C-Suite Secrets

Beyond the Buzzwords: Making Emerging Tech Work for Your Business with Kinemeric

Show Notes:
In this episode, Heather Parsons sits down with Lucky Gobindram, President of Kinmeric, for a deep dive into the company’s evolution and how emerging technologies like AI and spatial computing are reshaping business operations.They explore why a solid understanding of XR technologies is becoming critical for organizations, and how to effectively measure ROI in tech-driven initiatives. Lucky shares his perspective on the growing importance of data analytics, navigating intellectual property in innovation, and a fascinating emerging concept: vibe coding.The conversation also digs into the human side of tech transformation, from change management and resilience to the lessons learned through entrepreneurial missteps and navigating economic uncertainty. It’s a candid, forward-looking discussion on staying agile and adaptable in a rapidly shifting landscape.
Bio:
Lucky Lance Gobindram is the President and Co-Founder of Kinemeric, an award-winning emerging tech firm pioneering XR, AI, and immersive enterprise solutions. Alongside his brother and partner, Ash Gobindram, Lucky has built Kinemeric into a trusted innovation partner for Fortune 500s and visionary startups—delivering next-gen platforms that transform how businesses train, operate, and engage.
With 15+ years at the intersection of strategy, design, and frontier tech, Lucky brings a pragmatic lens to emerging technologies—focusing on commercial impact, speed-to-market, and real-world adoption. Under his and Ash’s leadership, Kinemeric has launched enterprise XR systems, embodied AI agents, and spatial tools that reimagine user experience and drive measurable outcomes.
A frequent speaker and advisor, Lucky is known for his no-fluff take on where digital is going next—and how to get there now.
 
To connect with our guest, click on the links below:https://kinemeric.com/
Connect with me:https://www.linkedin.com/in/heather-parsons-cfo/
https://heatherparsons.com/links
 
🎁Get your free checklist to Turn Your Business Success into Lasting Wealth  https://info.thesummitcfo.com/investment-readiness-checklist

What It Really Takes to Succeed in Government Contracting with Mike Contreras

Show Notes:
In this episode, Mike Contreras shares his entrepreneurial journey and what it takes to succeed in the world of government contracting. He offers practical insights into navigating the complexities of the sector, including overcoming red tape and building strong relationships with government clients.
Mike also talks about the importance of resilience, using the right metrics to drive growth, and developing a flexible talent model that can adapt as the business evolves. If you're looking for a behind-the-scenes look at building a business in the government space, this episode is packed with valuable lessons.
 
Bio:
Michael Contreras, Ph.D., is the Founder and President of Ensemble, an advanced technology company specializing in IT modernization. An entrepreneur at heart, Mike founded Ensemble after a tour through the Federal Government, experiencing firsthand its digital struggles. Today, the company orchestrates a flexible workforce ecosystem to build cloud and AI solutions that enhance business outcomes for the aerospace and public sectors.
 
A three-time Founder and Board Director, Mike has contributed to TechCrunch on future of work topics, and his work has been highlighted by the White House, covered by Forbes, and featured in Delivering on Digital: The Innovators and Technologies That Are Transforming Government. A past NASA rocket scientist and Fulbright Scholar, he holds B.S. and M.S. degrees from UCLA, a Ph.D. in civil engineering and a Master of Mechanical Engineering from Rice University, and an MBA in finance and management from The Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania. 
To connect with our guest, click on the links below:
Website:  https://ensembleconsultancy.com/
LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/company/ensemble-consultancy/
X:  https://x.com/EnsembleDC
 
Connect with me:
LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/heather-parsons-cfo/
https://heatherparsons.com/links
 
🎁Get your free checklist to Turn Your Business Success into Lasting Wealth  https://info.thesummitcfo.com/investment-readiness-checklist

Inside the Mind of a SaaS Founder: Speed, Sales, and AI

Show Notes:
In this episode, James Hotson opens up about his entrepreneurial path, sharing the lessons he’s learned while building companies and embracing the power of AI. He dives into how AI has evolved, with a special focus on agentic AI and how it's transforming both customer support and internal operations. James highlights why speed matters in business, what makes a sales strategy effective, and how a strong team can drive lasting success. He also talks about his experience with acquisitions and offers insight into the real challenges of scaling revenue in the SaaS world.
 
To connect with our guest, click on the links below:Email:   james@katara.ai
Connect with me:https://www.linkedin.com/in/heather-parsons-cfo/https://heatherparsons.com/links
 
🎁Get your free checklist to Turn Your Business Success into Lasting Wealth  https://info.thesummitcfo.com/investment-readiness-checklist

Beyond IT: Why Cybersecurity Is Every Leader’s Responsibility

Show Notes:
In this episode of C-Suite Secrets, host Heather Parsons sits down with Jason Makevich to explore the powerful intersection of cybersecurity and entrepreneurship. With years of experience in the tech space, Jason shares insights from his journey and emphasizes why building a resilient company culture and surrounding yourself with the right people are non-negotiables for long-term success.
From implementing strong business systems to navigating the ever-evolving cybersecurity landscape, Jason offers real-world advice for founders and executives alike. He also opens up about tough lessons learned, including why saying “no” to the wrong clients can be one of the best business decisions you’ll ever make.
This episode is packed with takeaways on leadership, operational frameworks like EOS, and the mindset shifts required to grow a secure, scalable, and sane business.
 
Bio:
As the Founder & CEO of two cybersecurity companies, Greenlight Cyber, an MSP established in 2010, and PORT1, an MSP channel provider for Island Enterprise Browser, Jason had dedicated his career to empowering, equipping, and protecting SMBs against rapidly changing cybersecurity threats through education and innovation. As an award-winning speaker and thought leader, Jason is passionate about educating the community around risks in the constantly evolving cyber landscape.  Jason actively volunteers with SecureTheVillage and the Cyber Readiness Institute, where he dedicates his expertise to helping nonprofits effectively manage their cyber risk.
 
https://securethevillage.org/ is a nonprofit I volunteer with which helps small businesses, nonprofits, individuals, and families with cybersecurity resources.
 
To connect with our guest, click on the links below:
Website:  https://greenlightcyber.com
LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/jmakevich/
Connect with me:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/heather-parsons-cfo/https://heatherparsons.com/links
 
🎁Get your free checklist to Turn Your Business Success into Lasting Wealth  https://info.thesummitcfo.com/investment-readiness-checklist

Tax Strategy Meets Startup Reality: A Conversation with George Birrell, Founder of TaxHub

Show Notes:
In this episode of C-Suite Secrets, host Heather Parsons sits down with George Birrell, founder of TaxHub, breaks down the must-know tax strategies every entrepreneur should understand. George sheds light on the most common (and costly) tax mistakes business owners make early on, and how to avoid them.
From choosing the right business structure to separating personal and business finances, George walks through real-world advice on building a tax-smart business. He also dives into how AI is reshaping bookkeeping, and why hiring family members can be a smart tax move.
Plus, George shares why time discipline and financial readiness are essential for securing outside funding and growing with confidence.
 
Bio:
After earning his master’s in taxation and scoring in the top 10% of his class on his CPA exam, George began his career in public accounting. 12 years in, he transitioned into controllership for an engineering firm in New York City. Even as his career evolved, as an innovator it was never far from George’s mind that when it came to consumer tax prep, there had to be a better way.
When he found that way, the idea behind Taxhub took shape. Determined to bring customers a better tax experience, George began discussing his idea with people with skills he knew he would need and began assembling a team that could help bring this idea to the masses.
When not vigorously pursuing his dream, George enjoys spending time with his family and friends, and working out at his local CrossFit gym, and keeping up with his Morkie, Wuzzy.
To connect with our guest, click on the links below:
Website:  GetTaxHub.com
LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/company/gettaxhub/
Facebook:  www.facebook.com/gettaxhub.com
 
Connect with me:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/heather-parsons-cfo/
https://heatherparsons.com/links
 
🎁Get your free checklist to Turn Your Business Success into Lasting Wealth  https://info.thesummitcfo.com/investment-readiness-checklist

Building Smarter Startups: A Conversation on Data, AI, and KPI’s

Show Notes:
In this episode of C-Suite Secrets, host Heather Parsons sits down with tech entrepreneur and executive Jason Reade to explore how data and AI are reshaping the startup landscape. Jason shares his entrepreneurial journey and breaks down why clean data, clear KPIs, and smart AI implementation are essential to scaling successfully.
The conversation dives into the practical side of AI.  How to use it, when to trust it, and where many leaders go wrong. Jason also highlights the critical mindset shift founders need to make: stop chasing trends and start focusing on the metrics that actually move the needle.
 
Bio:
Jason is a technology entrepreneur and executive with almost two decades of experience at early- and growth-stage startups. He specializes in product and technology strategy, product development, analytics, and AI. He lives in Watertown, MA with his wife, 7-year-old twins, and Ruthie the micro-bernadoodle.
 
To connect with our guest, click on the links below:
Email: Jason@plyable.co
LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/jraede/
 
Connect with me:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/heather-parsons-cfo/
https://heatherparsons.com/links
 
🎁Get your free checklist to Turn Your Business Success into Lasting Wealth  https://info.thesummitcfo.com/investment-readiness-checklist

Aligning Tech & Business Goals with Steve Meek

Show Notes:
 
In this episode of C-Suite Secrets, host Heather Parsons sits down with Steve Meek to explore the intersection of technology, business strategy, and operational excellence.
Steve shares his entrepreneurial journey and breaks down how business leaders can intentionally align technology with their growth goals—without overspending or overcomplicating their systems.
You’ll hear real-world insights on:
Why vendor management is make-or-break for scaling teams
How to approach cybersecurity as a continuous process, not a one-time fix
Tactical steps business owners can take to strengthen operations
What business metrics actually matter in today’s landscape
And how the responsibility for cybersecurity is shifting within organizations
If you’re a founder, executive, or operator looking to tighten up your tech stack and future-proof your business, this episode is packed with actionable advice you won’t want to miss.
BIO
Steve Meek is the founder and CEO of The Fulcrum Group, Inc., a leading IT managed services provider serving small to mid-sized businesses and local governments across North Texas. With over three decades of experience and a CISSP certification, Steve brings deep expertise in cybersecurity, compliance, AI and strategic IT planning — all grounded in a practical, business-first mindset.
Known for his approachable style and straight-talk leadership, Steve is passionate about helping organizations turn technology into a true business advantage. Whether he’s guiding a city through CJIS compliance or helping a medical clinic prepare for HIPAA audits, Steve focuses on simplifying the complex — and delivering peace of mind along the way.
 
To connect with our guest, click on the links below:
Website:  https://www.fulcrum.pro/
LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/company/795291
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCTxQ5XZ2KctgXYlm_Bi6mfQ
X:  https://x.com/thefulcrumgroup
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheFulcrumGroup
🎁Get your educational guides:  https://www.fulcrum.pro/resources/educational-guides/
 
Connect with me:
LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/heather-parsons-cfo/
https://heatherparsons.com/links
 
🎁Get your free checklist to Turn Your Business Success into Lasting Wealth  https://info.thesummitcfo.com/investment-readiness-checklist

Yes, You Are a Target: Why Business Owners Can’t Ignore Cyber Threats

Show Notes:
 
In this episode, Heather sits down with Dayal Bhagat  and dives into his journey from a broad IT background into a specialized focus on cybersecurity. His mission? Bringing affordable, effective solutions to small and mid-sized businesses.
He breaks down why every business, no matter the size, is a target and why email security and ongoing education are non-negotiables. Dayal shares insights on common cyber threats, the real-world challenges companies face, and how to strategically plan for tech upgrades with ROI in mind.
We also explore how AI is changing the cybersecurity landscape, the critical need for regular assessments, and what it takes to stay agile, especially for organizations with a global or remote workforce.
Whether you’re building your first cybersecurity plan or refining an existing one, this conversation is packed with practical advice to help you stay ahead of the threats.
 
To connect with our guest, click on the links below:
Email:  DBhagat@CMITSolutions.com
LinkedIn:http://linkedin.com/in/dayal-bhagat-89028621
 
Connect with me:
Linkedin:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/heather-parsons-cfo/
https://heatherparsons.com/links
 
🎁Get your free checklist to Turn Your Business Success into Lasting Wealth  https://info.thesummitcfo.com/investment-readiness-checklist

Scaling Smarter: Ken Winell on the Tech Shifts C - Suites Can't Ignore

Show Notes:
 
In this episode of C-Suite Secrets, host Heather Parsons sits down with Ken Winell, entrepreneur, tech consultant, and engineering veteran, for a powerful conversation on driving business growth through smart technology.
Ken shares insights from his diverse career spanning multiple industries, and how he’s helped companies harness the power of innovation, especially AI, to stay competitive. From building high-performing teams to boosting operational efficiency, Ken dives into what it really takes to scale in today’s fast-moving landscape.
They also explore the practical side of tech adoption: how to budget for it, why data integrity is non-negotiable, and what the future holds for AI in business.
Whether you're tech-savvy or tech-curious, this episode is packed with actionable takeaways for leaders looking to level up.
 
BIO:
Ken is a dynamic force at the intersection of business innovation and emerging technologies. Ken Winell is a recognized AI strategist, business transformation advisor, and trusted guide for organizations navigating the complexities of digital evolution. Across industries like life sciences, logistics, manufacturing, and consumer goods, Ken has helped companies not just adopt artificial intelligence — but strategically integrate it to drive real, measurable impact.
 
Known for his practical wisdom, sharp business instincts, and infectious energy, Ken bridges the gap between technology and real-world business needs. He is passionate about making AI accessible, actionable, and a catalyst for reinvention — not just for large enterprises, but for growing companies eager to compete and lead in a new era.
Beyond his consulting and advisory work, Ken is a thought leader who believes innovation should always serve people first. His talks, articles, and leadership style reflect a rare combination of deep technical insight, market savvy, and a genuine commitment to mentoring the next generation of business leaders.
Today, he’ll share a fresh perspective on how speed, innovation, and trust will define the winners of tomorrow.
 
To connect with our guest, click on the links below:
LinkedIn:  linkedin.com/in/kwinell
 
Connect with me:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/heather-parsons-cfo/https://heatherparsons.com/links
Get your free checklist to Turn Your Business Success into Lasting Wealth  https://info.thesummitcfo.com/investment-readiness-checklist

Inside Unicorn Startups: Lessons in Chaos, Growth, and Value with Michael "Canz" Canzoneri

Show Notes:
In this episode, Michael "Canz" Canzoneri shares his unique career path, beginning as a Java developer and evolving into the co-founder of DataSQRL, a neural symbolic data platform. He reflects on his time at Gartner, the complexities of ERP implementations, and the valuable lessons learned from working with unicorn companies.
The conversation explores the importance of truly understanding customer needs, the growing role of AI in modern business, and how collaboration contributes to long-term success. Canz also dives into his experiences with startup life, describing its chaotic pace and the critical role that systems and processes play in scaling a company.
He talks about the challenges involved in preparing for an IPO, the need to deliver value quickly to customers, and the importance of clearly quantifying the benefits of new technologies, especially in the AI space. Throughout the discussion, he highlights the entrepreneurial journey, the impact of decision fatigue, and the value of building a strong and supportive advisory network.
 
To connect with our guest, click on the links below:
LinkedIn:  Michael Canzoneri | LinkedIn
 
Connect with me:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/heather-parsons-cfo/
 
Get your free checklist to Turn Your Business Success into Lasting Wealth  https://info.thesummitcfo.com/investment-readiness-checklist