What happens when empathy meets innovation? Joe Pardavila sits down with Chris Kaufman, co-founder and former Chief Creative Officer of StockX, to explore how people-first leadership drives creativity and business success.

Chris shares:
• How his obsession with design evolved into a passion for problem-solving
• The story behind StockX and its revolutionary “stock market for sneakers” model
• Why authenticity and empathy are the most underrated leadership tools
• Lessons from failed rebrands like Cracker Barrel and Tropicana
• How to build trust, psychological safety, and a culture of listening at work

He also reflects on how his parents’ example of kindness shaped his leadership philosophy and inspired his new book, Empathy at Work: Building Better Businesses Through People-First Leadership.

🎧 Listen to the full conversation to learn how empathy fuels creativity, culture, and long-term success.

In this episode of The Authority Company Podcast, host Joe Pardavila talks with Davin Kazama, an entrepreneur, real estate investor, and leadership mentor whose philosophy blends family, humility, and the Hawaiian spirit of aloha. Drawing from three generations of entrepreneurs, Davin shares how his grandfather’s grit, his father’s wisdom, and his own dedication to family shaped his leadership style and life purpose. They discuss Davin’s book, Making Waves: Inspiring Transformational Leadership Through Positivity, Persistence, and Aloha, and unpack the meaning of “leading with aloha”—leading with compassion, service, and authenticity. Davin reflects on the lessons of resilience passed down from his immigrant grandparents, the balance between ambition and gratitude, and how the Hawaiian concept of ohana (family) guides how he builds teams and relationships. From ringing the NASDAQ bell to teaching his daughters about legacy, Davin’s story is a masterclass in leading with heart while staying true to your roots.

From being mistaken for a secretary and told to “get the coffee” to becoming CEO of a New York Stock Exchange company, Suzanne Hopgood’s career is anything but ordinary. In this episode of The Authority Company Podcast, Joe Pardavila sits down with Suzanne, author of Get Your Own Coffee: Underestimated, Overlooked, and Now the Boss, to explore how she turned underestimation into strength and built a legacy of resilience and principled leadership.

Suzanne shares: * The three-minute conversation that made her Chairman and CEO of a public company * The “get your own coffee” moment that inspired her book’s title * Why women were once forced to compete for a single seat at the table * How friendship and support networks made her leadership journey possible * Her candid perspective on being “good at getting fired” and how setbacks opened new doors

Along the way, she reflects on her marriage to Frank, her biggest supporter, and the life they built together filled with adventure, laughter, and big dreams. If you’re interested in leadership, resilience, or breaking barriers, this conversation delivers timeless lessons from someone who has lived them.

Before “college isn’t worth it” became a popular idea, Dr. Kenan Sahin had already lived every side of the American education system—as a student, professor, innovator, and entrepreneur.

 In this episode of The Authority Company Podcast, he joins host Joe Pardavila to share insights from his new book, American Educational Excellence: The Foundation of Our Values, Democracy, and Market Capitalism.

Dr. Sahin explains why U.S. education remains the most dynamic system in the world, why it’s tied directly to democracy and innovation, and why calls to abandon college miss the bigger picture.

He also breaks down: * How comfort and prosperity can distort our view of progress * Why American education produces more adaptable and entrepreneurial * thinkers than any other system * The historical roots of collaboration between universities, business, and government * Why tenure and academic independence still matter * The future of learning in the age of automation and AI

If you’ve ever questioned the role of higher education—or the future of learning in America—this conversation will change how you think about both.

🎧 Listen to the full episode and learn more at theauthoritycompany.com.

Former LA Clippers and UTA CTO Charles Sims, known as The Hurricane CTO, joins Joe Pardavila to share how chaos, pressure, and persistence led to the creation of his Hurricane Methodology—a framework designed to help startups move from idea to execution.Drawing from decades of experience in both corporate tech and venture investing, Charles explains how founders can close the gap between capability and performance, avoid tech sprawl, and build modular systems that scale. He also reveals how AI and empathy are reshaping what it means to lead in the modern startup world.If you’re a founder, investor, or operator tired of analysis paralysis, this episode will help you reframe how you think about progress, execution, and value creation.

💡 What You’ll Learn
• How high-pressure environments shaped the Hurricane Methodology
• The difference between technical excellence and practical execution
• How to identify and close the “human execution gap”
• Why modular systems thinking keeps startups nimble and scalable
• How AI helps bridge communication gaps between founders, teams, and investors⏱️

Episode Highlights
[00:02:00] Charles recounts his time at the LA Clippers, where quick thinking during tech crises earned him the nickname “The Hurricane.”
[00:05:00] From CTO to Investor Lessons from technical firefighting that now guide his approach to evaluating and scaling startups.
[00:08:00] What Traditional Due Diligence Misses - Why numbers only tell half the story—and how people, processes, and purpose drive true startup value.
[00:10:00] The danger of overpromising and underdelivering, and how agile execution keeps teams focused.
[00:12:00] Binary Troubleshooting & Systems - Thinking How founders can use structured questioning and modular design to find clarity in complex problems.
[00:15:00] Tech Stack Sprawl - Charles breaks down the mess of overlapping tools and offers a plan for simplifying how teams communicate.
[00:18:00] Build, Buy, or Configure - Why configuration beats customization and how to make smarter decisions about your tools and systems.
[00:20:00] Inside SkaFld Studio - How SkaFld Studio helps startups get operational fast with frameworks that drive execution and alignment.
[00:25:00] Real-World Case Study - A client story showing how productizing services and standardizing systems can unlock exponential growth.
[00:31:00] Pragmatism Over Perfection - Why simplicity and adaptability often outperform “technical excellence.”
[00:33:00] AI’s Role in the Hurricane Methodology - How artificial intelligence bridges communication gaps and amplifies human problem-solving.

• Website: skafldstudio.com
• Email: charles@skafldstudio.com
• LinkedIn: Charles Sims

In this episode of The Authority Company Podcast, Joe Pardavila talks with Dr. Midhat Zwayen, president of Dijlah Consulting Engineers and author of Leadership Beyond Borders: A Western Executive’s Guide to the Iraqi Business Mindset. Dr. Zwayen shares how his upbringing during Iraq’s transformation—from a modern, globally connected nation to decades of dictatorship and back toward recovery—shaped his views on leadership, resilience, and collaboration. He explains how Western executives can engage meaningfully in Iraq’s rebuilding economy, the misconceptions that keep investors away, and why early partnerships matter for multinational growth.

They discuss: * Iraq’s evolving relationship with the West and lessons from its modern history * How Iraq’s new generation and technology are reshaping business culture * What Western leaders should know before entering the Iraqi market * Why understanding local culture is key to long-term success

A rare, candid look into leadership across borders—and how cultural understanding can drive opportunity and progress. Watch now to learn how Dr. Zwayen is helping bridge worlds and redefine leadership in one of the oldest civilizations on Earth.

What does it take to build wealth, create freedom, and avoid the traps most entrepreneurs fall into? In this episode of The Authority Company Podcast, Joe Pardavila sits down with Cliff Nonnenmacher, CEO and co-founder of Franocity and co-author of Beyond the Brand: The Entrepreneur’s Guide to Fearless Franchising. Cliff shares his journey from selling golf balls as a kid to guiding hundreds of aspiring franchise owners today.

He explains: * Why franchising mitigates risk compared to starting from scratch * How discipline, systems, and fit determine success * Why most small businesses struggle to sell, but franchises retain value * The five societal trends shaping franchise opportunities today * How fear and ego stop people from pursuing business ownership

From the lessons of McDonald’s and Subway to the rise of brands like Jersey Mike’s and CertaPro Painters, Cliff reveals what separates thriving franchises from failures. Whether you’re considering franchise ownership, curious about business models, or looking to rethink your career path, this conversation delivers practical insights you won’t want to miss.

On this episode of The Authority Company Podcast, Joe Pardavila welcomes back Damon Stafford, CEO of Alpine Intel and author of Believe in Better: The Evolution of Core Principles that Pioneered an Industry. 


 



Damon returns to share why profitability is more than a short-term goal. It’s a discipline and a journey. He explains why founders should stop chasing “growth at all costs,” the importance of listening deeply to customers, and how to recognize early warning signs that your business is drifting off the path to profit. 



 



The conversation dives into: 



* Why profitability at the transaction level matters more than top-line growth. 



* The pitfalls founders face when selling to private equity. 



* Why some mergers and acquisitions fail and what makes others thrive. 



* The “Profitability Triangle” of people, process, and technology. 



* Why CEOs must understand transactions without becoming micromanagers. 



* How to know when it’s time to bring in a CFO. 



 



Damon also shares practical takeaways for leaders who are close to profitability but need a clear plan to cross the finish line. If you want a candid look at sustainable growth and how to build a company that lasts, this episode is for you.

In this episode of The Authority Company Podcast, Joe Pardavila sits down with transformational business leader Kim Skanson, author of Attitude Advantage: The Timeless Power of Positive Perspective. Kim shares how the lessons of resilience and optimism she learned from her grandmother shaped her leadership style and fueled her career across Fortune 50 companies like Target, Cargill, and Travelers. She explains why a positive mental attitude (PMA) is not about ignoring challenges, but about staying grounded, transparent, and intentional in how you respond to them. From breaking through barriers as a woman in technology, to balancing her roles as an executive, mother, and mentor, Kim reflects on the pivotal moments that defined her journey. She also offers practical advice on leading with authenticity, managing time with intention, and pursuing growth without self-imposed ceilings. If you want insights on resilience, leadership, and the mindset that turns setbacks into opportunities, this conversation will inspire you to rethink how you show up in both business and life.

On this episode of The Authority Company Podcast, Joe Pardavila sits down with Dr. Sherry McAllister, author of Adjusted Reality: Supercharge Your Whole Being for Optimal Living and Longevity. Dr. McAllister shares her personal journey from aspiring pediatric oncologist to passionate chiropractor after a devastating car accident changed the course of her life. Sherry and Joe discuss the historic struggles of chiropractic pioneers, the AMA’s campaign to discredit the profession, and why so many people still misunderstand chiropractic care. Dr. McAllister also explains how chiropractic adjustments work, the importance of patient empowerment, and the “seven pillars” of whole-being health she outlines in her book—including her favorite, revitalizement. Listeners will come away with a new perspective on drug-free healing, the power of lifestyle choices, and how to reimagine their own path to optimal health and longevity.

On this episode of The Authority Company Podcast, Joe Pardavila sits down with executive career strategist Gina Riley, creator of the Career Velocity™ System and author of Qualified Isn’t Enough. Drawing on her background in executive search and career coaching, Gina shares why being “qualified” is only the starting point for landing competitive leadership roles.

They explore:

• How hiring attitudes toward transferable skills have shifted since the pandemic
• Why “job hugging” is shaping today’s workforce
• The pitfalls of relying solely on resumes and applicant tracking systems
• The importance of a unique value proposition in standing out from equally qualified candidates 
• How to navigate interviews with confidence using her RARE Candidate Framework
• The hidden job market and strategies to access it
• Challenges executives face in mid-career transitions, including age bias, and how to overcome them

Packed with insights from her book and coaching practice, Gina provides practical advice for leaders who want to sharpen their presence, tell their story effectively, and position themselves as the clear choice for high-stakes opportunities.

On this episode of The Authority Company Podcast, Joe Pardavila sits down with Reverend Kevin T. Taylor, pastor, C-suite executive, and author of A Charge to Keep: Immutable Leadership Lessons from the C-Suite to the Pulpit. Reverend Taylor shares how lessons from the pulpit and the boardroom overlap, offering practical guidance for leaders navigating change, tough decisions, and the growing empathy deficit in today’s world. He unpacks the importance of forgiveness and redemption, balancing faith-based values with real-world leadership challenges like layoffs, and why intentional diversity drives stronger outcomes. The conversation also highlights personal stories from his journey, including the $6,000 “miracle check” that saved a church from foreclosure, the realities of change resistance in academia and organizations, and the role of consistent character in both private and public life. Whether you’re leading a business, a nonprofit, or a congregation, Reverend Taylor’s timeless leadership lessons will help you lead with purpose, principle, and compassion.

In this episode of The Authority Company Podcast, host Joe Pardavila sits down with Dr. Ramin Farhood and Dr. Kirk Shepard, co-authors of Voices of Oncology and co-founders of the Medical Affairs Professional Society (MAPS). Together, they share how breaking down silos, fostering collaboration, and elevating the patient voice are reshaping the future of oncology drug development. Farhood and Shepard reflect on their decade-long partnership in oncology, the lessons learned from working across functions, and why they believe true progress depends on bringing every perspective to the table—from scientists and regulators to patients and advocates. They discuss the “moonshot” mindset, the surprising insights from more than 30 contributors to their book, and how advances in AI and real-time FDA review processes are accelerating the path from research to treatment. This conversation highlights the optimism, challenges, and collaborative breakthroughs driving innovation in cancer care—and why building a global community of experts is essential to finding cures.

Joe Pardavila sits down with David C. Blivin, Founder and Managing Director of Cottonwood Technology Funds and author of Crossing the Cactus: A Blueprint for Tech Commercialization Success Outside Silicon Valley.

With over 30 years of experience investing in hard science startups, David shares why breakthrough ideas don’t only come from Silicon Valley, and how communities across the U.S. and Europe can keep innovation, jobs, and economic growth close to home.

Dave also explains how his approach flips the script from “money follows management” to “management follows money,” and why workforce development and policy incentives matter just as much as capital.

This conversation is a must-listen for founders, policymakers, and investors who want to grow innovation beyond the traditional tech hubs.

In this episode of The Authority Company Podcast, Joe Pardavila sits down with Julia Putzeys, founder and GM of Trash Panda, the fast-growing app that flags harmful ingredients in your food with a simple barcode scan. Julia shares how her career in product management and software development (including a stint at the NFL) combined with her passion for nutrition to inspire Trash Panda.

She explains: * The moment she realized how little most of us know about food ingredients. * How Trash Panda makes it easy to understand what’s in your groceries. * Why packaged foods aren’t always the enemy and how to read ingredient lists. * The challenges of building and monetizing a mission-driven app in a crowded space. * Her commitment to transparency and independence—no paid brand partnerships.

If you’re interested in healthier eating, startup stories, or creating tech with purpose, this conversation offers practical insights you can use right away.

Download Trash Panda on the App Store or Google Play, and follow Julia on social media at @TrashPandaApp.

Former NFL quarterback and current behavioral healthcare CEO BJ Coleman joins Joe Pardavila to share how he made the leap from professional sports to leading high-performing teams and turning around struggling facilities. Drawing from his book The Pivot, BJ breaks down the transferable skills that helped him succeed off the field, including consistency, discipline, and preparation. He explains how “two and a half second moments” from his quarterback days apply to high-stakes decision-making in business, why failing faster accelerates growth, and what it takes to be a true turnaround leader. From managing front-of-house culture in healthcare to guiding organizations through change, BJ offers a candid playbook for facing life’s biggest transitions and coming out stronger.

Neurologist and sleep specialist Dr. Anne Marie Morse joins Joe Pardavila to explain why better talk - not larger tech - drives better care. 

Her new book Communication in Healthcare: Charting the Course to Better Outcomes with Trust, Respect, and Teamwork sets the stage for their conversation.

Dr. Morse learned the cost of silence while watching her mother battle multiple sclerosis without support for decades. That experience shaped the five principles she now lives by: trust, respect, communication, best-in-class care, and teamwork. When those links break, outcomes suffer - so she urges every listener to keep a symptom diary that shows patterns a rushed visit might miss. 

Dr. Morse also walks through a simple repair plan for tough moments: own the lapse, name the root cause, apologize, then add guardrails to stop repeat errors. Looking ahead, she envisions care that follows people between appointments through wearables, remote monitoring, and shared data instead of short, disjointed visits.

Joe Pardavila chats with crisis communication expert Michele Ehrhart, author of Crisis Compass: How to Communicate When It Matters Most.

With over two decades of experience navigating high-stakes crises for global organizations like FedEx, Michele unpacks what truly defines a crisis, shares actionable strategies for leaders, and reveals why transparency and compassion are non-negotiable in crisis management.

Dive into riveting case studies, from Tylenol’s legendary response to product tampering to Subway’s missteps during the Jared scandal. Michele also discusses the evolving role of social media, the “Goodwill Bank” concept for brand resilience, and her unexpected journey from theater enthusiast to crisis strategist—including behind-the-scenes stories about FedEx’s iconic Cast Away movie cameo.

Whether you’re a leader preparing for the unknown or curious about turning chaos into opportunity, this episode offers timeless insights on steering through storms—and why “if it isn’t bleeding or dying, you can fix it.”

On this episode of The Authority Company podcast, Joe Pardavila sits down with Steve Smithwick, founder of Master Wall and author of Believer, Bulldog, Coach.

Steve shares his remarkable journey from getting fired to building a multimillion-dollar manufacturing business rooted in faith, empathy, and perseverance. 

They dive into what sparked Steve’s entrepreneurial leap, how servant leadership shaped his company culture, and why likability became one of his most valuable assets. Plus, Steve opens up about the lessons he learned as a high school basketball coach, how he handled near-death moments in business, and the role faith and family have played in his success.

A must-listen for anyone seeking to lead with purpose and resilience.

What do seminary school, a dairy burn room, and running a global biotech powerhouse have in common? Paul Perreault. In this episode of The Authority Company Podcast, host Joe Pardavila sits down with Paul Perreault, former CEO of CSL and author of The Detour CEO, to explore how a non-linear path shaped his values-driven approach to leadership. Paul opens up about working 80-hour weeks in a restaurant, scrubbing burnt milk, and studying to become a priest—all before leading a multi-billion dollar company. He shares why being a generalist is underrated, how to separate identity from work, and what it really means to “add value” in life and business. Whether you’re navigating your own professional pivot or leading a team, Paul’s insights on humility, culture, and the myth of the corporate ladder are worth the listen.