The Authority Company

In this episode of The Authority Company podcast, Joe sits down with Joe Hudicka, tech entrepreneur, supply chain expert, and author of The AI Ecosystems Revolution: Transforming the Global Supply Chain Through Real-Time Collaboration. They dive into the transformative power of AI, debunking the myth that it’s merely a "tool" and exploring its potential to reshape industries, particularly global supply chains.Hudicka shares insights on how AI can elevate human creativity rather than replace jobs, the pitfalls of current hype cycles, and why real-time collaboration is the future of resilient supply chains. From the "bullwhip effect" during the pandemic to the silent shifts revolutionizing fast fashion, this conversation unpacks the challenges and opportunities at the intersection of AI and logistics.Tune in for a dynamic discussion that blends history, innovation, and practical advice for leaders navigating the AI revolution—all with the enthusiasm of two Joes from New Jersey. JOE HUDICKA is the CEO and founder of EvenFlow, whose mission is to stop making people help technology and start making technology help people. In 2001, he founded The Clarity Team, LLC, where he is the Senior Solutions Architect, and in 2016, he imagined and launched Fizzee Labs Foundation, an award-winning innovation education nonprofit. He is also an Adjunct Professor of MBA and Undergraduate Innovation & Entrepreneurship programs at Rider University, where he serves on the Center for Entrepreneurial Studies Advisory Council, Center for Business Analytics Advisory Council, and is a volunteer entrepreneur in residence. Joe currently lives in Lawrenceville, New Jersey with his wife and two children.

Joe takes a seat at the table with Pasha Esfandiary, professional poker player turned real estate entrepreneur and author of Raising the Stakes: Professional Poker Strategies for Winning in Business and in Life [https://www.amazon.com/Raising-Stakes-Professional-Strategies-Business/dp/B0DT5PWKML]. Pasha shares his incredible journey from dropping out of college to mastering the high-stakes world of poker, and how the strategic mindset of the game propelled him into the competitive realm of real estate.Discover how Pasha’s poker skills—patience, calculated risk-taking, and game selection—translated into building a thriving portfolio, including mobile home communities, and founding Evo Capital. He also dives into the misconceptions around mobile home parks, the housing crisis, and why he believes technology holds the key to affordable housing solutions.Pasha’s story is a testament to resilience, adaptability, and the power of thinking long-term. Whether you’re a poker enthusiast, aspiring entrepreneur, or simply love a good underdog story, this episode is packed with actionable insights and inspiration. PASHA ESFANDIARY grew up in San Jose, the son of a single father who gave up a fortune to immigrate to the US with his two sons. After a troubled childhood, Esfandiary was broke and unhappy until he stumbled onto the world of professional poker. He studied poker and personal development intensely and rose to play some of the highest-stakes games in the world. Applying poker strategies to life, he overcame obstacles to marry Jessica, the love of his life; amass a nine-figure real estate portfolio; and found Evoke Capital, a rapidly growing real estate company, with 2,500 units under management as of this printing. He lives in Los Angeles with his wife and their adorable twins, Zoe and Taj.

In this powerful episode of The Authority Company podcast, Joe Pardavila sits down with Tamar Gakharia, author of The Blitz: A Georgian Daughter’s Rise as a CFO in the Post-Soviet Era. Tamar shares her extraordinary journey from growing up in the shadow of the Soviet Union’s collapse to becoming a top CFO in Georgia. She recounts the harrowing struggles her family endured—surviving without basic utilities, navigating war, and rebuilding their nation brick by brick. Tamar reflects on the profound influence of her grandfather Konstantine, who instilled in her resilience, creativity, and the courage to defy societal norms. She also opens up about her tumultuous marriage, the challenges of being a woman in finance, and how she carved her path in a male-dominated industry. Through it all, her love for Georgia and her dedication to her daughter shine as driving forces behind her success. This conversation is a testament to the strength of the human spirit, the power of perseverance, and the importance of fighting for your dreams—no matter the obstacles. Tune in for an inspiring story of survival, leadership, and unwavering hope. TAMAR GAKHARIA is the Chief Financial Officer of CBS Group, one of the largest holding companies in the Republic of Georgia. Born during the collapse of the Soviet Union, Tamar grew up in a nation undergoing profound transformation. She graduated with honors from a local university and began her career at the Bank of Georgia, where she held numerous positions and honed her financial expertise. Her success at the bank led her to CBS Group, where she oversees the company’s diverse holdings in sectors such as finance, real estate, and energy. Tamar resides in Tbilisi with her two children.

Joe Pardavila sits down with Dr. Mark Klaassen, an orthopedic surgeon with a life story as extraordinary as his medical career. From growing up as a missionary kid in the Andes Mountains of Colombia—where he dreamed in Spanish and rode horses to fetch mail—to becoming a pioneering surgeon in the U.S., Dr. Klaassen’s journey is nothing short of remarkable.Dr. Klaassen shares insights from his new book, Bone Voyage: Following One Surgeon on the Journey of a Lifetime [https://www.amazon.com/Bone-Voyage-Following-Surgeon-Lifetime/dp/1642255963#:~:text=Editorial%20Reviews-,Bone%20Voyage%3A%20Following%20One%20Surgeon%20on%20the%20Journey%20of%20a,later%20practicing%20in%20Indiana%2C%20Dr.], and delves into his unique philosophy: "Helping patients is everything." He discusses the challenges of modern healthcare, including the burdens of electronic medical records (EMRs) and the importance of human connection in medicine. The conversation also explores advancements in orthopedic surgery, such as outpatient joint replacements and innovative pain management techniques that minimize opioid use.With humor and humility, Dr. Klaassen reflects on his upbringing, the lessons he’s learned as a father and grandfather, and the unwavering support of his wife, Sue. Whether you’re fascinated by medical innovation, inspired by resilience, or simply love a great life story, this episode offers a heartfelt and enlightening look at the intersections of medicine, family, and purpose. Dr. MARK KLAASSEN is a board-certified orthopedic surgeon specializing in advanced joint replacement, hip and knee surgery, and robotic-assisted techniques. With over thirty years of experience, he has served as both a practicing surgeon and an educator, mentoring orthopedic surgeons worldwide and contributing to medical device development. Dr. Klaassen volunteers regularly on mission trips, providing life-changing surgeries to underserved communities in Central America. He is a Professor of Science at the University of Notre Dame and an Associate Professor of Orthopedic Surgery at Indiana University. An avid outdoorsman and family man, he brings his personal philosophy of faith and service to his work.

Joe welcomes Tracy Newell, a seasoned tech leader, mentor, and former Fortune 500 executive, to discuss her new book Hers For the Taking: Your Path to the C-Suite and Beyond [https://www.amazon.com/Hers-Taking-Your-C-Suite-Beyond/dp/B0DSN4ZRCY]. Tracy shares her insights on the challenges and opportunities for women in corporate leadership, drawing from her 30+ years of experience.The conversation kicks off with a look at the current state of gender diversity in the C-suite, where Tracy highlights both progress and the work still to be done. She emphasizes the importance of mentorship, managing through influence, and the power of asking the right questions to advance your career. Tracy also delves into practical strategies for navigating the corporate "jungle gym," overcoming burnout, and balancing professional ambitions with personal priorities.Tune in for an inspiring and empowering discussion that challenges the status quo and redefines what’s possible in the world of leadership. TRACEY NEWELL, former president of Informatica and board member, is a renowned business leader. She spearheaded Proofpoint's hypergrowth and held executive roles at Polycom, Juniper Networks, Webex, and Cisco. Recognized as a Top 100 Sales Leader, Tracey serves on multiple boards including Druva, DataRobot, and Sailpoint, and contributes to non-profit organizations.