Secret Ops

Building Tech Communities as a Developer Advocate with Jenna Pederson

Wed, 24 Dec 2025 01:00:00 -0500

On this episode of Secret Ops, we talk with Jenna Pederson, Staff Developer Advocate at Pinecone.io. Jenna shares her journey from software engineer to developer advocate building developer communities through the product development process. We chat about the practical tips for founders and discuss the importance of empathy, authentic community engagement, and listening to developers’ real needs.

In this episode, we discuss the:

Role of a developer advocate as a bridge between technology companies and their software developer customers
Differences between traditional marketing and personalized developer advocacy
Rapidly evolving educational needs in technology
Importance of community engagement and expert networks in software development
Techniques for gathering and communicating user feedback

👀 Watch the episode on Youtube

🎙️ Check out the podcast at secret-ops.com

📧 Email us at shhh@secret-ops.com

🤓 Learn more about Ariana Cofone at arianacofone.com

Navigating the Future of Work with Sarah Smart and Sofia Whelan

Wed, 26 Nov 2025 01:00:00 -0500

On this episode of Secret Ops, we talk with Sarah Smart and Sofia Whelan, Co-Founders of HorizonHuman, to discuss the transformation of HR in today’s organizations. We explore HR’s shift from compliance to a strategic, tech-driven function, the impact of AI, and the need for agility and user-centric design.

In this episode, we discuss the:

Evolving role of Human Resources in organizations.
Integration of artificial intelligence in HR and its implications
Workforce planning as a critical function in HR, especially in the context of AI.
Balancing operational excellence with human insights
Importance of agility and flexibility in HR operations

👀 Watch the episode on Youtube

🎙️ Check out the podcast at secret-ops.com

📧 Email us at shhh@secret-ops.com

🤓 Learn more about Ariana Cofone at arianacofone.com

Innovating Mental Health Care with Clinical Psychologist Dr. Hannah Weisman

Wed, 22 Oct 2025 01:00:00 -0500

On this episode of Secret Ops, we talk with Dr. Hannah Weisman, Clinical Psychologist and healthcare startup operator. We explore how clinical expertise informs operational decisions in mental health startups, tackling challenges like state regulations, ethical tensions, and the implications of AI within clinical psychology.

In this episode, we discuss the:

Integration of clinical psychology and healthcare operations
Challenges of navigating healthcare regulations and high grow startups
Balancing innovation with patient safety and ethical standards
The role of artificial intelligence in mental health care and its limitations
Shift from rapid national expansion to regionally focused healthcare models
Complexity of therapeutic matches and the importance of human variability

👀 Watch the episode on YouTube

🎙️ Check out the podcast at secret-ops.com

📧 Email us at shhh@secret-ops.com

🤓 Learn more about Ariana Cofone at arianacofone.com

Finding Fulfillment in Fractional Roles with Jen Hamilton

Wed, 24 Sep 2025 01:00:00 -0500

On this episode of Secret Ops, we talk with Jen Hamilton Fractional Chief Operating Officer and Founder of the Fractional COO Collective. We discuss the rise of fractional executive roles, especially in operations, and the importance of community and mentorship among fractional leaders.

In this episode, we discuss the:

Jen’s personal journey from CPA to operational leader
The emerging role of fractional executives in operations.
Importance of mentoring and community among fractional executives.
Generational perspective shifts in and leadership styles.
Applications of operational thinking in our personal lives

👀 Watch the episode on Youtube

🎙️ Check out the podcast at secret-ops.com

📧 Email us at shhh@secret-ops.com

🤓 Learn more about Ariana Cofone at arianacofone.com

From Tedious to Seamless: Revolutionizing CRMs with Adam Honig

Wed, 03 Sep 2025 00:00:00 -0500

On this episode of Secret Ops, we talk with Adam Honig CEO of Spiro an AI-powered “Anti-CRM” CRM for manufacturers. Now, Adam has seen the evolution of CRMs first hand over the years and he knows all the heads that come with implementing one. That’s why he and his team are working on removing the manual input bottlenecks by leveraging AI to automate data entry and help overcome user adoption hurdles.

In this episode, we discuss the:

History of how CRMs became a universally hated tool a
Impact of automated data collection on user adoption
How manufacturers became the target customer for Spiro
Importance of unbiased AI-generated data for decision-making.
Leveraging dashboarding to meet user needs without overwhelming them

👀 Watch the episode on Youtube

🎙️ Check out the podcast at secret-ops.com

📧 Email us at shhh@secret-ops.com

🤓 Learn more about Ariana Cofone at arianacofone.com

Designing the Future with Todd Bracher

Wed, 02 Jul 2025 01:00:00 -0500

On this episode of Secret Ops, we talk with Todd Bracher acclaimed Industrial Designer and Founder of Betterlab. Our conversation explores context-based design, the importance of integrating design early in product development, and Todd’s philosophy of making products intuitive and impactful. We also dive into the mission of Betterlab to bridge scientific innovation and practical application.

In this episode, we discuss:

The significance of industrial design in shaping everyday life
A designer’s role as a problem-solving intermediary between businesses and consumers
Context-based design and its influence on product effectiveness
Betterlab’s mission to bridge scientific innovation and practical application
The influence of parenthood on design perspectives

👀 Watch the episode on YouTube

🎙️ Check out the podcast at secret-ops.com

📧 Email us at shhh@secret-ops.com

🤓 Learn more about Ariana Cofone at arianacofone.com

Master the Evolving Craft of Solutions Architecture with John Forbes Scrugham

Wed, 21 May 2025 01:00:00 -0500

On this episode of Secret Ops, we talk with John Forbes Scrugham, Principal Solutions Architect at Coda. We chat about the evolving role of a solutions architect, shifting from a solely technical delivery to a more human-centric approach. John breaks down how he navigates the different phases of developing solutions within businesses, sharing stories and tricks that he’s picked up through his journey.

In this episode, we discuss:

The evolving role of solutions architecture within businesses
How to approach development through human-centric design
The phases of the solutions architecture process from prototyping to scaling
What the “I Build Solutions” Continuum is and where you fall on it
Tips to begin developing in no-code and low-code platforms

Check out more about John at johnforbes.net!

👀 Watch the episode on YouTube

🎙️ Check out the podcast at secret-ops.com

📧 Email us at shhh@secret-ops.com

🤓 Learn more about Ariana Cofone at arianacofone.com

How to Become a “Strategic Doer” with Alison Stewart

Wed, 30 Apr 2025 01:00:00 -0500

On this episode of Secret Ops, we talk with Alison Stewart, Co-Founder and COO of Overalls, a life concierge service. Alison shares her journey as a strategic doer—those who both devise and implement strategies. We chat about innovation, prioritization, and everything in between!

In this episode, we discuss:

Differences in operational approaches between corporate and startup environments
The concept of "strategic doers" and how to shift your mindset to be one
How to prioritize your operational execution to be effective
How a life concierge service holistically helps employees
The significance of time management and reclaiming your time

👀 Watch the episode on YouTube

🎙️ Check out the podcast at secret-ops.com

📧 Email us at shhh@secret-ops.com

🤓 Learn more about Ariana Cofone at arianacofone.com

From Entrepreneur to Investor to Insider with Maxwell Nee

Wed, 09 Apr 2025 00:00:00 -0500

On this episode of Secret Ops, we talk with Maxwell Nee award wining entrepreneur and Chief Revenue Officer at ScoreApp. Maxwell shares his journey from entrepreneur to investor to Chief Revenue Officer, bringing to life the lessons he’s learned along the way.

In this episode, we discuss:

Transiting from investor to an internal business role
The importance of alignment among business partners
The Necessity of self-awareness in business success
Role of data in understanding customer needs
The Scorecard Marketing playbook for getting better leads

👀 Watch the episode on YouTube

🎙️ Check out the podcast at secret-ops.com

📧 Email us at shhh@secret-ops.com

🤓 Learn more about Ariana Cofone at arianacofone.com

Optimizing Operations in Just 90 Days with Erika Giuggio

Wed, 19 Mar 2025 01:00:00 -0500

On this episode of Secret Ops, we talk with Erika Giuggio, Business Optimization Specialist at Schooley Mitchell. As a specialist in her field, Erika reveals her strategies for helping businesses in industries like construction and utilities, slash expenses and enhance their operations within 90 days. We also discuss her journey of patenting a cosmetic brush system!

In this episode, we discuss:

What a business optimization specialist actually does
Strategies for reducing business expenses quickly
Challenges faced by industries like construction and utilities with operational inefficiencies
Using return on investment to combat resistance to change
Erika’s journey through the world of patents

👀 Watch the episode on YouTube

🎙️ Check out the podcast at secret-ops.com

📧 Email us at shhh@secret-ops.com

🤓 Learn more about Ariana Cofone at arianacofone.com

From Traditional Automations to AI-Driven Solutions with Kevin Dean

Wed, 26 Feb 2025 01:00:00 -0500

On this episode of Secret Ops, we talk with Kevin Dean, Founder and CEO of ManoByte. With over two decades of experience, Kevin walks us through how innovative automation solutions not only streamlines workflows and enhances customer experiences, but is a key driver to overall business growth.

In this episode, we discuss:

The evolution of automation from traditional logic-based systems to AI
Structured experimentation when rolling out automation
Navigating change management in the automation process
Practical applications of AI automation in customer service and personalization
Challenges and opportunities presented by AI in business operations

👀 Watch the episode on Youtube

🎙️ Check out the podcast at secret-ops.com

📧 Email us at shhh@secret-ops.com

🤓 Learn more about Ariana Cofone at arianacofone.com

Reclaiming Your Creative Genius with Joey Cofone

Wed, 05 Feb 2025 01:00:00 -0500

On the 50th episode of Secret Ops, we talk with Joey Cofone, CEO of Baronfig and author of the bestselling book The Laws of Creativity. This episode is an absolute favorite of mine with my favorite person in the world, so it’s not one to miss.

I’ve always believed that operators are creatives. It’s a vital part of our work. Joey takes that thought a step further and believes that everyone possesses innate creativity. The key is in learning how to reignite it, which is what his book is all about.

In this episode, we discuss:

Why everyone is creative, no matter their profession
The decline in creative thinking from childhood to adulthood
The process and stages of writing a book
Pro-tips on how to author a book
The impact of parenthood on rediscovering creativity

👀 Watch the episode on YouTube

🎙️ Check out the podcast at secret-ops.com

📧 Email us at shhh@secret-ops.com

🤓 Learn more about Ariana Cofone at arianacofone.com

Pragmatic Sustainability: Ditching Idealism for Practical Action

Wed, 15 Jan 2025 01:00:00 -0500

On this episode of Secret Ops, we talk with sustainability expert John Pabon, author, consultant, speaker, and UN advisor. This is truly one episode you don't want to miss.

Not only does John break down what sustainability actually encompasses, but he also talks us through practical approaches for individuals and businesses to engage in it.

In this episode, we discuss:

Definition and dimensions of sustainability, including environmental, social, and governance aspects.
The significance of identifying personal passions to drive sustainability initiatives.
The role of governance in monitoring and regulating sustainability practices.
The necessity of quantifiable metrics in pursuing sustainability investments within business.
The importance of transparency in supply chains and corporate practices.

🎙️ Check out the podcast at secret-ops.com

📧 Email us at shhh@secret-ops.com

🤓 Learn more about Ariana Cofone at arianacofone.com

2024 Wrap Up with the 12 Days of Operations

Wed, 18 Dec 2024 01:00:00 -0500

As we wrap up 2024, I want to give all my gratitude to our wonderful listeners. You make this whole thing worthwhile and I will forever be grateful!

Make sure to check out the 12 Days of Operations, which are a bunch of bit-sized tips and tricks to help you become a top operator in business and in life. You can find it on our:

📧 Email us at shhh@secret-ops.com

🤓 Learn more about Ariana Cofone at arianacofone.com

How To Get Started as a Fractional Operator with guest host KC Procter

Wed, 20 Nov 2024 01:00:00 -0500

On this episode of Secret Ops, we flip the script where I am the guest and KC Procter, Marketing Operator extraordinaire, interviews me on the basics of becoming a fractional operator!

We dive into how to get started in fractional operations, what to look for in clients, tips on structuring your workload, how to navigate tricky conversation and much more!

In this episode, we discuss:

Understanding the fractional operations model
How to acquire clients and get better at pitching yourself
Recognizing a potential client’s readiness for change
Setting expectations and how to identify red flags
Navigating the end of client relationships positively

👀 Watch the episode on Youtube

🎙️ Check out the podcast at secret-ops.com

📧 Email us at shhh@secret-ops.com

🤓 Learn more about Ariana Cofone at arianacofone.com

The Art of Financial Storytelling in Business with Tim Bynum

Wed, 06 Nov 2024 01:00:00 -0500

On this episode of Secret Ops, we talk with Tim Bynum Founder of Anchor Financial Services and Chief Financial Officer. This conversation explores the vital link between financial operations and business strategy to drive growth and clarity in decision-making. We also discuss strategies on how to develop financial literacy for small business owners, with some great tips on how to get started!

In this episode, we discuss:

The relationship between financial operations and overall business strategy.
The importance of financial literacy for small business owners.
How to translate financial data into actionable insights
Lessons learned in developing a custom operating system
The value of celebrating successes and recognizing progress

👀 Watch the episode on YouTube

🎙️ Check out the podcast at secret-ops.com

📧 Email us at shhh@secret-ops.com

🤓 Learn more about Ariana Cofone at arianacofone.com

Hello Generalist: Redefining Work for Modern Operators with Shaina Anderson

Wed, 23 Oct 2024 01:00:00 -0500

On this episode of Secret Ops, we talk with Shaina Anderson Founder of Hello Generalist. The episode delves into what exactly a generalist is, the unique challenges generalists navigate, and how this motivated Shaina to found Hello Generalist, a platform connecting experienced operators with businesses that need their magic.

In this episode, we discuss:

Transitioning from food startups to tech and operations roles
Challenges faced by operators, including imposter syndrome
Importance of recognizing and valuing diverse skill sets
Founding Hello Generalist to connect operators with startups
Lifelong learning and adaptability in the evolving job market

👀 Watch the episode on Youtube

🎙️ Check out the podcast at secret-ops.com

📧 Email us at shhh@secret-ops.com

🤓 Learn more about Ariana Cofone at arianacofone.com

Burnout to Breakthrough: Transforming Leadership Through Wellness with Allie Stark

Wed, 09 Oct 2024 01:00:00 -0500

On this episode of Secret Ops, we talk with Allie Stark, Co-Founder of Noria the learning and development platform for a new era of living and leading. With over 15 years in the health and wellness space, Allie brings to life why we are all feeling so burnt out and what the heck we can do about it.

In this episode, we discuss:

The collective feeling of burnout and confusion in our work
The impact of systemic changes in the business landscape
Aligning personal values with organizational principles
How to navigate pivotal moments and crisis as a leader
Strategies for self-care and wellness in today’s world

👀 Watch the episode on Youtube

🎙️ Check out the podcast at secret-ops.com

📧 Email us at shhh@secret-ops.com

🤓 Learn more about Ariana Cofone at arianacofone.com

From Cave Paintings to AI: The Evolution of Slides with Morten Bruun

Wed, 25 Sep 2024 01:00:00 -0500

On this episode of Secret Ops, we talk with Morten Bruun, Co-Founder and CEO of Flash Docs, a company that uses AI to create data-driven slide decks and visuals.

Morten shares how wrangling slide decks, while at Google and McKinsey, led him to develop Flash Docs to streamline the slide creation process. We chat through the transformative potential of AI, the importance of networking, and navigating global business environments as an operator.

In this episode, we discuss:

The evolution of slide decks as a communication tool.
The role of AI in automating content generation
Shifting perspectives from regional to global operations
Networking and building genuine relationships in business.
Lesson from being a part of Forbes' 30 Under 30

👀 Watch the episode on Youtube

🎙️ Check out the podcast at secret-ops.com

📧 Email us at shhh@secret-ops.com

🤓 Learn more about Ariana Cofone at arianacofone.com

How Generative AI is Enhancing the Creative Process with Hikari Senju

Wed, 11 Sep 2024 05:00:00 -0500

On this episode of Secret Ops, we talk with Hikari Senju, CEO of Omneky, a platform that scales sales with data driven creative using generative AI.

Hikari breaks down the transformative role of generative AI in advertising, highlighting its potential and ability to enhance marketing strategies. Also, we talk about his journey from fencing to entrepreneurship, detailing his experiences in edtech, advertising, and much more.

In this episode, we discuss:

The intersection of advertising and generative AI.
The disconnect between marketing and creative teams
Enhancing the creative process in marketing through AI.
The significance of user testing and iterative learning
Practical advice for small to medium-sized businesses
Embracing creativity and experimentation with AI tools.

👀 Watch the episode on Youtube

🎙️ Check out the podcast at secret-ops.com

📧 Email us at shhh@secret-ops.com

🤓 Learn more about Ariana Cofone at arianacofone.com

From Silos to Synergy: Transforming Product and Data Teams with Antonia Landi and Joy Chatterjee

Wed, 28 Aug 2024 06:00:00 -0500

On this episode of Secret Ops, we talk with Antonia Landi and Joy Chatterjee, Co-Founders of One Camp, whose aim is to bridge the gap between Product & Data Teams by giving both groups the tools and knowledge to do their best work.

Antonia and Joy bring to life their own experiences connecting these two specializations together, giving advice on how to improve communication and teamwork while doing it. But that’s not all!

In this episode, we discuss:

Challenges faced in aligning product and data teams.
Evolving roles of product ops and data science in growing organizations.
Product ops as a strategic function rather than a support role.
Overcoming insecurities around data skills and analysis.
Need for improved accessibility to data for product teams.
Fostering a team culture of discovery and curiosity

👀 Watch the episode on Youtube

🎙️ Check out the podcast at secret-ops.com

📧 Email us at shhh@secret-ops.com

From Engineer to Empathetic Leader: The Role of the CTO with Tom Wilshere

Wed, 14 Aug 2024 01:00:00 -0500

On this episode of Secret Ops, host Ariana Cofone talks to Tom Wilshere, the Chief Technology Officer at Florence, where he heads up the product, engineering and data teams building and scaling products revolutionising staffing for over one million professionals in the healthcare sector around the world.

In this episode, we discuss:

The role and responsibilities of a Chief Technology Officer
Technology challenges faced in the healthcare sector
Importance of collaboration between ops and tech teams
Use of data in decision-making and operational improvements.
Necessity of empathy in leadership and team dynamics.
Strategies for fostering a supportive and innovative workplace culture.

👀 Watch the episode on Youtube

🎙️ Check out the podcast at secret-ops.com

📧 Email us at shhh@secret-ops.com

🤓 Learn more about Ariana Cofone at arianacofone.com

Top 5 Guest Highlights from 2024

Wed, 31 Jul 2024 16:00:00 -0500

We are already more than halfway through 2024. Say what?!

So far this year, we’ve had incredible guests on Secret Ops, who have generously shared amazing tips, tricks, and lessons they’ve learned along their journey.

In this episode, I share my top five moments from those interviews for you to enjoy while you are chillin’ at the pool or eating a hot dog off the grill.

Hope you are enjoying your summer and stay tuned for our newest episode dropping on August 14th!

🎙️ Check out the podcast at secret-ops.com

📧 Email us at shhh@secret-ops.com

🤓 Learn more about Ariana Cofone at arianacofone.com

Rewriting the Rulebook: Redefining Success in Business and Motherhood with Barbara Turley

Wed, 19 Jun 2024 01:00:00 -0500

On this episode of Secret Ops we chat with Barbara Turley, Founder and CEO of The Virtual Hub, whose mission it is to eradicate business overwhelm and remove operational friction using a team of virtual assistants, clever automations, and streamlined processes.

During our conversation, we explore her transition from equity trading into entrepreneurship and how her background influenced her business approach. We also dive into the challenges of remote work, what it means to advocate for “trustless environments”, and the use of OKRs in moving your business forward. Last but certainly not least, Barbara reflects on her journey balancing motherhood with business, challenging traditional norms, and trusting one's intuition through the journey of her career.

In this episode, we discuss:

The role of virtual assistants in supporting and scaling your business
Managing remote workforces and building “trustless environments”
Navigating different life stages while pursuing career goals

You can find Barbara on her LinkedIn.

🎙️ Check out the podcast at https://www.secret-ops.com

🤓 Learn more about Ariana Cofone at https://www.arianacofone.com

📧 Email us at shhh@secret-ops.com

Secret Ops

Building Tech Communities as a Developer Advocate with Jenna Pederson

Navigating the Future of Work with Sarah Smart and Sofia Whelan

Innovating Mental Health Care with Clinical Psychologist Dr. Hannah Weisman

Finding Fulfillment in Fractional Roles with Jen Hamilton

From Tedious to Seamless: Revolutionizing CRMs with Adam Honig

Designing the Future with Todd Bracher

Master the Evolving Craft of Solutions Architecture with John Forbes Scrugham

How to Become a “Strategic Doer” with Alison Stewart

From Entrepreneur to Investor to Insider with Maxwell Nee

Optimizing Operations in Just 90 Days with Erika Giuggio

From Traditional Automations to AI-Driven Solutions with Kevin Dean

Reclaiming Your Creative Genius with Joey Cofone

Pragmatic Sustainability: Ditching Idealism for Practical Action

2024 Wrap Up with the 12 Days of Operations

How To Get Started as a Fractional Operator with guest host KC Procter

The Art of Financial Storytelling in Business with Tim Bynum

Hello Generalist: Redefining Work for Modern Operators with Shaina Anderson

Burnout to Breakthrough: Transforming Leadership Through Wellness with Allie Stark

From Cave Paintings to AI: The Evolution of Slides with Morten Bruun

How Generative AI is Enhancing the Creative Process with Hikari Senju

From Silos to Synergy: Transforming Product and Data Teams with Antonia Landi and Joy Chatterjee

From Engineer to Empathetic Leader: The Role of the CTO with Tom Wilshere

Top 5 Guest Highlights from 2024

Rewriting the Rulebook: Redefining Success in Business and Motherhood with Barbara Turley

Exploring the Evolving Landscape of Human Resources and Leadership with Karan Rhodes

Igniting Success: Bridging the Divide Between Product and Marketing with Derek Osgood

Unleashing Your Potential: Strategies for Career Growth in HR with Kim Minnick

The Role of Data Governance in the Digital Space with Kate Parker

Transforming Company Culture Through Product Operations with Diana Soler

The Journey of Scaling Inventory Management with Jason Vego

Shaping the Future of Data and Technology with Soumyadeb Mitra

Successful Strategies in Product Operations with Lindsey Bell

Revolutionizing The Insurance Industry With Matheus Riolfi

The Power of In-Person with Jared Kleinert

Intersection of Operations and Marketing with Sage Randall

Fostering a Growth Mindset with Ekaterina Curry

2023 Secret Ops Wrap Up

Bridging The Gap Between Blockchain and Finance

Moving Industry Meets AI with Zach Rattner

Creating Memorable Customer Experiences with Ty Givens

Unleashing the Power of Operations with Aušrinė Keršanskaitė

Disrupting The Energy Industry With Gareth Evans

High-level Online Business Management with Lauren Lea

Applying Technology and Operations to Leadership with Joe Aurilia

Level the Playing Field in Finance and Startups with Ghazaleh Youshani

Making Sense of Data: A Deep Dive with Tim Tutt

Community Growth and the Power of Connection with Esther Trapadoux

The Financial Side of Operations with Jon Blair

The CEO Operator: Building a business to make processes work for people with Jon Darbyshire

The Dynamics of a Founder and COO with Chris Monk and David Perell

Navigating Fractional Leadership with Karina Mikhli

The Intersection of Robotics and Operations with John Quayle

Flipping the Script with Ariana & Joey Cofone

Behind-the-Scenes of Recruitment with Mickey Pearson

Building People Operations with Hannah Kramer

Operating the Rapidly Changing Web3 World with Sean O’Connor

Engineering Efficiency in Business Operations with Jay Desai

Designing Proactive Operations with Carmeanna Eberly

Marrying Operations and R&D with Chelsey Firor

Life Saving EMS Operations with James Mazza

Building Intelligent Revenue Operations with Tom Andrews

The Evolution of Physical to Digital Marketing with Joanna Lin

Problem Solving as a Solutions Architect with Al Chen

The Intersection of Data Science and Operations with Marc Jansen

Welcome to Secret Ops