INFAWORK Insights: Lessons in Leadership

INFAWORK INSIGHTS: Stephen Scoville

On this special Father's Day episode of INFAWORK INSIGHTS, I have the privilege of interviewing my father, Stephen Scoville, a successful automobile dealer in upstate New York. He's not only my father but also my first boss, coach, and the first person I looked up to as a leader. 
We discuss his journey growing up in the automobile industry, the experiences that shaped his career, and the valuable lessons he learned from his father. Stephen shares insights into the importance of hard work, the changing dynamics of summer jobs for youth, and the critical role of work-life balance in today's world. He also reflects on the challenges and rewards of running multiple dealerships and the evolving landscape of the automobile industry.
In this heartfelt conversation, we explore the qualities that make successful car dealers, the significance of financial acumen, and the value of mentorship. Stephen talks about his partnership and the strategies that have sustained their business over the years. Finally, we look ahead to the future of the industry, discussing the exciting advancements in technology and the daunting challenges that lie ahead.
This episode is a tribute to the hard work and dedication of parents and is a source of inspiration for anyone looking to learn from a true leader. Happy Father's Day, and enjoy this special edition of INFAWORK INSIGHTS!

INFAWORK INSIGHTS: Tex Tourais

Leadership isn't confined to boardrooms and business suits. In this episode, we explore the world of education with Tex Tourais, an inspiring 11th and 12th grade English teacher at Mary Institute and Country Day School in St. Louis, Missouri. Tex isn't just shaping academic minds; he’s molding character in the classroom and as a athletic coach, emphasizing perseverance, teamwork, and dedication.
As we pivot from our usual focus on business leaders, Tex offers a refreshing perspective on leadership within education. His journey from a marketing career to becoming a devoted educator highlights a profound commitment to impacting lives meaningfully. Tex's story is a testament to the importance of educators as leaders who influence future generations. In our conversation, Tex discusses his views on leadership, the challenges and rewards of teaching, and the significance of aligning one's work with personal values. Whether you're an entrepreneur, a professional, or simply someone passionate about leadership, Tex's insights will resonate and inspire.

INFAWORK INSIGHTS: Mariana Atencio

In episode 4 of INFAWORK INSIGHTS, join us in a heartening conversation with Peabody award-winning journalist and author, Mariana Atencio. Venezuelan-born and globally recognized, Atencio shares riveting insights into her journey from a leading NBC News correspondent to a successful podcast host, as well as the founder of GoLike, a boutique media company.
We delve into her courageous decision to leave her prestigious role at NBC, stepping into the unknown to forge her own path. Discussing her personal and professional trials amidst a global pandemic, Atencio enlightens us about the importance of courage, self-belief, and authenticity.
From her transformative journey as an independent journalist and an entrepreneur, to her inspirations, Atencio's narrative is a tour de force on embracing change and cultivating authentic leadership. This episode promises to be enlightening for those interested in exploring tales of entrepreneurship, the role of women in media, and principles of genuine leadership.

INFAWORK INSIGHTS: Frederick Hutson

In episode 3 of INFAWORK INSIGHTS, we invite you to dive into the life-changing tale of Frederick Hutson, co-founder and CEO of Pigeonly. Frederick’s personal journey takes a unique path, starting in the U.S. Air Force, venturing on to entrepreneurship, setbacks in prison and then evolving into ingenious leadership. He sheds light on how his time in incarceration forced him to take responsibility for his actions, leading to immense personal growth and the conception of his social entrepreneurial venture, Pigeonly.
Pigeonly was an innovation fostered by Frederick's own experience in prison, recognizing the struggle and high costs inmates face to maintain communication with their families. Using upcoming digital advancements, Frederick developed an application that bridges this divide, making communication more affordable and straightforward for the incarcerated and their loved ones.
Frederick shares the importance of mentorship and learning on his entrepreneurial journey. He talks about how his lessons, especially those learned from his business attorney, enabled him to navigate the challenges of entrepreneurship. He also goes into depth about his experience shifting from consumer-focused businesses to become government-focused amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, learning to adjust his frameworks and perspectives along the way.
Moreover, he underscores the importance of mindfulness and stoicism in his leadership style. Drawing from his rich life journey, Frederick’s story acts as a beacon of human endurance and entrepreneurial spirit. His candid conversation provides invaluable guidance and inspiration for aspiring leaders.

INFAWORK INSIGHTS: Ukonwa Ojo

Our second episode of INFAWORK INSIGHTS features Ukonwa Ojo, the empowered CEO with a rich 25-year background in global leadership roles. Raised in Nigeria, Ojo narrates her inspirational journey, detailing her rise in multi-billion dollar corporations. This aspect of the discussion focuses on her tenure as Global Chief Marketing Officer and U.S. General Manager for Amazon Prime Video and Studios, and her invaluable time at premier beauty brands like MAC Cosmetics and Cody Consumer Beauty.
While reminiscing about her roots and early career attractions, Ojo discusses her leadership philosophy, emphasizing the significance of clear communication within teams. She expands on the influence that leaders wield on their teams’ work-life balance and the necessity for open conversations in professional settings.
Ojo provides an inside look into her role as the founder and CEO of Zaia Ventures and her dedication to assisting underrepresented communities. She touches on her endeavor to establish businesses that focus on these communities, providing insight into her leadership style and the importance of calculated risks.
One of the main highlights is her discussion regarding the concept of Go-to-Hell money, an approach to assuring financial independence by living below one's means. The philosophy not only facilitated an environment conducive to calculated risks but also propelled her personal and professional development.
Revealing unique aspects of her journey, Ojo brings forth her struggles with self-doubt and the road to self-assuredness. She articulates how embracing her unique dispositions, like her directness, propelled her career success and contributed to expediting processes and clarity at the workplace. Our episode culminates with her insights on work-life balance and the significance of aligning work habits with one's energy for optimal productivity.
Catch this episode for an insightful dialogue with Ukonwa Ojo as she shares stimulating anecdotes and pearls of wisdom from her rich professional journey.

INFAWORK INSIGHTS: Dr. Peter Boumgarden

Engage in an enriching conversation with Dr. Peter Boumgarden, the revered Koch Professor of Practice for Family Enterprise and Director of the Koch Center for Family Enterprise at Washington University, in our debut episode of INFAWORK INSIGHTS. Unfurl the codes of leadership, aspiration, and determination that shape personal and professional journeys and navigate through the ethos of leadership with compelling stories and experiences.