Elevating Performance (HD)

Introducing Brian Stafford, CEO and co-founder of nativeMSG. Discover Brian's visionary impact in the digital messaging space, where his architectures have processed over a billion messages for top brands.
Learn about his four U.S. utility patents, including pioneering work in Rich Communication Services (RCS), which is transforming traditional SMS into interactive experiences.
Key Topics
Brian Stafford is a visionary in digital messaging
Brian's architected solutions have processed over one billion text and SMS messages
Brian holds four US utility patents
Guest
Brian Stafford is CEO and co-Founder of nativeMSG.  Brian is a visionary leader in digital messaging whose innovative architectures have processed over a billion SMS messages for major global brands.  Brian holds four US utility patents, pioneering Rich Communication Services (RCS) that transform traditional texting into interactive, app-like experiences for enhanced B2C interactions. 
nativeMsg, based in Chicago, specilizes in RCS Business Messaging, enabling businesses to create interactive and rich experiences directly within customers' SMS apps on Android and iOS devices. Their platform supports high-quality media like videos and images, quick-reply options, personalized user journeys, and seamless integrations with business systems for automated responses and efficient operations.
Host
Mark A. Dronen is a veteran entrepreneur and executive coach at Elevator 321, where he focuses on leadership development, sales effectiveness, and helping tech leaders scale their businesses. He has built multiple businesses from scratch, led major digital transformation programs including Microsoft's largest offshore initiative, and secured partnerships with brands like American Express, IBM and NASCAR.
A graduate of Eastern Illinois University and recognized as its Distinguished Alumnus of the Year, Dronen is also a two-time Entrepreneur of the Year awardee, inventor of multiple patents, and host of the Elevating Performance podcast.
About Elevator 321 and the College of Coaches
We’re about moving the needle for leaders of tech-driven business.  We should talk.  Reach us at Elevator321.com.
#Entrepreneurship #Leadership #SalesEffectiveness #TechSales

Former Microsoft VP of Worldwide Learning, Laura Longcore, discusses the everyday integration of AI in our lives and addresses common fears about AI taking over jobs. She emphasizes that AI is a tool for augmenting human capabilities, particularly in sales, and highlights the importance of leveraging AI for productivity and customer insights.
Key Topics
AI should be embraced as a tool, not feared
Sales can benefit significantly from AI augmentation
Understanding AI's role can alleviate job-related fears
Guest
Laura Longcore, is a retired Microsoft executive with nearly 25 years of experience at the company, where she held various leadership roles including Vice President of Worldwide Learning, Vice President of Data & AI, and positions in marketing, operations, product planning, and sales. 
A graduate of Illinois State University and a former Division I athlete, she has a strong passion for learning and skill development.  Post-retirement, she continues to share insights on leadership, AI adoption, and company culture through podcasts and posts.
Host
Mark A. Dronen is a veteran entrepreneur and executive coach at Elevator 321, where he focuses on leadership development, sales effectiveness, and helping tech leaders scale their businesses. He has built multiple businesses from scratch, led major digital transformation programs including Microsoft's largest offshore initiative, and secured partnerships with brands like American Express, IBM and NASCAR.
A graduate of Eastern Illinois University and recognized as its Distinguished Alumnus of the Year, Dronen is also a two-time Entrepreneur of the Year awardee, inventor of multiple patents, and host of the Elevating Performance podcast.
About Elevator 321 and the College of Coaches
We’re about moving the needle for leaders of tech-driven business.  We should talk.  Reach us at Elevator321.com.

Former Microsoft VP of Worldwide Learning, Laura Longcore, emphasizes the significance of lifelong learning motivation in today's professional landscape. To foster career development, it's crucial to focus on personal development and knowledge acquisition. Discover how strong leadership and engagement are essential.🚀Key Topics
AI-driven learning targets individual strengths and weaknesses
Critical thinking and data analysis are crucial skills
AI personalizes the learning experience
Guest
Laura Longcore, is a retired Microsoft executive with nearly 25 years of experience at the company, where she held various leadership roles including Vice President of Worldwide Learning, Vice President of Data & AI, and positions in marketing, operations, product planning, and sales. 
A graduate of Illinois State University and a former Division I athlete, she has a strong passion for learning and skill development.  Post-retirement, she continues to share insights on leadership, AI adoption, and company culture through podcasts and posts.
Host
Mark A. Dronen is a veteran entrepreneur and executive coach at Elevator 321, where he focuses on leadership development, sales effectiveness, and helping tech leaders scale their businesses. He has built multiple businesses from scratch, led major digital transformation programs including Microsoft's largest offshore initiative, and secured partnerships with brands like American Express, IBM and NASCAR.
A graduate of Eastern Illinois University and recognized as its Distinguished Alumnus of the Year, Dronen is also a two-time Entrepreneur of the Year awardee, inventor of multiple patents, and host of the Elevating Performance podcast.
About Elevator 321 and the College of Coaches
We’re about moving the needle for leaders of tech-driven business.  We should talk.  Reach us at Elevator321.com.

Former Microsoft VP of Worldwide Learning, Laura Longcore, explores how Executive Coaching can guide organizations through a successful digital transformation, fostering a positive culture change. This short highlights the crucial role of leadership in driving change and the importance of leadership development to cultivate key leadership skills. Discover how organizational agility ensures team success. 🚀
Key Topics
Executive Coaching brings outside perspectives for cultural change.
It's crucial for leaders to develop employees with an AI mindset.
Leaders should create time for employees to experiment and learn.
Executive Coaches facilitate internal and external organizational insights
Guest
Laura Longcore, is a retired Microsoft executive with nearly 25 years of experience at the company, where she held various leadership roles including Vice President of Worldwide Learning, Vice President of Data & AI, and positions in marketing, operations, product planning, and sales. 
A graduate of Illinois State University and a former Division I athlete, she has a strong passion for learning and skill development.  Post-retirement, she continues to share insights on leadership, AI adoption, and company culture through podcasts and posts.
Host
Mark A. Dronen is a veteran entrepreneur and executive coach at Elevator 321, where he focuses on leadership development, sales effectiveness, and helping tech leaders scale their businesses. He has built multiple businesses from scratch, led major digital transformation programs including Microsoft's largest offshore initiative, and secured partnerships with brands like American Express, IBM and NASCAR.
A graduate of Eastern Illinois University and recognized as its Distinguished Alumnus of the Year, Dronen is also a two-time Entrepreneur of the Year awardee, inventor of multiple patents, and host of the Elevating Performance podcast.
About Elevator 321 and the College of Coaches
We’re about moving the needle for leaders of tech-driven business.  We should talk.  Reach us at Elevator321.com.

Laura Longcore, former VP and 25-year Microsoft veteran shares lessons learned during her career. Laura addresses the true "leadership trick" that accelerated AI adoption at Microsoft and the leadership lessons learned along the way. She emphasizes the importance of leadership development and leadership skills, as well as team development. Gain valuable career advice to elevate your career. Laura explores team development and leadership skill and how that fuels Microsoft's growth.  💼🚀
Key Topics
Start with AI Literacy
Focus on Use-Cases
Leadership Must Role-Model
Harness Peer Learning
Ongoing Learning is Essential
Guest
Laura Longcore, is a retired Microsoft executive with nearly 25 years of experience at the company, where she held various leadership roles including Vice President of Worldwide Learning, Vice President of Data & AI, and positions in marketing, operations, product planning, and sales.  A graduate of Illinois State University and a former Division I athlete, she has a strong passion for learning and skill development.  Post-retirement, she continues to share insights on leadership, AI adoption, and company culture through podcasts and posts.
TimeStamps
00:00 Introduction to AI Adoption at Microsoft01:24 Foundational AI Literacy and Training02:58 Peer Learning and Leadership Engagement06:24 The Acceleration of AI Technology08:28 Leadership's Role in AI Integration10:50 Measuring AI Adoption and Engagement12:07 The Role of Executive Coaching in Leadership Development17:13 Navigating AI Adoption and Leadership Challenges17:59 Embracing AI in Leadership Development19:32 The Shift in Learning Modalities
Host
Mark A. Dronen is a veteran entrepreneur and executive coach at Elevator 321, where he focuses on leadership development, sales effectiveness, and helping tech leaders scale their businesses. He has built multiple businesses from scratch, led major digital transformation programs including Microsoft's largest offshore initiative, and secured partnerships with brands like American Express, IBM and NASCAR.
A graduate of Eastern Illinois University and recognized as its Distinguished Alumnus of the Year, Dronen is also a two-time Entrepreneur of the Year awardee, inventor of multiple patents, and host of the Elevating Performance podcast.
About Elevator 321 and the College of Coaches
We’re about moving the needle for leaders of tech-driven business.  We should talk.  Reach us at Elevator321.com.
#Entrepreneurship #Leadership #SalesEffectiveness #TechSales

In this conversation, Laura Longcore discusses the integration of AI in leadership development, emphasizing the importance of ongoing learning and adaptation in sales organizations. She highlights how AI is transforming training methods and the necessity for leaders to embrace continuous learning to drive business growth and effective communication.
Key Topics
AI transforms traditional training into targeted learning experiences
Leaders should be curious about how employees use AI
AI adoption requires a shift in learning modes and speeds
Learning is crucial for success in the AI-driven business world
Guest
Laura Longcore, is a retired Microsoft executive with nearly 25 years of experience at the company, where she held various leadership roles including Vice President of Worldwide Learning, Vice President of Data & AI, and positions in marketing, operations, product planning, and sales.  A graduate of Illinois State University and a former Division I athlete, she has a strong passion for learning and skill development.  Post-retirement, she continues to share insights on leadership, AI adoption, and company culture through podcasts and posts.
TimeStamps
00:00 Embracing AI in Leadership Development01:36 The Shift in Learning Modalities
Host
Mark A. Dronen is a veteran entrepreneur and executive coach at Elevator 321, where he focuses on leadership development, sales effectiveness, and helping tech leaders scale their businesses. He has built multiple businesses from scratch, led major digital transformation programs including Microsoft's largest offshore initiative, and secured partnerships with brands like American Express, IBM and NASCAR.
A graduate of Eastern Illinois University and recognized as its Distinguished Alumnus of the Year, Dronen is also a two-time Entrepreneur of the Year awardee, inventor of multiple patents, and host of the Elevating Performance podcast.
About Elevator 321 and the College of Coaches
We’re about moving the needle for leaders of tech-driven business.  We should talk.  Reach us at Elevator321.com.

Laura Longcore discusses the critical role of executive coaching in leadership development, particularly in the context of AI transformation. They explore how coaching can help leaders communicate effectively, manage change, and foster a culture of continuous learning.
The discussion emphasizes the importance of creating a safe space for leaders to express their fears and uncertainties about AI, and the need for critical thinking in the application of technology within organizations.
Key Topics
Executive coaching plays a vital role in leadership development
Coaching helps leaders communicate the vision of AI
Cultural change is essential for successful AI implementation
External coaches provide valuable outside perspectives
Guest
Laura Longcore, is a retired Microsoft executive with nearly 25 years of experience at the company, where she held various leadership roles including Vice President of Worldwide Learning, Vice President of Data & AI, and positions in marketing, operations, product planning, and sales.  A graduate of Illinois State University and a former Division I athlete, she has a strong passion for learning and skill development.  Post-retirement, she continues to share insights on leadership, AI adoption, and company culture through podcasts and posts.
TimeStamps
00:00 The Role of Executive Coaching in Leadership Development05:11 Navigating AI Adoption and Leadership Challenges
Host
Mark A. Dronen is a veteran entrepreneur and executive coach at Elevator 321, where he focuses on leadership development, sales effectiveness, and helping tech leaders scale their businesses. He has built multiple businesses from scratch, led major digital transformation programs including Microsoft's largest offshore initiative, and secured partnerships with brands like American Express, IBM and NASCAR.
A graduate of Eastern Illinois University and recognized as its Distinguished Alumnus of the Year, Dronen is also a two-time Entrepreneur of the Year awardee, inventor of multiple patents, and host of the Elevating Performance podcast.
About Elevator 321 and the College of Coaches
We’re about moving the needle for leaders of tech-driven business.  We should talk.  Reach us at Elevator321.com.

In this conversation, Mark Dronen and Laura Longcore discuss the rapid evolution of AI technology and its implications for leadership and business practices. They emphasize the importance of adopting an AI-first mindset, integrating AI into daily tasks, and the need for leaders to foster a culture of continuous learning and adaptation. The discussion also touches on the challenges of measuring AI adoption and the balance between quantitative and qualitative assessments of engagement.
Key Topics
The AI hype cycle is accelerating, requiring leaders to adapt quickly
Leaders must integrate AI into their existing frameworks and practices
There is a cultural shift needed to embrace AI in workflows
Measuring AI adoption involves both quantitative and qualitative methods
Sales teams have access to powerful AI tools that can improve performance.
AI is a tool for productivity, not a replacement for human interaction
Guest
Laura Longcore, is a retired Microsoft executive with nearly 25 years of experience at the company, where she held various leadership roles including Vice President of Worldwide Learning, Vice President of Data & AI, and positions in marketing, operations, product planning, and sales. 
A graduate of Illinois State University and a former Division I athlete, she has a strong passion for learning and skill development.  Post-retirement, she continues to share insights on leadership, AI adoption, and company culture through podcasts and posts.
TimeStamps
00:00 The Acceleration of AI Technology02:13 Leadership's Role in AI Integration04:35 Measuring AI Adoption and Engagement
Host
Mark A. Dronen is a veteran entrepreneur and executive coach at Elevator 321, where he focuses on leadership development, sales effectiveness, and helping tech leaders scale their businesses. He has built multiple businesses from scratch, led major digital transformation programs including Microsoft's largest offshore initiative, and secured partnerships with brands like American Express, IBM and NASCAR.
A graduate of Eastern Illinois University and recognized as its Distinguished Alumnus of the Year, Dronen is also a two-time Entrepreneur of the Year awardee, inventor of multiple patents, and host of the Elevating Performance podcast.
About Elevator 321 and the College of Coaches
We’re about moving the needle for leaders of tech-driven business.  We should talk.  Reach us at Elevator321.com.

In this conversation, Laura Longcore shares her extensive experience at Microsoft, focusing on the importance of AI literacy and employee training. She discusses how the organization prepared its workforce for AI integration, emphasizing peer learning and leadership's role in driving cultural change. The conversation highlights the significance of data integrity and the practical applications of AI in enhancing productivity and operational efficiency.
Key Topics
AI literacy was foundational for employee training
Peer learning significantly enhanced productivity
Leadership must model the change they want to see
Cultural transformation is driven by leadership support
Learning from different divisions accelerates understanding
Training should focus on real-world use cases
Lifelong learning is essential in the rapidly changing AI landscape
Guest
Laura Longcore, is a retired Microsoft executive with nearly 25 years of experience at the company, where she held various leadership roles including Vice President of Worldwide Learning, Vice President of Data & AI, and positions in marketing, operations, product planning, and sales.  A graduate of Illinois State University and a former Division I athlete, she has a strong passion for learning and skill development.  Post-retirement, she continues to share insights on leadership, AI adoption, and company culture through podcasts and posts.
Timestamps
00:00 Introduction to AI Adoption at Microsoft
01:24 Foundational AI Literacy and Training
02:58 Peer Learning and Leadership Engagement
 
Host
Mark A. Dronen is a veteran entrepreneur and executive coach at Elevator 321, where he focuses on leadership development, sales effectiveness, and helping tech leaders scale their businesses. He has built multiple businesses from scratch, led major digital transformation programs including Microsoft's largest offshore initiative, and secured partnerships with brands like American Express, IBM and NASCAR.
A graduate of Eastern Illinois University and recognized as its Distinguished Alumnus of the Year, Dronen is also a two-time Entrepreneur of the Year awardee, inventor of multiple patents, and host of the Elevating Performance podcast.
About Elevator 321 and the College of Coaches
We’re about moving the needle for leaders of tech-driven business.  We should talk.  Reach us at Elevator321.com.

Diana Gibson reflects on her career journey from Peoria, Illinois, to her leadership roles at Microsoft, sharing insights on dreaming big, the importance of networking, and continuous learning.
Key Topics
Dream big and don't be afraid to try
Be curious and learn something new every day
Networking is key to integrating into new environments
Fake it till you make it when necessary
Guest
Diana Gibson is a retired Vice President of Microsoft Services and Customer Success, with a career dedicated to empowering people, delivering customer value, and driving business results through leadership and team development.
Diana currently serves on the Board of Advisors for Elevator 321, where she contributes her expertise in strategic growth and revenue enhancement.
Host
Mark A. Dronen is a veteran entrepreneur and executive coach at Elevator 321, where he focuses on leadership development, sales effectiveness, and helping tech leaders scale their businesses. He has built multiple businesses from scratch, led major digital transformation programs including Microsoft's largest offshore initiative, and secured partnerships with brands like American Express, IBM and NASCAR.
A graduate of Eastern Illinois University and recognized as its Distinguished Alumnus of the Year, Dronen is also a two-time Entrepreneur of the Year awardee, inventor of multiple patents, and host of the Elevating Performance podcast.
About Elevator 321 and the College of Coaches
We’re about moving the needle for leaders of tech-driven business.  We should talk.  Reach us at Elevator321.com.

Introducing Dave Carlquist, a former distinguished executive of IBM for 36 years.  His culminating roles were as Vice President of Global Strategy and Transformation for Enterprise and Commercial Markets, and Group Vice President of Worldwide Channels for IBM Systems & Technology, where he drove channel ecosystems and co-selling strategies.
Key Topics
Dave retired from IBM as VP of Global Strategy
Dave held multiple executive positions, including VP of Worldwide Channels
Dave is committed to driving organizational transformation and development of business strategies
He's led and currently advises global sales organizations
Guest
Dave Carlquist currently serves as a Senior Technology Executive, Adjunct Faculty member, Board Advisor at Elevator 321, and Executive Coach, leveraging his expertise in technology sales and leadership. He holds an MBA in Finance from the University of Chicago and Bachelors in Computer Science from Northwestern University.
Host
Mark A. Dronen is a veteran entrepreneur and executive coach at Elevator 321, where he focuses on leadership development, sales effectiveness, and helping tech leaders scale their businesses. He has built multiple businesses from scratch, led major digital transformation programs including Microsoft's largest offshore initiative, and secured partnerships with brands like American Express, IBM and NASCAR.
A graduate of Eastern Illinois University and recognized as its Distinguished Alumnus of the Year, Dronen is also a two-time Entrepreneur of the Year awardee, inventor of multiple patents, and host of the Elevating Performance podcast.
About Elevator 321 and the College of Coaches
We’re about moving the needle for leaders of tech-driven business.  We should talk.  Reach us at Elevator321.com.

Introducing Jim Malpede, former Senior Vice President and General Manager of SAP Concur.  During Jim's enture, revenues grew from $38 million to over $2 billion as they expanded their customer base to over 48,000 organizations and 92,000,000 users.
 
Key Topics
Concur's revenue grew from $38 million to over $2 billion under Jim's leadership
Jim held several sales and marketing leadership roles at Concur
Jim was VP of Sales at Taleo during their IPO
Post-IP, Taleo was acquired by Oracle for $1.8 billion
Guest
Jim Malpede leverages over 20 years of leadership in high-growth cloud companies.  Formerly the SPV and GM of SAP Concur, during his tenure, revenues grew from $38M to over $2B, while growing the customer base to over 48,000 organizations.
Jim currently serves on the Board of Advisors for Elevator 321, where she contributes his expertise in strategic growth and revenue enhancement.
Host
Mark A. Dronen is a veteran entrepreneur and executive coach at Elevator 321, where he focuses on leadership development, sales effectiveness, and helping tech leaders scale their businesses. He has built multiple businesses from scratch, led major digital transformation programs including Microsoft's largest offshore initiative, and secured partnerships with brands like American Express, IBM and NASCAR.
A graduate of Eastern Illinois University and recognized as its Distinguished Alumnus of the Year, Dronen is also a two-time Entrepreneur of the Year awardee, inventor of multiple patents, and host of the Elevating Performance podcast.
About Elevator 321 and the College of Coaches
We’re about moving the needle for leaders of tech-driven business.  We should talk.  Reach us at Elevator321.com.