today.
Why You Need to Listen Now:
Master the Energy Transition: Carolyn explains how Shell is tackling the urgent shift to clean energy while keeping power affordable and reliable. Learn the strategic insights you won’t hear anywhere else.
Unlock Leadership Secrets: Carolyn’s approach to leadership—rooted in empathy, curiosity, and courage—will transform your thinking about leading teams and driving change.
Learn from a Proven Leader: Whether you're an executive or aspiring leader, Carolyn’s advice on self-advocacy, mentorship, and finding work-life balance will inspire you to take bold steps in your journey.
Inside Shell’s DEI Strategy: Discover how Shell breaks barriers in leadership diversity and hear Carolyn’s story of rising to the top in a male-dominated industry.
Key Takeaways:
The energy industry is at a crossroads—discover how Shell is positioning itself for a cleaner, more reliable future.
Empathy and engagement are not just leadership buzzwords but your keys to inspiring and motivating teams.
Women in leadership can thrive with the right support system—find out how Shell is building that environment.
Curiosity and bravery are the cornerstones of success in any industry—learn how to cultivate both for your career.
Chapters:00:00 – Introduction to Carolyn Comer07:21 – Inside Shell and the Energy Industry14:32 – Balancing Clean Energy, Reliability, and Affordability23:11 – What’s Next for Nuclear Energy?26:16 – Leading as a Woman in the Energy Sector29:29 – How to Achieve Work-Life Balance in High-Level Leadership38:14 – Carolyn’s Personal Philosophy on Leadership and Growth
Sound Bites:"Be curious and be brave.""People will always remember how you made them feel."
Call to Action:If you’re ready to level up your leadership and get a behind-the-scenes look at the energy industry's future, this episode is for you. Listen now to discover how one of the most powerful women in energy is leading Shell through change—and how you can apply her lessons to your career. Don’t wait—hit play and start transforming your leadership today!

Paula Marshall, CEO of The Bama Companies: Transforming Leadership Through Care and Accountability

Reducing Fear in the WorkplaceHow do you take a family business from survival mode to thriving on the global stage? Paula Marshall, CEO of The Bama Companies, did just that by focusing on reducing fear in the workplace. In this episode, Paula shares how she transformed Bama’s culture by fostering open communication and collaboration. She emphasizes the power of making employees feel valued and secure, which in turn led to better performance and innovation across the board. If you're looking for leadership insights that go beyond the usual playbook, Paula's approach will inspire you to rethink how you lead.Why You Should ListenPaula Marshall didn’t just inherit a business—she transformed it. After taking over The Bama Companies during a family health crisis, Paula navigated the pressures from major clients like McDonald’s and turned a regional pie company into an international powerhouse. In this episode, Paula delves into the lessons she learned from Dr. W. Edwards Deming, particularly the Red Bead Experiment, and how it reshaped her management style. She also discusses the challenges of expanding into China and how maintaining a win-win relationship between the U.S. and China is crucial for future success. If you’re interested in leadership that balances performance with compassion, this conversation is for you.Show Notes and Time Stamps00:00:00 - Introduction and Background: Paula Marshall’s journey to becoming CEO of The Bama Companies.
00:02:13 - Becoming CEO of the Family Business: The challenges of taking over after a family health crisis.
00:09:49 - Growth and Success under Paula’s Leadership: How Bama grew from $30 million to $350 million in revenue.
00:13:09 - Reducing Fear and Fostering Communication: Paula’s focus on creating a safe and open work environment.
00:17:05 - The Influence of the Deming System: Lessons from Dr. W. Edwards Deming that shaped Paula’s leadership.
00:21:28 - The Red Bead Experiment and Faulty Systems: Understanding the impact of systems on employee performance.
00:24:17 - Taking Responsibility and Involving Employees: The importance of leadership accountability and employee involvement.
00:29:15 - From Handheld Pies to International Expansion: The story of Bama’s growth from Tulsa to the global market.
00:32:50 - Challenges and Opportunities in Operating in China: Navigating the complexities of international business.
00:38:36 - Building a Win-Win Relationship between the U.S. and China: Paula’s insights on maintaining positive international relations.
00:43:17 - Loving and Honoring Every Soul Every Second: Paula’s personal mission statement and how it guides her leadership.
00:45:05 - Continuous Improvement and Engagement: Keys to achieving excellence in business.
Connect with Paula MarshallPersonal Website: Paula Marshall Official
LinkedIn: Paula Marshall on LinkedIn
Instagram: Paula Marshall on Instagram
 
 

David Walker - CEO and President of EBSCO Industries

Empowerment Without AbandonmentEver wondered how the leader of a $3.1 billion company maintains a culture of independence and accountability across multiple industries? David Walker, President and CEO of EBSCO Industries, shares his secret: Empowerment without Abandonment. In this episode, David explains how giving his teams the freedom to be entrepreneurial—without leaving them to fend for themselves—has been crucial to EBSCO’s sustained success. If you’re passionate about leadership that fosters innovation and autonomy while ensuring alignment and accountability, this episode is a must-hear.Why You Should ListenDavid Walker isn’t just managing a business—he’s guiding a global enterprise with a deep understanding of how to balance empowerment and oversight. This episode of Real Leadership offers a rare look into how one of America’s largest privately-held companies thrives under his leadership. You’ll hear David discuss practical strategies for:
Building and maintaining momentum in a diversified business.
Creating a winning company culture that resonates across different sectors.
Navigating the challenges of today’s volatile economic environment with resilience and foresight.
This episode isn’t just for CEOs—it’s for anyone who wants to learn how to lead with purpose, whether you're managing a team or looking to grow in your career.Show Notes and Time Stamps
00:00:00 - Introduction: Meet David Walker, the leader behind EBSCO Industries.
00:05:30 - David’s Journey: From public accounting to leading a global enterprise.
00:15:00 - Empowerment without Abandonment: How to balance autonomy and accountability in leadership.
00:30:00 - Sustaining Growth: EBSCO’s strategy for long-term success across multiple industries.
00:45:00 - Cultural Insights: Fostering a culture of humility and continuous improvement.
01:00:00 - Work-Life Balance: David’s advice for young professionals on balancing career and family.
01:15:00 - Looking Ahead: David’s thoughts on the future of manufacturing in the U.S. and EBSCO’s role in it.
Connect with David Walker
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-walker-826090a/ LinkedIn
Company Website: EBSCO Indushttps://www.ebscoind.comtries
Email: davidwalker@ebsco.com
Listen NowDon’t miss this deep dive into leadership from one of America’s top business minds. Tune in to Real Leadership on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Learn how to lead with empowerment and accountability, and discover what it takes to sustain success in today’s competitive environment.

Richard DeBoer, Executive Vice President of Supply Chain Logistics at Carter Logistics

He’s driving operational excellence in a world of milk runs, cross-docks, and lean practices.
Richard DeBoer, Executive Vice President of Supply Chain Logistics at Carter Logistics, combines financial acumen with operational expertise to lead one of the top logistics firms. Drawing on his wealth of experience as CFO and COO, Richard has propelled Carter Logistics into a period of expansion, fortifying their presence in markets considered challenging to navigate.
In this episode, you will: 
Learn the strategies behind a 200% revenue increase in Mexico operations
Uncover how lean practices and continuous improvement can boost your efficiency
Discover how Carter Logistics evolved from a local player to a major force in transportation
Gain insights on navigating cross-border logistics and the impact of infrastructure development in Mexico
Show Notes
Connect with Richard: https://www.linkedin.com/in/richard-deboer-75738435/ 
Connect with Carter Logistics:
Website: https://www.carter-express.com/ 
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/carter-logistics-llc/ 
Connect with Jim: 
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jim-weaver-36457418/
Twitter/X: https://x.com/jpweaverjr 
Learn More About Ōnin: 
Website: OninGroup.com/clients/
LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/4c1PmRc 
Ōnin is a staffing company driven by purpose and focused on the workforce needs of light industrial and manufacturing companies. We're all about solving our clients' toughest workforce challenges head-on so everyone can win in a new era of work.

Wes Carter, President of Atlantic Packaging, Founder of A New Earth Project

We’re still reeling a bit from what we just learned:
The uncomfortable truth behind building a great culture.
How will the next revolution in packaging impact your business, too? 
When innovation beats iteration.
Our guest in this episode took us in directions we weren’t expecting (but man, did we need to go there!)His passion and pragmatism are changing an industry. 
Wes Carter, President of Atlantic Packaging, is leading the charge in transforming the packaging industry through sustainability. And it isn’t the first time the packaging company has led the charge on an important issue of the day. As a third-generation leader, Wes has infused his lifelong passion for the outdoors into his professional life, positioning Atlantic Packaging at the forefront of the sustainability movement.
In this episode of Real Leadership, we delve into:
How Atlantic Packaging evolved from a weekly newspaper to one of the largest packaging companies in North America
Why Atlantic Packaging decided to get technical and innovate new packaging options
How sustainability is poised to revolutionize the packaging industry and beyond
The simple but oft-missed key to building a great culture
The groundbreaking New Earth Project and its impact on reducing plastic pollution
Show Notes
Watch the “Journey to a New Earth” Series on Amazon Prime: https://www.amazon.com/Journey-New-Earth-Season-1/dp/B0BZYTGB8W 
Connect with Wes: 
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wes-carter-32a7a5b/
Connect with Atlantic Packaging: 
Website: https://www.atlanticpkg.com/ 
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/atlantic-packaging/ : 
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/atlanticpkg/ 
Connect with A New Earth Project
Website: https://anewearthproject.com/ 
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/anewearthproject/?miniCompanyUrn=urn%3Ali%3Afsd_company%3A71187370 
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/c/ANewEarthProject 
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ANewEarthProject/ 
Connect with Jim: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jim-weaver-36457418/   or https://x.com/jpweaverjr
Learn More About Ōnin: OninGroup.com/clients/
Ōnin is a staffing company driven by purpose and focused on the workforce needs of light industrial and manufacturing companies. We're all about solving our clients' toughest workforce challenges head-on so everyone can win in a new era of work.

Steve Ammons, CEO of the Birmingham Business Alliance

The transcendent career of a recovering politician.  
Before Steve Ammons became the CEO of the Birmingham Business Alliance, he served as a Jefferson County Commissioner, focusing on economic development and information technology. Steve’s journey from entrepreneur to city council member to a key figure in regional economic growth has left a lasting impact on the Birmingham region.
In this episode of Real Leadership, we discuss:
How Steve is transforming the Birmingham Business Alliance amid leadership instability
The critical role of workforce development in attracting major employers like the JM Smucker Company
Navigating the challenges of regulation and workforce participation at both local and national levels
The great reads that have shaped Steve’s outlook on leadership
Show Notes
Connect with Steve: 
LinkedIn
Facebook
Instagram
Connect with the Birmingham Business Alliance: 
Website: https://www.birminghambusinessalliance.com
LinkedIn
Facebook
Instagram
Twitter
Connect with Background IQ: 
Website: https://www.backgroundiq.com/ 
LinkedIn
Connect with Jim: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jim-weaver-36457418/ 
Learn More About Ōnin: OninGroup.com/clients/
 
Ōnin is a staffing company driven by purpose and focused on the workforce needs of light industrial and manufacturing companies. We're all about solving our clients' toughest workforce challenges head-on so everyone can win in a new era of work.

Max Navarro, President of OpTech

Living the pros and cons of being a young leader
Before stepping into his role as President of Operational Technologies Corporation (OpTech), Maximiliano Navarro III honed his entrepreneurial skills and gained invaluable insights from his family’s business. When it comes to drive and commitment, Maximiliano proves age is just a number. 
In this episode of Real Leadership, we explore: 
How early exposure to international business and a legacy of leadership shaped Maximiliano’s entrepreneurial spirit
The Toyota way
The importance of adaptability and relationship-building
How young leaders can navigate challenges and drive their companies forward
Why “permission” and building trust mean more than any job title
Show notes
Connect with Operational Technologies Corporation (OpTech)
Website: otcorp.com/ 
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/operational-technologies-corporation-optech/  
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/OpTechGroup/about 
Twitter: https://twitter.com/optechgroup?lang=en 
Connect with Maximiliano: 
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/maxnavarro/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/maximiliano.navarro_/ 
Connect with Jim: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jim-weaver-36457418/ 
Learn More About Ōnin: OninGroup.com/clients/
 
Ōnin is a staffing company driven by purpose and focused on the workforce needs of light industrial and manufacturing companies. We're all about solving our clients' toughest workforce challenges head-on so everyone can win in a new era of work.