The Fractional C-Suite Retreat
 

The Fractional C-Suite Retreat

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Joseph Frost, Co-Founder of yorCMO, hosts this exclusive retreat for executives to unwind and hear from their peers about new opportunities and innovations in the C-Suite.

Episodes

The Human Element in Sales– Marc Case with host Joseph Frost - Fractional C-Suite Retreat - Episode #76

Sep 25, 2025

Sep 25, 2025

45 min

In this episode of the Fractional C-suite Retreat, Joseph Frost engages with Mark Case from BD Pros to discuss the evolving landscape of sales and marketing. They explore the importance of human connection in business, the impact of AI on sales processes, and the significance of mentorship in shaping careers. The conversation delves into the intersections of marketing, sales, and advertising, emphasizing the need for authenticity and relationship-building in a noisy digital environment. They also touch on the role of trade shows, the future of sales strategies, and the potential of influencer marketing in B2B contexts.

 

Takeaways

•Growing a business requires a balance of innovation and human connection.

•AI should complement, not replace, human relationships in sales.

•Empathy and understanding are crucial in navigating the AI landscape.

•Sales skills are essential for entrepreneurs to succeed.

•Books can provide valuable insights into effective sales strategies.

•Marketing and sales should work together to achieve common goals.

•In-person interactions are becoming more valuable in a digital world.

•The future of sales will require authenticity and trust.

•Influencer marketing can be effective in reaching target audiences.

•The AI revolution presents both challenges and opportunities for businesses.

 

Quote of the show:

“AI is powerful, but B2B sales still run on relationships—people buy from those they like and trust.” - Marc Case

 

Links

LinkedIn:

Marc Case: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marccase 

 

Ways to Tune In

•Amazon Music - https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/9a0b6e7b-76d7-4909-ab01-e3082d6637e0/the-fractional-c-suite-retreat 

•Apple Podcast - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-fractional-c-suite-retreat/id1597847745 

•Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/5Z2uHcI4xXz92M9sODSoYL?si=a89b68adf7134964&nd=1&dlsi=3c080c801afb42f7 

•Google Podcast - https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuZnJhY3Rpb25hbGNzdWl0ZXJldHJlYXQuY29tL2ZlZWQueG1s 

•YouTube - https://youtu.be/CuZ8bRRRG6Q

 

Fractional C-Suite Retreat is produced by Frost Media Group

Learn more at https://frostmediagroup.com 

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Navigating Business Growth Challenges– Steve Thornton with host Joseph Frost - Fractional C-Suite Retreat - Episode #75

Sep 11, 2025

Sep 11, 2025

40 min

In this episode of the Fractional C-suite Retreat, Joseph Frost engages with Steve Thornton, discussing the complexities of growing a business, understanding profitability, and identifying ideal clients. They explore the importance of recognizing good versus bad business, the role of complexity in client relationships, and the significance of effective communication within organizations. The conversation also delves into the value of fractional leadership and the need for a flexible business operating system that adapts to client needs.

Takeaways

  • Growing a business requires understanding where profit is generated.
  • C-suite executives should focus on identifying good versus bad business.
  • Complexity in client relationships can impact profitability.
  • Defining an ideal client profile is crucial for business success.
  • Communication of profitability insights is essential across all levels of an organization.
  • Networking and building relationships are key to business growth.
  • Fractional leadership offers flexibility and access to top talent.
  • Choosing the right business operating system can enhance client engagement.
  • Consulting should focus on solving immediate client problems.
  • A successful business model adapts to the unique needs of each client.

 

Quote of the show:

"Technology can make things faster, but it can’t replace sincerity. People can feel when you’re just automating them through the pipeline versus when you truly see them." — Steve Thornton

Links

LinkedIn:

Steve Thornton: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stevethorntonmba

Website: https://www.apex-mgt.com/steve-thornton

 

Ways to Tune In

 

Fractional C-Suite Retreat is produced by Frost Media Group

Learn more at https://frostmediagroup.com 

Read more

Unlocking Market Opportunities in Building Automation– Salvatore D'Auria with host Dave Blanchard - Fractional C-Suite Retreat - Episode #74

Jun 26, 2025

Jun 26, 2025

39 min

In this episode, Dave Blanchard interviews Sal D'Auria, CEO of UBX Systems, discussing the company's mission to optimize energy efficiency in commercial buildings. Sal shares insights on leadership, market opportunities, and the importance of customer feedback in driving innovation. He emphasizes the need for a strong go-to-market strategy and the role of data in enhancing customer relationships. The conversation highlights the disruptive potential of UBX's solutions in the HVAC industry and offers valuable advice for aspiring entrepreneurs.

Takeaways

  • UBX Systems focuses on optimizing energy efficiency in commercial buildings.
  • The company targets a $100 billion market opportunity.
  • Sal's leadership style emphasizes hiring great people and fostering a positive culture.
  • Challenges faced as a CEO often present opportunities for growth.
  • Listening to customers is crucial for understanding their needs.
  • UBX's solutions simplify building automation, making it accessible to more customers.
  • A strong go-to-market strategy is essential for success.
  • Data collection and analysis enhance customer relationships and product development.
  • Disruption in the HVAC industry requires innovative solutions to common problems.
  • Entrepreneurs should maintain focus while being aware of market changes.

 

Quote of the show:

"When you listen to the customer, you build not just a product—they help shape your company." – Sal D'Auria

Links

LinkedIn:

Dave Blanchard: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cognesis

Salvatore D'Auria https://www.linkedin.com/in/salvatore-d-auria-229b0244


Website:

Dave Blanchard: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cognesis/

 

Ways to Tune In

Fractional C-Suite Retreat is produced by Frost Media Group

Learn more at https://frostmediagroup.com 

Read more

Navigating Business Growth Through Acquisitions– Alex Alexandrov with host Dave Blanchard - Fractional C-Suite Retreat - Episode #73

Jun 6, 2025

Jun 6, 2025

23 min

In this episode of the C-suite retreat, host Dave Blanchard speaks with Alex Alexandrov, CEO of ICC Group, about the company's rapid growth through acquisitions, the impact they have on clients, and the challenges faced in the engineering services sector. Alex shares his personal journey from Russia to becoming a CEO, emphasizing the importance of values, careful decision-making, and the need for engineers to adopt a business mindset. The conversation highlights the significance of client relationships and the drive for continuous improvement in business practices.

Takeaways

  • Growing a business can be challenging but manageable.
  • Acquisitions can significantly enhance company growth.
  • Client impact is measured by tangible cost savings.
  • Values and integrity are crucial in business operations.
  • Engineers must develop business acumen to succeed.
  • Choosing opportunities wisely is essential for growth.
  • The regulatory environment can impact business decisions.
  • Living your values is key to instilling them in your team.
  • The American dream is achievable with hard work.
  • Building strong client relationships leads to repeat business.

 

Quote of the show:

"Validation is key before investing."

Links

LinkedIn:

Dave Blanchard: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cognesis


Website:

Alex Alexandrov: https://www.icc-inc.net/

Dave Blanchard: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cognesis/

Spotify https://creators.spotify.com/pod/show/fractional-pros-canada

 

Ways to Tune In

Fractional C-Suite Retreat is produced by Frost Media Group

Learn more at https://frostmediagroup.com 

Read more

AI's Role in Modern Marketing Strategies– Joshua Strawczynski with host Joseph Frost - Fractional C-Suite Retreat - Episode #72

May 22, 2025

May 22, 2025

48 min

Ways to Tune In

Fractional C-Suite Retreat is produced by Frost Media Group

Learn more at https://frostmediagroup.com 

Read more

Navigating the Growth Cycle: Marketing Insights– Chad Person with host Dave Blanchard - Fractional C-Suite Retreat - Episode #71

May 8, 2025

May 8, 2025

46 min

In this episode, Dave Blanchard and Chad Person discuss the evolution of marketing as businesses grow, particularly in the context of professional services. They explore the different phases of business growth, from discovery to profitability, and emphasize the importance of strategic planning and understanding market needs. Chad shares insights on how marketing strategies should adapt at each stage, the significance of validation, and the need for a shift from an inside-out to an outside-in approach. The conversation also highlights the role of marketing assistance for startups and the importance of unifying marketing and sales efforts to drive growth. In this conversation, Chad and Dave discuss the evolution of marketing in businesses, particularly in professional services. They explore the importance of building credibility, operationalizing marketing for growth, scaling beyond local markets, preparing for exit and valuation, and the need for a strategic approach to marketing. Chad emphasizes the significance of systems, leadership, and diversification in achieving sustainable growth and preparing for a successful exit.

 

Takeaways

  • Marketing evolves as a business grows.
  • Professional services firms often struggle with marketing maturity.
  • The planning process is critical for startups.
  • Inside-out vs. outside-in approaches to strategy.
  • Strategy should precede planning in marketing.
  • Validation of ideas is crucial before investing.
  • Marketing needs to capture leads beyond word of mouth.
  • Thought leadership is essential for content strategy.
  • Referral relationships can significantly boost growth.
  • Attracting traffic is vital for scaling businesses. Building credibility is essential for executing plans.
  • Shifting from tactical to strategic marketing is crucial.
  • Content should drive trust and revenue.
  • Operationalizing marketing allows owners to focus on growth.
  • A marketing leader is necessary for sustainable growth.
  • Diversification helps expand wallet share among clients.
  • Understanding buyer needs is key for service expansion.
  • Investing in people and processes enhances business value.
  • Branding should not solely rely on the founder.
  • An outside-in approach improves marketing strategy.

 Quote of the show:

"Validation is key before investing."

 

Links

LinkedIn:

Chad Person: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chad-personcmo

Dave Blanchard: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cognesis


Website:

Chad Person https://yorcmo.com/chad-person/   

Dave Blanchard: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cognesis/

Spotify https://creators.spotify.com/pod/show/fractional-pros-canada

 

Ways to Tune In

Fractional C-Suite Retreat is produced by Frost Media Group

Learn more at https://frostmediagroup.com 

Read more

From Startup to Profitability: Marketing Insights– Ken Acer with host Dave Blanchard - Fractional C-Suite Retreat - Episode #70

Apr 24, 2025

Apr 24, 2025

45 min

In this episode, Dave Blanchard and Ken Acer discuss the evolution of marketing as businesses progress through various stages of their life cycle. They explore the importance of understanding the business life cycle, from discovery to startup, achieving profitability, sustainability, scalability, and preparing for exit. Ken shares insights from his extensive experience in marketing, emphasizing the need for strategic marketing involvement at every stage, the relationship between marketing and sales, and the critical role of customer discovery and product management.

Takeaways

  • Marketing evolves as a business grows through its life cycle.
  • Understanding the business life cycle is crucial for effective marketing.
  • The CEO often plays the role of chief salesperson in early stages.
  • Marketing must focus on customer discovery and defining company goals.
  • Achieving profitability requires strategic marketing and sales alignment.
  • Sustainability involves managing product life cycles and customer needs.
  • Scalability requires careful planning and market analysis.
  • International expansion presents unique marketing challenges.
  • Consistent processes and systems are vital for a successful exit.
  • The relationship between marketing and sales is key to overall success.

 Quote of the show:

"Networking is key to building sales pipelines."

 

Links

LinkedIn:

Ken Acer: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kenacer/

Dave Blanchard: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cognesis


Website:

Ken Acer: https://yorcmo.com/ken-acer/

Dave Blanchard: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cognesis/

 

Ways to Tune In:

Fractional C-Suite Retreat is produced by Frost Media Group

Learn more at https://frostmediagroup.com 

Read more

Key Metrics for Business Success in 2025- Panel Cast - Raffi Yardemian, Aditi Karandikar, Dave Blanchard and Jay Gordman - Fractional C-Suite Retreat - Episode #69

Mar 27, 2025

Mar 27, 2025

49 min

Key Metrics for Business Success in 2025- Panel cast - Fractional C-Suite Retreat - Episode #69

This conversation explores the evolving relationship between sales and marketing, emphasizing the importance of metrics in driving business success. The panel discusses key marketing metrics, customer acquisition costs, and the significance of lifetime value in shaping sales strategies. They highlight the challenges businesses face in measuring marketing effectiveness and the need for a strategic approach to metrics to foster growth. In this conversation, the speakers discuss the intricate relationship between marketing and sales, emphasizing the need for alignment and collaboration to maximize efficiency and revenue generation. They explore strategies for client acquisition, the evolving role of marketing in supporting sales efforts, and the importance of performance metrics in evaluating success. The discussion highlights the challenges faced by business leaders in navigating these dynamics and the necessity of a unified approach to drive growth.

 

Takeaways

  • Sales and marketing dynamics have evolved significantly over the last decade.
  • Marketing now plays a larger role in the sales process, influencing customer decisions early on.
  • Key metrics include return on marketing investment and customer acquisition costs.
  • Understanding lifetime value is essential for effective sales strategies.
  • Sales and marketing must work together to optimize customer acquisition costs.
  • Businesses often struggle to measure marketing effectiveness, hindering growth.
  • Metrics should be established before spending on marketing initiatives.
  • Customer acquisition costs vary by channel and should be analyzed accordingly.
  • The ideal customer profile is crucial for targeting and acquisition strategies.
  • Agencies need to provide clear metrics to demonstrate the effectiveness of their efforts. Using AI tools can help visualize traffic and conversion rates.
  • Understanding the full value of marketing spend is crucial.
  • Client acquisition strategies should focus on low-cost entry points.
  • Sales and marketing alignment is essential for success.
  • Marketing's role has expanded to support both hunting and farming.
  • Improving conversion rates at various funnel stages can significantly impact revenue.
  • Performance-based compensation for marketing can enhance collaboration.
  • Revenue generation should be the primary metric for both sales and marketing.
  • A unified approach between sales and marketing drives better results.
  • Identifying and addressing blind spots in business operations is key.

 

Quote of the show:

"If we're overspending on things upfront and not getting acquisition, we may be filling the funnel, but if they don't move through, the cost is out of whack."

 

Links - 

LinkedIn

Raffi Yardemian -  https://www.linkedin.com/in/raffi-yardemian-csl-0725206

Aditi Karandikar -  http://linkedin.com/in/aditikarandikar

Dave Blanchard – https://www.linkedin.com/in/cognesis

Jay Gordman - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jaygordman

Company website:

 

Ways to Tune In

 

Fractional C-Suite Retreat is produced by Frost Media Group

Learn more at https://frostmediagroup.com 

Read more

Navigating Business Uncertainty with Fractional Leadership- John Lee- Fractional C-Suite Retreat - Episode #68

Mar 27, 2025

Mar 27, 2025

1hr 11 min

In this conversation, Joseph Frost and John discuss the challenges and opportunities in the fractional leadership space, particularly focusing on decision-making in uncertain times, the evolution of fractional roles, and the importance of resilience and networking for success. They explore how fractional leaders can support small businesses in navigating complexities and scaling effectively, while also addressing the unique characteristics that contribute to success in this model. In this conversation, the speakers delve into the evolving landscape of sales and marketing, emphasizing the importance of relationships in B2B sales, the transformative impact of AI on marketing jobs, and the critical role of hiring strategies in building effective sales teams. They discuss key marketing metrics such as customer lifetime value and churn, and the balance between inbound and outbound leads. The conversation highlights the need for strategic collaboration between sales and marketing to drive growth and profitability.

 

Takeaways:

  • Taking a breath can be more beneficial than rushing decisions.
  • Decisions can be changed as more information becomes available.
  • Fractional leaders provide valuable support to small businesses.
  • Marketing and sales must be closely integrated for success.
  • The fractional model has evolved significantly over the past decade.
  • Resilience is a key trait for success in fractional roles.
  • Building a strong network is essential for fractional professionals.
  • Fractional work can be tailored to fit lifestyle choices.
  • Successful fractional leaders understand the importance of marketing themselves. Sales will always be a relationship, especially in B2B.
  • AI is rapidly changing the landscape of sales and marketing.
  • Hiring the right people is crucial for sales success.
  • Understanding customer lifetime value is essential for strategic decisions.
  • Churn rate significantly impacts client lifetime value.
  • Balancing inbound and outbound leads is key for growth.
  • AI can enhance efficiency in targeting customers.
  • Sales teams need to adapt to the changing market dynamics.
  • Effective communication between sales and marketing drives success.
  • Fractional leaders can provide unbiased insights for growth.

 Quote of the show:

"Don't bet my farm on a decision."- John lee

 

Links

Ways to Tune In

 

Fractional C-Suite Retreat is produced by Frost Media Group

Learn more at https://frostmediagroup.com 

Read more

Offboarding: A Strategic Approach to Delegation - Redefining C-Suite Leadership- Michele Hecken- Fractional C-Suite Retreat - Episode #67

Mar 6, 2025

Mar 6, 2025

1hr 12 min

In this episode of the Fractional C-suite Retreat, Joseph Frost and Michelle Hecken discuss the evolving landscape of workforce engagement and the importance of clarity and agency in leadership. They explore the concept of offboarding as a strategic approach to delegation, emphasizing the need for leaders to define responsibilities clearly and empower their teams. The conversation highlights the significance of understanding generational shifts in work expectations and the necessity of creating a culture that fosters ownership and accountability. Michelle shares insights on how to effectively offboard tasks and responsibilities to enhance productivity and business growth. In this conversation, the speakers delve into the importance of establishing effective KPIs for executive assistants, emphasizing the need for these metrics to be within the control of the assistants. They discuss the role of executive assistants in managing time and responsibilities, the challenges of offboarding processes, and the frameworks that can facilitate effective offboarding. The conversation also highlights the value of fractional leadership and introduces the concept of 'Return on Leadership,' which focuses on the opportunity costs associated with leadership roles. Ultimately, the discussion centers on how proper offboarding can create agency within organizations, leading to improved productivity and satisfaction.

Takeaways

  • Growing a business requires understanding workforce shifts.
  • Leaders must engage employees with clarity and purpose.
  • Agency in the workplace means giving ownership to employees.
  • Offboarding is a strategic approach to delegation.
  • Clarity about responsibilities is essential for effective offboarding.
  • Self-running teams are crucial for business success.
  • The interview process should clarify roles and expectations.
  • Effective offboarding can free up significant time for leaders.
  • Leaders need to measure outcomes with meaningful KPIs. Clear KPIs bring agency and accountability to the agency.
  • KPIs should be within the control of the individual.
  • Fractional leadership can provide significant value to organizations.
  • Return on Leadership emphasizes opportunity costs.
  • Effective offboarding creates agency within teams.

Quote of the show:

"Return on leadership is about opportunity costs." - Michele Hecken

 

Links

Company website:

Ways to Tune In

Fractional C-Suite Retreat is produced by Frost Media Group

Learn more at https://frostmediagroup.com 

Read more
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