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.
Listen on:
Episodes

Aug 25, 2025
Aug 25, 2025
6 min
Mike DeLeonardis discusses the challenges of introducing innovative technology in the market, particularly in the context of warehouse automation. They explore common objections related to ROI and business cases, emphasizing the shift towards higher ROI expectations.
The discussion also highlights the importance of understanding client needs through value selling and the role of client success in ensuring continuity and satisfaction post-integration.
Key Topics
The market is evolving towards higher ROI expectations
Value engineering is crucial for overcoming objections
Identifying pain points collaboratively with clients is key
10-15X ROI is becoming the new standard in automation
Client executives must understand both technology and ROI
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 Overcoming Market Objections03:04 The Evolution of ROI in Warehouse Automation03:32 Verity Client Executive Attributes04:49 Client Success Model in an AI First Company
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
6 min

Aug 25, 2025
Aug 25, 2025
6 min
Mike DeLeonardis, Chief Revenue Officer at Verity delves into the complexities of warehouse management, focusing on the integration of data systems, the accuracy of inventory records, and the role of AI in enhancing operational efficiency.
We discuss the challenges faced by warehouses, including data discrepancies and the impact of human error, while highlighting the potential of technology to streamline processes and improve accuracy.
Key Topics
Integration to existing systems is significant work effort
80% of lost goods were never registered in the WMS
AI assisted counting can achieve 90% accuracy
Technology mirrors how the human brain works
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 Inventory Challenges Within Mega Warehouses02:53 Data Integration and Accuracy in Warehousing04:58 AI and Machine Learning in Inventory Management
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
6 min

Aug 25, 2025
Aug 25, 2025
8 min
Mike DeLeonardis, Chief Revenue Officer of Verity, discusses the intersection of digital and physical worlds in warehousing through their intelligence platform. He explains how their technology, including autonomous drones, enhances inventory management and customer experience by providing real-time insights and predictive analytics.
The discussion also covers the focus on enterprise-level clients and the importance of data insights for operational efficiency across multiple warehouses.
Key Topics
Our solution sits at the intersection of the digital and physical world
We're reducing order cancellations and driving a better customer experience
Our drones form the foundation of our empirical data collection
We're delivering real-time recommendations to help prevent errors
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 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
Aug 25, 2025
8 min

Aug 25, 2025
Aug 25, 2025
1 min
Introducing Mike DeLeonardis, Chief Revenue Officer of Verity. Explore the revolutionary impact of Verity's AI-Warehouse Intelligence Platform. Discover how Verity's autonomous drone technology is reshaping supply chain operations for some of the world's largest companies.
Key Topics
Mike DeLeonardis his 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 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
1 min

Aug 18, 2025
Aug 18, 2025
1 min
Marc Rosenstock explores how AI automation is enhancing call center systems and improving customer service automation. Discover the role of AI call handling and contact center AI in creating a seamless customer experience. Join us in understanding the impact of business automation on operational efficiency! 🚀
Key Topics
AI-driven personalization boosts engagement
AI voice agents enhances data analysis in marketing
Guest
Marc Rosenstock, President, Rosenstock Consulting. Marc is a seasoned marketing executive with over 20 years of experience in driving brand growth, digital marketing, eCommerce, and go-to-market strategies, holding senior roles in a number of world-class organizations. Today, his practice is dedicated to advising marketers to the SMB on effective uses of AI.
Marc holds an MBA from the University of Chicago, and dual Bachelor's degrees in Engineering and Economics from the Warton School at the University of Pennsylvania.
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 18, 2025
1 min

Aug 18, 2025
Is Google Search Changing Forever? (EP 14, T4)
Aug 18, 2025
Aug 18, 2025
1 min
Marc Rosenstock explores the impact of AI tools on the future of Google seach and how it's shaping digital marketing strategies. Discover essential SEO tips to enhance your blog traffic and navigate the evolving landscape of online marketing. Join us as we discuss the importance of adapting to changes in Google sSEOeo for better visibility! 🚀
Key Topics
AI is changing search result displays
Organic traffic to websites is decreasing
Companies struggle to reach opt-in audiences
Email categorization affects marketing strategies
Guest
Marc Rosenstock, President, Rosenstock Consulting. Marc is a seasoned marketing executive with over 20 years of experience in driving brand growth, digital marketing, eCommerce, and go-to-market strategies, holding senior roles in a number of world-class organizations. Today, his practice is dedicated to advising marketers to the SMB on effective uses of AI.
Marc holds an MBA from the University of Chicago, and dual Bachelor's degrees in Engineering and Economics from the Warton School at the University of Pennsylvania.
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 18, 2025
1 min

Aug 18, 2025
Aug 18, 2025
24 min
Join Mark Rosenstock as he discusses the impact of AI on marketing, sales, and go-to-market strategies for mid-sized brands. Learn how effective lead generation and marketing automation can enhance your digital marketing efforts, utilizing the latest ai tools for business to optimize your approach. Dive into essential marketing strategies that drive growth and decision-making in today's competitive landscape! 🚀
The discussion covers practical applications of AI in marketing tasks, the necessity of collaboration with partners, and the evolving landscape of digital marketing.
Key Topics
AI is reshaping marketing strategies and workflows
Marketers must embrace a mindset of continuous learning
Small businesses can leverage AI to compete with larger firms
Understanding AI's capabilities is crucial for effective implementation
Collaboration with partners is essential in the AI ecosystem
Guest
Marc Rosenstock, President, Rosenstock Consulting. Marc is a seasoned marketing executive with over 20 years of experience in driving brand growth, digital marketing, eCommerce, and go-to-market strategies, holding senior roles in a number of world-class organizations. Today, his practice is dedicated to advising marketers to the SMB on effective uses of AI.
Marc holds an MBA from the University of Chicago, and dual Bachelor's degrees in Engineering and Economics from the Warton School at the University of Pennsylvania.
Timestamps
00:00 The Impact of AI on Marketing for SMBs02:54 Adopting a Mindset of Permanent Beta04:00 Innovative Applications of AI in Workflows05:12 Real-Time AI Feedback in Call Centers07:08 The Future of AI and Its Rapid Adoption08:15 AI in Marketing: Transforming Functional Flows10:43 Enhancing Creative Production with AI11:38 AI Applications Beyond Marketing11:40 The Future of Marketing and AI Integration13:02 Understanding the Partner Ecosystem and AI Integration16:03 The Shift to AI-First Mindset in Marketing18:09 Designing for AI: New Paradigms in Content Creation20:26 Leveraging AI for Small and Medium-Sized Businesses21:55 Embracing Risks and Authenticity23:42 The Importance of Learning from Mistakes
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 18, 2025
24 min

Aug 18, 2025
Aug 18, 2025
3 min
Marc Rosenstock delves into the importance of taking risks and being authentic in both personal and professional life. Marc details how embracing mistakes and learning from them can lead to greater success and adaptability in a rapidly changing world.
Key Topics
The value of taking risks and learning from mistakes in achieving success
The importance of authenticity in personal and professional growth
How the fast-paced technology landscape demands adaptability and continuous learning
Guest
Marc Rosenstock discusses the transformative impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on marketing, particularly for small and medium-sized businesses. He emphasizes the importance of adapting to AI-driven changes, leveraging technology for efficiency, and fostering a mindset of continuous learning and innovation.
The discussion covers practical applications of AI in marketing tasks, the necessity of collaboration with partners, and the evolving landscape of digital marketing.
Timestamps
00:00 Embracing Risks and Authenticity00:46 The Importance of Learning from Mistakes
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 18, 2025
3 min

Aug 18, 2025
Aug 18, 2025
9 min
Marc Rosenstock discusses how collaboration and business development are essential for digital transformation. Learn how strategic alliances and partnerships can improve workflows and overall business strategy. Discover strategies for workflow optimization to enhance business outcomes. 🚀
Key Topics
It's critical to understand how partners use AI
Knowing the strengths and weaknesses of AI tools is essential
AI is changing the landscape of content creation and SEO
Businesses must design content for AI consumption
Guest
Marc Rosenstock, President, Rosenstock Consulting. Marc is a seasoned marketing executive with over 20 years of experience in driving brand growth, digital marketing, eCommerce, and go-to-market strategies, holding senior roles in a number of world-class organizations. Today, his practice is dedicated to advising marketers to the SMB on effective uses of AI.
Marc holds an MBA from the University of Chicago, and dual Bachelor's degrees in Engineering and Economics from the Warton School at the University of Pennsylvania.
Timestamps
00:00 Understanding the Partner Ecosystem and AI Integration03:16 The Shift to AI-First Mindset in Marketing05:05 Designing for AI: New Paradigms in Content Creation06:30 Leveraging AI for Small and Medium-Sized Businesses
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 18, 2025
9 min

Aug 18, 2025
Aug 18, 2025
5 min
Marc Rosenstock explores how artificial intelligence transforms digital marketing departments, streamlining the workflow between teams. Learn about leveraging marketing automation to enhance your marketing strategy and business automation. See how AI in marketing can revolutionize daily tasks. 🚀
Key Topics
AI streamlines pre-production, production, and post-production processes
The role of AI in media planning, creative development, and segmentation
How AI helps marketers deliver greater value by optimizing resources and expanding asset creation
Guest
Marc Rosenstock, President, Rosenstock Consulting. Marc is a seasoned marketing executive with over 20 years of experience in driving brand growth, digital marketing, eCommerce, and go-to-market strategies, holding senior roles in a number of world-class organizations. Today, his practice is dedicated to advising marketers to the SMB on effective uses of AI.
Marc holds an MBA from the University of Chicago, and dual Bachelor's degrees in Engineering and Economics from the Warton School at the University of Pennsylvania.
Timestamps
00:00 AI in Marketing: Transforming Functional Flows02:17 Enhancing Creative Production with AI03:22 AI Applications Beyond Marketing03:22 The Future of Marketing and AI Integration
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 18, 2025
5 min

Aug 18, 2025
Can AI Make You a Better Marketer? (EP 14, Ch 1)
Aug 18, 2025
Aug 18, 2025
8 min
Marc Rosenstock shares the importance of an artificial intelligence mindset for marketers as AI becomes more prevalent. He discusses how digital marketing is evolving and what strategies are essential for success, especially with new marketing strategies using AI marketing and general marketing. This includes online marketing and staying ahead in the field.
Key Topics
Artificial intelligence is reshaping marketing strategies for SMBs
A mindset of continuous learning is essential in today's fast-paced environment
Collaboration with partners using AI is crucial for success
Real-time feedback systems can improve call center interactions
The democratization of innovation allows ideas to emerge from anywhere
Guest
Marc Rosenstock, President, Rosenstock Consulting. Marc is a seasoned marketing executive with over 20 years of experience in driving brand growth, digital marketing, eCommerce, and go-to-market strategies, holding senior roles in a number of world-class organizations. Today, his practice is dedicated to advising marketers to the SMB on effective uses of AI.
Marc holds an MBA from the University of Chicago, and dual Bachelor's degrees in Engineering and Economics from the Warton School at the University of Pennsylvania.
Timestamps
00:00 The Impact of AI on Marketing for SMBs02:51 Adopting a Mindset of Permanent Beta03:57 Innovative Applications of AI in Workflows05:08 Real-Time AI Feedback in Call Centers06:59 The Future of AI and Its Rapid Adoption
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 18, 2025
8 min

Aug 18, 2025
Aug 18, 2025
1 min
Introducing Marc Rosenstock, a pioneer in big data and AI-driven strategies. Discover how Mark's expertise in developing marketing, sales, and go-to-market strategies for middle market brands is shaping the future of commerce.
Key Topics
Mark's journey from big data at Procter & Gamble to AI innovation in marketing
The role of predictive analytics in crafting effective go-to-market strategies
Insights into AI applications for small and medium-sized businesses
Guest
Marc Rosenstock, President, Rosenstock Consulting. Marc is a seasoned marketing executive with over 20 years of experience in driving brand growth, digital marketing, eCommerce, and go-to-market strategies, holding senior roles in a number of world-class organizations. Today, his practice is dedicated to advising marketers to the SMB on effective uses of AI.
Marc holds an MBA from the University of Chicago, and dual Bachelor's degrees in Engineering and Economics from the Warton School at the University of Pennsylvania.
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 18, 2025
1 min

