Founders to Watch: Top 10 Pioneering Leaders to Follow in 2023, October2023

Cover Story

Voorwinden

Transforming Facility Management & Aviation Operations for an Enhanced and Secure Future

o n t e n t s

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14. Eugene Tavyev

Transforming Workspaces and Empowering Businesses

22. Navigang New Horizons in Branding and Communicaons Lauren Campbell

30. CxO

In the Boardroom: ESG at the Top of the Corporate Agenda - By Frank Aquila

Articles Articles

18.

26.

From Tradional to Transformaonal

The Evoluon of Futurisc Leadership Leading by Example The Key to Influenal Leadership

Forget Wall Street wolves and corporate tans. The future belongs to the trailblazing founders – the bold minds whose audacity is reshaping landscapes and defining the narrave of 2023. These aren’t your run-of-the-mill entrepreneurs; they’re pioneers carving uncharted paths, tackling global challenges, and reimagining the very fabric of our world.

Imagine a founder leading the charge in sustainable agriculture, harnessing technology to culvate resilient crops and nourish a hungry planet. Envision another breaking the shackles of tradional finance, democrazing access to capital and building an inclusive financial ecosystem. Picture a visionary whose AIpowered plaorm is revoluonizing healthcare, offering personalized diagnoses and accessible medical care to millions.

Editor’sView Trailblazing

These are just glimpses into the breathtaking tapestry woven by these ten pioneering leaders. They’re disrupng industries, igning revoluons, and challenging the status quo. 2023 isn’t just a year; it’s a canvas being painted by their audacious strokes.

But their brilliance isn’t confined to their specific endeavors. These founders are catalysts of change, inspiring generaons with their unwavering passion and infecous opmism. They’re proof that innovaon isn’t just about profit margins; it’s about a higher purpose, a commitment to leaving the world a beer place than they found it.

So, keep your eyes peeled on these names. Their journey is far from over. In 2023, they’re not just building companies; they’re building futures. They’re the architects of a world where sustainability thrives, equality flourishes, and technology empowers progress. They’re the founders to watch, not just for their entrepreneurial acumen, but for the revoluonary changes they’ll unleash in the years to come.

This year, the watchlist isn’t about market trends or quarterly reports; it’s about humanity’s next giant leap. Prepare to be amazed, inspired, and perhaps even a lile bit challenged by these extraordinary visionaries. The future is in their hands, and it’s looking brighter than ever.

Have an inspiraonal read ahead!

Mind s Bui l d gni a NUOF dloB n Doita -PreonD.Bannier

Shaping the Future of Vital Industries Through Innovation and Safety!

Ineveryelementofourlife,safetycomesfirst.Weall placeahighpriorityonourhealthandthehealthof thosearoundus,whetheratwork,athome,orwhile traveling.Evenmore,itisatstakewhenitcomesto militaryaviation.Itisimperativetosafeguardthemenand womenwhoserveinthearmedservicesbecausetheyrisk theirliveseverydaytodefendournations.

WilliamVoorwinden,theFounderofINDENSolutions GroupInc.,isavisionaryleaderwhoisattheforefrontof changeandinnovationinthefast-pacedanddemanding fieldsoffacilitymanagementandaviation.Voorwindenis dedicatedtohavingapositiveinfluenceontheseindustries’ futurebecauseofitssteadfastbeliefinthecrucialrolethese sectorsplayintheworldeconomy.

Thecommittedmaintenanceandmanagementoftheir clients’mostimportantassets,particularlytheirFederal Governmentaviationfacilities,isattheheartofINDEN SolutionsGroup’smission.Voorwindenandhiscolleagues areabletoensurethesmoothandsustainableoperationof theseessentialresourcesbecausetheyhaveathorough understandingoftheintricateengineeringrequirementsof thesecomplexsystems.

Everyprojectbeginswithcreativethinkingorideas. Voorwindenunderstandsthevalueofleveraginghisteam’s

breadthofexperienceandcooperatingtogenerateexcellent results.Whenitcomestofacilitysub-systems,pneumatic operations,andmechanical-electricoperations,theINDEN SolutionsGroupstrivestomaximizefunctionality, efficiency,andoperationalexcellence.

Voorwinden’sprimarydrivingmotivationistodeliver functionalaviationfacilitiesandsafety-focusedaircraft supportservices.Safetyisnotsimplyapriority;itisa fundamentalnecessityintheaviationsector.Knowingthat acompany’sreputationandpeople’slivesdependonsafety management,INDENSolutionsGroupmaintainsan unshakableemphasisonit.Theymakesurethatcommercial andmilitaryairtransportissafer,moreeffective,andmore dependablebyputtingsafetyfirst.

Join us as we explore William Voorwinden’s inspirational leadership and the innovative work of INDEN Solutions Group!

DedicationtoSafetyandEfficiency

WilliamfirmlybelievesthatFacilityManagementandthe aviationindustryplayacriticalroleintheglobaleconomy. Thesesectorsarehighlychallenginganddemanding, particularlyfromanengineeringperspective.Inhisrole, Williamisdedicatedtopositivelyshapingthefutureof thesevitalindustries.Themissionistocatertoclients’ needs,withaspecialfocusonmanagingandmaintaining FederalGovernmentaviationfacilities.Thesefacilitiesare consideredtheirmostvaluableasset,andtheyallocatetheir resourcestoensuretheirsustainableoperations.Every innovationinfacilitysub-systems,pneumaticand mechanical-electricoperationsbeginwiththeideaof improvingoperationalefficiency Theystrivetointegrate thiswealthofknowledgeandexperienceintothefinal product.William’sultimategoalistoprovidereliable aviationfacilitiesandaircraftsupportservicesthatenhance thesafetyandefficiencyofmilitaryandcommercialair travelandtransport.Safetyisthetoppriorityinthissector, asacompany’sreputationisatstakewhenaviation accidentsoccur,nottomentionthepotentiallossofhuman lives.

COVID-19SparksEntrepreneurialDrive

Williamrespondedwithenthusiasmwhilediscussingthe inceptionstory,statingthatthedecisiontostartabusiness wasinfluencedbythelockdownsandtheCOVID-19 pandemic.

Hebelievesthatentrepreneursusuallyhavemultiple reasonsforstartingacompany,includingpersonaland financialgoals.Recognizingtheimmensechallenges involvedinstartingabusiness,Williamacknowledged thatthosewhoembarkedontheentrepreneurialpath duringthistimemustbehighlymotivated,willingto putinlonghours,andresilientenoughtoovercome inevitablefailures.

Williamdesiredtocreateatangibleserviceandtake prideintheproductgeneratedwithintheaviation industry.Hesoughtoutanintriguingandchallenging nichewithahighprobabilityofsuccess.Itwashis intentiontomakeapositiveimpactbyestablishinga newcompanythatwouldimprovethelivesof individualsandtheirfamilies.Notonlyarethese aspirationsbeneficialonapersonallevel,buttheyalso contributetothebettermentofthebusiness community

LeveragingS-CorpIncorporation

WhentheCOVID-19crisisbegan,manybusiness ownersandaspiringentrepreneursknowntoWilliam foundthemselvesatthemercyofmacroeconomic factors.Theirbusinessesexperiencednegativecash flowsduetotheinabilitytoreduceoperatingcosts. Additionally,thepandemicposedathreatto innovationasaccesstocapitalandrevenuebecame scarceforstartups.However,thesechallengesdidnot discourageWilliamfrompursuinghisdecisiontostart acompany.Oncethebusinesswaslaunchedand clientsbegantoshowinterest,Williammadethe strategicchoicetofileforanS-Corpincorporation, specificallyintheStateofCalifornia.Byelectingto betaxedunderSubchapterSofChapter1ofthe InternalRevenueCode,thebusinesscouldenjoy certaintaxadvantagescomparedtoothercorporate structureslikeCcorporationsandLLCs.This incorporationtype,knownasanScorporation,proved tobethemostsuitableoptionforINDENSolutions GroupInc.

ConsideringCalifornia’sabundantresourcesandits concentrationofbusinessesthatINDENSolutions GroupIncreliedon,establishingtheheadquartersin thestatemadelogisticalsense.

LeadershipSkills

WilliamenlistedintheUnitedStatesAirForce,specializing inflight-linegroundsupportoperationsandfacilities managementoperations.Duringthistime,healsoattended U.SMilitaryschools,receivingformaltraininginthe aviationcareersector Themilitary’straininginstilledin himasenseofresponsibilityforresources,tasks,and personalconduct.Thistrainingfocusedondeveloping leadershipskills,suchasinspiringandmotivatingothers, leadingbyexample,delegatingtaskseffectively,and providingclearinstructions.William’sexperienceinthis highlyteam-orientedandhierarchicalenvironmentfueled hisdesiretobecomeabusinessowner.

Understandingtheimportanceofleadership,hebelieves thatleadersplayacrucialroleinguiding,inspiring,and motivatingindividualstoachievetheirgoals.Theypossess theskillsandknowledgerequiredtomakeinformed decisionsandsolveproblemsefficiently.Agoodleader identifiesthestrengthsoftheirteammembersanddelegates tasksaccordingly.Furthermore,Williamemphasizesthe empowermentofmanagers,encouragingthemtoenhance theircommunicationskillsandbuildstrongrelationships withtheirgovernmentorcommercialcustomers.Withthese principlesinmind,helaunchedINDENSolutionsGroup Inc.,aimingtoprovideexceptionalleadershipandcustomer service.

SecretsofBecomingaTrueSubjectMatterExpert

Asubjectmatterexpert(SME)isknownforpossessing specializedknowledgeinaspecificfield.William,having acquiredcompetenciesthroughyearsofpractical experienceandeducationalbackgroundinfacilities management,emphasizesthatexpertisecannotbesolely basedonexperienceinaparticularrole.TrueSMEsare individualswhocontinuallylearnandspecializeina specificaspectoftheirjob.

William,forinstance,hasaccumulatedover30yearsof experienceandeducationincollaboratingwitharchitects, mechanical,electrical,andstructuralengineers,aswellas overseeingbudgetingandmanagingmaintenanceteamsfor facilitiesoperations.ThepathtobecominganSMErequires yearsofdedicationandconcentration,andwhilethe conceptmayseemsimple,puttingitintopracticeis exceedinglychallenging.Oncethenecessaryexpertisewas attained,hebegansharingitwithothersbyparticipatingin conferences,speakingengagements,andofferingconsulting servicestofriendsandfamily.

InsightsandStrategies

Whenaspiringtobecomeanaviationfacilitymanagement entrepreneur,itisessentialtoacquiretheskillofbudgeting fora24/7operationinthisindustry Thefirststepin creatingabudgetistoestablishoneormoregoals.Itis crucialtoensurethatthebudgetisaccuratebyaccounting foralloperationalexpenses,includingtheFederal Government’sexpectationsforinflation.Evensmall expenseslikepencilsshouldbeincludedinthebudget. Budgetsareusedbybusinessesandgovernmentsto monitorrevenuesandexpenditures,butyoumaybemore familiarwithusingabudgettomanageyourpersonal finances.Asabusinessowner,categorizingandtotalingthe monthlyexpensesanticipatedtobepaidiscrucial.These expensesshouldthenbesubtractedfromtheincometo determinehowmuchisavailableandtodevelopaplanfor allocatingthecashflow.

FederalContractNegotiations

Whenitcomestofederalcontractnegotiationsand procurementpractices,theFederalAcquisitionRegulation (FAR)governsthepurchasingprocessofthefederal government.Thissetofrules,whichoriginatedin1947,is complexandextensive.Negotiatedcontractsoffermore flexibilitycomparedtosealedbidding.TheContracting Officer(CO)hastheabilitytoengageindiscussionswith potentialcontractorsandconsidernon-costfactorssuchas managerialexperience,technicalapproach,andpast performance.

Havingexperienceinthisfield,orhiringsomeonewith suchexperience,cangiveacontractoranadvantagein navigatingtheprocess.Itisimportanttonotethat governmentcontractsincludestandardtermsand conditionsknownas“Clauses,”manyofwhicharenonnegotiableduetoregulations.

FromtheBattlefieldtotheBoardroom

Thefirstquestiontoconsideriswhethertherearespecific skillsthatcanbeeasilytransitionedintostartinga business.Itislikelythatarangeofskillsacquiredinthe militarycanbesuccessfullyappliedtothenewventure. Forinstance,experienceasanelectricianorinlogistics couldprovebeneficial.Eveniftheseareasdonotalign directlywithsomecreativethinking,opportunitiestoapply andmonetizeskillscanbediscovered.Additionally,any otherskillsobtainedpriortojoiningthemilitarymightalso bevaluable.

Throughouthismilitarycareer,hewasexposedtoworking withprivateFortune500Governmentcontractorsand observingtheireffectiveprocessesinreceivingpositive feedbackandprovidingproductstoGovernmentbuyers.

TransformativePowerofCenturyUniversity

AccordingtoWilliam,individualswhoareeducatedhavea greaterlikelihoodofachievingsuccessintheirdesired careersorbusinesses.Thisimpliesthatthemoreeducation oneobtains,thewiderrangeofbusinessopportunities becomeavailableaftergraduation.Forinstance,holdinga degreeinbusinessmanagementorbusinessadministration canleadtovariouscareerpaths,suchasbeingan accountant,financialadvisor,researchanalyst,business developmentmanager,orevenutilizingthesenewfound skillstolaunchanewcompany.Inessence,havingasolid educationalbackgrounddoesnotlimitone’sbusiness prospects.Personally,havingobtainedaBachelorof SciencesdegreeinBusinessAdministrationandhaving undergonemilitarytraining,thesetwoexperienceshave instilledinhimtheconfidencetopursuehispersonalgoals. Beinganeducatedindividualallowsyoutoleveragethe knowledge,skills,supportnetwork,andworkethic developedduringyouracademicjourneyor,inhiscase, gainadditionalbusinessskillsetsthroughmilitaryservice. Regardlessofthechosencareerpath,educationis undoubtedlyacrucialcomponentinachievingone’sdesired lifegoals.

VisionaryGoalsfortheFuture

Williamadherestoasimple,profitable,andsafeapproach whilealsoembracingnewinnovativeideas.Byestablishing realisticbusinessgoals,INDENSolutionsgroupgainsa clearsenseofdirectionandensuresaccountabilitywithinits supportteams.Thesegoals,whicharespecific,measurable, achievable,andrelevant,allowthefoundertomaintain focusandsafeguardthebusinessfromstagnation.Goalsettingisanongoingprocess,requiringsmallbusiness founderstocontinuouslyreviewandupdateexisting strategiesinordertoadapttoever-changingmarket demands.

INDENSolutionsGroupInc.viewsgoalsasresolutions aimedatachievingsustainedprofitabilityanddelivering exceptionalcustomerservicesupport.Whetherintheform ofshortorlong-termcontracts,thecompanystrivesto clearlycommunicateitsobjectivestoitssupportstaff. Settingshort-termgoalsthatalignwithlong-termgoalsisa crucialfactorinachievingsuccessandprofitability.By consideringshort-termgoalsasmilestonesonthepathto largerobjectives,businessescaneffectivelymanage processeswithoutlosingsightoftheoverallvision.Having well-definedgoalsprovidesasenseofpurposetodaily tasksandenhancesdecision-makingwithinthecompany.

RavingRewards

Withabusinesstenureofjustoverthreeyears,the importanceofcustomersatisfactionisundoubtedly ingrainedinyourmind.However,maintainingadelicate equilibriumbetweendeliveringnewprospects,generating leads,andgarneringrecognitionfromexistingclientscan provetobechallenging.Often,companiesfailtoallocate thenecessaryfocus,time,andefforttowardtheircurrent customers.

Asbusinessesgrow,theirprioritiestendtoshifttoward scalability,processes,andacquisition,inadvertentlycausing themtobecomemoredistantandimpersonaltowardtheir customerbase.Williamalwaysemphasizesthesignificance ofprioritizingstaffandcustomersupport,astheyplaya crucialroleinthesuccessofyourbrand.Oneoftheirmost cherishedtestimonials,featuredontheirwebsite,expresses thissentimentperfectly: “Outstanding partnering effort. Customer rating in Quality Control Planning for JCAHO Standards and Self-Initiated Improvements are scored at 100%” -DepartmentofVeteransAffairsclient,PaloAlto, CA.

Eugene Tavyev

Transforming Workspaces and Empowering Businesses

Bridging the Gap Between Traditional Office Leasing and Flexible Work Environments!

Intheworldofbusiness,newideasdrivechange,and ambitiousindividualspushlimits.EugeneTavyev embodiesthisspirit.He’sthebrainsbehindSpacepool, ayoungstartupthat’schanginghowwethinkabout workspaces.

Spacepoolisn’tjustaregularmarketplace;it’slikeaguide helpingcompaniesfindflexibleworkspacesnearby.Butit doesn’tstopthere.It’salsoahandytoolforcompaniesand landlordswhowanttomakethemostoftheirspaces.That meanstheycansavemoneybyusingspacesthatmight otherwisegounused.

Thisstoryshowshowfreshideascanmakeareal difference.StartupslikeSpacepoolhelpcompaniesadaptto achangingworld.ComealongasweexploreEugene’s journey—astoryofpassionandinnovationdrivingchange, shapingindustries,andcreatingnewopportunities.

Below are the highlights of the interview:

Canyoutellusaboutyourbackgroundandwhatled youtobecomeafounder?

Istartedmycareerontheagencysideofthingsbefore movingtothecommercialpropertydevelopmentworld.My desiretomakeameaningfulimpactandchallengethestatus quoinspiredmetotaketheleapintoentrepreneurshipand establishmyventure.

Whatinspiredyoutostartyourowncompany,andwhat isthemissionorvisionbehindyourcompany?

IwasinspiredtostartmyowncompanybecauseIwanted tomakeofficeenvironmentsmoreaccessibletothepublic.

Our vision involves building a platform that not only optimizes space usage but also generates fresh opportunities and enriching experiences for individuals and businesses alike.

Backthen,therewerenouser-friendlymarketplaces available,onlyagencieswithanonlinepresence,buteven theydidn’tprovideclearavailabilityandpricing information.AtSpacepool,ourmissionistorevolutionize howpeoplediscoverandusesharedspaces.We’reworking towardsaworldwhereanyonecaneasilyaccessunusedor underutilizedspacesforvariousneedslikeco-working, events,andcreativeprojects.Bybridgingpeoplewith spaces,ourgoalistoencouragecollaboration,creativity, andcommunitygrowth.Ourvisioninvolvesbuildinga platformthatnotonlyoptimizesspaceusagebutalso generatesfreshopportunitiesandenrichingexperiencesfor individualsandbusinessesalike.

Howdidyouidentifytheproblemorneedthatyour product/servicesolves,andcanyouprovideanoverview ofyourproduct/serviceandhowitdifferentiatesfrom othersinthemarket?

Identifyingtheproblemwasaresultofpersonalexperience andobservation.Inoticedthestrugglepeoplefacedin findingaccessibleandaffordableofficespaces.Traditional agencieshadadigitalpresence,butthelackoftransparent availabilityandpricingmadetheprocessfrustrating. ThisdrovemetocreateSpacepool,auser-friendlyplatform thatconnectsindividualsandbusinesseswithsharedspaces. Ourplatformallowsspaceownerstolisttheirunusedor underutilizedspaces,whileseekerscaneasilybrowse, book,andpayforthesespacesonline.Whatsetsusapartis ourfocusonsimplicityandtransparency Weproviderealtimeavailabilityandstraightforwardpricing,empowering userstomakeinformeddecisionseffortlessly Additionally, ouremphasisonfosteringcollaborationandcommunity differentiatesusfromothersinthemarket.We’renotjust aboutspace;we’reaboutcreatingmeaningfulconnections andopportunitiesindynamicenvironments.

Whatweresomeofthebiggestchallengesyoufaced whenstartingyourcompany,howdidyouovercome them,andhowdidyougoaboutbuildingyourteamand findingtherightpeopletojoinyourcompany?

StartingSpacepoolcamewithitsshareofchallenges.One majorhurdlewasbreakingintoamarketthatlackeda streamlinedsolutionforsharedspaces.Convincingspace ownerstolisttheirpropertiesonourplatformrequired overcomingskepticismaboutanewapproach.Totackle this,Ifocusedonillustratingthevalueproposition—how Spacepoolcouldboostitsincomewhileminimizingits efforts.Buildingateamwasequallycrucial.Isought individualswhosharedourvisionandwereadaptable problem-solvers.Networkingevents,industryseminars,and onlineplatformsprovedhelpfulinidentifyingpotential teammembers.Assessingtheiralignmentwithourmission andtheirexpertiseinrelevantfieldsensuredwehadawellroundedteam.Findingtherightpeoplealsomeant recognizingthatculturalfitwasparamount.Collaboration andinnovationthriveinanenvironmentwhereteam membersalignwiththecompany’svaluesandethos. Regularteammeetings,opencommunication,anda supportiveworkculturefurthersolidifiedourteam’s cohesiveness.

Whatstrategiesdidyouusetosecurefundingforyour company,andwhatadvicewouldyougivetoother foundersseekinginvestment?

Securingfundingwasadynamicjourneythatinvolveda mixofstrategies.Initially,Iutilizedpersonalsavingsand supportfromfamilyandfriendstokickstartSpacepool.As

weprogressed,Iexploredangelinvestorsandparticipated inpitcheventstoraiseseedcapital.Craftingacompelling pitchdeckthathighlightedouruniquevalueproposition, marketpotential,andgrowthstrategywaskeytocapturing investorinterest.Thepathtosecuringfundingcanbeas diverseastheentrepreneursthemselves.It’slikenavigating amaze–youcananticipatetwistsandturns,butthe experiencewillultimatelybeyourown.

Howdoyouapproachmarketingandpromotingyour product/servicetoreachyourtargetaudience,andcan youshareanysuccessstoriesormilestonesthatyour companyhasachievedsofar?

Ourmarketingapproachisgroundedinatwo-pronged strategy:digitalpresenceandcommunityengagement.We leveragesocialmediaplatforms,targetedonline advertisements,andsearchengineoptimizationtoenhance ourvisibilityamongourtargetaudience.Byutilizingdatadriveninsights,we’reabletotailorourmessagingto resonatewithpotentialusersseekingsharedspaces.

Intermsofsuccessstories,we’rethrilledbythegrowing numberofspaceslistedonourplatform,whichsignifies increasingadoptionfrombothspaceownersandseekers.

Whatisyourlong-termvisionforthecompany,what stepsareyoutakingtoachievethatvision,andhowdo youprioritizeyourtimeandstayfocusedasafounder?

Ourlong-termvisionforSpacepoolistobecomethego-to globalplatformforanyoneseekingsharedspaces, transformingthewaypeopleaccessandutilizethese environments.Weenvisionaworldwhereourplatform seamlesslyconnectsindividuals,businesses,and communitieswithavastarrayofspaces,fostering collaboration,creativity,andinnovationonaglobalscale. Prioritizingtimeandmaintainingfocusasafoundercanbe achallenge,butI’vefoundafewstrategieseffective. Settingcleargoalsandbreakingthemintosmaller, actionablestepskeepsmealignedwithourcompany’s trajectory

Whataresomeimportantlessonsyou’velearnedalong theway,whatadvicewouldyougivetoaspiring founders,andhowdoyoufosterinnovationand creativitywithinyourcompany?

Throughoutmyjourney,I’vegatheredvaluablelessons,and apivotaloneemergedwhenCOVIDhit.Thepandemic forcedustoadaptswiftlyandcreatively Wepivoted Spacepoolintoofferingon-demandworkspacessuchasday passesanddayoffices.Thisadjustmentwascrucialasit addressedtheimmediateneedsofremoteworkersand businessesseekingflexiblesolutions.Interestingly,before thepandemic,suchon-demandoptionswerevirtually nonexistentinthemarket.Toaspiringfounders,Iwould offerafewpiecesofadvice:

• Embracecalculatedrisks

• Seekasupportivenetwork

• Maintainpersistence

Additionally,thelessonfromourpivotisclear–flexibility isparamount.Theabilitytoswiftlymodifyyourapproach basedonchangingcircumstancescanmakeorbreaka business.Fosteringinnovationandcreativitywithinmy companyhastakenonanewdimensionpost-COVID.Our experienceduringthepandemichighlightedtheimportance ofbeingagileandresponsive.Wecontinuetoprioritize cross-functionalcollaboration,empoweringourteam memberstocontributefreshideas.Wealsoencourage exploringemergingtechnologiesandtrendsthatcould

shapethefutureofsharedspaces.Byintegratinglessons fromourpivot,we’recreatingaculturethat’snotonly innovativebutalsoadaptabletowhateverchallengeslie ahead.

Whatroledoyoubelievetechnologyplaysinshaping thefutureofyourindustry,andhowareyouleveraging itinyourcompany?

Technologyisapivotalforceinshapingthefutureofthe sharedspacesindustry.It’srevolutionizinghowspacesare discovered,booked,andutilized.Withtheriseofdigital platforms,individualsandbusinessesnowhavethe convenienceofaccessingspacesthatwerepreviously underutilizedoroverlooked.Moreover,technologyenables real-timeavailabilityupdates,streamlinedbooking processes,andenhanceduserexperiences,whicharecrucial fordrivingadoptioninthisrapidlyevolvinglandscape. AtSpacepool,we’redeeplyimmersedinleveraging technologytotransformtheindustry.Ourplatform integratescutting-edgetoolsforspacediscovery,booking management,andsecureonlinepayments.Weinvestindata analyticstoprovidevaluableinsightstobothspaceowners andseekers,enablinginformeddecisions.

Pleasegiveusafewtestimonialsfromyourclientsand awardsorrecognitionthataccuratelyhighlightyour achievementsinthecorporateniche.

“Extremely efficient team, very responsive and helpful, and I had managed to confirm a last-minute office space for my team within 24 hours. We used this space over three days, and the staff was extremely friendly and helpful. The space was lovely, clean, and spacious.- Rosie A. - Director at Clinic-All Services”

“The platform was easy to use, and used the chat when I was unsure of anything - super quick and easy. - Eleanor, Operations Executive at Recruitment agency VerticalAdvantage “Very good and easy-to-use platform for finding coworking places - everything was working fast and reliably. Definitely will be going back. - Patryk W., Freelancer”

The Evolution of Futuristic Leadership

Leadership,atimelessconcept,hasundergonea fascinatingevolutionovertheyears.From traditionalmodelsrootedinhierarchyandauthority tothedynamicandforward-thinkingapproachof transformationalleadership,thejourneyreflectstheshifting paradigmsofourever-changingworld.Inthisexploration, wedelveintothemetamorphosisofleadershipstyles, tracingthetrajectoryfromtheconventionaltothefuturistic.

TraditionalLeadership

Thetraditionalleadershipmodel,entrenchedinhistoryand deeplyrootedincommand-and-controlstructures,prevailed forcenturies.Thismodelwascharacterizedbyaclear hierarchy,wheredecisionsflowedfromthetopdown,and authoritywascentralized.Leaderswereoftenseenas figureheads,embodyingpowerandcontrol.Thefocuswas onmaintainingstabilityandorderwithintheorganization.

Whilethismodelserveditspurposeinadifferentera, markedbyindustrializationandrigidorganizational structures,theevolvinglandscapeofthemodernworkplace demandedamoreadaptiveandvisionaryformof leadership.

TransformationalLeadership

Asthecomplexitiesofthebusinessworldexpanded,anew leadershipparadigmemerged–transformationalleadership.

CoinedbyJamesV.Downtonin1973andlaterpopularized byJamesMacGregorBurns,thisapproachmarkeda departurefromthetraditionalcommand-and-controlmodel.

Transformationalleadersarevisionarieswhoinspireand motivatetheirteamsbyfosteringasenseofpurposeand sharedvalues.Theyencouragecreativityandinnovation, breakingawayfromtheconventionalmoldtoembrace change.Thisleadershipstyleischaracterizedbyastrong emphasisoncommunication,collaboration,andpersonal development.

TheCoreTenetsofTransformationalLeadership

Visionary Thinking

Transformationalleadersareforward-thinkerswho articulateacompellingvisionforthefuture.Theyinspire otherstoseeandbelieveinthisvision,creatingashared senseofpurposethattranscendsindividualtasks.

Inspiration and Motivation

Unliketraditionalleaderswhorelyonauthority, transformationalleadersmotivatetheirteamsthrough inspiration.Theyfosterapositiveworkenvironment, encouragingcreativityandempoweringindividualsto contributetotheorganization'ssuccess.

Individualized Consideration

Acknowledgingtheuniquenessofeachteammember, transformationalleadersprovideindividualizedsupportand coaching.Thispersonalizedapproachenhancesemployee engagementandcontributestoprofessionalgrowth.

Intellectual Stimulation

Transformationalleadersstimulateintellectualcuriosityand creativitywithintheirteams.Theyencourageemployeesto thinkoutsidethebox,challengeassumptions,and contributeinnovativeideas.

Charismatic Leadership

Transformationalleadersoftenpossesscharismaticqualities thatdrawotherstowardtheirvision.Theirenergyand passioninspireconfidenceandcommitmentamongteam members.

Adaptability and Flexibility

Inarapidlychangingbusinesslandscape,transformational leadersembraceadaptabilityandflexibility Theyareopen tonewideas,willingtolearn,andquicktopivotin responsetoemergingchallenges.

TheIntegrationofTechnology

Theevolutionofleadershipisintricatelytiedto technologicaladvancements.Inthedigitalage,where informationmovesatthespeedoflight,andglobal connectivityisthenorm,leadersmustharnessthepowerof technologytodriveorganizationalsuccess.

Digital Leadership

Futuristicleadersleveragedigitaltoolsnotonlyfor operationalefficiencybutalsoasameansof communicationandcollaboration.Digitalleadership

involvesnavigatingthecomplexitiesofthedigital landscape,understandingemergingtechnologies,and harnessingthemtodriveinnovation.

Data-Driven Decision Making

Theavailabilityofvastamountsofdatahasreshapedhow leadersmakedecisions.Futuristicleadersemploydata analyticstogaininsights,informstrategicdecisions,and optimizeorganizationalperformance.

Remote Leadership

Theriseofremotework,acceleratedbytechnological advancements,requiresleaderstoadapttheirmanagement styles.Futuristicleadersembracevirtualcollaboration tools,prioritizeeffectivecommunication,andcultivatea remote-friendlyorganizationalculture.

Artificial Intelligence and Automation

Theintegrationofartificialintelligenceandautomation reshapestraditionaljobrolesandtasks.Futuristicleaders embracethesetechnologiestostreamlineprocesses, enhanceefficiency,andunlocknewpossibilities.

Cybersecurity Leadership

Inaneraofincreasingcyberthreats,leadersmustprioritize cybersecurity.Futuristicleadersinvestinrobust cybersecuritymeasures,educatetheirteamsonbest practices,andstayvigilanttoprotectorganizationalassets.

TheRoleofEmotionalIntelligence

Futuristicleadershipplacesapremiumonemotional intelligence(EI)–theabilitytounderstandandmanage one'sownemotionsandnavigatetheemotionsofothers.

Thisaspectofleadershipiscriticalinbuildingstrong relationships,fosteringcollaboration,andcreatinga positiveorganizationalculture.

Self-Awareness

Futuristicleaderscultivateself-awareness,understanding theirstrengths,weaknesses,andemotionaltriggers.This self-awarenessformsthefoundationforeffective leadership.

Empathy

Empathyisacornerstoneoffuturisticleadership.Leaders whocanempathizewiththeexperiencesandperspectives oftheirteammembersbuildtrustandfosteracollaborative andsupportiveworkenvironment.

Effective Communication

Clearandempatheticcommunicationisessentialfor futuristicleaders.Whetherdeliveringavisionforthefuture ornavigatingchallenges,effectivecommunicationbuilds understandingandalignmentwithintheorganization.

Conclusion

Theevolutionofleadershipfromtraditionalto transformationalandnowtofuturisticreflectsthedynamic natureofthebusinesslandscape.Futuristicleaders,armed withatransformativemindset,leveragetechnology,data, andemotionalintelligencetonavigatethecomplexitiesof themodernworkplace.Aswestandontheprecipiceof continuouschange,theroleofleaderswillcontinueto evolve,shapingthefutureoforganizationsandindustries alike.Embracingthisevolutionisnotjustachoicebuta necessityforthosewhoaspiretoleadintheeveracceleratingmarchofprogress.

Theonlysurethingaboutluckisthatitwillchange;

therestdependsonhardworkanddedication.From strategicthinkertocreativegenius,Lauren Campbell’sunwaveringcommitmentistransforming businessesatCommonMediaGroup AsaFounderofan organizationthatspecializesinbuildingablueprint,Lauren believesinword-of-mouthbrandingandunderstandsthe roleplayedbyeachmemberofthecompany.

Asaleaderwhotrustsinherownabilities,weknewthe timeisrighttointerviewLaurenforabetterunderstanding ofwhatistrulyneededtobecomealeader

Below are the highlights of the interview:

Canyoutellusaboutyourbackgroundandwhatled youtobecomeafounder?

Tobehonest,Ihadalwayswantedtopavemyownpathand wasquitesetonthatsinceIwasachild.Ialwaystendedto “Dreambig.”BeforeIrealizedthatdreamcouldpotentially bearealityagain,IworkedmywayupthroughPR agenciesandtalentmanagementgroupsforabout5years. Iworkedwithavarietyofaccountswithinlifestyle, entertainment,andhospitality Thetalentmanagedwere thosecreatives,athletes,andinfluencersthatfuelledmost PRstrategiesIpreviouslyworkedwith.Workingfrom variouspositionsandperspectivestaughtmetoseethe valueinmutualagreements,whatitmeanstobothparties and,mostimportantly,whateachcanlearnfromeachother tobeabletocreatesomethingthatpropelsforward.Impact.

CMMNisapandemicbirth.Theproductofbeing unemployedaftertakingablindleap.Duringatimeofsuch chaos,IworkedindividuallywithcreativesIhadconnected withovertheyearstobringtheirvisionsofthepresent momenttolife.Now,hereweare3yearslater,working

withsometofindtheirvoice,otherstofindtheirpath,anda fewtocreatetheirimprint.

Whatinspiredyoutostartyourowncompany,andwhat isthemissionorvisionbehindyourcompany?

Iwasinspiredbytheopportunitytoutilizethetoolsthat weregiventomethroughyearsofprofessionalexperience toassistinthebiggerpictureofsomeoneelse’sstory, vision,andpurpose.Iworkwithmyheart;theheartiswhat willalwaysinspireme.

ThevisionbehindCMMNistobethecommon denominatorourclientsneedinordertocreatetheir blueprinttosuccess.Intentionally,wehelpothersshape theirstories,buildtheirawareness,andstrategizetheirway intothebiggerpicture.

Howdidyouidentifytheproblemorneedthatyour product/servicesolves,andcanyouprovideanoverview ofyourproduct/serviceandhowitdifferentiatesfrom othersinthemarket?

Thisdependsonthemarket,butinCanada,whereweare primarilylocated,thereisnocompanythatoffersthese servicestoindependentartists,creatives,andvisionaries. Whereyouareassistedinmappingoutthestorybehindthe brand/launch,fromearnedmediastrategy,paidmedia strategy,andinfluencerstrategytobrandpartneralignment. Wequicklybecameextensionsofteams,whichwasthe intention,versusatransactional-basedbusiness.

CMMNisthenicheofknowledgeandexperience,orwhatI liketocalltheresumeandthejourney,thatIthinkmost creativeentrepreneursneedwhentheyarestartingoutand globalconglomeratesneedwhenconnectingtotheirtarget markets.

Whatweresomeofthebiggestchallengesyoufaced whenstartingyourcompany,andhowdidyouovercome them,andhowdidyougoaboutbuildingyourteamand findingtherightpeopletojoinyourcompany?

Balanceandtrust.ThesechallengesareonesthatIwork withdaily Whenyouworkinanentertainment-focused business,itiseasytofollowtheegoandstarttoconstantly chaseandfeellikethingsneedtogrowquickly.The balancingactbetweenmovingtheneedleforward consistentlyandracingforwardwithoutintentionwasmy biggestchallenge,oneIamproudtohaveovercome.The challengesoftrustandbuildingateamgohand-in-hand.I havelearnedagreatlessonofdiscernmentandconfidence whenitcomestofindingatruepartnerasafemaleinthis business.However,Ikeepanopenmindandallowmyself toattractthosewhoarepassionateabouttheworktheydo. Thosewhoworkwithmearejustasintentionalaboutwhat theydo;theyenjoyseeingotherssucceedandarededicated tothepurposeoftheirwork.Ihaveanamazingcoupleof girlswhoworkwithme,andthey,too,willbecome pioneersintheirownways.Hopefully,atCMMN,of course!

Whatstrategiesdidyouusetosecurefundingforyour company,andwhatadvicewouldyougivetoother foundersseekinginvestment?

Workhard.Asacompanythatspecializesinbuildinga blueprint,scalinganarrative,anddevelopinganimpact,I’d saytrustfromclientsonaword-of-mouthbasisis important.Worryaboutthequalityofworkyoudobefore runningtofindfunds.Iamabigbelieverinunderstanding eachpositionplayedwhenbuildingthefoundationofa businesslikeCMMN.ItgoesbacktothepartIspokeabout chasingwithoutintention.I’velearnedtobepatientthat

I’ve learned to be patient that during the first couple of years, the only guarantee is change, and everything that can change will.

duringthefirstcoupleofyears;theonlyguaranteeis change,andeverythingthatcanchangewill.I’malsoafan ofleverageandthinkthatifyoucantrustinyourown abilities,youwillknowwhenthetimeisrighttosecure fundingwithabetterunderstandingofwhatitisyoutruly need.

Thosewhoarefundingyoumustbelieveinyou,notjustsee theideayouhavebecause,likewesaidbefore,theonly guaranteeischange.

Howdoyouapproachmarketingandpromotingyour product/servicetoreachyourtargetaudience,andcan youshareanysuccessstoriesormilestonesthatyour companyhasachievedsofar?

Organically.Initsgrowthstages,Ireallyreliedonword-ofmouthvalidationtomarketwhatwedo,likeearnedmedia, whichwasimportanttoourvalidityandthefoundationof whatIwasbuilding.IneededpeopletotrustinwhatIcould offerinordertobetheextensionIwantedCMMNtobe. Beingconnectedtotherightpeopleandhavingthebrand associatedwiththerightclientswaskeyaswell.

Sofar,wehavebeenabletoworkwithsomepretty successfulclientsandachievegreatthings.Partneringwith majorlabelslikeUniversalMusic,WarnerMusic,RedBull Records,andatourpressrunforglobalchartingartist SAINtJHNinthecompany’sfirstcoupleyears.Thisyear, wewereabletopartnerwiththegloballifestyle conglomeratePUMA,runningtheirnationalcampaignfor HipHop50.Collaboratingwiththeoldschoolandthenew schoolcommunityleaders.Oneofourartistshitherfirst millionstreamsandwasabletosecurefundingforher debutprojectcomingin2024.Therereallyisalottobe proudof,butitismainlythegratitudefromclientswhen theyfeelliketheyhaveachievedtheirgoalsthatmarks milestonesforme.

Whatisyourlong-termvisionforthecompany,and whatstepsareyoutakingtoachievethatvision,and Howdoyouprioritizeyourtimeandstayfocusedasa founder?

Long-term,IseeCMMNhousingglobalbrandstoposition themselvesandtheirawarenessappropriatelyintotheNorth Americanmarket,muchlikewhatIusedtocollaborateon previouslyinmycareer.IseeCMMNassistingmany differentcreatives,artists,andentrepreneursontheirpathto successonaglobalscale.IseeCMMNforeverbeinga

boutiquegroupofintentionalyetresourcefulstorytellers, problemsolvers,andblueprintbuilders.

Ihaveadisciplinedschedulethatkeepsmeinflowwithmy work/lifebalance,andIpracticedailymeditationthat furthertrainsmymindtocompartmentalizeandhoneinon one“biggerpicture”atatime.Idon’tpressuremyselflikeI usedtowhenitcomestotime;itisjustanillusion,and whenyouareworkingwithsuchdelicateyetcreative initiatives,Idon’tbelievein9-5;itis24/7;justmakesure youdon’tmissthedeadline!

Whataresomeimportantlessonsyou’velearnedalong theway,andwhatadvicewouldyougivetoaspiring founders,andhowdoyoufosterinnovationand creativitywithinyourcompany?

Spendjustasmuchtimeworkingonyourselftobecomethe personyouaspiretobeasyoudobuildingthebusinessyou wanttorun.Youwillbesurprisedhowintertwinedthey bothare.

Theflameofcreativityandinnovationcaneasilybeputout byyourbossoryourenvironment.Providinganagilework environmentgivesthoseIworkwithspacetobreatheand createtheirownprofessionalself.Iamveryopenwithmy tacticsandstrategiestohowmyowncreativeprocess works,andIaimtoinspireothersonmyteamorwhomI workwithtotrusttheirowncreativevoice.Irefrainfrom hiringpeoplejusttoexecutetasks.

Whatroledoyoubelievetechnologyplaysinshaping thefutureofyourindustry,andhowareyouleveraging itinyourcompany?

Technologyshapesourindustryonbothends:theworking endandthetargetaudienceend.WithappsandChatGTP takingoverthecurationanddistributionof,let’ssay,press releasesandpitches.Thesocialmediaaddictionbythe audiencejustmakesroomformoreinnovativeideasto catchandholdtheattention.

Weutilizeplatformsandextensionstomakeourjobseasier whenitcomestopitchingandresearch,ofcourse. However,personaltouchcanneverbereplacedwhenajob requiresstrategy,theory,tactics,andcreativity.Itcanonly beanaddedtool.Noone’smindisthesame,andthat’s whatcreatesthenichewithintheproductthatreallytakes offorthecampaignthattrulyleavesanimpact.

T E S T I M O N I A L

“PUMA has had the pleasure to work with Lauren and CMMN on a number of occasions, and it speaks for itself as to why we keep working together. We’ve been able to work together on a number of projects and bring together a number of partnerships for the PUMA brand. Lauren has a drive and passion for what she does that allows her to make huge strides forward and to think outside the box. Her innovaon and ability to assess the projects in front of her and build something for her clients that is perfectly tailored to what they need are second to none. She listens to her clients and allows them to be a part of the process to bring the best possible outcome forward.”

Juan Seclen - Markeng Manager, PUMA Canada

“Our experience working with Lauren has been nothing short of exceponal. Her dedicaon, aenon to detail, and ability to secure valuable media coverage have greatly contributed to our growth and success. Her warm and collaborave character complements Lauren’s professional excellence, which made working with her enjoyable.”

- Buk Nkosi, CEO of Chaos Club Digital/ CEO of Wonderchild Records

In life, we have the privilege of meeng and experiencing different people. Some are there only for a moment, and some are there forever. Lauren is my forever friend, mentor, manager, and soul sister. As an arst, I have a very unconvenonal way of living and thinking, and not everyone understands and/or relates to it, which is fine, but I tend to feel like a lone wolf in this world because of it. Meeng Lauren felt like meeng myself in a different body. I felt she had pure intenons just by hearing the way she spoke and viewed the world. I immediately knew I could trust her. She has helped elevate my sound, my mind, my soul, and my life. She is also very efficient when it comes to business and reliable, which is important to me so I can stay on top of everything. She has been very consistent with me since we started working together in 2020, and I am eternally grateful to have a strong woman like her by my side. I know we will accomplish a lot and change the world together for the beer.

- Shanuka Sai - Singer/Songwriter

I feel very lucky to have been working with Lauren throughout my career. Not only does she lead with integrity and passion, but she also creates a creave and mindful space for employees to flourish. As an intern, I was treated with the utmost respect, which culvated a safe space for me to learn and thrive. Now, Lauren is more than a boss to me. She is a mentor and role model, a shining example of constantly striving for beer professional and personal growth.

- Lucy McGilly - Account Coordinator, CMMN Media Group

The Key to Inuential Leadership

Leadershipisanartthattranscendsmereauthority; it’saboutinspiringandinfluencingothers positively.Intherealmofinfluentialleadership, oneprinciplestandstall-leadingbyexample.Thistimeless conceptencapsulatestheessenceofeffectiveleadership, whereactionsspeaklouderthanwords.Inthisexploration, wedelveintotheintricaciesofleadingbyexample, examiningitsimpactonorganizationalculture,team dynamics,andlong-termsuccess.

SettingtheTone

Leadingbyexamplebeginswithsettingaprecedent.A leader’sbehaviorbecomestheblueprintfortheentireteam. Whenleadersexemplifythevalues,workethic,and principlestheyexpectfromtheirteam,theyestablisha standardthatfostersacultureofexcellence.Thissetsthe tonefortheorganizationandcreatesapositiveand aspirationalworkenvironment.

Leaderswholeadbyexamplebecomebeaconsof inspiration.Theiractionsbecomeareferencepointfor others,showcasingwhatispossibleandexpected.By embodyingtheidealstheypreach,leadersinstill confidence,trust,andrespectamongtheirteammembers, creatingafoundationforarobustorganizationalculture.

BuildingTrust

Trustisthebedrockofanysuccessfulteam.Leaderswho leadbyexamplebuildtrustorganically.Whenteam memberswitnesstheirleaderconsistentlydemonstrating integrity,transparency,andaccountability,trustflourishes. Trustisatwo-waystreet;leadersmusttrusttheirteam,and inreturn,theteammusttrusttheirleader

Aleaderwholeadsbyexampleearnsthetrustoftheirteam becausetheiractionsalignwiththeirwords.This authenticityfostersasenseofsecurityandstability,which iscrucialforathrivingworkenvironment.Inan atmosphereoftrust,communicationflowsfreely, collaborationthrives,andchallengesarenavigated collectively

InfluenceonOrganizationalCulture

Organizationalcultureisthecollectivepersonalityofa company.Leadersplayapivotalroleinshapingthis culture,andleadingbyexampleisthecatalystforpositive culturaltransformation.Whenleadersconsistentlydisplay valuessuchasresilience,adaptability,andacommitmentto

continuousimprovement,thesetraitsbecomeembeddedin theorganizationalDNA.

Aleader’sbehaviorhasarippleeffectthroughoutthe organization.Whetherit’sadedicationtoethicalpractices, afocusoninnovation,oracommitmenttodiversityand inclusion,theleader’sexampleamplifiesthesevalues.This, inturn,fostersaculturewhereemployeesfeelasenseof belongingandpurpose,resultinginincreasedengagement andproductivity.

EnhancingTeamDynamics

Teamdynamicsareprofoundlyinfluencedbytheleader’s actions.Whenaleadermodelseffectivecommunication, teamwork,andapositiveattitude,thesebehaviorspermeate theteam.Leadingbyexamplecreatesacollaborative atmospherewhereindividualsareinspiredtocontribute theirbestefforts.

Leaderswhorolluptheirsleevesandworkalongsidetheir teamintimesofchallengeorhighworkloadbuild camaraderie.Thissharedexperienceenhancesteam cohesionandloyalty.Leadingbyexampleintermsofwork ethic,perseverance,andacommitmenttoexcellence createsacontagiousenthusiasmthatpropelstheentireteam forward.

MotivationandEmpowerment

Influentialleadersinspiretheirteamsnotonlythroughtheir wordsbutthroughtheirdeeds.Whenteammembers witnesstheirleaderovercomingobstacles,embracing challenges,andcelebratingsuccesses,itmotivatesthemto dothesame.Leadingbyexampleignitesasparkof motivationthattranscendsindividualtasksandalignswith thebroadergoalsoftheorganization.

Moreover,leadingbyexampleempowersteammembers. Whentheyobservetheirleaderentrustingthemwith responsibilitiesandprovidingsupportwhenneeded,it instillsasenseofownershipandaccountability.This empowermentleadstoincreasedjobsatisfaction, professionalgrowth,andamoreresilientandadaptable team.

Long-TermSuccessandLegacy

Leadershipisnotjustaboutachievingshort-termgoals;it’s aboutcreatingalegacyofenduringsuccess.Leaderswho leadbyexamplecontributetothelong-termprosperityof

theirorganizations.Byconsistentlymakingdecisions alignedwiththeorganization’svaluesandvision,theylay thefoundationforsustainedsuccess.

Theimpactofleadingbyexampleextendsbeyonda leader’stenure.Itshapestheleadershippipeline, influencingthenextgenerationofleaders.Whenaspiring leaderswitnesstheeffectivenessofleadingbyexample, theyaremorelikelytoemulatethesebehaviors,ensuring continuityintheorganizationalcultureandvalues.

ChallengesandConsiderations

Whileleadingbyexampleisapowerfulleadership principle,it’snotwithoutchallenges.Leadersmustbe mindfuloftheneedforbalanceandself-awareness.Being overlyinvolvedinday-to-daytasks,forexample,may inadvertentlystifleteamempowerment.Leadersmuststrike abalancebetweeninvolvementanddelegation,ensuring theyempowertheirteamwhileprovidingnecessary guidance.

Additionally,leadersshouldremainadaptable.Leadingby exampledoesn’tmeanbeinginflexibleorresistantto change.Atrulyinfluentialleaderembracesinnovation, fostersacultureofcontinuousimprovement,andisopento evolvingstrategiesthatalignwiththeorganization’sgoals.

In conclusion,leadingbyexampleisnotjustaleadership strategy;it’saphilosophythatpermeatestheveryfabricof successfulorganizations.Leaderswhoembodythe principlestheywishtoinstillcreateapositiverippleeffect thatinfluenceseveryaspectoftheworkplace.From buildingtrustandshapingorganizationalcultureto enhancingteamdynamicsandfosteringlong-termsuccess, leadingbyexampleisthecornerstoneofinfluential leadership.