Best Brett Sweeney Podcasts (2024)

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Ep 37: Navigating Communication Challenges 45:40

7h ago45:40

45:40

Brett & Jack discuss the commentary and insights of three accomplished CFOs (Sandeep Aujla from Intuit, Shelagh Glaser from Synopsys, and Seth Wunder from Acorns), while highlighting their distinct approaches to strategic finance, organizational structure, communication, and business growth. While all three Planning Aces highlight the importance of…

1
190. The Intersection of Grief, Growth, and Real Estate with Sean Sweeney 1:04:54

1h ago1:04:54

1:04:54

“If I die today, am I proud of what I've done? And I was like, I've got so much more inside me that I want to put out in the world beforehand.” — Sean Sweeney Today on Gravity: How Sean overcame loss, grief, and unresolved trauma Sean's pivot from law and acting to real estate development The critical role of therapy in personal and professional gr…

1
Ep 36: Standardize, Streamline & Scale 36:28

12d ago36:28

36:28

On the latest episode of Planning Aces three dynamic CFOs—Robert Cornella (RNDC), Karen Williams (American Express Global Business Travel), and Tony Querciagrossa (Pinstripes)—share a menu of FP&A insights and experiences. Robert Cornella emphasized the importance of understanding value chain economics and achieving operational harmony within compl…

1
189. Redefining Identity: Michael Unbroken's Path from Pain to Purpose 47:44

24d ago47:44

47:44

“I believe that the most healed people in the world do not give a f*ck what other people think about them, because they have given themselves the freedom of identity. They've allowed themselves the space to be themselves.” — Michael Unbroken CONTENT WARNING: This podcast episode may contain potentially sensitive or triggering content (i.e. mental h…

1
188. Internal Healing and the Birth of a Sustainable Vision with Wes Carter 1:02:29

2M ago1:02:29

1:02:29

“I came to the realization that when it comes to spiritual and emotional healing for the modern day. It's really not about plant medicine or modern psychotherapy, It's actually the intersection of both. And that's where I really found tremendous healing, where I would have a medicine experience, and then I would go sit with a therapist for the next…

1
Ep 35: Why "Finance People & Analysis" is the New FP&A 42:52

2M ago42:52

42:52

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A Tribute to Ken Jordan 1:08:35

2M ago1:08:35

1:08:35

This week, I’m re-releasing a previous episode featuring my friend Ken Jordan who passed away recently. I’m saddened at the loss of Ken who was such a beautiful soul, a wonderful man and a bright light in this world. Ken was instrumental in the psychedelics movement through his advocacy and journalism as founder of Lucid News. Ken left an imprint o…

1
Ep 34: From Rearview to Road Ahead 34:40

3M ago34:40

34:40

Leadership in FP&A: All three CFOs emphasize the role of finance in leading and driving business performance through strategic foresight, detailed operational insights, and proactive engagement. Technology and Innovation: There is a strong inclination towards integrating new technologies like AI to enhance the capabilities of finance teams and impr…

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187. From Adversity to Innovation: Chris Pan's Trailblazing Impact 53:46

3M ago53:46

53:46

“Part of the problem—the illness we're all suffering from—is consumerism. We've built a capitalist society that has its beautiful parts, too. But the idea of turning everyone toward consumerism equates to depression. The human spirit needs to create; it's the opposite of consumerism. And so, it doesn't matter whether you're creating a poem, a piece…

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186. Breath of Transformation: Brandon Groux and the Power of Vulnerability 47:56

3M ago47:56

47:56

“Men are clearly craving for meaningful connections with other men, yet finding it challenging to make friends as adults. They struggle to identify spaces where they can feel truly open and connected with fellow men.” - Brandon Groux Today on Gravity: From Vail to Van Life: Brandon’s journey of minimalism and gratitude. Transformative breathwork: h…

1
185. The Courage to Be Real: Insights from The Angry Therapist 1:04:43

3M ago1:04:43

1:04:43

“I had this revelation: If everyone likes you, no one likes you. So, there are going to be people that you don't resonate with. But then I also thought, how can I be the most effective and potent in this world? So, here's my promise to myself: From here on out, I'm going to make decisions that feel honest to me. I'm going to do my best to live a li…

1
Ep 33: Driving Value Beyond the Balance Sheet 42:33

4M ago42:33

42:33

This episode our Planning Aces emphasize the importance of leveraging one's breadth of experience, stepping beyond traditional FP&A roles, and focusing on execution to bring significant value to organizations. They also emphasize the evolving nature of finance professional interactions and the idea that strategic insights can serve as catalysts for…

1
184. Judy Huang's Journey Through Life's Adversity and Success 44:34

4M ago44:34

44:34

“Despite every difficulty, I believe there's learning inside. It's about not being afraid to look at it, deal with it, and move forward through that process despite challenges.” — Judy Huang Today on Gravity: Judy's journey of resilience amidst adversity Lessons from entrepreneurship successes and setbacks How Judy overcame health challenges and li…

1
183. Spirituality in Psychiatry with Dr. Dan Engle 1:18:32

5M ago1:18:32

1:18:32

This podcast episode may contain potentially sensitive or triggering content (i.e. mental health and suicide). Listener discretion is advised. "If you thought the universe was conspiring in your favor before, then why would this be any different? Just because you don't want this to happen and it's uncomfortable, how do you know this isn't also part…

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182. Building a Brand with Beer: Land-Grant Co-founder Adam Benner 1:01:13

5M ago1:01:13

1:01:13

“What can we do to help elevate what’s around us? We wanted to be part of this community and help build it up. Seeing what we could do to have an impact on the neighborhood, we realized that we were on the right path.” — Adam Benner Today on Gravity: Adam's approach to partnership and community Discovery and involvement in Franklinton Initiatives t…

1
Ep 32: Operating ON and IN The Business 46:56

5M ago46:56

46:56

Planning Aces co-hosts Brett Knowles and Jack Sweeney discuss the strategic efforts of two CFOs leading organizational turnarounds, and a third CFO, who offers key organizational insights from an earlier career chapter. Emphasizing simplification, strategic focus, and leveraging both human insight and technology, Marc Suidan of Beachbody, Emma Brow…

1
181. From Crippling Addiction to 36 Years of Sobriety with Mark Gerling 49:51

5M ago49:51

49:51

“I’m here for anybody out there that may have a situation where they just need to talk because that’s what got me through my tough times.” — Mark Gerling Today on Gravity: Mark’s early struggles and journey to sobriety Steadfast 36-year commitment to abstinence Managing life's challenges one day at a time Channeling passion into a fulfilling career…

1
180. Models and Myths of Masculinity with Johnny Elsasser 45:34

6M ago45:34

45:34

“You don’t rise to the occasion. You fall to the highest level of consistent training you possess.” – Johnny Elsasser Today on Gravity: Defining the characteristics of authentic manhood Framework for personal development and growth The vital role of consistent training Being perfectly imperfect on the journey of life Life's bigger picture and unive…

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179. How to Stop Being Indecisive with Chet Scott 52:26

6M ago52:26

52:26

“I don’t believe there are enlightened ones; there are just beings that keep seeking light. We’re not designed to figure it out; we’re designed to keep figuring it out.” – Chet Scott Today on Gravity: Building a strong core and authentic opus The impact of "no" and energy management The universe conspiring in your favor Observing the influence of "…

1
178. Tucker Max on Trauma & Resilience 55:11

6M ago55:11

55:11

In today's page-turning dialogue, Brett is joined by Tucker Max, a renowned author and self-discovery advocate. Tucker opens up about his challenging youth, navigating success, and the profound impact of psychedelic therapy on his journey. They discuss their insights into the complexities of personal growth, finding purpose, and the highs and lows …

1
Ep 31: Projecting The Voice of Reason 42:09

6M ago42:09

42:09

This episode of Planning Aces sheds light on the critical role financial leadership and strategic planning plays in guiding companies through turbulent times and the importance of balancing short-term opportunities with long-term strategic planning. Each of the featured finance chiefs faced unique challenges related to the pandemic’s impact on thei…

1
177. Opening 100 Restaurants, Mastering Work-Life Balance with Cameron Mitchell 55:23

6M ago55:23

55:23

"You don't always see the inward success. I worked just as hard at building my family as I did building our business. As I would build a business, same thing applied to my business: Failure is not an option." — Cameron Mitchell Today on Gravity: From humble beginnings to triumphant success Cameron's passion for the restaurant business Work and life…

1
176. Turning Everyday Life into Poetry with Maggie Smith 1:18:45

6M ago1:18:45

1:18:45

"'Nothing that interesting has happened to me. I'm not a world traveler. I have a stable home life. I have no significant trauma. What on earth am I going to write about?' Well, put your phone down and go outside. What are you thinking about? What do you not understand? What are you questioning? What did things look like to you? What do you feel jo…

1
Ep 30: Seeding Organizational Ownership 37:30

7M ago37:30

37:30

Planning Aces Hosts Brett Knowles and Jack Sweeney discuss how AI's integration into FP&A is still in early stages, with many teams 'dabbling' in AI rather than regularly employing it. However, its use has been significant, inspiring creativity and improving team performance. This episode's conversation emphasizes how FP&A is not just about financi…

1
175. Gravity Year-End Highlights of 2023 38:58

7M ago38:58

38:58

Join Brett Kaufman in a special year-end episode as we celebrate three years of the Gravity podcast. This compilation features highlights from memorable conversations with nationally and internationally recognized guests, as well as Brett's local friends from Columbus. Brett expresses gratitude to listeners and extends warm wishes for the holiday s…

1
174. Haley Boehning on Consciously Crafting Brand Narratives 48:26

8M ago48:26

48:26

In today's impactful narrative, Brett welcomes Haley Boehning, the visionary founder of Storyforge. Haley brings to the table a wealth of experience, having founded Storyforge in 2014 after years of collaborating with leaders across Fortune 500 companies, nonprofits, and startups. As a seasoned storyteller, she discusses the transformative power of…

1
173. Eulogy 14:57

8M ago14:57

14:57

Join Brett in a deeply heartfelt episode as he shares a lovingly crafted eulogy for his late father, Robert B. Kaufman. The episode unfolds the chapters of Robert's life, from joyful beginnings and sports achievements to later struggles and eventual reconciliation. Brett reflects on the complexities of his father's journey, revealing moments of lov…

1
Ep 29: FP&A: The Silo Buster 48:56

8M ago48:56

48:56

This episode of Planning Aces Brett and Jack discuss FP&A’s role when it comes to breaking down silos within departments, and how A.I. is quickly emerging as FP&A’s ultimate silo busting partner. Their discussion highlights the importance of connecting business performance metrics with financial outcomes and the role of AI will play in complex anal…

1
172. Hilary Phelps on Sobriety and Dispelling Stigma 1:10:06

9M ago1:10:06

1:10:06

In today's episode, Brett engages in a heartfelt conversation with Hilary Phelps, an extraordinary woman whose journey from addiction to authenticity resonates with profound inspiration. As a publicist and advocate, Hilary courageously unravels her path to rediscovering her voice and becomes a beacon of support for women in their transformative jou…

1
171. Regan Archibald on Longevity and Mortality 53:12

9M ago53:12

53:12

In today’s episode, Brett is joined by Regan Archibald, founder of East West Health, Integrated Pain Specialists, and Go Wellness. They unveil the groundbreaking innovations reshaping health care. Discover the fusion of technology and health, propelling forward intuitive diagnostics and personalized treatment plans. Regan shares insights into the p…

1
Ep 28: How Planning Aces Are Made 40:23

9M ago40:23

40:23

This episode features insights and commentary from three finance leaders: CFO Michael Linford of Affirm, CFO Ana Chadwick of Pitney Bowse, and CFO Jason Leet of Zylo. Imagine if these three finance leaders were to meet and have a discussion about their past roles. Each of them has a unique story to tell. Michael Linford, for example, was previously…

1
170. Being “Human” in Business and Life with Joe Polish 59:09

9M ago59:09

59:09

Today, Brett engages in a dynamic conversation with Joe Polish, the visionary behind Genius Network, GeniusX, President of Piranha Marketing, and Co-Founder of 10XTalk. In this captivating live collaboration between Gravity and Genius Network, Brett takes on the role of a guest, offering a glimpse into his business journey. He delves deep into pers…

1
169. Transforming Adversity into Service with Matthew Goldstein 1:01:54

10M ago1:01:54

1:01:54

Content Warning: Sensitive topics discussed. Listener discretion advised. In this heartfelt conversation, Brett sits down with his close friend, Matthew Goldstein, the Founder and CEO of the Columbus Non-Profit organization, Besa. Matthew shares the inspiring story of how his difficult upbringing fueled his passion for serving others. They tackle s…

1
168. Bart Smeets on Living Without Regrets 56:29

10M ago56:29

56:29

Brett Kaufman sits down with Bart Smeets, a hyper-realistic and photo-realistic graffiti artist. The life of an artist is one that's filled with uncertainty, hardships, and setbacks, and the only true weapon capable of battling the odds is relentless passion. Bart recalls how he wouldn't be where he is today without the support of his parents, and …

1
167. Chet Scott on The Key to Getting the Life You Want 39:31

10M ago39:31

39:31

Today, Brett reunites with recurring guest, coach, and friend Chet Scott. In this spontaneous, “coaching”-esque discussion between two great minds, they dive into the timeless wisdom of starting small to achieve something big. They also touch on several topics including working on yourself, dispelling your limiting beliefs, practicing energy manage…

1
Ep 27: How Finance Leaders Are Adapting Their Teams 37:39

10M ago37:39

37:39

Brett and Jack draw parallels between the challenges faced by our three featured Planning Aces as they seek to optimize the talent resources and processes in their different organizations. The pressure to align strategy and execution is increasing, and all three CFOs share their responses to these external pressures. Brett also touches on the adopt…

1
166. Kymberlee Lisk on Perspective, Growth, and the Power of Sensory Healing 50:12

10M ago50:12

50:12

Brett chats with Kymberlee Lisk, the founder of Ebb & Float. Their conversation dives into Kymberlee's past, touching on challenges like feeling out of place, early motherhood, and building a successful corporate career without a college background. Kymberlee also discusses her journey to starting Ebb & Float and the core beliefs that shape the com…

1
165. Bob Roth: The Power of Stillness in a Chaotic World 56:20

10M ago56:20

56:20

Brett Kaufman welcomes Bob Roth, one of the most experienced meditation teachers in the US and author of the New York Times bestseller “Strength in Stillness: The Power of Transcendental Meditation.” With nearly 50 years of experience, Bob has introduced thousands to the practice of Transcendental Meditation. As the CEO of the David Lynch Foundatio…

1
164. Flavors of Transformation: Jeni Britton on Ice Cream and Identity 59:09

11M ago59:09

59:09

Jeni Britton of Jeni's Splendid Ice Creams joins us once again to delve into her personal journey of introspection and transformation, sparked initially by feelings of misalignment in 2019. Amidst the challenges of entrepreneurship and societal pressures, Jeni emphasizes the significance of embracing both light and shadow sides of life, using fear …

1
Ep 26: The Quest for the Golden KR 40:09

11M ago40:09

40:09

This episode our cohost Brett Knowles suggests that every professional within an organization should have their own “golden KR” or key result that they are held accountable for. As he explains, this would create alignment and clarity throughout the organization. The Rule of 40 and Gross Margin: TreviPay CFO Joel Campbell discusses two intriguing me…

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163. From Street to Studio: A Deep Dive with Gravity's Featured Artists 43:35

11M ago43:35

43:35

In the final episode of the artist summer series, internationally acclaimed artists Okuda, Pref, Adele Renault, and OG Millie come together to discuss their journeys and the evolving realms of the art world. They explore topics from the initial spark that got them into art, their transition to professional artists, to the intricate balance between …

1
162. Lewis Howes on Childhood Struggles and Lifelong Healing 1:04:21

11M ago1:04:21

1:04:21

In this episode, Brett delves into Lewis Howes' transformative journey, revealing both harrowing challenges and uplifting triumphs. From early childhood traumas to the solace found in sports and healing modalities, Howes sheds light on his path to healing and empowerment. This conversation provides a profound glimpse into the resilience and hope th…

1
161. From Mirrors to Murals: The Artistic Evolution of OG Millie 28:18

12M ago28:18

28:18

In this artist summer series episode, OG Millie's transformative journey as an NYC-based artist unfolds. A retinal detachment in 2012 became a pivot point where she uncovered her deep passion for art. Millie’s artistry spans from intimate portrayals on vintage mirrors to murals symbolizing breaking free of insecurities and messages of rebirth and r…

1
160. Nurturing Art from Life: Adele Renault's Expressive Journey 55:42

12M ago55:42

55:42

In today’s artist summer series episode, Belgian artist Adele Renault delves into her personal journey from childhood fascination with art to her evolution as an artist marked by a shift from portraiture and graffiti to nature-inspired pieces. She shares insights into her upbringing and its impact on her career choices, her art practices, decision-…

1
159. Embracing Meaning: Pref's Exploration of Words and Design in Art 54:10

12M ago54:10

54:10

International graffiti and mural artist Pref joins Brett in today’s artist summer series episode. Pref is renowned for his distinctive typographic murals and gallery works, where he cleverly manipulates common words and phrases, inviting viewers to decipher meanings from his intricate images. Raised in a creatively nourishing environment in Northwe…

1
Ep 25: Impact of Organization Design on FP&A 35:13

12M ago35:13

35:13

This episode of Planning Aces features the FP&A insights and commentary of CFO Dev Ahuja of Novelis, CFO Alex Triplett of Appfire and CFO Rick Rosenthal of Clara Analytics. One of the key topics co host Brett Knowles drills down on is the difference between complicated and complex problems. Brett uses the examples of manufacturing a car, which is c…

1
158. Transforming Spaces: Okuda on Art, Culture and Identity 37:13

1y ago37:13

37:13

In this episode of Gravity's summer artist series, Brett chats with Okuda, an internationally renowned street artist, discussing the transformation of his artistic journey. Okuda discusses the influences, motivations, and thought processes behind his vibrant, geometric artwork. Their conversation further delves into Okuda's collaborations with big …

1
157. Navigating Shadows: Keri Croft’s Journey Through Success and Loss 1:09:05

1y ago1:09:05

1:09:05

Today, Brett engages in a profound conversation with his good friend, entrepreneur, and podcast host, Keri Croft. Their strong friendship is evident in the ease of their interaction, marked by touching honesty and enjoyable banter. The conversation uncovers Keri's remarkable resilience in confronting personal loss, separation, and infertility, addr…

1
156. Miracle Morning: The Personal Growth Routine with Hal Elrod 1:04:20

1y ago1:04:20

1:04:20

In this illuminating episode, author of “The Miracle Morning” Hal Elrod shares his inspiring journey of transformation and resilience. After facing trauma and mediocrity in his life, a career opportunity challenged him to develop discipline and consistency, setting him on a path to success. Elrod discusses his epiphany to incorporate six personal d…

1
155. Beyond Atomic Habits: The Unheard Journey of James Clear 1:01:54

1y ago1:01:54

1:01:54

In today’s compelling episode, Brett is joined by James Clear, acclaimed author of “Atomic Habits”, delving into unique aspects of his journey and perspective. Clear reveals the foundational themes of his childhood, his thirst for knowledge, and how this shaped his path to becoming a writer and entrepreneur. He discusses the importance of intention…

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