Unlocking Momentum

A Great Strategy Is Worthless Without Great Execution with Evan Campbell

Wed, 16 Sep 2026 06:00:00 -0400

In this episode of Unlocking Momentum, host Aaron Kopel sits down with Evan Campbell, Principal Consultant at Adaptivity and author of Adapt to Win, to explore why even experienced leadership teams struggle to turn strategy into real organizational progress. Evan draws from a career spanning the military, technology leadership, startups, consulting, and enterprise transformation to explain why creating a strategy is only the beginning.

Key Takeaways:

Strategy Needs Strong Execution: A good strategy means little without consistent communication, investment, and clear execution across the organization.
Good Leaders Build Independent Thinkers: Strong leaders develop people who can solve problems and make sound decisions independently.
Cross-Team Alignment Is Essential: Strategic initiatives can fail when departments prioritize their own goals instead of shared company objectives.
Employee Involvement Strengthens OKRs: Involving employees in goal-setting improves understanding, ownership, and accountability.
AI Needs Strategic Direction: AI experiments should have clear business value and support broader strategic priorities.
Adaptability Creates an Advantage: Organizations that can quickly adjust and execute their strategy are better positioned to compete.

Episode Timestamps:

[00:00:00] - Teaser: Evan explains why organizations struggle to turn strategy into execution and underestimate the effort required.

[00:04:48] - The Leadership Lesson Evan Learned: Evan shares why leadership is about developing people to think and solve problems independently, not having all the answers.

[00:07:04] - Unlocking Momentum for Evan: Evan discusses strategy deployment, organizational inertia, and how strategy clarity can fade across company layers.

[00:16:08] - Horizontal Alignment and the "Catchball" Method: Evan explains the importance of cross-functional alignment and using the Catchball method to identify team dependencies.

[00:22:14] - Avoiding AI as a Shiny Object: Evan explains why AI experiments need clear business value and alignment with strategic goals.

[00:30:40] - Why AI Won’t Fix Weak Systems: Evan explains why AI cannot solve underlying delivery and transformation issues.

[00:38:40] - The CIO as a Strategic Partner: Evan shares how CIOs can connect technology with business goals.

[00:50:36] - Learning Through Experiments: Aaron and Evan discuss testing ideas, scaling what works, and learning from failures.

[00:57:10] - Closing Thoughts: Evan discusses Adapt to Win and how listeners can connect with him.

Disclosure: Portions of this episode (such as the introduction or promotional segments) use AI-generated voice narration produced under human editorial review.

🔗 Connect with Guest, Evan Campbell:

👉 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/evcampbell/

👉 Read the breakthrough new corporate strategy book Adapt to Win: https://www.adapttowin.co/

🔗 Connect with Guest’s Company Adaptivity:

👉 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/adaptivitygroup/

👉 Website: https://www.adaptivitygroup.com/

👉 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@AdaptivityGroup

👉 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/adaptivitygroup/

🔗 More from Unlocking Momentum:

👉 Website: https://www.projectbrilliant.com/

👉 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/projectbrilliant/

👉 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/project_brilliant/

👉 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ProjectBrilliant

👉 Twitter: https://x.com/ProjBrilliant

🔗 Connect with Host, Aaron Kopel:

👉 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aaronkopel/

👉 Email: aaron@projectbrilliant.com

🔗 Follow the Podcast:

👉 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/unlocking-momentum/id1854160757

👉 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5kvYZRD0iYCGZdPDZP1BDk?si=adb89c88728e4197

👉 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@projectbrilliant

Why Complexity Is the Main Reason That Leaders Lose Momentum in Projects with John Mergy

Wed, 02 Sep 2026 06:00:00 -0400

In this episode of Unlocking Momentum, host Aaron Kopel sits down with John Mergy, Co-Founder and CEO of M0DUS, to discuss how complexity can slow down projects and prevent leaders from making progress.

John shares lessons from his 38-year career in technology leadership, including his time as CIO at Do it Best and his work helping companies navigate AI transformation. The conversation explores how leaders can simplify complex initiatives, create clarity, manage change, and help technology teams become strategic business partners.

John also discusses AI adoption, the importance of intentional leadership, and why creating time for innovation is critical in a rapidly changing world.

Key Takeaways:

Complexity Can Slow Down Teams: Large projects can lose momentum when scope expands, and teams face too many technology, process, and people challenges at once.
Reconnect With the “Why”: Leaders can regain direction by removing unnecessary complexity, revisiting goals, and focusing on the next steps.
Change Management Drives Success: Successful transformation requires helping people understand change, build confidence, and adopt new ways of working.
AI Requires Time and Experimentation: Leaders need to create space for learning, testing ideas, and exploring AI opportunities.
CIOs Must Become Strategic Partners: Technology leaders have an opportunity to shape business strategy, not just manage systems and requests.

Episode Timestamps:

[00:00:00] - Introduction to AI Transformation: John shares how companies are navigating AI adoption, uncertainty, and finding practical ways to use new technology.

[00:07:30] - Bringing Clarity Back to Projects: John shares how leaders can reset priorities, remove unnecessary complexity, and refocus teams.

[00:09:30] - AI Transformation and Change Management: John explains why AI adoption requires strong change management and helping people understand the purpose behind the change.

[00:17:47] - Rethinking Business Processes With AI: Aaron and John discuss how AI can help organizations rethink workflows instead of only improving existing processes.

[00:28:19] - Advice for Leaders Adapting to Change: John shares why leaders need agility, continuous learning, and time dedicated to innovation.

[00:33:39] - Rapid Fire Questions With John Mergy: John shares personal insights on relationships, passions, and legacy.

[00:36:03] - Connecting With John Mergy: John shares how listeners can connect with him through LinkedIn and M0DUS.

Disclosure: Portions of this episode (such as the introduction or promotional segments) use AI-generated voice narration produced under human editorial review.

🔗 Connect with Guest, John Mergy:

👉 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-mergy-2176ab345/

🔗 Connect with Guest's Company:

👉 Website: https://m0dus.co/

🔗 More from Unlocking Momentum:

👉 Website: https://www.projectbrilliant.com/

👉 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/projectbrilliant/

👉 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/project_brilliant/

👉 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ProjectBrilliant

👉 Twitter: https://x.com/ProjBrilliant

🔗 Connect with Host, Aaron Kopel:

👉 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aaronkopel/

👉 Email: aaron@projectbrilliant.com

🔗 Follow the Podcast:

👉 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/unlocking-momentum/id1854160757

👉 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5kvYZRD0iYCGZdPDZP1BDk?si=adb89c88728e4197

👉 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@projectbrilliant

A Fractional CIO's Playbook for Leading Through Chaos

Wed, 05 Aug 2026 07:13:17 -0400

Playing with tech is fun, but using your people skills to solve business problems is a lot more rewarding.

In this episode of Unlocking Momentum, Aaron Kopel sits down with Alan Ariel, fractional and interim CIO at Ariel View Solutions, LLC, who brings 40 years of leadership experience across the U.S. Navy and the IT industry. Alan shares how staying calm, simplifying the problem, and improving cross-functional communication helped his team complete a critical data center migration during a major crisis.

The conversation explores why staff engagement is essential, how leaders can empower their teams without micromanaging, and why CIOs must evaluate AI based on real productivity rather than fear of missing out. Alan also explains why critical thinking will become even more valuable in the AI era and how confident leadership helps people navigate uncertainty and change.

Key takeaways:

Progress begins with calm, coordinated action
Engaged employees understand how their work supports the mission
AI investments should create measurable value, not follow hype

Episode highlights

(00:00) Introducing Alan Ariel

(01:14) The value of a fractional CIO

(02:32) Avoiding micromanagement as a leader

(03:36) Leading through a data center crisis

(05:31) Building momentum through coordinated action

(09:17) Why meaningful staff engagement matters

(12:43) Evaluating AI beyond the hype

(15:02) Critical thinking in the AI era

(17:41) Building confidence through leadership

(20:03) Why people make technology work

(21:35) Connecting and learning through networking

(23:37) Rapid-fire questions and leadership legacy

Resources:

Alan Ariel on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alanariel/

Aaron Kopel on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aaronkopel

Explore Project Brilliant: https://projectbrilliant.com

Buy Unlocking Momentum: https://a.co/d/hKPFqoS

Great Leaders Listen Before Innovating

Wed, 22 Jul 2026 02:00:00 -0400

Technology transformations don't fail because of technology alone. They fail when organizations overlook the people, processes, and systems needed to make change work.

In this episode of Unlocking Momentum, Aaron Kopel sits down with John Willis, technology leader, author, one of the founders of the DevOps movement, and owner of Botchagalupe Technologies, to discuss what decades of transformation have taught him about AI, leadership, and building resilient organizations. John shares why technology leaders must focus on protecting the brand while enabling businesses to move faster.

The conversation explores why failure should be treated as a learning opportunity, why DevOps principles still matter in the age of AI, and why organizations need to look beyond adoption metrics to measure real business value. John also explains why successful AI strategies start from the bottom up by understanding the people closest to the work, balancing innovation with responsible risk management.

Key takeaways:

The right work matters more than more work
Leadership is about empowering others, not staying in the weeds
IT earns its seat at the table by speaking the language of business outcomes

Episode highlights

(00:00) Introducing John Willis

(01:27) Protecting the brand through operations

(02:17) Five decades of technology transformation

(03:48) Why failure drives learning

(05:15) Toyota’s blameless learning culture

(07:40) Finding momentum through DevOps

(08:09) DevOps and the control plane

(11:17) Is DevOps really dead?

(16:33) Why AI needs talent strategy

(24:28) Finding insights from frontline teams

(29:20) Why lines of code failed

(30:05) Measuring AI value over adoption

(32:17) Why AI token metrics fail

(34:30) Learning through AI’s J curve

(36:30) Avoiding AI hype cycles

(38:34) Building AI risk controls

(40:23) AI audit trails explained

(44:36) The hidden cost of AI evaluation

(46:34) John Willis’ books and resources

(49:06) Rapid fire questions

John Willis on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/johnwillisatlanta/

Aaron Kopel on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aaronkopel

Explore Project Brilliant: https://projectbrilliant.com

Buy Unlocking Momentum: https://a.co/d/hKPFqoS

The Right Work: IT Leadership, Priorities, and Letting Go

Wed, 08 Jul 2026 02:00:00 -0400

Leadership isn't about having all the answers. It's about building the conditions where others can find them.

In this episode, Aaron Kopel sits down with Michael Koluch, VP of IT Strategy and Operations at Arlington/Roe, who made a career pivot from 16 years in higher education to IT leadership, starting at the help desk and working his way up.

Michael shares six practical principles for unlocking momentum in IT: setting the right priorities, asking better questions, building teams around strengths, choosing progress over perfection, sustaining urgency, and communicating strategy consistently. He also gets honest about the hardest part of growing into leadership, learning to step back and let your team own the work, even the systems you built yourself.

The conversation also covers what it means for IT to stop being an add-on and start being woven into the business, how to ask questions that reframe processes rather than just replicate them, and why the soft skills we keep dismissing are actually the most critical skills in the room.

Key takeaways:

The right work matters more than more work
Leadership is about empowering others, not staying in the weeds
IT earns its seat at the table by speaking the language of business outcomes

Episode highlights

(00:00) Introducing Michael Koluch

(01:18) From counselor to IT leader

(08:27) Six ways to unlock team momentum

(10:13) Prioritize the right work, not more work

(11:47) Ask better questions before building solutions

(15:46) Build complementary teams that perform

(17:12) Progress beats perfection every time

(18:53) Keep momentum with urgency and strategy

(22:03) The hardest leadership skill is letting go

(28:17) Why IT must become a business partner

(35:56) The surprising hobby that teaches leadership

(37:36) The historical figure every leader should study

(40:08) How Michael wants to be remembered

(42:52) Books every technology leader should read

Michael Koluch on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-koluch/

Aaron Kopel on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aaronkopel

Explore Project Brilliant: https://projectbrilliant.com

Buy Unlocking Momentum: https://a.co/d/hKPFqoS

AI Governance Without Killing Innovation

Wed, 24 Jun 2026 02:00:00 -0400

Technology leaders often focus on efficiency, but lasting business impact comes from trust, alignment, and understanding the people behind the processes.

In this episode, Aaron Kopel sits down with Mike Loggins, CEO of MetaStrategy Consulting, technology leader, and advocate for human-centered IT leadership. Mike shares his unconventional journey from aspiring music teacher to technology executive, reflecting on the experiences, opportunities, and leadership lessons that shaped his 26-year career in IT.

Mike discusses why successful technology leaders must move beyond transactional relationships and build genuine partnerships with the business. He explains how trust, empathy, and communication can break down organizational silos, improve collaboration, and unlock momentum across teams. He also shares personal insights about embracing neurodiversity, understanding individual strengths, and creating environments where people can do their best work.

The conversation also explores the rapid rise of AI and what it means for organizations, technology teams, and future leaders. Mike discusses the importance of AI governance, responsible experimentation, and why professionals at every level must learn how to leverage AI tools to remain effective in a changing workplace. He explains why AI is unlikely to replace people entirely, but will dramatically reshape the tasks, skills, and roles that organizations value most.

Key takeaways:

Trust and empathy are essential for building stronger relationships between IT and the business
Why effectiveness matters more than efficiency when driving meaningful outcomes
How leaders can create responsible AI governance while encouraging innovation and experimentation

Episode highlights

(00:47) Mike's background and journey into IT leadership
(04:28) Advice for younger professionals and embracing neurodiversity
(07:00) Unlocking momentum through trust and business partnership
(11:53) Efficiency versus effectiveness in technology leadership
(15:18) The future of AI, governance, and organizational readiness
(21:04) How AI is changing careers and technology roles
(25:36) Rapid-fire segment
(27:49) Coffee with his father and lessons across generations
(29:02) What Mike wants to be known for

Mike Loggins on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-loggins/

Aaron Kopel on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aaronkopel

Explore Project Brilliant: https://projectbrilliant.com

Buy Unlocking Momentum: https://a.co/d/hKPFqoS

Technology Doesn't Solve People Problems

Wed, 10 Jun 2026 02:00:00 -0400

Technology can enable change, but trust, communication, and strong leadership are what truly move organizations forward.

In this episode, Aaron Kopel sits down with Heather Darring, CIO of Kappa Alpha Theta and President of the TechPoint Indiana CIO Network. Heather shares her unconventional path into technology leadership, from studying art in college to leading IT for an organization serving more than 240,000 members.

Heather reflects on the lessons she's learned throughout her career, including why there is no single "right" career path and how focusing on your strengths can open unexpected opportunities. She also shares a powerful story about overcoming communication breakdowns between departments and how rebuilding trust led to stronger collaboration and measurable business results.

The conversation explores one of today's most important topics: AI. Heather discusses the responsibility technology leaders have to think beyond business outcomes and consider the broader impact of emerging technologies on people, communities, and the environment. She also explains why organizations should focus on strategy first and technology second when evaluating new tools and innovations.

Key takeaways:

Trust and communication matter more than technology in successful transformations
What responsibility do technology leaders have when it comes to AI and emerging technologies
CIOs must ensure technology investments support organizational strategy and long-term goals

Episode highlights

(00:42) Welcome and host introductions

(01:40) Heather’s unplanned path into IT

(03:20) Joining and growing CIO network community

(05:31) Career advice: No single golden path

(12:49) Discussing AI ethics and social impact

(17:12) Scaling change across 240,000 members

(20:08) Future focus: Mission over technology hype

(22:59) Rapid-fire: Hobbies and admired heroes

(25:18) Legacy: Positive influence and connections

Heather Darring on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/heather-darring-100/

Aaron Kopel on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aaronkopel

Explore Project Brilliant: https://projectbrilliant.com

Buy Unlocking Momentum: https://a.co/d/hKPFqoS

Scaling AI in Business: Insights on Organizational Change

Wed, 27 May 2026 02:00:00 -0400

Technology may enable momentum, but people, leadership, and mindset are what truly move organizations forward.

In this episode, Aaron Kopel sits down with Gervais Johnson, an experienced leader in AI, Agile transformations, and digital strategy. Gervais shares his journey from working at NASA and General Dynamics to becoming a pivotal player in Agile and AI transformations at major organizations like IBM.

Through his career, Gervais demonstrates how business and organizational transformation come before technological change, and how AI is not just a tool but a strategy that can open up new business models and revenue streams. He discusses the importance of blending Agile principles with AI adoption and highlights how strong leadership, intentional transformation strategies, and continuous learning drive success in today's fast-paced business environment.

Gervais emphasizes that true transformation requires not just technology implementation but fostering a culture of collaboration, understanding organizational needs, and focusing on empowering people. He also explores how AI's rapid evolution impacts workflows, governance, and the critical role of leaders in shaping this new landscape.

Key takeaways:

Companies that delay embracing AI risk falling behind
AI is a tool for organizational and business transformation
Strong leadership and strategy are key to effective AI adoption

Episode highlights

(00:00) Intro

(04:51) How Lilly scaled enterprise AI adoption

(06:35) Career lessons on stability and negotiation

(08:59) Building momentum through organizational change networks

(13:16) AI transformation beyond technology alone

(16:32) AI augments humans, not replaces them

(18:45) AI investment strategy, costs, and KPIs

(22:35) Agent governance, guardrails, and human oversight

(26:53) Documenting end-to-end workflows before AI automation

(30:02) Why leaders must actively use AI

(32:49) AI first versus AI native explained

(35:38) Vibe coding, agents, and AI development

(36:56) Companies risk falling behind without AI adoption

(38:04) CIO roadmap for enterprise AI transformation

(41:43) Rapid fire questions and final thoughts

Gervais Johnson on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gervaisjohnson/

Aaron Kopel on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aaronkopel

Explore Project Brilliant: https://projectbrilliant.com

Buy Unlocking Momentum: https://a.co/d/hKPFqoS

What CIOs Must Get Right About AI Adoption Today

Wed, 13 May 2026 02:00:00 -0400

Momentum inside an organization rarely comes from technology by itself. It is shaped by people, leadership, and the mindset that guides how teams work, adapt, and move forward together.

In this episode, Aaron Kopel sits down with Steven Barley, Chief Information and Technology Officer at the Indiana Public Retirement System (INPRS), to explore how momentum is unlocked by shifting IT from a support function into a strategic business partner. Steven shares his journey from operations into IT leadership and how it shaped his approach to aligning business needs with technology. He explains why real progress comes from understanding core problems, not just applying new tools, and how strong relationships drive better outcomes.

Through his modernization efforts, Steven highlights the importance of intentional AI adoption, strong governance, and investing in people through upskilling. He shows how empowering teams, encouraging cross functional thinking, and focusing on customer experience can transform organizations. Ultimately, he reinforces that lasting momentum comes from developing people and aligning strategy with execution.

Key takeaways:

Momentum is driven by people and mindset, not just technology
IT creates more value when it acts as a strategic business partner
Understanding problems deeply matters more than applying new tool

Episode highlights

(00:00) Intro

(01:00) Transition from operations to IT leadership

(05:32) Advice on l Learning from other industries and experiences

(09:31) Networking through conferences and peer groups

(14:13) Shifting IT to strategic business partner

(19:08) Using skills matrix to upskill teams

(22:24) Building data foundation before AI implementation

(24:24) Challenges of scaling AI governance efforts

(26:15) Starting small to build AI trust

(31:54) Key advice for modern CIO leadership

(39:17) Creative resources to check out

(42:05) Rapid fire questions with Steven

(46:01) Leadership legacy and helping others grow

Steven Barley on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sbarley/

Explore the Indiana Public Retirement System (INPRS): https://www.linkedin.com/company/indiana-public-retirement-system/

Aaron Kopel on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aaronkopel

Explore Project Brilliant: https://projectbrilliant.com

Buy Unlocking Momentum: https://a.co/d/hKPFqoS

AI Goes Beyond Technology, It's a Cultural Shift

Wed, 29 Apr 2026 02:00:00 -0400

AI doesn't fail because of bad technology. It fails because of bad change management.

In this episode, Aaron Kopel sits down with Diana Williams, Director of Change Management at Project Brilliant, to explore why AI adoption is ultimately a people challenge. Drawing from her experience in state government and consulting across regulated industries, Diana shares how organizations often focus on building the technology, but struggle to get employees to actually use it. She explains that resistance is rarely about the tools themselves, but about fear, trust, and the impact on how people see their roles and value.

Diana discusses how AI represents a broader cultural and behavioral shift, similar to past transformations like Agile and DevOps. Through examples like IBM’s Watson Health and UPS’s ORION system, she shows how success depends on involving people early, building trust, and continuously iterating. She emphasizes that the organizations that win with AI aren’t the ones with the best technology; they’re the ones that bring their people along.

Key takeaways:

AI adoption is a people and culture challenge, not just a technical one
Involving employees early builds buy-in and reduces resistance
AI implementation should be iterative, not a one-time rollout

Episode highlights

(00:00) Intro

(01:04) Lessons in change management in state government

(04:11) Why networking is critical for growth and learning

(07:04) Fear is the real adoption problem

(11:37) Case Study: Why IBM Watson failed and UPS ORION succeeded

(15:25) You can't automate your way out of bad data

(20:59) People don't resist change, they resist being changed

(25:54) Aligning teams and choosing the right use cases

(27:37) The role of the CIO goes beyond IT

(30:12) AI is a business initiative, not an IT project

(34:28) AI success depends on adoption, not capability

(35:49) Book recommendation: The Power of Habit

Diana Williams on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/diana-agilecoach/

Aaron Kopel on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aaronkopel

Explore Project Brilliant: https://projectbrilliant.com

Buy Unlocking Momentum: https://a.co/d/hKPFqoS

Why Alignment Is Key To Organizational Momentum

Wed, 15 Apr 2026 02:00:00 -0400

Organizational momentum is no longer just about pushing harder or following a plan. It is a leadership, alignment, and focus challenge that impacts every level of the business.

In this episode, Aaron Kopel sits down with Patrick Bogan, VP IT Strategy and Operational Excellence at CNO Financial Group, to explore the importance of alignment in driving organizational momentum. Patrick reflects on his extensive experience leading meaningful change, both as an independent consultant and now within a major financial company. He shares how momentum doesn't come from working harder or having the right plan, but from aligning teams around what truly matters most. Patrick emphasizes the need for focus, transparent decision-making, and leadership that aligns all departments toward common goals.

Through his journey, Patrick discusses the critical role of self-awareness, trust-building, and aligning priorities across the enterprise. He reveals how aligning technology modernization efforts with business goals ultimately unlocked momentum at CNO Financial Group, and explains why focusing on what really matters is the key to overcoming resistance and driving success.

Key takeaways:

True momentum is unlocked through alignment, not effort
Leadership is about influence and building trust, not authority
Transparent decision-making and prioritization are essential for success across the enterprise

Episode highlights

(00:00) Intro

(00:32) Meet Patrick Bogan and his journey

(02:47) Consulting lessons on trust and leadership

(04:10) The importance of self-awareness in leadership

(05:41) Achieving momentum through strategic alignment

(06:39) Tech modernization and leadership tradeoffs

(13:11) Debunking the lie: "We can do both"

(15:19) Navigating the challenges of AI transformation

(17:40) Leading for flow and organizational focus

(21:50) Why direction must come from the top

(23:26) Career advice: Assume good intent always

(27:06) Rapid fire: Hiking and nature inspiration

(28:41) Coffee chat: Leadership insights from Chamberlain

(30:12) Legacy of kindness and leadership impact

Patrick Bogan on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/patrickbogan/

Explore CNO Financial Group: https://www.cnoinc.com/

Aaron Kopel on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aaronkopel

Explore Project Brilliant: https://projectbrilliant.com

Buy Unlocking Momentum: https://a.co/d/hKPFqoS

What Leaders Still Get Wrong About Cyber Attacks

Wed, 01 Apr 2026 02:00:00 -0400

Cybersecurity is no longer just an IT issue. It is a leadership, operations, and communication challenge that touches every part of the business.

In this episode, Aaron Kopel sits down with Chetrice Romero, Senior Cybersecurity Advisor at Ice Miller LLP, to unpack what organizations still get wrong about cyber readiness. Chetrice shares her unconventional path from public relations and crisis communications into cybersecurity leadership, including her work shaping Indiana’s statewide cyber strategy and advising organizations through high-stress incidents. She explains why the biggest cyber risks today are often people problems, why geopolitics now matter to business leaders far beyond government, and why incident response planning has to extend well beyond the IT department.

Chetrice also breaks down what effective tabletop exercises actually look like and why leaders need to understand their role before a real incident hits. This conversation is a practical look at how momentum in cybersecurity comes from preparation, shared responsibility, and the ability to respond calmly when the pressure is highest.

Key takeaways:

Cybersecurity is a people and business problem, not just a technical one
Tabletop exercises reveal leadership gaps before a real incident does
Vendor risk, geopolitics, and poor preparation can quickly become operational crises

Episode highlights

(00:00) Intro

(01:04) From PR into cyber leadership

(02:51) Building Indiana’s cyber strategy

(14:06) Geopolitics and destructive attacks

(17:38) What tabletop planning should cover

(24:21) When vendor breaches hit operations

(25:46) PR, panic, and crisis pressure

(28:16) What cyber insurance really covers

(29:48) How to run useful tabletops

(35:53) Rapid fire questions and reflections

Chetrice Romero on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/romeroclm

Aaron Kopel on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aaronkopel

Explore Ice Miller LLP: https://www.icemiller.com/

Explore Project Brilliant: https://projectbrilliant.com

The Science of Scaling by Benjamin Hardy: https://a.co/d/76xHeGD

Buy Unlocking Momentum: https://a.co/d/hKPFqoS

Overcoming Systemic Barriers in Business Innovation

Wed, 18 Mar 2026 02:00:00 -0400

The best leaders don’t focus on doing more. They create environments where innovation thrives.

In this episode, Aaron Kopel, CEO of Project Brilliant, shares insights from a recent trip to Cuba and how the systemic challenges observed there can relate to organizational leadership. Drawing from his personal experiences in Cuba, Aaron explores how entrepreneurs and leaders are navigating a complex environment where top-down systems and governmental restrictions often hinder innovation. He delves into how leaders can unlock momentum within their organizations by addressing systemic barriers, such as rigid structures, policies, and metrics, that prevent long-term success.

Aaron shares lessons from entrepreneurs who are working within these constraints, showing how resilience and resourcefulness can drive meaningful change, even in the face of adversity. He reflects on the importance of leaders designing environments that allow for innovation, rather than focusing solely on immediate goals. The conversation touches on the role of systemic change in fostering organizational growth and the key skills that leaders need to create lasting impact.

Key takeaways:

Addressing systemic issues is key to unlocking momentum
Leaders must create environments that enable innovation
Sustainable growth comes from designing systems, not just executing tasks

Episode highlights

(00:00) Intro

(01:01) Why travel shapes leadership perspective

(02:04) Cuba trip context: entrepreneurs' journey

(03:24) First impressions: Havana’s challenges unfold

(06:25) Entrepreneurship's struggle under communist control

(10:58) Taxes, incentives, and the side hustle

(14:20) Farm success followed by government throttling

(18:21) Leadership agility through Castro’s lens

(21:42) Hope for Cuba: capital, tech, progress

(24:47) CIO lessons in unlocking organizational momentum

Aaron Kopel on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aaronkopel

Explore Central Indiana Corporate Partnership: https://www.cicpindiana.com/

Explore Project Brilliant: https://projectbrilliant.com

Buy Unlocking Momentum: https://a.co/d/hKPFqoS

How Trust Drives Momentum in Leadership

Wed, 04 Mar 2026 02:00:00 -0400

Great leadership isn't about pushing harder. It's about building trust and solving problems as a team.

In this episode, Aaron Kopel sits down with Jason "JD" Duigou, an experienced CIO, leadership mentor, and the founder and principal consultant of Truefire Partners, LLC. JD shares insights from his career journey, including his time as a CIO, and offers valuable lessons on the importance of trust and relationships in driving business success.

JD reveals a crucial lesson: leadership isn’t about pushing harder. The truth is, it’s about being invited in earlier and shaping problems with the business, rather than rushing to solutions. He reflects on his realization that technology alone doesn’t earn influence; it’s the human connections and trust that make initiatives successful. JD and Aaron discuss how IT leaders can break free from “order taker” roles, become true business partners, and create a culture of collaboration across organizations.

Key takeaways:

Leadership success comes from building trust and relationships, not just executing solutions
Shaping problems collaboratively leads to stronger business outcomes
IT leaders must shift from tech execution to strategic partnership with business units

Episode highlights

(00:00) Intro

(01:20) Beginnings from first-gen college to work

(02:45) Why mentorship will always matter

(05:04) How JD became a CIO by using trust

(08:21) On choosing guardrails and leadership over hype

(12:45) The CIO’s hidden operating system

(19:39) Networking, book club, and how to connect with JD

(22:08) Rapid-fire questions

Jason “JD’ Duigou on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasonduigou/

Check out Jason’s CIO Field Notes: https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/cio-field-notes-episode-1-role-has-changed-have-we-jason-jd--8qfpc/

Check out Well Said! by Darlene Price: https://www.amazon.com/Well-Said-Presentations-Conversations-Results/dp/0814417876

Aaron Kopel on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aaronkopel

Explore Truefire Partners, LLC: https://truefirepartners.com/

Explore Project Brilliant: https://projectbrilliant.com

Buy Unlocking Momentum: https://a.co/d/hKPFqoS

How Senior Leaders Can Lead More by Doing Less

Wed, 18 Feb 2026 05:00:00 -0400

The best leaders don’t move faster. They design better systems.

In this episode, Aaron Kopel sits down with Ting Gootee, Executive Vice President of Digital Adoption & Managing Director of Crossroads Health Ventures at the Central Indiana Corporate Partnership (CICP). Ting shares lessons from her journey immigrating to the U.S., building Elevate Ventures, leading TechPoint as CEO, and now driving digital adoption across Indiana’s innovation ecosystem.

Ting reveals a hard-earned realization that leadership isn’t about doing more, it’s about creating clarity. She reflects on the 18-month stretch where she learned that constant motion can actually weaken ownership, and how restraint and system design unlocked stronger accountability and resilience. Ting and Aaron explore the future of middle management in an AI-driven world, explaining why judgment, ownership, and ambiguity tolerance are becoming the most valuable skills in modern organizations.

Key takeaways:

Sustainable impact comes from system design, not individual heroics
Clarity creates ownership faster than constant execution
AI is flattening coordination roles, elevating judgment and accountability

Episode highlights

(00:00) Intro

(01:29) Leading digital adoption and venture capital at CICP

(03:26) Ting’s advice to her younger self on ownership

(04:36) When doing less unlocked more leadership impact

(09:00) The future of middle management in an AI-driven world

(15:22) How to craft systems for impact

(18:43) Rapid fire: passion, influence, and legacy

Ting Gootee on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tinggootee

Aaron Kopel on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aaronkopel

Explore Central Indiana Corporate Partnership: https://www.cicpindiana.com/

Explore Project Brilliant: https://projectbrilliant.com

Buy Unlocking Momentum: https://a.co/d/hKPFqoS

Turning the “Helpless Desk” Into a High-Performing IT Team

Wed, 04 Feb 2026 02:00:00 -0400

The best leaders don’t just solve problems; they fix the system.

In this episode, Aaron Kopel sits down with Earl Shaw, CIO at Renaissance Benefits & Health Insurance, to talk about what it really takes to rebuild trust and performance within an organization under pressure. Earl discusses how his love for strategy and puzzles shaped his leadership style, and how embracing unfamiliar opportunities made him a more well-rounded enterprise leader.

Earl also shares his take on what stays the same and what changes in an AI-driven world. He highlights why communication and change management are key, as tools like Microsoft Copilot reshape work, and why top technologists need more than just technical skills. In this conversation, Earl shows that momentum ultimately comes from clarity, curiosity, and the discipline to fix the system.

Key takeaways:

Great leaders solve challenges like puzzles with critical thinking and strategy
Communication builds trust faster than speed alone
Liberal arts, like critical thinking, storytelling, and communication, are just as essential for shaping well-rounded IT leaders

Episode highlights

(00:00) Intro

(01:04) Key moments that shape leadership

(05:25) How listening and innovation turned IT services around

(13:11) Why liberal arts matter for technologists in the AI age

(17:47) The power of storytelling in technology

(20:04) How AI is accelerating business growth and innovation

(23:51) Why knowing every aspect of the organization powers technology success

(25:52) Rapid-fire questions

(32:31) Why curiosity and adaptability matter in tech leadership

Earl Shaw on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/earl-shaw/

Aaron Kopel on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aaronkopel

Explore Renaissance Benefits & Health Insurance: https://renaissancebenefits.com/

Explore Project Brilliant: https://projectbrilliant.com

The Science of Scaling by Benjamin Hardy: https://a.co/d/76xHeGD

Buy Unlocking Momentum: https://a.co/d/hKPFqoS

Lessons You Only Learn in Public Service

Wed, 21 Jan 2026 02:00:00 -0400

What happens when a technologist chooses public service and discovers leadership is less about systems and more about people?

In this episode, Aaron Kopel sits down with Collin Hill, CIO of Indianapolis and Marion County, to explore how service industry experience, local government work, and calm leadership under pressure shape stronger technology leaders. Collin shares his unexpected path into public service and why running technology for his hometown has become the most challenging and rewarding role of his career.

The conversation explores a pivotal moment early in Collin’s CIO journey, when a cybersecurity initiative triggered backlash across the organization and forced a defining leadership choice. Rather than retreating, he leaned in, making a decision that reshaped how security and shared responsibility showed up across the city. He also shares why service industry experience builds the empathy and steadiness needed to lead tech teams under pressure.

Key takeaways

Service industry experience builds empathy and stronger leadership skills
Local government offers unmatched responsibility and community impact
Effective CIOs lead with calm communication and a people first mindset

Episode highlights

(00:00) Intro

(01:50) When playing it safe stops working

(04:39) Why everyone should spend time in local government

(10:45) How working in the service industry makes the best talents

(15:42) Culture is set in the most uncomfortable moments

(19:48) When you have to stand on what you believe

(21:03) Running technology for your own hometown

(23:07) Rapid fire questions

(27:45) Leaving the world better than when you found it

Resources

Collin Hill on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/collin-hill-b178483/
Aaron Kopel on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aaronkopel

Explore the Information Services Agency of the City of Indianapolis and Marion County: https://www.indy.gov/agency/information-services-agency

Explore Project Brilliant: https://projectbrilliant.com

Explore the Indiana CIO Network: https://techpoint.org/indiana-cio-network/

Buy Unlocking Momentum: https://a.co/d/hKPFqoS

This CIO Brings Leaders to a Nature Expedition to Rethink Leadership

Wed, 07 Jan 2026 02:00:00 -0400

Why should CIOs step away from being the "technical fixer" to lead effectively?

In this episode, Aaron Kopel sits down with Jeff Ton, former CIO of Ton Enterprises, LLC, and a seasoned leader in IT and leadership development. Jeff shares his journey from COBOL punch cards to guiding leaders on transformative expeditions inspired by the Lewis and Clark trail. He explains why leadership is about more than just technical skills and how understanding core values can shape a team’s vision.

Leadership comes with both challenges and rewards, and Jeff explores what it really takes to guide a team. He shares how experiences, even a nature expedition, can offer fresh perspectives and reshape the way leaders see their role.

Key takeaways

Leadership is about enabling others, not just controlling outcomes
Strong communication builds trust and drives alignment within teams
CIOs who focus on people and vision, not just the tech, make the biggest impact

Episode highlights

(00:00) Intro

(01:10) How prioritizing the right projects transforms IT momentum

(06:45) AI as a tool for transformation, not a one-size-fits-all solution

(13:44) On leadership, writing, and walking the Lewis and Clark Trail

(19:11) How to navigate leadership with a balanced perspective

(24:09) Lessons on tech and music

(27:56) Rapid-fire questions

Resources

Jeff Ton on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jtonindy/
Aaron Kopel on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aaronkopel

Explore Ton Enterprises, LLC: https://jeffreyston.com/

Explore Project Brilliant: https://projectbrilliant.com

Explore the Indiana CIO Network: https://techpoint.org/indiana-cio-network/

Buy Unlocking Momentum: https://a.co/d/hKPFqoS

Why Communication is the Secret Skill Most CIOs Get Wrong

Tue, 23 Dec 2025 02:00:00 -0400

Momentum is built in the uncertain moments, when leaders are stretched, cultures shift, and teams look for someone steady to move them forward.

In this episode, Aaron Kopel sits down with Warren Lenard, CIO of the Indiana Office of Technology, whose path has taken him through some of the toughest environments a CIO can face. From guiding a retail organization through COVID to stepping into statewide leadership with no public-sector background, Warren has led in seasons that reveal what leadership truly means.

Key takeaways

Leadership evolves when leaders shift from controlling outcomes to enabling people
Culture is strengthened or weakened by how leaders communicate
CIOs earn their influence by partnering across the business, not protecting the tech

Episode highlights

(00:00) Intro

(01:33) How COVID challenges were tackled at Byrider

(13:25) Warren’s career journey and experiences

(21:55) Finding leadership growth and communication in IT

(27:56) Why in-person interaction shapes culture, teamwork, and silos

(38:32) How the CIO role continues to evolve

(43:18) The importance of AI literacy in the future of work

(46:07) What fitness and creativity teach

(48:08) Advice he’d give his younger self

(49:16) Connecting and networking with purpose

Resources

Warren Lenard on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/warrenlenard
Aaron Kopel on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aaronkopel

Explore the Indiana Office of Technology: https://www.in.gov/iot/

Explore Project Brilliant: https://projectbrilliant.com
Explore the Indiana CIO Network: https://techpoint.org/indiana-cio-network

Reset by Dan Heath: https://www.danheath.com
Books by Malcolm Gladwell: https://www.gladwellbooks.com

Books by Patrick Lencioni: https://www.tablegroup.com/books/?srsltid=AfmBOoo9gyp35SwrlEnRT9TEWq4bGBO5_SJ4oosSe7F3TR0lKMqyTFv7

Buy Unlocking Momentum: https://a.co/d/hKPFqoS

This is How To Lead Your Team Through a Massive Change

Wed, 10 Dec 2025 02:00:00 -0400

Transformation takes shape in the chaos of everyday work. It's in tough choices and moments when nothing feels certain, and leaders stand at the center of it all, steadying their teams and helping them move with purpose.

In this episode, Aaron Kopel chats with Republic Airways CIO Matt Belanger, who’s right in the middle of one of the most intense seasons a CIO can walk into. New headquarters are coming online, flight operations systems are being rebuilt, a major acquisition is closing, and two cultures are preparing to come together. It’s the kind of environment where leadership either shows up or doesn’t.

Matt talks openly about what it takes to prioritize when everything is important, how he stays present for his people when the pace spikes, and why CIOs have to step beyond being the “details person” and start leading like enterprise partners. His path towards aviation gives him a perspective you rarely hear, and it’s one every evolving CIO will recognize.

Key takeaways:

Momentum requires leaders to let go of old habits
Culture is the real engine of transformation
Operational excellence earns you permission to transform

Episode highlights:

(00:00) Intro

(01:40) How Matt unlearned being “just the engineer”

(03:55) Why Republic’s transformation demanded a new leadership lens

(05:22) Managing extreme organizational load without losing culture

(06:48) The power of self-organized culture teams during heavy change

(07:55) How CIOs decide what deserves their time when everything is urgent

(09:10) What needs to stop in order to grow

(11:58) Why apprenticeships are a strategic advantage in tech

(13:40) The journey to modernizing aviation’s next frontier

(15:05) Why CIO credibility starts with operational reliability

(16:22) Building trust across the business through curiosity, not control

(20:40) Inside the Indiana CIO Network and why CIOs shouldn’t lead alone

Resources:

Matt Belanger on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mattbelanger/

Aaron Kopel on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aaronkopel

Explore Project Brilliant: https://projectbrilliant.com/

Explore the Indiana CIO Network: https://techpoint.org/indiana-cio-network/

Buy Unlocking Momentum: https://a.co/d/hKPFqoS

This is Unlocking Momentum with Aaron Kopel

Wed, 03 Dec 2025 02:05:00 -0400

Transformation doesn’t come from theory. It comes from motion. From momentum. And from leaders willing to do things differently.

Unlocking Momentum is for the evolving CIOs, strategic leaders who aren’t satisfied just managing systems, but driving growth, enabling innovation, and building the future of their organizations.

Hosted by Aaron Kopel, founder of Project Brilliant and creator of the Momentum Locksmith framework, this show is where forward-thinking leaders come to grow.