Share

The Mike Method
E39 The Business of You: Building a Personal Brand with Matt Bertulli
This week on The Mike Method, Mike is sitting down with Matt Bertulli to dive into the evolution of his personal brand and how it connects with his businesses. Matt is an active, in-the-weeds founder-CEO for 15+ years. He's also not your typical CEO. He's a category designer. He sold his first company after bootstrapping it to 100+ employees over 10 years. He is presently the co-founder and CEO at two companies -- Pela Case + Lomi. Both companies are B Corps like my company. They operate at the intersection of waste innovation & consumer technology. Have Jay-Z's Marcy Venture Projects as a notable investor, were named Top 10 in the Canadian Business Growth 500 ranking and are #1 in Deloitte’s Fast 50 for cleantech businesses in Canada. He's also the co-host of a popular "consumer" focused Podcast, The Operators.
In this conversation Matt shares why being the face of his companies matters and how podcasting and content creation have helped him build trust and authenticity with his audience. Along the way, we get into how peer groups shape leadership, why consistency in branding is often more important than authenticity, and how customers care more about a seamless experience than the personal details of the people behind a brand. They also explore the big shift happening in business—the idea that CEOs and founders are no longer just running companies; they are part of the brand itself. People want to connect with real humans, not just faceless corporations. And in a world moving fast toward AI, maintaining that human element is more important than ever. Empathy doesn’t work from a distance. If you want to build something meaningful, you have to be present for the people around you.
Storytelling plays a huge role in all of this. We’re wired to crave stories, both the good and the messy. The leaders who can tap into that—who can show up consistently and share their journey—will have the biggest impact. And when it comes to AI? It’s happening whether we like it or not. The key isn’t to master it overnight—just focus on staying afloat and finding your rhythm. Listen to this episode on Spotify, Apple, Youtube or wherever you get your podcasts.
Episode Resources
Matt Bertulli: Website
Subscribe to the No Competition Newsletter
ViRTUS: Website / Instagram / LinkedIn
Sign up for our Newsletter: Sign Up
More episodes
View all episodes
58. Redefining Success: Gratitude, Purpose & Perspective with Spencer Lodge
46:00||Ep. 58What if your worst day was someone else’s dream come true?In this powerful episode of The Mike Method, Mike Desjardins sits down with Spencer Lodge—a globally recognized sales leader, award-winning podcast host of Unscripted with Spencer Lodge, and founder of Make It Happen University—who shares the deeply personal journey that changed the way he defines success.From building multi-million dollar businesses to helping rescue children from human trafficking, Spencer opens up about the shift from chasing status to living with purpose. You’ll hear how a conversation with a 14-year-old survivor changed everything, and how a chance meeting with a humanitarian sparked a new mission that now includes producing a documentary on human trafficking for Amazon Prime.Spencer shares:How daily mirror conversations shape his mindsetThe power of rituals and perspective in staying groundedWhy stress is often an illusion—and what to do about itHow real leadership starts with kindness, not admirationThis episode is a call to action. One that invites you to redefine success, reconnect with your purpose, and lead a life that truly matters.Episode Resources:Spencer Lodge: Youtube / WebsiteThe Unscripted Podcast with Spencer LodgeLearn more about Manager Essentials at ViRTUSViRTUS: Website / Instagram / LinkedInSign up for our Newsletter: Sign Up57. Designing for Attention in the Age of Distraction with Ahna Boley
42:59||Ep. 57In this episode, Mike sits down with Ahna Boley, founding member of Double A Labs — a platform designed to turn passive attendees into active participants. With a decade of experience building companies at the intersection of immersive events and gamified technology, Ahna brings a unique lens to the attention economy.They dive into what it really takes to keep people engaged in a world full of distractions — from how our brains are being rewired by short-form content, to the power of intentional design in digital learning environments. Ahna shares how she blends creativity, tech, and human behavior to design experiences that don’t just capture attention — they build connection and belonging.If you're designing anything — meetings, trainings, virtual events — this one’s packed with insights on how to make it matter.Episode Resources:Ahna Boley: LinkedInLearn more about Manager Essentials at ViRTUSViRTUS: Website / Instagram / LinkedInSign up for our Newsletter: Sign UpEP56 Simplify to Scale: The Secret to Smart Growth with Kevin Lawrence
42:09|What if your strategic plan is actually holding you back?In this episode of The Mike Method, Mike sits down with leadership advisor and author Kevin Lawrence for a no-nonsense conversation about the often-misunderstood difference between improvement and growth. Kevin brings powerful insight from his decades of coaching CEOs, and he doesn’t shy away from the hard truths — especially the ones leaders need to hear. Kevin’s career spans over 25 years, across a dozen countries and four continents. He’s worked with hundreds of CEOs and executives, helping them to break through business challenges, grow their companies and find personal success along the way.He introduces the concept of spatial disorientation in leadership — a condition pilots experience when they lose track of direction — and draws compelling parallels to what happens when CEOs get too caught up in day-to-day operations and lose sight of what really matters.They dive into:Why writing a book is like building a company — painful, humbling, and ultimately transformativeHow strategic plans can become liabilities when they’re overly complex or not truly aligned with growthThe crucial difference between improvement and growth — and why chasing efficiency might be pulling you away from long-term successThe four forces of growth, and how great leaders learn to balance strategic vision with operational demandsWhy the messiness of growth isn’t something to fix — it’s something to embraceHow simplicity in strategy leads to better execution and a more focused teamWhy performance cultures outperform comfort cultures every timeAnd the mindset shift leaders need: focusing on opportunities, not just problemsWhether you're leading a startup or a seasoned organization, this episode will challenge you to rethink your approach to growth — and inspire you to lead from a place of clarity, not chaos.Episode Resources:Kevin Lawrence: WebsiteYour Oxygen Mask First: 17 Habits to Help High Achievers Survive & Thrive in Leadership & Life Learn more about Manager Essentials at ViRTUSViRTUS: Website / Instagram / LinkedInSign up for our Newsletter: Sign Up55. EP55 AI Strategy that Starts with People with Kian Gohar
44:39||Ep. 55AI is changing everything. The question is—are you ready to lead the change?In this episode of The Mike Method, Mike sits down with futurist, bestselling author, and leadership expert Kian Gohar to unpack what it really takes to thrive in the age of AI.Kian brings bold insight from years of coaching leaders at Fortune 500s, startups, and global institutions. Together, he and Mike explore how the most successful teams are thinking differently about AI—treating it not like a tool, but like a creative partner. They dig into what it looks like to brainstorm with AI, why emotional intelligence still reigns in a tech-driven world, and how to lead with a people-first approach when navigating disruption.Kian is the founder of Geolab, an innovation and leadership firm, and a former executive director at the XPRIZE Foundation and Singularity University. He’s taken the stage at the World Economic Forum, SXSW, and the Tokyo Motor Show—and his thinking has shaped how some of the world’s top companies prepare for the future of work.In this episode, you’ll learn:Why most executives are underusing AI—and how to change that todayHow to unlock creativity and better results by treating AI like a team memberThe four essentials of radically adaptable teams: foresight, agility, resilience, and collaborationWhat makes empathy and emotional intelligence non-negotiables in high-performing organizationsHow to ensure your AI strategy is inclusive, accessible, and built for everyoneIf you're committed to building a future-ready organization—and a more human one—this conversation is for you.Episode Resources:Kian Gohar: Website / LinkedInGeolabLearn the Fundamentals of AILearn more about Manager Essentials at ViRTUSViRTUS: Website / Instagram / LinkedInSign up for our Newsletter: Sign UpGoMacroPeloton54. EP54 The Five Obsessions of High-Performing Organizations with Michael Erath
36:40||Ep. 54What if the systems meant to streamline your business are actually holding it back? In this episode, Mike sits down with Michael Erath for a conversation that blends personal insight with hard-earned business wisdom. Michael’s journey through building and refining business operating systems has led him to a refreshingly human-centered approach—one that prioritizes people over process and embraces flexibility without losing structure.Together, they dive into the “Five Obsessions” that elite organizations live by: cultivating great people, staying inspired, optimizing systems, fostering a true performance culture, and strengthening financial health. Michael doesn’t just share theory—he opens up about the real challenges teams face, the tough calls leaders have to make, and why clear decision-making and financial literacy are non-negotiables for long-term success.From uncovering the hidden costs of over-relying on sales to rethinking how AI can support entrepreneurs (yes, Michael even has an AI version of himself!), this episode offers a grounded, practical look at how intentional systems and leadership can unlock real growth.It’s the kind of conversation that stays with you—layered with insight, real experience, and a few ideas you just might carry into your next big decision. What if the way you lead isn’t just about strategy, but about the systems and stories you choose to believe in?Episode Resources: Get your copy of Five Obsessions of Elite Organizations Work with Mike's AI Clone for insights and guidance Learn more about working with a Next Level Growth GuideNick Saban video on Five ChoicesElite Organizations AssessmentNext Level GrowthNext Level Growth YouTube ChannelLearn more about Manager Essentials at ViRTUSViRTUS: Website / Instagram / LinkedInSign up for our Newsletter: Sign UpOne WheelThinkific53. EP53 Redefining Success: From Burnout to Human Connection with Mike Brcic
47:40||Ep. 53In this episode of The Mike Method, host Mike Desjardins sits down with Mike Brcic—entrepreneur, adventurer, and founder of Wayfinders—to explore how a one-off mountain bike trip evolved into a global movement helping entrepreneurs reconnect with purpose, community, and themselves.A sought-after speaker and facilitator on the power of human connection, Mike has spent years creating transformative, adventure-based experiences for bold leaders across the globe. From living with Indigenous tribes in the Amazon to migrating with Kazakh nomads in Mongolia, his journeys have shaped a mission: to help others find meaning not through doing more—but by being more.We dive into:The evolution of Wayfinders from a mastermind on bikes to inner transformationThe wisdom gained through cross-cultural exchange and deep nature immersionMike’s personal healing journey through depression, isolation, and plant medicineWhat it really takes to build authentic relationships in business and lifeIf you’ve ever longed for more connection, clarity, or fulfillment in your leadership journey—this is one you don’t want to miss.Resources and Links mentioned in this episode:Connect with Mike Brcic on InstagramWayfinders InstagramPodcast: A Wayfinder's Guide to Life - Listen on SpotifyUpcoming Wayfinder's AdventuresLearn more about Manager Essentials at ViRTUSViRTUS: Website / Instagram / LinkedInSign up for our Newsletter: Sign UpFathomHubspot52. EP52 The Pink Tsunami: Women, Wealth, and the Future of Capital with Catherine D’Orazio
27:14||Ep. 52In this episode of The Mike Method, Mike Desjardins is joined by Catherine D’Orazio—Wealth Advisor at CC&L Private Capital—for a timely and eye-opening conversation about one of the biggest financial shifts of our time: the unprecedented transfer of wealth into the hands of women.With 25 years of experience advising families, foundations, and endowments, Catherine brings both deep financial expertise and a values-based approach to wealth planning. Named one of British Columbia’s Most Influential Women in Finance, she’s a recognized thought leader in the growing movement around women and wealth. Her unique career path—from pro snowboarder to board-level leadership in private capital—reflects her dedication to excellence and impact.In this episode, Mike and Catherine unpack what this "pink tsunami" means for the future of investing, philanthropy, and entrepreneurship. They explore how wealth is becoming more values-driven, why businesses and advisors need to adapt, and how women can build confidence in their financial decisions. This is a conversation about purpose, empowerment, and shaping a more intentional future through capital.If you want to understand the future of wealth—and how to prepare yourself, your family, or your business for it—this is the episode to tune into.Resources & Links Mentioned in This EpisodeCC&L Private Capital – Learn more about Catherine’s work and services:Family Enterprise Advisor (FEA) Program – For advisors supporting family enterprises:Compound Interest Examples on YouTube – Great for younger listeners or those new to investingWealth Professional Canada – Talent Leaders 2021 – Recognition of Catherine’s leadership in diversityForum for Women Entrepreneurs – Supporting women-led business growth and leadershipLearn more about Manager Essentials at ViRTUSViRTUS: Website / Instagram / LinkedInSign up for our Newsletter: Sign UpTimestamps:00:00 The Rise of the Pink Tsunami03:03 Wealth Transfer and Its Implications06:11 Investment Philosophy Shift08:56 Philanthropy and Women’s Values11:53 Wealth Stewardship and Responsibility14:51 Educating the Next Generation18:03 Community and Support for Women20:59 Empowerment Through Financial Literacy51. E51 Leadership Development That Actually Works with Chris Taylor
36:00||Ep. 51This week on The Mike Method, Mike sits down with Chris Taylor, CEO of Actionable and one of the sharpest minds out there when it comes to adult learning and real behavior change. Chris founded Actionable.co in 2008 for the express purpose of helping corporate learners apply what they learned; consistently and measurably. Since then, Chris – and his team at Actionable– have supported the deployment of over 3000+ programs leveraging the Impact Certainty model for driving change.While the world’s obsessing over AI, Chris has been quietly gathering one of the largest data sets on what really helps people grow—and stick with it. In this conversation, you'll hear why adding friction (yes, you read that right) can make learning more effective, how tiny nudges can skyrocket engagement, and why great leadership development doesn’t just live in boardrooms—it shows up in how you show up everywhere.If you’ve ever struggled to make personal or professional growth actually last, this episode is full of insights that could shift everything.🎧 Tune in and find out:– Why friction helps learning stick– How to measure ROI in leadership development (beyond buzzwords)– Whether streaks actually work for habit change– And what makes leadership development truly transformationalHit play—you’re going to walk away with tools you can actually use. Available wherever you get your podcasts!Episode Resources:Learn more about Actionable and their behavior change platform: https://actionable.coDownload the White Paper on Behavior Change & Engagement: https://actionable.co/resources (double-check if there's a direct link to the specific paper)Book referenced: Good to Great by Jim Collins – https://www.jimcollins.comBook referenced: Atomic Habits by James Clear – https://jamesclear.com/atomic-habitsLinkedIn (Chris) https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrisjrtaylor/Day One JournalDaily Stoic: https://dailystoic.comLearn more about Manager Essentials at ViRTUSViRTUS: Website / Instagram / LinkedInSign up for our Newsletter: Sign Up50. Ep50 The Power of Charisma with Milam Miller
39:03||Ep. 50In this episode of The Mike Method, Mike sits down with Milam Miller—keynote speaker, executive coach, and the real-life Ted Lasso—to explore the art of healthy charisma and how it’s reshaping leadership in today’s world.Milam spent 15 years in Sports & Entertainment, negotiating over $100M in deals before turning his focus to leadership. Now, through his company Be Confident and Kind, he helps leaders at Amazon, Google, Uber and beyond unlock their true potential through connection, warmth, and intentional kindness. His upcoming book, The Charisma Craft, available June 25th 2025, breaks down how anyone—introvert or extrovert—can harness charisma to lead with authenticity and drive performance.We talk about why charisma isn’t just for the spotlight, how to make people feel seen, and how leaders can reduce conflict, inspire followership, and influence without force. Milam also shares what makes healthy charisma different from performative charm, how to build your own ABCs of influence, and why kindness is a leadership advantage—not a weakness.🎧 Tune in and learn how to lead in a way that people genuinely want to follow.Episode Resources:Connect with Milam on LinkedInMilam Miller’s Company: Be Confident and KindUpcoming Book: The Charisma Craft: A Modern Leadership Guide to Enhancing Your “Rizz” Factor — coming June 2025Above the Line / Below the Line Framework: Watch the 3-minute explainer video on YouTubeDay One Journal App: https://dayoneapp.comCrossFit: https://www.crossfit.comVanessa Van Edwards – The Science of People: https://www.scienceofpeople.comOlivia Fox Cabane – The Charisma Myth: Book on AmazonViRTUS: Website / Instagram / LinkedInSign up for our Newsletter: Sign Up