In this episode, Gina Tabasso delves into her background as a Lean Six Sigma industrial growth strategist, sharing her journey from advertising to becoming a notable figure in manufacturing and industrial distribution. Gina and Deb discuss the complexities of helping small and medium-sized businesses grow, Gina’s holistic approach to marketing and lead generation, and the importance of addressing root issues in a business before executing marketing strategies. Gina also introduces the Manufacturing Resource Group, a consortium aiming to provide comprehensive support to manufacturing companies. This episode is a treasure trove of insights for C-suite leaders looking to navigate challenges in the manufacturing and marketing sectors.

Episode Highlights:

00:34 Meet Gina Tobasso: Founder of Barracuda B2B Marketing

04:09 The Origin of Barracuda B2B Marketing

13:41 The Manufacturing Resource Group

18:52 Holistic Approach to Marketing and Business Solutions

Gina Tabasso, founder of Barracuda B2B Marketing, is a powerhouse growth strategist with massive manufacturing chops. With 30+ years in industrial marketing and business development, she’s worked for the Ohio Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP), holds Lean Six Sigma Yellow and Green Belts (Black Belt coming in 2025), and has completed six Lean Six Sigma projects. A welding-certified expert, she’s managed leading trade publications and founded the Manufacturing Resource Group, a consortium dedicated to helping manufacturers thrive. Backed by Sandler Sales training and National Utilities Refund auditing, Gina applies a data-driven, process-oriented approach that sets her apart from every B2B agency out there.

Connect with Gina:

🌎 Company Website: https://barracudab2b.com/
🔗 Gina’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ginatabasso/
🔗 Barracuda B2B’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/barracudab2b/
🔗MFG Resource Group LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/mfg-resource-group/
🔗 Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@barracudab2b

🔗 Company Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/barracudab2b
🔗 Gina’s X: https://x.com/gtabasso
🔗Company X: https://x.com/barracudab2b

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In this episode of The Drop In CEO Podcast, host Deb Coviello welcomes Jack Brendamore, CEO and co-owner of Junk King Cincinnati, and his COO Jason Lefker. They discuss Junk King's unique approach to junk removal, which emphasizes community service and environmental responsibility. The conversation delves into the company's culture, their substantial charitable contributions, and their focus on sustainability—highlighting how they divert millions of pounds of waste from landfills each year. Jack and Jason share personal stories of community impact, such as helping a family in need during the holidays, and discuss the numerous nonprofits they support. Additionally, they talk about organizational challenges, team dynamics, and their vision for the future. This episode is an inspiring look at how a business can make a significant social impact while providing excellent service.

Episode Highlights:

04:28 The Culture and Values at Junk King

10:17 Community Impact and Success Stories

13:39 Environmental Achievements and Nonprofit Partnerships

21:29 Challenges and Future Vision for Junk King

Jack Brendamour is the CEO & Co-owner of Junk King Cincinnati, Dayton, & Northern Kentucky. He is a husband of 10 years to his wonderful wife Julianne, who is a teacher at Little Miami Schools. They are very blessed to have their hands full at home with twin two year old daughters and a four year old son. Jack is a philanthropist and focuses much of his energy on ways to help local nonprofits and also the environment through his business. He supports over 50 local nonprofits regularly and is a proud Board Member for The Dragonfly Foundation and Cincinnati Aging Resource Experts. Outside of his career, Jack enjoys spending time with his Family, everything outdoors and athletics on all levels. You can always count on him chanting Who Dey year-round!

Jason Lefker is a dedicated leader and operations expert with a passion for delivering exceptional service and fostering community connections. As COO of Junk King Cincinnati, Jason oversees the day-to-day operations, ensuring the company’s mission of eco-friendly junk removal and outstanding customer care is consistently met.
Jason has built a reputation for driving operational efficiency while maintaining a people-first approach. Under his leadership, Junk King has strengthened its commitment to recycling, donating, and minimizing landfill contributions, partnering with local nonprofits to give back to the community.

With a hands-on management style, Jason is known for mentoring his team and inspiring them to go above and beyond. He’s a champion for innovation and growth, constantly seeking new ways to improve service offerings and exceed customer expectations.
Beyond the office, Jason is an active member of the Greater Cincinnati community, often participating in local events and initiatives that support sustainability and community development.

When he’s not working, Jason enjoys spending quality time with his family, immersing himself in the vibrant live music scene, and cheering on the Bengals and Buckeyes.
"Success for me isn’t just about growing the business—it’s about building relationships, giving back, and making a positive impact on the communities we serve

Connect with Jack and Jason:

🌎 Company Website: www.junkking.com
🔗 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JunkKingCincinnati/

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In this episode of The Drop In CEO Podcast, host Deb Coviello welcomes Nancy Zare, Ph.D., also known as The LinkedIn Whisperer. As the creator of The AlikeAbility™ Sales System, Nancy helps professional business owners generate warm, organic leads on LinkedIn and convert them into clients—without feeling salesy or pushy.

Nancy shares her unconventional journey from psychology to sales, how she discovered the power of the Platinum Rule, and why understanding personality-driven buying styles is a game-changer for entrepreneurs and business leaders. Whether you're a C-suite executive transitioning into entrepreneurship or a business owner struggling to convert leads into sales, this episode offers actionable insights to help you build meaningful connections and drive profitability.

Deb and Nancy discuss how sales is fundamentally about relationships, the mindset shift needed to sell with confidence, and how to tailor your approach based on buying styles. Plus, Nancy shares her inspiring work with animal rescue and cancer support organizations, reminding us that business is ultimately about serving others.

Episode Highlights:

• 02:10 – Nancy’s Journey: From Psychology to Sales
• 10:30 – The Platinum Rule: Why Selling Is About Understanding Others
• 18:45 – The 5 Steps of The AlikeAbility™ System
• 30:20 – Why Sales Isn’t About Hustling—It’s About Building Relationships
• 42:00 – The Mindset Shift That Makes Selling Feel Effortless

About Nancy Zare:

Nancy Zare, Ph.D., The LinkedIn Whisperer, is the creator of The AlikeAbility(™) Sales System. Renowned for her focus on buyers, she shows professional business owners how to generate warm, organic leads on LinkedIn and turn them into clients.

She earned her master's and doctorate from Boston College and authored seven books, including an Amazon international bestseller.

Nancy resides in South Florida and is a student of spirituality. She volunteers for the Farm Dog Rescue and the Imerman Angels.

Connect with Nancy:

🌎 Company Website: https://nancyzare.com
🔗 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nancy.zare/
🔗 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nancyzare/
🔗 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drnancyzare/
🔗 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@hattipz/
🔗 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCx_Xg1ujAUMnhy87VWYouJA

For More Insights from The Drop In CEO:

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📺 Follow on YouTube: https://bit.ly/47GgMdn
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See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, Dr. Sirisha Kuchimanchi, a seasoned semiconductor tech executive, TEDx speaker, and entrepreneur, shares her inspiring career journey—from navigating layoffs and career breaks to leading in advanced manufacturing and workforce development. She discusses how networking and adaptability played a key role in her career trajectory and how leaders can develop strategic thinking to stay ahead.

Dr. Kuchimanchi also explores the importance of diversity in innovation, the evolving semiconductor industry, and how leaders can create scalable, people-agnostic systems for long-term business success. Whether you're navigating a career transition or looking to future-proof your leadership skills, this episode is packed with insights to help you lead with confidence.

Episode Highlights:

02:23 – Dr. Kuchimanchi’s Career Journey & Overcoming Career Breaks
10:40 – Leadership Insights: Navigating Change & Building Strategic Thinking
20:42 – Trends in Semiconductor & Advanced Manufacturing

About Dr. Sirisha Kuchimanchi:

Dr. Sirisha Kuchimanchi is the founder of Sahita Technologies, specializing in strategy consulting for semiconductors, advanced manufacturing, and workforce development. With a Ph.D. from Carnegie Mellon, she has over 20 years of experience leading in the semiconductor industry, working in engineering, quality, and leadership development. She is a TEDx speaker, board member, and advocate for diversity in STEM, helping companies future-proof their talent and operations.

Connect with Dr. Kuchimanchi:

🌎 Company Website: https://www.sahitatechnologies.com/
🔗 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sirishakuchimanchi/

For More Insights from The Drop In CEO:

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In this episode, Mark Beran, a seasoned medical device executive, discusses hi journey from working in his father's startup to leading sales and marketing teams in global medical device companies. Mark shares insights on team building, strategy execution, and the importance of having a connected and motivated workforce. He also touches on the challenges and opportunities presented by AI and regulations in the medical device industry. Listeners will gain valuable tips for driving organizational success and fostering a positive work environment.

Episode Highlights:

02:23 Mark’s Career Journey

10:40 Leadership Insights and Turnaround Strategies

20:42 Challenges and Trends in the Medical Industry

Mark Beran is a dynamic executive driving sales, marketing, and product development for a $250M leader in hospital textiles and patient safety products. He led M&A strategy, restructured sales for growth, and reversed a seven-year revenue decline. Mark spearheaded go-to-market strategies for new products, securing clinical advisory boards and marketing tools. His innovation leadership resulted in multiple patents, including a groundbreaking patient warming solution in a $3B market and advancements in Therapeutic Support Surfaces. With a focus on strategy, efficiency, and innovation, Mark combines vision and execution to drive business growth and transform patient care solutions.

Connect with Mark:

Company Website: www.starboardmedical.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/markberan/

For more insights:

Book a call: https://bit.ly/4cToGDs

Follow me on my YouTube Channel: https://bit.ly/47GgMdn

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In this episode, Paul Tripi shares his journey from starting in the advertising industry to eventually joining Beck Flavors, highlighting the challenges and successes in growing the family-owned business. Deb and Paul discuss the strong working relationship between Paul and his brother-in-law Matt Carr, their shared leadership dynamics, and how their different strengths complement each other. Paul emphasizes the importance of a customer-centric approach and nurturing a positive company culture. He also shares success stories of bringing client ideas to life and the rewarding experience of seeing their products on store shelves. The episode underscores the significance of family, both in personal life and in business, and how this philosophy drives Beck Flavors' operations and growth.

Episode Highlights:

05:23 Joining Beck Flavors and Family Dynamics

08:44 Building a Strong Company Culture

17:20 Customer Success Stories and Impact

21:53 Overcoming Business Challenges

Paul Tripi, Vice President and Co-Owner of Beck Flavors. Paul, a University of Missouri graduate, started his professional career in advertising and promotions before starting a title insurance company in the early 2000’s. After the real estate market bubble popped he moved onto sales and sales management for a tech company specializing in IT and multi-function equipment before joining Beck Flavors as a Business Development Manager and eventually Vice President and Co Owner in 2021. Paul’s passion in business is connecting with customers, solving problems and partnering with clients to grow together and sharing success. In Paul’s free time, he likes spending time with his wife and 2 children, and spending "Zen Time” on a fishing boat or hiking a trail.

Connect with Paul:

Company Website: www.beckflavors.com

For more insights:

Book a call: https://bit.ly/4cToGDs

Follow me on my YouTube Channel: https://bit.ly/47GgMdn

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In this episode, David Horlock shares insights on agricultural and manufacturing standards, ISO certifications, and their impact on global supply chains. The discussion dives into practical examples, such as environmental standards (ISO 14001) and occupational health standards (ISO 45000), and how they align with the United Nations Sustainability Development Goals (UNSDG). David emphasizes the importance of managing processes over people, institutionalizing habits, and prioritizing critical issues to achieve business goals. This episode is a treasure trove of advice for C-suite leaders and boards on leveraging standards to build trust, achieve compliance, and drive continuous improvement.

Episode Highlights:

01:05 Meet David Horlock: A Leader in Compliance

02:59 David's Global Journey and Career Highlights

09:38 The Importance of Standards in Business

16:42 Implementing Standards for Success

David Horlock is a seasoned executive with 40 years of leadership in the Testing, Inspection, and Certification (TIC) sector. He has overseen global operations, ensuring compliance and quality across Agri-Food, FMCG, and sustainability industries. Managing 14 country directorships across 50 countries, he specializes in carbon project development, ESG initiatives, and monetizing natural capital. With expertise in governance, strategy, and business scaling, he drives growth while fostering resilience. A dual UK-Australian citizen, born in Thailand and educated in Australia, David brings deep cultural and commercial insights to global leadership, building high-performing teams and sustainable enterprises in an evolving world.

Connect with David:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-horlock-7947602/

For more insights:

Book a call: https://bit.ly/4cToGDs

Follow me on my YouTube Channel: https://bit.ly/47GgMdn

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In this episode, Jeff Smith discusses his extensive career journey, including his work with unmanned undersea vehicles (UUVs) and his experiences starting his own business. Jeff shares his insights on building strong teams, the challenges and opportunities in undersea exploration, and the importance of mentors and trusted networks in achieving success. Additionally, Jeff delves into his personal passion for scuba diving and underwater treasure hunting.

Episode Highlights:

00:57 How Jeff Became a Subsea and Seabed Warfare Consultant

02:14 Jeff Smith's Career Journey

05:21 The Leap of Faith: Starting a Business

13:44 Challenges and Opportunities in Undersea Exploration

Jeff Smith is a Subsea and Seabed Warfare Consultant with Poroy Global Advisors. Prior to recently joining PGA, Jeff was the VP/GM for Autonomous and Undersea Systems at Saab, Inc. responsible for growing a new US division focused on UUVs, ROVs, USVs, and Autonomy. Jeff stood up the AUS Division securing over $300M in long term programs, building out multiple new facilities, and staffing an exceptional team in less than 3 years. Prior to joining Saab, Jeff was a Chief Scientist for UUV Systems for BAE Systems FAST Labs. Jeff was the president and founder of Riptide Autonomous Solutions, a major market disruptor in the unmanned undersea vehicle (UUV) market and brought the company to acquisition by BAE Systems in 4 years. Jeff has spent 30 years supporting the US Navy through his industry roles at General Dynamics, Bluefin Robotics, Riptide, BAE Systems, and now Saab. Over the past several years, Jeff has been selected as a UUV subject matter expert to participate in numerous war games and study panels focused on the future of undersea warfare. Jeff also holds patents in robotics, electro-optical systems, rapid prototyping, subsea battery safety systems, biomedical devices, and in a counter- sniper system, with additional patents pending. Jeff was formerly an advisor for Open Water Power, prior to their acquisition by L-3 Technologies. Jeff is also a member of the Board of Directors for Aretê Associates and numerous non-profit boards for defense, innovation, and blue technology.

Connect with Jeff:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffsmithgdais/

Company Website: https://poroyglobal.com/

For more insights:

Book a call: https://bit.ly/4cToGDs

Follow me on my YouTube Channel: https://bit.ly/47GgMdn

Sign up for my Weekly Newsletter: https://bit.ly/3T09kVc

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