How to Lead a Startup with Heart: Topher Reynoso

From Ownership to Stewardship: Mark Beebe on Leading with Character

Character in leadership begins with stewardship. In this episode of The Character Effect, Mark Beebe, [https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-beebe-a1024612/] COO of Enterprise Stewardship [https://enterprisestewardship.com], shares why true leaders move from ownership to stewardship. And how humility, accountability, and purpose shape character that others want to follow. Mark reflects on lessons learned from his own leadership journey, the power of building “three capitals” (economic, social, spiritual), and why developing character is the most important—and hardest—work for leaders.

Humble and Hungry: How Character Shapes Small Business Success with Bryan Doxford

Bryan Doxford [https://www.linkedin.com/in/bryan-doxford-5aa40756/], President of Grow America Fund, shares how traits like grit, humility, and integrity guide his approach to small business lending. From teaching entrepreneurs to always inviting others to grow, Bryan explains why the best leaders are “humble and hungry”, and why everything speaks when it comes to business leadership.

Respect Isn’t Soft: Lead with Respect and Win, with Gregg Ward

Gregg Ward [https://www.linkedin.com/in/greggward/] has lived four lives—actor, journalist, leadership coach, and accidental success. In this episode, he shares how a personal tragedy reshaped his view on respect and why it’s the secret sauce to real leadership. If you think respect is soft, think again. Watch Gregg's TEDx talk, Confessions of an Accidental Killer [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZwDm5Lvwdbo].

Take Your Seat - And Keep It: Leadership Lessons from Michelle Livingstone

They say character is who you are when no one’s watching — but Michelle Livingstone’s dad made sure someone always was. From the family dinner table to leading transportation at The Home Depot, Michelle built her career on honesty, consistency, and leaders who actually walk the talk. In this episode, she shares how a quiet mentor at Kraft Foods shaped her leadership style. And why the best leaders leave a mark long after they’ve left the room.

How to Lead a Startup with Heart: Topher Reynoso

“When you find out what is most important to you, and you find a way to transfer that into value for others—you sleep better. You’re more excited about life. And I think you’re a success.” In this episode, Topher Reynoso—founder of Kept.io and former leader at Gusto—joins host Dave Vassilaros for a deep, personal conversation about failure, grit, and finding purpose in your work. From lessons about work ethic from his father to building startups with heart, Topher shares how character and compassion can redefine what it means to lead.