The Digital Transformist – Details, episodes & analysis

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The Digital Transformist

Michael LaVista

Business

Frequency: 1 episode/17d. Total Eps: 38

Welcome to The Digital Transformist, where we empower CEOs to lead their companies through digital transformation with confidence and clarity. If you’re a CEO of a midsize company between $100 million and $250 million in revenue or have those companies in your portfolio, and your goal is to create enterprise scale and exit, this podcast is your essential guide to leveraging technology for growth.Join us each week as we dive deep into the world of digital transformation, focusing on non-tech-enabled industries like manufacturing, construction, and distribution. We also extend our expertise to private equity and M&A firms, providing actionable strategies to drive digital excellence across investments, optimizing for both growth and exit.Whether you’re already on the path to digital success or facing obstacles in your journey, our interviews with CEOs provide valuable insights, practical advice, and inspiring stories.Discover how successful leaders are removing friction from their businesses, implementing innovative solutions, and driving tangible results. From overcoming challenges to seizing opportunities, The Digital Transformist offers actionable strategies for every stage of your digital transformation journey.

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🇨🇦 Canada - careers
04/08/2026
#67

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AI Should Amplify People, Not Replace

Season 2 · Episode 33

Thursday, July 16, 2026 • Duration 26:42

Have you ever wondered what happens when a corporate executive "accidentally" becomes an entrepreneur? Stephanie Sylvestre wasn't looking to leave her comfortable corporate career—until a chance conversation about digital twins sparked an idea she couldn't ignore.

In this episode, Stephanie shares her journey from corporate America to founding Avatar Buddy, LLC, an AI company dedicated to amplifying people rather than replacing them. You'll learn why she believes the biggest risk in AI isn't job loss but unsupervised implementation, how she turned her CFO's expertise into an AI agent that mirrors how humans think and solve problems, and why relying on uninformed opinions about AI replacing jobs can be dangerous."

Stephanie Sylvestre is the co-founder of Avatar Buddy and former executive at The Children's Trust in Miami-Dade County, where she managed a $184 million portfolio.

If you're navigating the messy middle of AI implementation in your business, this conversation will change how you think about automation. Subscribe for more candid conversations about digital transformation.

Chapters:
00:00 - Intro
00:49 - From Corporate America to Entrepreneurship
03:13 - The No-Choice-But-to-Succeed Moment
04:38 - Avatar Buddy's Mission: Amplify People, Not Replace Them
05:51 - Why Jobs Are Just a Series of Tasks
07:52 - Creating Fiscal Buddy: Cloning a Rockstar CFO
11:13 - The Power of Removing Mundane Work
12:18 - Digital Howard and the 50-Page Marketing Strategy
14:36 - Why relying on uninformed opinions about AI replacing jobs can be dangerous
15:45 - The Terrifying Power of AI Finding Security Holes

Get Mike's book "Superpowered" on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0F1Y2M3X4

Caxy Interactive -- Showing organizations how to play offense with technology

https://www.caxy.com | hello@caxy.com

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Construction Opportunities Nearly Doubled in 2025

Season 2 · Episode 32

Monday, June 22, 2026 • Duration 31:26

Construction opportunities have nearly doubled in 2025—and it's not just about buildings. Regional President Damian Eallonardo of W.E. O'Neil Construction reveals that optimism is driving unprecedented demand across the Midwest and beyond, fueling growth in everything from tech campuses to healthcare facilities. In this episode, you'll discover what's really behind the construction boom, how successful builders solve problems before clients even know they exist, and why the skilled labor shortage is about to get much worse as baby boomers retire.

Damian brings over 30 years of construction expertise, leading O'Neil's operations east of the Rockies. He shares candid insights on attracting talent in an "online business" world, the death of tribal knowledge management, and why AI might finally transform an industry notoriously slow to adopt new technology. From data centers powering our digital lives to the future of apprenticeship programs, this conversation goes deep on the forces reshaping how America builds.

If you're interested in where business, technology, and infrastructure intersect, this episode delivers actionable insights you won't find anywhere else. Subscribe for more conversations with leaders navigating digital transformation in unexpected industries.

To reach Damian, please visit https://www.weoneil.com/

Chapters:
00:00 - Intro
00:37 - Why W.E. O'Neil Construction
02:24 - What's Driving Construction Demand
05:59 - Problem Solving Mindset in Construction
09:16 - Finding and Retaining Skilled Labor
12:16 - Tribal Knowledge and Cultural Shifts
14:46 - Technology Adoption in Construction
19:20 - AI's Role in Construction Future
25:08 - Data Centers and Digital Infrastructure
31:45 - Apprenticeship Programs and Trade Schools
37:22 - Private Equity in Construction

Get Mike's book "Superpowered" on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0F1Y2M3X4
Caxy Interactive -- Showing organizations how to play offense with technology.
https://www.caxy.com | hello@caxy.

Why "Just Show Up" Is the Best Digital Strategy in 2026

Season 2 · Episode 23

Thursday, April 16, 2026 • Duration 20:58

Beth Trejo, founder and CEO of ChatterKick, joins Mike LaVista on The Digital Transformist to talk about why trust is the word of the year -- and what that means for your brand's digital presence. From the dangers of AI-generated content flooding social media to why picking up your phone and recording a 30-second video is still the most powerful move a CEO can make, Beth shares 14 years of hard-won social media strategy insights.

Whether you're a B2B leader wondering if LinkedIn even matters, a brand trying to figure out AI content without destroying trust, or a CEO who's been avoiding social media entirely -- this episode is for you.

Beth Trejo is the founder and CEO of ChatterKick, a social-first agency helping mid-market companies scale their social media programs. Find her on LinkedIn or at beth@chatterkick.com.

CHAPTERS:
0:00 - The word of the year is trust
0:36 - Intro
0:49 - Meet Beth Trejo, CEO of ChatterKick
1:30 - Why mid-market companies are 10 years behind on digital
2:47 - Trust, brand, and why you HAVE to show up
4:05 - The AI slop problem on social media
5:15 - Why CEOs are afraid to post (and why they shouldn't be)
6:55 - The easiest content hack: your phone + a news article
7:55 - LinkedIn is not what you think it is anymore
9:50 - Can small brands take a stand like Nike or Patagonia?
11:30 - How LLMs and AI are changing SEO and social content
13:15 - The biggest mistake: AI content without human review
15:00 - Why you can't fully trust AI agents (yet)
16:45 - Where to start if you're doing nothing today
18:00 - Saves over likes: the metric that actually matters
20:00 - One post that drove multiple six figures
21:00 - Why you need senior people running social, not interns
22:15 - Where to find Beth online

Subscribe for more conversations about using software and AI to drive real business results.

The Digital Transformist is a podcast produced by Caxy, a software and AI consulting company showing organizations how to play offense with software and AI.
https://www.caxy.com

Why Companies Always Think They Have Less Capacity Than They Really Have

Season 2 · Episode 22

Friday, April 10, 2026 • Duration 35:53

Most business owners are sitting on a shocking amount of hidden profit - and they don't even know it.

Tim Van Mieghem, operational excellence expert and author of "Shocking Profit," joins Mike LaVista on The Digital Transformist to break down the three places every business is bleeding money: broken processes, undertrained sales teams, and Excel spreadsheets held together with duct tape.

Whether you're planning an exit in 5 years or just want your business to run better (and be more fun), this episode delivers actionable insights you can apply this week.

Get Tim's book "Shocking Profit" on Amazon or Barnes & Noble - https://www.amazon.com/Shocking-Profit-Companys-Transformation-Everything-ebook/dp/B0FXBQF1NW.

Get Mike's book "Superpowered: 7 Leadership Superpowers Technology Executives Can Use to Grow a More Engaged, Tech-driven and Profitable Organization" on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Superpowered-Leadership-Superpowers-Tech-driven-Organization-ebook/dp/B09D9XWWZS

Caxy Interactive -- Showing organizations how to play offense with software and AI.

https://www.caxy.com
hello@caxy.com

CHAPTERS:
0:00 - Cold Open: "What it was was..."
0:25 - Intro
0:39 - Meet Tim Van Mieghem
1:15 - Hidden value vs. hidden risk in every business
2:11 - Money under the cushions -- where profit hides
3:30 - The Beverly Hillbillies moment: discovering value in what you already have
4:37 - Why business owners miss their own "shocking profit"
5:43 - The customer service trap -- serving vs. optimizing
6:56 - Lessons from working across industries (manufacturing, food, retail)
8:20 - Dusty inventory and the warehouse problem
9:38 - Scrap rates: what food processing teaches every business
10:48 - Landing Sam's Club and Costco in the same quarter
12:45 - The "grandma's house" effect -- living with problems you can't see
13:46 - AI tools and the new opportunity for small businesses
15:38 - Why your production floor knows more than your sales team
17:01 - The football team analogy -- would you play without a scoreboard?18:01 - Basketball, consistency, and what sports teach us about business19:21 - Dust on inventory = money on the table20:50 - Real estate agents and why salespeople shoot for the bottom of the margin22:45 - 41% of quotes going to customers you never win -- the data problem23:50 - Excel spreadsheets as duct tape: the "win the lotto" test25:20 - When one person's two-week absence becomes everyone's nightmare27:40 - Firefighter heroes -- why workarounds are dangerous29:40 - "What if we train them and they leave?" -- the CEO vs. CFO joke31:10 - Tim's sister turned her business into her hobby32:50 - Shocking Profit: the book and what comes next34:00 - If you're planning an exit, start this conversation now

The Truth About Copyrights & AI: Critical Decisions Revealed

Season 2 · Episode 21

Thursday, November 13, 2025 • Duration 24:51

Welcome to The Digital Transformist with Michael LaVista! In this episode, we dive into the complex world of copyrights and AI with our special guest, Hannah Deason, the Chief Operating Officer at Caxy. The conversation delves into the legal and ethical implications of using training material for artificial intelligence, especially in light of recent copyright lawsuits that have rocked the industry.

Hannah sheds light on the evolving landscape of AI regulations, highlighting the challenges faced by businesses and states in navigating the boundaries of fair use and data scraping. The landmark Anthropic case serves as a pivotal moment in redefining the rules of the game, setting a precedent for future copyright disputes in the realm of AI technology.

From the perspective of end-users and creators alike, the discussion explores the potential impact of these legal developments on the accessibility and profitability of AI technology. Will companies like open AI and anthropic be able to adapt to the changing regulatory environment while maintaining their competitive edge? Tune in to learn more about the future of AI and copyright law in this riveting episode of The Digital Transformist!

Listeners can get in touch with the guest, Hannah Deason, by visiting the Caxy website and contacting her on LinkedIn.

Michael can be found at https://caxy.com and his podcast The Digital Transformist https://www.youtube.com/@DigitalTransformistPodcast

Michael's book, Superpowered: 7 Leadership Superpowers Technology Executives Can Use to Grow a More Engaged, Tech-driven and Profitable Organization, can be found on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Superpowered-Essential-Leadership-Technology-Executives/dp/1735504904

00:00 - Introduction: The Challenge of Accuracy
00:27 - Unveiling the Guest: Hannah Deason
01:05 - The Roller Coaster of AI Legislation
01:49 - Copyright Lawsuits in the AI Era
02:34 - Ethical Implications of Data Scraping
03:12 - The Anthropics Case: A Game Changer
04:00 - Balancing Innovation and Regulation
04:29 - Navigating the Intersection of AI and Copyright
05:10 - The Future of Training Material Usage
05:45 - Strategies for Ensuring Data Privacy06:20 - Conclusion: The Evolving Landscape of AI Ethics and Law#AIcopyrights #digitaltransformation #trainingmaterialAI #copyrightlaw

A Fresh Look at Longevity

Season 2 · Episode 20

Thursday, October 30, 2025 • Duration 30:38

Welcome to The Digital Transformist with Michael LaVista! In this episode, we have the privilege of chatting with Mark Pace, the CEO and founder of the Vital Longevity Institute. Mark's insights into longevity and financial management will completely shift your perspective on life expectancy and how it relates to your future.

Mark sheds light on the fact that most life insurance policies are actually designed to fail, running out before the policyholder passes away. Through years of experience and working closely with actuaries, Mark has developed innovative methods to ensure policies succeed and provide the necessary coverage when needed.

Join us as Mark shares his journey in the life insurance industry, uncovering the misconceptions around life expectancy and how it impacts our decision-making in various aspects of life. Get ready to challenge your understanding of longevity and financial planning with Mark's unique approach at the Vital Longevity Institute. Tune in now for a mind-opening discussion that will leave you rethinking your approach to life and finances!

Listeners can get in touch with Mark Pace, CEO and founder of the Vital on Jevite Institute, through his phone number mentioned in the video.

Michael can be found at https://caxy.com and his podcast The Digital Transformist https://www.youtube.com/@DigitalTransformistPodcast

Michael's book, Superpowered: 7 Leadership Superpowers Technology Executives Can Use to Grow a More Engaged, Tech-driven and Profitable Organization, can be found on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Superpowered-Essential-Leadership-Technology-Executives/dp/1735504904

CHAPTERS:
00:00 - Introduction to Mark and Vital on Jevite Institute
01:05 - Rethinking Life Expectancy
01:49 - The Flaws in Traditional Life Insurance
02:56 - Misunderstandings Around Life Expectancy
03:44 - Proprietary Data Reveals Surprising Insights
04:59 - Clarifying the Definition of Life Expectancy
05:43 - Misrepresentations in Different Populations
06:17 - The Impact of Misunderstandings on Decision Making
07:02 - The Importance of Accurate Data in Financial Planning
08:15 - Strategies for Long-Term Financial Success09:28 - Conclusion and Key Takeaways

Why Perseverance is the Greatest Entrepreneurial Trait

Season 2 · Episode 19

Thursday, October 16, 2025 • Duration 23:47

Welcome to The Digital Transformist with Mike LaVista! In today's episode, we have the incredible Karen Todd sharing her inspiring journey of building her companies, including her current role as CEO and founder of Aurore Financial Group. Karen delves into her background in the real estate industry and how her company focuses on GP investments in sponsors who specialize in areas like multi-family, self-storage, and the booming data center industry. She discusses the importance of following genius investors and surrounding herself with trendsetters to spot the next big opportunities.

Karen's story is a testament to perseverance and resilience, as she shares her beginnings in real estate and flipping houses to put herself through college. She credits her entrepreneurial spirit to her upbringing in an entrepreneurial family and her unwavering determination to succeed. Karen's journey from humble beginnings to the heights of success is a true inspiration for aspiring entrepreneurs. Join us as we dive into Karen's remarkable story and learn valuable insights on spotting trends, building successful businesses, and never giving up on your dreams.

Don't miss out on this engaging conversation with Karen Todd, where she shares her wisdom, experiences, and the importance of perseverance in the world of entrepreneurship. Tune in to The Digital Transformist for a dose of inspiration and valuable insights from a trailblazing entrepreneur like Karen. Subscribe now and join us on this exciting journey of transformation and growth!

Listeners can get in touch with Karen Todd through LinkedIn and Aurore Financial Group.

Michael can be found at https://caxy.com and his podcast The Digital Transformist https://www.youtube.com/@DigitalTransformistPodcast

Michael's book, Superpowered: 7 Leadership Superpowers Technology Executives Can Use to Grow a More Engaged, Tech-driven and Profitable Organization, can be found on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Superpowered-Essential-Leadership-Technology-Executives/dp/1735504904

CHAPTERS:
00:00 - Introduction to Karen Todd
01:01 - Focus on Multi-Family Real Estate
01:35 - Spotting Investment Opportunities
02:14 - Surrounding Yourself with Visionaries
03:24 - Journey into Real Estate and Brokerage04:59 - Perseverance Through Financial Challenges06:20 - Building Companies and Helping Others08:05 - Lessons Learned from Adversity09:40 - Balancing Entrepreneurship and Family11:15 - Future Plans and Growth Strategies

Figuring Things Out is a Skill You Practice

Season 2 · Episode 18

Friday, October 10, 2025 • Duration 26:12

Welcome to The Digital Transformist! In this episode, we have the dynamic CEO of Gemini Builds It, Courtney Wright, joining us for an exciting conversation. Courtney shares a captivating story of how she reconnected with our host, Mike, after years of being in different circles, and how their chance encounter led to this engaging discussion. Gemini Builds It is a US-based manufacturing company specializing in custom framing and casework for museums, institutions, and colleges across the country.

Courtney takes us through her journey of pivoting her business during the challenging times of COVID-19, showcasing the importance of spotting opportunities and adapting to changing circumstances. She shares insightful advice for CEOs looking to gain a competitive edge by exploring adjacent spaces and making bold moves. Courtney's story is a perfect blend of luck and skill, demonstrating the power of strategic thinking and proactive decision-making in times of uncertainty.

Join us as we dive deep into Courtney's inspiring narrative, filled with lessons on resilience, innovation, and the art of seizing opportunities. Whether you're a seasoned entrepreneur or an aspiring leader, this episode offers valuable insights and inspiration to navigate the ever-evolving landscape of business. Don't miss out on this thought-provoking conversation with a visionary leader who is reshaping the industry one bold move at a time!

Listeners can get in touch with Courtney Wright, CEO of Gemini Builds It, by visiting the company's website or contacting them through their social media channels.

Michael can be found at https://caxy.com and his podcast The Digital Transformist https://www.youtube.com/@DigitalTransformistPodcast

Michael's book, Superpowered: 7 Leadership Superpowers Technology Executives Can Use to Grow a More Engaged, Tech-driven and Profitable Organization, can be found on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Superpowered-Essential-Leadership-Technology-Executives/dp/1735504904

CHAPTERS:
00:00 - Introduction to Courtney Wright and Gemini Builds It
02:12 - Spotting Opportunities During COVID
03:26 - Taking Action During COVID
04:41 - Seizing the Opportunity with Costco
05:56 - Adapting Business Strategy During COVID
06:44 - Lessons Learned from Acting Swiftly07:55 - Embracing Challenges and Stimulating Growth09:03 - Building a Nimble and Creative Team10:18 - Navigating Uncertainty with Confidence11:29 - Sustaining Success Beyond COVID12:15 - Conclusion and Final Thoughts

The is a Crisis Coming for Skilled Labor

Season 2 · Episode 17

Friday, September 26, 2025 • Duration 22:47

Our guest, Matt, the head of talent at our company, shares some eye-opening statistics about the impending changes in the labor market. With 2.7 million boomers expected to retire by 2030, there is a growing gap in the workforce that needs to be filled by millennials and Gen Z. Manufacturing and skilled labor positions are in high demand, with 450,000 jobs currently open and more to come in the future.

We also discuss the role of technology in the workforce and how it can augment, rather than replace, human workers. As we look towards the future, it's clear that finding better ways to work is essential for the success of industries like trades and manufacturing. So, if you're considering a career change or simply curious about the changing landscape of work, this podcast episode is a must-listen. Join us as we explore the exciting world of career transitions and the opportunities that lie ahead.

Listeners can get in touch with the guest, Matt, through the company's website or by reaching out to the podcast host.

Michael can be found at https://caxy.com and his podcast The Digital Transformist https://www.youtube.com/@DigitalTransformistPodcast

Michael's book, Superpowered: 7 Leadership Superpowers Technology Executives Can Use to Grow a More Engaged, Tech-driven and Profitable Organization, can be found on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Superpowered-Essential-Leadership-Technology-Executives/dp/1735504904

CHAPTERS:
00:00 - The Desire for Change
01:11 - The Impact of Labor Market Changes
02:30 - Augmenting Jobs with Technology
03:28 - The Imperative of Automation
04:33 - Optimizing Work Processes
05:48 - Efficiency for Growth
06:23 - Breaking the Stigma of Trades
07:33 - Finding Top Talent
08:12 - Embracing Modernization
09:05 - Overcoming Barriers to Entry
10:20 - Creating Opportunities for Success
11:15 - Adapting to the Changing Workforce

The Digital Transformist – Details, episodes & analysis

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The Digital Transformist – Details, episodes & analysis

Podcast details

Recent rankings

Apple Podcasts

Spotify

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Other17

Amazon4

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Other17

Amazon4

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