Elevating Performance (HD)
Explore tech-driven leadership and sales excellence on Elevating Performance, hosted by Mark A. Dronen—entrepreneur, coach, and transformation expert. We spotlight guests' bold leadership, sales triumphs, and innovations fueling business growth.
Episodes unpack visionary Founders, deal-closing pros, and industry disruptors in AI, cloud, and agile tech. Discover tactics for enterprise wins, mindset pivots, and exponential strategies through raw stories and actionable insights.
Explore tech-driven leadership and sales excellence on Elevating Performance, hosted by Mark A. Dronen—entrepreneur, coach, and transformation expert. We spotlight guests' bold leadership, sales triumphs, and innovations fueling business growth.
Episodes unpack visionary Founders, deal-closing pros, and industry disruptors in AI, cloud, and agile tech. Discover tactics for enterprise wins, mindset pivots, and exponential strategies through raw stories and actionable insights.
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Episodes

Sep 21, 2025
Sep 21, 2025
1 min
Explore how AI is transforming warehouse orchestration in large-scale enterprises. Mike DeLeonardis discusses the challenges of managing vast warehouse spaces and how AI-driven solutions are enabling operators to make informed decisions, reducing dependency on labor-intensive processes.
Key Topics
Enterprise-level clients with extensive warehouse networks
Challenges of managing large-scale warehouse operations
Transition from labor-dependent orchestration to AI-driven solutions
AI's role in enhancing decision-making for warehouse operators
Guest
Michael DeLeonardis is the Chief Revenue Officer of Verity. With more than 25 years of experience in building and scaling high growth technology businesses, Mike leads Verity's global go-to-market strategy, enterprise expansion, and customer success initiatives.
Verity. Headquartered in Zurich, Verity has been awarded over 150 patents for their Warehouse Intelligence Platform. Their fully autonomous AI-powered inventory management solution is transforming supply chain operations for some of the world's largest logistics, retail, and manufacturing companies.
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.
Sep 21, 2025
1 min

Sep 17, 2025
AI Tools for SaaS Selling Efficiency (EP 17, T6)
Sep 17, 2025
Sep 17, 2025
1 min
Mike DeLeonardis shares insights into overcoming quota attainment challenges in the tech industry. Discover how AI-driven tools like Clay, Spotlight AI and Alligned are transforming sales operations. Learn how these technologies enhance productivity, efficiency, and buyer engagement.
Key Topics
Addressing quota attainment challenges in technology sales
Utilizing Clay for real-time buying signals
Automating deal qualification with MEDDIPPC AI and Spotlight AI
Enhancing buyer engagement with AI-enabled Alligned digital sales rooms
Leveraging ChatGPT for personalized sales research
Guest
Michael DeLeonardis is the Chief Revenue Officer of Verity. With more than 25 years of experience in building and scaling high growth technology businesses, Mike leads Verity's global go-to-market strategy, enterprise expansion, and customer success initiatives.
Verity Headquartered in Zurich, Verity has been awarded over 150 patents for their Warehouse Intelligence Platform. Their fully autonomous AI-powered inventory management solution is transforming supply chain operations for some of the world's largest logistics, retail, and manufacturing companies.
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.
Sep 17, 2025
1 min

Sep 15, 2025
Sep 15, 2025
1 min
Join us as we chat with Corinne Martinez, former Microsoft leader turned vineyard president. Discover her transition from tech to winemaking, her family's pioneering efforts in sustainable viticulture, and her role in community and industry associations.
Key Topics
Corinne's career at Microsoft and her leadership in enterprise services.
The history and innovation at Berryessa Gap Vineyards.
Sustainable practices and collaborations with UC Davis. Corinne's educational background and community involvement.
Guest
Corinne Martinez, is President & COO of Berryessa Gap Vineyards. She is a Winters, California-based community leader, leveraging her extensive experience from Microsoft and her academic credentials from UC Berkeley and the University of Chicago to drive impactful initiatives in agriculture and local development.
Corinne serves on the President's Advisory Commission on Agriculture and Natural Resources at the University of California Office of the President, applying her expertise in technology, farming, and agribusiness. Additionally, she holds leadership roles in organizations like Visit Yolo, Winters Open Mic, Society of St. Vincent de Paul, and Eta Forever Sisterhood Foundation, advancing economic empowerment, arts, poverty alleviation, and education in her community.
Timestamps
00:00 Introduction to Corinne Martinez00:36 Corinne's Journey in Technology and Viticulture
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.
Sep 15, 2025
1 min

Sep 12, 2025
Sep 12, 2025
1 min
Introducing Mike DeLeonardis, Chief Revenue Officer of Verity. Learn how drones are enhancing warehouse management and logistics through artificial intelligence and machine learning. Discover how autonomous drones are enhancing inventory systems and driving efficiency in operations. Discover how Verity's autonomous drone technology is reshaping supply chain operations for some of the world's largest companies.🚀💼
#WarehouseManagement #AI #Logistics
Key Topics
Mike DeLeonardis journey and insights from over 25 years in the tech industry
Learn about Verity's fully autonomous AI solutions and their role in transforming logistics and manufacturing
The future of intelligent automation and its impact on global supply chains
Guest
Michael DeLeonardis is the Chief Revenue Officer of Verity. With more than 25 years of experience in building and scaling high growth technology businesses, Mike leads Verity's global go-to-market strategy, enterprise expansion, and customer success initiatives.
Verity Headquartered in Zurich, Verity has been awarded over 150 patents for their autonomous drone technology. Their fully autonomous AI-powered inventory management solution is transforming supply chain operations for some of the world's largest logistics, retail, and manufacturing companies.
Timestamps
00:00 Introduction to Mike DeLeonardis and Verity00:29 Transforming Supply Chain Operations with AI
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.
Sep 12, 2025
1 min

Sep 2, 2025
Sep 2, 2025
1 min
Discover how Verity's AI-driven drones seamlessly integrate into Warehouse Management Systems, revolutionizing operations. Through a learning curve approach, the Verity Warehouse Intellegence Platform expands over time to integrate with ERP and labor systems, enhancing efficiency and insights.
Key Topics
Data integration across WMS, ERP, and operational systems
Real-time AI coaching for error prevention
AI-driven task prioritization and planning
Predictive analytics for strategic decision-making
Guest
Michael DeLeonardis is the Chief Revenue Officer of Verity. With more than 25 years of experience in building and scaling high growth technology businesses, Mike leads Verity's global go-to-market strategy, enterprise expansion, and customer success initiatives.
Verity Headquartered in Zurich, Verity has been awarded over 150 patents for their Warehouse Intelligence Platform. Their fully autonomous AI-powered inventory management solution is transforming supply chain operations for some of the world's largest logistics, retail, and manufacturing companies.
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.
Sep 2, 2025
1 min

Aug 27, 2025
AI Drone Data Integration Layers (EP 17, T4)
Aug 27, 2025
Aug 27, 2025
1 min
Mike DeLeonardis unveils the transformative power of drone technology in warehouse management. Discover how autonomous drones collect high-frequency data to provide real-time insights, eliminate blind spots, and enhance customer experience. Learn about the integration with warehouse intelligence platforms to predict outcomes and drive continuous improvement.
Key Topics
Introduction to mobile intelligence capabilities
Real-time data collection and its impact on operations
Integration with WMS, ERP, and operational systems
Using AI to enrich data and predict outcomes
Guest
Michael DeLeonardis is the Chief Revenue Officer of Verity. With more than 25 years of experience in building and scaling high growth technology businesses, Mike leads Verity's global go-to-market strategy, enterprise expansion, and customer success initiatives.
Verity Headquartered in Zurich, Verity has been awarded over 150 patents for their Warehouse Intelligence Platform. Their fully autonomous AI-powered inventory management solution is transforming supply chain operations for some of the world's largest logistics, retail, and manufacturing companies.
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.
Aug 27, 2025
1 min

Aug 26, 2025
AI Automation ROI in Supply Chains (EP 17, T3)
Aug 26, 2025
Aug 26, 2025
1 min
Mike DeLeonardis explores the evolving landscape of warehouse automation. Discover how a value engineering approach can lead to significant ROI, with metrics shifting from traditional models to Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) standards. Learn about the impact on the entire put-to-pack process and how clients can identify and address their unique challenges.
Key Topics
Transition from traditional ROI models to SaaS metrics
The role of value engineering in warehouse automation
Real-world examples of achieving 10-15X ROI
Collaborative client exercises to identify pain points
Guest
Michael DeLeonardis is the Chief Revenue Officer of Verity. With more than 25 years of experience in building and scaling high growth technology businesses, Mike leads Verity's global go-to-market strategy, enterprise expansion, and customer success initiatives.
Verity Headquartered in Zurich, Verity has been awarded over 150 patents for their Warehouse Intelligence Platform. Their fully autonomous AI-powered inventory management solution is transforming supply chain operations for some of the world's largest logistics, retail, and manufacturing companies.
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.
Aug 26, 2025
1 min

Aug 25, 2025
Aug 25, 2025
1 min
Join Mike DeLeonardis as he explores the challenges of quota attainment in the tech industry and how AI-driven tools are boosting sales performance and enhanceing sales productivity. Discover key sales techniques that can help improve your sales metrics and drive your sales strategy forward. Join us for insights that can elevate your sales career to new heights!
Key Topics
Addressing quota attainment challenges in technology sales
Utilizing GTM intelligence for real-time buying signals
Automating deal qualification with MEDDIPPC AI & Spotlight AI
Enhancing buyer engagement with AI-enabled digital sales rooms
Leveraging ChatGPT for personalized sales research
Guest
Michael DeLeonardis is the Chief Revenue Officer of Verity. With more than 25 years of experience in building and scaling high growth technology businesses, Mike leads Verity's global go-to-market strategy, enterprise expansion, and customer success initiatives.
Verity. Headquartered in Zurich, Verity has been awarded over 150 patents for their Warehouse Intelligence Platform. Their fully autonomous AI-powered inventory management solution is transforming supply chain operations for some of the world's largest logistics, retail, and manufacturing companies.
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.
Aug 25, 2025
1 min

Aug 25, 2025
Aug 25, 2025
57 sec
Mike DeLeonardis discusses AI-assisted counting with AI for drones and how they enhance efficiency in business through advanced warehouse management techniques. Discover the role of automation and drone innovation in inventory management, making processes faster and more reliable. Join us as we dive into the future of smart drones in logistics!
Key Topics
The role of drones in providing real-time data and improving warehouse efficiency
How AI is helping to predict outcomes and prevent inventory errors
Real-world examples of AI's impact on large-scale warehouse operations
Guest
Michael DeLeonardis is the Chief Revenue Officer of Verity. With more than 25 years of experience in building and scaling high growth technology businesses, Mike leads Verity's global go-to-market strategy, enterprise expansion, and customer success initiatives.
Verity Headquartered in Zurich, Verity has been awarded over 150 patents for their Warehouse Intelligence Platform. Their fully autonomous AI-powered inventory management solution is transforming supply chain operations for some of the world's largest logistics, retail, and manufacturing companies.
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
Aug 25, 2025
57 sec

Aug 25, 2025
Aug 25, 2025
28 min
Join us in episode 17 as we explore the revolutionary future of warehousing, where AI drones are poised to transform the industry. Discover how artificial intelligence and drone technology are being integrated into warehouse operations to enhance efficiency, accuracy, and safety.
From inventory management to package delivery, learn about the cutting-edge applications of AI drones in warehousing and what this means for the future of logistics and supply chain management. Tune in for insightful discussions and expert analysis on the impact of AI drones on the warehousing sector.
Key Topics
AI is transforming supply chain operations and warehouse management
Integration of technology in warehouses is a significant challenge
Client success teams play a crucial role in technology adoption
Understanding ROI is essential for client executives in sales
AI can assist in orchestration and decision-making in warehouses
Guest
Michael DeLeonardis is the Chief Revenue Officer of Verity. With more than 25 years of experience in building and scaling high growth technology businesses, Mike leads Verity's global go-to-market strategy, enterprise expansion, and customer success initiatives.
Verity Headquartered in Zurich, Verity has been awarded over 150 patents for their Warehouse Intelligence Platform. Their fully autonomous AI-powered inventory management solution is transforming supply chain operations for some of the world's largest logistics, retail, and manufacturing companies.
Timestamps
00:00 Introduction to Mike DeLeonardis and Verity00:58 Warehouse Intelligence Platform Overview03:51 AI and Data Integration in Warehousing04:54 Challenges in Modern Warehousing and Distribution07:12 Insights and Analytics Across Warehouse Operations08:28 Inventory Challenges Within Mega Warehouses11:17 Data Integration and Accuracy in Warehousing13:21 AI and Machine Learning in Inventory Management20:45 Implementing AI in the Buying Journey22:28 Building a Bespoke AI Technology Stack for Sales24:16 Value of Technology Backgrounds with Modern CRO's25:43 Value of Building a Peer Group26:33 Value of Leadership Coaching27:10 The Importance of Teamwork in Sales28:01 Parallels Between Sports and Business Success
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
Aug 25, 2025
28 min

Aug 25, 2025
Aug 25, 2025
3 min
Mike DeLeonardis, a seasoned leader with 27 years of experience in managing large-scale teams. Mike shares his reflections on leadership, the importance of building a peer network, and the parallels between team sports and business success.
Key Topics
The value of peer networks in leadership roles
Lessons learned from mistakes and the importance of a softer touch in management
How team sports principles apply to enterprise selling and technology
Guest
Michael DeLeonardis is the Chief Revenue Officer of Verity. With more than 25 years of experience in building and scaling high growth technology businesses, Mike leads Verity's global go-to-market strategy, enterprise expansion, and customer success initiatives.
Verity Headquartered in Zurich, Verity has been awarded over 150 patents for their Warehouse Intelligence Platform. Their fully autonomous AI-powered inventory management solution is transforming supply chain operations for some of the world's largest logistics, retail, and manufacturing companies.
Timestamps
00:00 Value of Building a Peer Group00:58 Value of Leadership Coaching01:36 The Importance of Teamwork in Sales02:26 Parallels Between Sports and Business Success
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
Aug 25, 2025
3 min

Aug 25, 2025
Aug 25, 2025
5 min
Mike DeLeonardis discusses the integration of AI in the sales process, focusing on how technology can enhance productivity and efficiency in sales teams. We explore the challenges of quota attainment in the tech industry and the importance of building a customized technology stack that addresses specific business needs.
The discussion highlights the role of AI tools in automating deal qualification and improving buyer engagement, as well as the significance of having a technical background in sales leadership.
Key Topics
There's no right answer for the AI technology stack
Focus on impactful technology for Go-to-Market
Quota attainment in tech is alarmingly low
Aim for a more efficient manager-to-producer ratio
Guest
Michael DeLeonardis is the Chief Revenue Officer of Verity. With more than 25 years of experience in building and scaling high growth technology businesses, Mike leads Verity's global go-to-market strategy, enterprise expansion, and customer success initiatives.
Verity Headquartered in Zurich, Verity has been awarded over 150 patents for their Warehouse Intelligence Platform. Their fully autonomous AI-powered inventory management solution is transforming supply chain operations for some of the world's largest logistics, retail, and manufacturing companies.
Timestamps
00:00 Implementing AI in the Buying Journey01:52 Building a Bespoke AI Technology Stack for Sales03:40 Value of Technology Backgrounds with Modern CRO's
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
Aug 25, 2025
5 min

