Cake on Tuesday: The Leadership Blueprint – Details, episodes & analysis

In this episode of Cake on Tuesday: The Leadership Blueprint, Elizabeth Bieniek interviews the Owner at Ral West Livin’ The Dream, Ral West. Ral shares her journey from hands-on business owner to successful mentor. Drawing on four decades of experience, Ral discusses building and selling businesses—including a major sale to Alaska Airlines—and the mindset shifts needed to transition from operator to owner.

She emphasizes freedom as the ultimate measure of success and now guides entrepreneurs through her "Ral West Livin’ The Dream" Mastermind, helping them create scalable businesses and fulfilling lives.

Check out Ral's work HERE.

Connect with Ral on LinkedIn.

Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply HERE.

In this episode of Cake on Tuesday: The Leadership Blueprint, Elizabeth Bieniek interviews the VP of Product at Mozilla, Raj Singh. Raj shares insights on navigating startup and corporate cultures, the impact of generative AI on productivity, and the evolving definition of success.

He discusses the emotional challenges founders face post-acquisition, leadership communication in fast-paced environments, and creative growth strategies—like his cooking app’s global holiday recipe campaign. Raj also reflects on balancing professional ambition with family life, offering valuable advice for founders and tech professionals adapting to today’s rapidly changing landscape.

Check out Raj's work HERE.

Connect with Raj on LinkedIn.

Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply HERE.

In this episode of Cake on Tuesday: The Leadership Blueprint, Elizabeth Bieniek interviews Chris Botting. Chris discusses his extensive experience in technology leadership, product management, and business strategy.

Chris shares insights on understanding customer needs, the value of a “strategic backlog,” and balancing long-term vision with short-term execution. They explore the importance of transparency with customers, managing emotions in decision-making, and using financial analysis for business priorities. Chris also offers practical advice for emerging leaders, emphasizing effective communication, teamwork, and adaptability as keys to success in today’s fast-changing business environment.

Check out Chris's work HERE.

Connect with Chris on LinkedIn.

Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply HERE.

In this episode of Cake on Tuesday: The Leadership Blueprint, Elizabeth Bieniek interviews the Founder of Meema Stories, Stephen Quatrano. Stephen discusses his mission to combat social isolation among elders through storytelling and technology.

Stephen shares insights from his experience as a CTO and multi-founder, discussing how meaningful media can spark conversations and connections between elders and caregivers. Stephen highlights the challenges of aging, the importance of community, and invites listeners—especially writers, media professionals, and caregivers—to join Meema Stories’ mission to enrich elder care through shared stories and deeper human connection.

Check out Stephen's work HERE.

Connect with Stephen on LinkedIn.

Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply HERE.

In this episode of Cake on Tuesday: The Leadership Blueprint, Elizabeth Bieniek interviews the CPO of SumerSports, Jono Luk. Jono explores his career in technology, his work applying data analytics and AI to sports, and his insights on fostering innovation and resilient organizational culture.

Jono discusses the importance of embracing failure, lifelong learning, and using technology to enhance human connection and address issues like mental health. The conversation highlights the transformative potential of AI and data, and the value of passion, agility, and collaboration in driving meaningful change across industries.

Check out Jono's work HERE.

Connect with Jono on LinkedIn.

Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply HERE.

In this episode of Cake on Tuesday: The Leadership Blueprint, Elizabeth Bieniek interviews the Founder of Executive Connect, Melissa Aarskaug. Melissa shares her career journey, emphasizing her transition from a shy individual to a confident leader.

She discusses the importance of authentic relationships, diversity of thought, and balancing professional and personal life. Melissa highlights her leadership style, which focuses on open communication and genuine connections. She also shares her approach to integrating joy into work and protecting personal well-being.

Check out Melissa's work HERE.

Connect with Melissa on LinkedIn.

Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply HERE.

In this episode of Cake on Tuesday: The Leadership Blueprint, Elizabeth Bieniek interviews the CEO of Amplifier, Macon Stokes. Macon discusses his leadership approach, emphasizing the importance of a positive company culture, truth-telling, and personal development.

He shares insights on creating a cohesive work environment and the significance of honesty in business operations. Additionally, Macon reveals his unique Friday ritual of skateboarding while sharing insights on LinkedIn, which has become a cultural element within his organization.

Check out Macon's work HERE.

Connect with Macon on LinkedIn.

Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply HERE.

In the inaugural episode of Cake on Tuesday: The Leadership Blueprint, Josh Elledge of UpMyInfluence interviews the creator and host of the show, Elizabeth Bieniek.

Elizabeth shares that the podcast celebrates innovators who balance growth, grit, and play in their professional lives. She also emphasizes the importance of incorporating play into the workplace to foster creativity and innovation.

Elizabeth and Josh also discuss empathetic leadership, creating inclusive work environments, and her own professional journey in technology and innovation. The episode encourages listeners to nominate inspiring guests who bring joy and creativity to their workplaces, setting the stage for future conversations on leadership and play.

Check out Elizabeth's work HERE.

Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply HERE.

In this episode of Cake on Tuesday: The Leadership Blueprint, Elizabeth Bieniek interviews the Owner of the Phineas Wright House, Wendy Harrop. Wendy shares her journey from wedding planner to creating curated experiences on her New England flower farm, including workshops, retreats, and culinary trips for solo female travelers.

She discusses her meticulous “Wedding Wendy precision,” the evolution of her definition of success, and the importance of crafting memorable, welcoming events. Wendy also reveals her plans to restore a historic barn to expand her offerings and encourages listeners to embrace new experiences with a positive mindset.

Check out Wendy's work HERE.

Connect with Wendy on LinkedIn.

Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply HERE.

In this episode of Cake on Tuesday: The Leadership Blueprint, Elizabeth Bieniek interviews the Founder at Capital Gains Tax Solutions, Brett Swarts. Brett shares his expertise in capital gains tax exit planning, focusing on strategies like deferred sales trusts to help clients achieve truly passive income and financial freedom.

He discusses his faith-driven approach to stewardship, the importance of purposeful living, and the upcoming generational wealth transfer. Brett also offers practical advice for entrepreneurs and invites listeners to learn more through his book and website, emphasizing collaboration and personalized solutions for complex financial needs.

Check out Brett's work HERE.

Connect with Brett on LinkedIn.

Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply HERE.