Behind the Ops

SE01 E22 Building a Business from the Ground Up | With Jeff Kallil

Christen Belcher — Thu, 02 Apr 2026 12:00:00 +0100

In this conversation, Jeff Kallil shares insights from his extensive experience in entrepreneurship, discussing the various companies he manages and the unique challenges each presents. He emphasizes the importance of a builder mindset, operational strategies tailored to different brands, and the necessity of testing and learning from failures. Jeff also highlights the significance of leadership clarity, identifying operational gaps, and the need for alignment within teams. He concludes with valuable advice for aspiring entrepreneurs about leveraging strengths and embracing risks.

We hope you enjoyed this episode of Behind the Ops!
- Christen and the Behind the Ops Podcast team :)

Connect with me:
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/christenldeeb/

Listen to Behind the Ops on these podcast platforms:
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/20duTOrJAkCRN3KbunIN7b
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/behind-the-ops/id1849635897
Amazon Podcasts: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/329c4d9b-a630-4160-b917-c3b382f407b5/behind-the-ops

#behindtheops #operationspodcast #businessgrowth #scalingbusinesses #operationalexcellence #customerjourney #leadership #businessstrategy #digitaltransformation #processoptimization #efficiency #systemsthinking #businessops #growthmindset #execinsights #opsleaders #businesstransformation #scalesmart
Behind the Ops with Christen Belcher reveals what it really takes to scale a business from the inside out. With over 25 years of experience leading digital transformation and operational excellence, Christen brings candid conversations with operations leaders who are building efficient, data-driven, and customer-centric organizations. Each episode uncovers how top companies design systems, dashboards, and operating models that turn strategy into execution - and chaos into clarity. Whether you’re a founder, COO, or operator, this is your blueprint for scaling sustainably and aligning operations with real business growth.

SE01 E21 Navigating the Challenges of Entrepreneurship | With Allen Porter

Christen Belcher — Thu, 26 Mar 2026 12:00:00 +0000

In this conversation, Allen Porter shares his entrepreneurial journey, detailing his experiences in real estate, senior housing, and the brewing industry. He discusses the importance of scalability, the challenges of managing multiple ventures, and offers valuable advice for aspiring entrepreneurs. Allen also touches on his innovative work in cannabinoid products, emphasizing the need for adaptability and support in business.

We hope you enjoyed this episode of Behind the Ops!
- Christen and the Behind the Ops Podcast team :)

Connect with me:
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/christenldeeb/

SE01 E20 The Evolution of Roles in Manufacturing | With Meredith Shay

Christen Belcher — Thu, 19 Mar 2026 12:00:00 +0000

In this conversation, Meredith Shay, Owner, President and CEO of InCord, discusses the unique operational dynamics of her safety netting manufacturing company. She highlights the importance of efficiency in a job shop environment, the evolution of roles within the company, and the critical nature of communication and safety in operations. Meredith also shares insights on fostering a culture of trust, the significance of training, and the balance between speed and safety in production. She reflects on her leadership journey and offers advice for aspiring entrepreneurs.
We hope you enjoyed this episode of Behind the Ops!
- Christen and the Behind the Ops Podcast team :)

Connect with me:
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/christenldeeb/

SE01 E19 The Hidden Problem in Mental Health Care | With Jacques Jospitre

Christen Belcher — Thu, 12 Mar 2026 12:00:00 +0000

In this episode, Dr. Jacques Jospitre, psychiatrist and Co-Founder and CEO of SohoMD, shares how he built a modern mental health practice focused on delivering high-quality, affordable psychiatric care.

Dr. Jospitre discusses his journey from physician and department director to entrepreneur and explains how SohoMD combines conventional psychiatry with integrative and functional medicine to address the root causes of mental health conditions.

He also explores how data, clinical protocols, and decentralized team structures helped the company scale across multiple states while maintaining high standards of care. Looking ahead, Dr. Jospitre shares his vision for the future of healthcare, including the role of AI in improving patient outcomes, reducing administrative burden, and empowering providers to focus on patient care.

This conversation offers valuable insights for healthcare leaders, entrepreneurs, and professionals interested in mental health innovation, healthcare operations, and the future of AI in medicine.

We hope you enjoyed this episode of Behind the Ops!
- Christen and the Behind the Ops Podcast team :)

Connect with me:
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/christenldeeb/

SE01 E18 Scaling a Law Firm Nationwide | With Rob Levine

Christen Belcher — Thu, 05 Mar 2026 13:00:00 +0000

In this episode, Rob Levine shares his inspiring journey from law enforcement to becoming a successful attorney and entrepreneur. He opens up about building and scaling multiple businesses, including his law firm and legal solutions companies, while creating a recognizable national brand.

Rob dives deep into the importance of marketing, branding, and company culture in the legal industry. He discusses the operational challenges of managing remote teams and international offices, and how strategic systems and leadership play a key role in sustainable growth.

He also shares his vision for the future including national expansion and integrating AI into legal services to improve efficiency and client experience.

If you're an entrepreneur, law firm owner, startup founder, or business leader interested in scaling operations, brand positioning, or the future of AI in professional services, this episode delivers actionable insights

We hope you enjoyed this episode of Behind the Ops!
- Christen and the Behind the Ops Podcast team :)

Connect with me:
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/christenldeeb/

SE01 E17 From Childhood Entrepreneur to Business Leader | With Allan Young

Christen Belcher — Thu, 26 Feb 2026 13:00:00 +0000

In this conversation, Allan Young shares his entrepreneurial journey, starting from his childhood experiences to building successful businesses and franchises. He discusses the challenges and lessons learned in scaling operations, the importance of company culture, and the customer journey. Young emphasizes the need for innovation and adaptability in business, especially during rapid growth phases. He also offers valuable insights for aspiring entrepreneurs, highlighting the significance of passion, grit, and learning from failures.

We hope you enjoyed this episode of Behind the Ops!
- Christen and the Behind the Ops Podcast team :)

Connect with me:
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/christenldeeb/

SE01 E16 From Service Values to Healthcare Leadership | With Bill Miller

Christen Belcher — Thu, 19 Feb 2026 13:00:00 +0000

In this conversation, Bill Miller shares his journey from a Navy brat to a successful entrepreneur in the urgent care industry. He discusses the evolution of his business, emphasizing the importance of operationalizing the perfect patient experience, measuring customer satisfaction, and engaging employees. Bill reflects on the challenges of growth, the strategic decisions around capital investment, and the lessons learned throughout his journey. He highlights the significance of perseverance and adaptability in achieving business success.

We hope you enjoyed this episode of Behind the Ops!
- Christen and the Behind the Ops Podcast team :)

Connect with me:
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/christenldeeb/

SE01 E15 Leading With Care: Medicine Meets Business | With Dr. Keith Helton

Christen Belcher — Thu, 12 Feb 2026 13:00:00 +0000

In this conversation, Keith Helton shares his journey as a primary care physician and the evolution of his practice into a successful healthcare business. He discusses the importance of patient-centric care, innovative approaches to primary care, and the challenges of transitioning to a business model. Keith emphasizes the significance of building a strong team and culture, measuring success through patient satisfaction, and the lessons learned from operational challenges. He also highlights the importance of self-awareness in leadership and his future aspirations to continue making a difference in healthcare.

We hope you enjoyed this episode of Behind the Ops!
- Christen and the Behind the Ops Podcast team :)

Connect with me:
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/christenldeeb/

SE01 E14 Mastering the Customer Journey in Business | With Ken Tracy

Christen Belcher — Thu, 05 Feb 2026 13:00:00 +0000

In this conversation, Ken Tracy, Founder of Impacting Tomorrow shares his journey from a corporate career to founding a successful healthcare staffing company. He discusses the importance of strategic planning, understanding the customer journey, and the need for flexibility in business processes. Ken emphasizes the significance of hiring for soft skills, investing in training, and learning from mistakes. He also highlights the value of celebrating milestones and the transition to nonprofit work, offering key lessons for aspiring entrepreneurs.

We hope you enjoyed this episode of Behind the Ops!
- Christen and the Behind the Ops Podcast team :)

Connect with me:
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/christenldeeb/

SE01 E13 Scaling GritHR: Insights from the CEO | With Shannon Anderson

Christen Belcher — Thu, 29 Jan 2026 13:00:00 +0000

In this conversation, Shannon Anderson, founder and CEO of GritHR Solutions, shares her journey in the HR consulting industry, discussing the challenges and successes of scaling her business. She emphasizes the importance of establishing repeatable processes, understanding the customer journey, and effectively communicating with clients. Shannon also highlights the significance of hiring individuals with grit and coachability, as well as the need for operational changes and technology integration to support growth. She concludes with valuable advice for aspiring entrepreneurs, stressing that not all money is good money and that failure is a part of growth.

We hope you enjoyed this episode of Behind the Ops!
- Christen and the Behind the Ops Podcast team :)

Connect with me:
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/christenldeeb/

SE01 E12 The Founder Journey Behind Success | With Akash Goel

Christen Belcher — Thu, 22 Jan 2026 13:00:00 +0000

In this conversation, Akash Goel, co-founder and CEO of Atica, discusses his journey from a business analyst to leading a tech-driven hospitality company. He shares insights on operational efficiency, the importance of metrics for success, and the challenges of scaling a business. Akash emphasizes the need for a diverse team and a strong company culture, as well as the significance of celebrating successes and learning from failures. He concludes with advice for entrepreneurs on navigating different growth stages in their businesses.

We hope you enjoyed this episode of Behind the Ops!
- Christen and the Behind the Ops Podcast team :)

Connect with me:
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/christenldeeb/

SE01 E11 What It Really Takes to Scale | With Jared Kugel

Christen Belcher — Thu, 15 Jan 2026 13:00:00 +0000

In this conversation, Jared, the CEO of Tire Agent, discusses the evolution of his company from its inception to becoming one of the largest tire retailers in the country. He shares insights on navigating operational challenges, the importance of key metrics, and the strategies for scaling operations effectively. Jared emphasizes the significance of delegation and trust in leadership, as well as the lessons learned throughout his entrepreneurial journey.

We hope you enjoyed this episode of Behind the Ops!
- Christen and the Behind the Ops Podcast team :)

Connect with me:
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/christenldeeb/

SE01 E10 Revolutionizing Recruitment: The Field of Talent Journey | With David Anderson

Christen Belcher — Thu, 08 Jan 2026 13:00:00 +0000

In this conversation, David Anderson discusses the evolution of his company, Field of Talent, from a project-based recruitment model to a more innovative recruitment as a service approach. He emphasizes the importance of being proactive in talent acquisition, the metrics used to measure success, and the consultative nature of recruiting. David shares insights on building repeatable processes, lessons learned as an entrepreneur, and strategies for future growth, including the use of data to drive recruitment decisions.

We hope you enjoyed this episode of Behind the Ops!
- Christen and the Behind the Ops Podcast team :)

Connect with me:
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/christenldeeb/

SE01 E09 From Home Kitchen to Nationwide Distribution | With Margarita Womack

Christen Belcher — Thu, 01 Jan 2026 13:00:00 +0000

In this conversation, Margarita shares her inspiring journey from Colombia to becoming a successful entrepreneur in the frozen food industry with her brand, MasPanadas. She discusses the challenges and triumphs of scaling her business, the importance of customer feedback, and the operational hurdles she faced while transitioning from a home kitchen to a manufacturing facility. Margarita emphasizes the need for resilience, adaptability, and a data-driven approach in entrepreneurship, while also highlighting the significance of building a strong team and maintaining quality during growth.

We hope you enjoyed this episode of Behind the Ops!
- Christen and the Behind the Ops Podcast team :)

Connect with me:
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/christenldeeb/

SE01 E08 The Power of Productizing Services in Small Business | With Patrick Dichter

Christen Belcher — Thu, 18 Dec 2025 13:00:00 +0000

In this conversation, Patrick Dichter shares insights on his journey with Apple Tree, an accounting firm he acquired four years ago. He discusses strategies for growth, the importance of productizing services, and the operational models that support small businesses. Patrick emphasizes the significance of implementing frameworks like EOS for efficiency and highlights common challenges faced by small businesses, especially in recruiting and pricing. He also delves into the nuances of business sales and the critical role of operational due diligence. The conversation concludes with key takeaways on maintaining a healthy gross profit margin.

We hope you enjoyed this episode of Behind the Ops!
- Christen and the Behind the Ops Podcast team :)

Connect with me:
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/christenldeeb/

SE01 E07 Revolutionizing Takeout: New Dining Experience | With Andrew Martino

Christen Belcher — Thu, 11 Dec 2025 13:00:00 +0000

In this conversation, Andrew Martino, founder of Ghost Truck Kitchen, shares insights into his innovative restaurant model that prioritizes quality over quantity in takeout and delivery. He discusses the operational strategies that have led to the company's growth, the importance of customer experience, and the challenges of entrepreneurship. Andrew emphasizes the significance of hiring passionate team members and the need for effective communication within the team. He also explores the new business model that combines takeout with a full-service restaurant, aiming for sustainable growth while maintaining high standards of food quality.

What You’ll Learn
♦ How Ghost Truck Kitchen redefines takeout, delivery & catering with a “quality-first” philosophy
♦ Why scaling isn’t everything — and how Andrew prioritises sustainable, profitable growth
♦ The role of passionate hiring in building a loyal, high-performing kitchen team
♦ Why constant testing & refinement are non-negotiable for consistent food quality
♦ Operational communication strategies that keep fast-paced restaurants running smoothly
♦ How to understand customer needs and turn insights into better menus & experiences
♦ The future of hybrid models combining takeout efficiency with full-service hospitality
♦ Real-life lessons on entrepreneurship, resilience & staying obsessed with the work

If you’re a UK restaurateur, cloud-kitchen operator, food-delivery entrepreneur, or hospitality investor, connect with Andrew to explore collaborations, consulting opportunities, and insights into building high-quality, scalable food concepts.

We hope you enjoyed this episode of Behind the Ops!
- Christen and the Behind the Ops Podcast team :)

SE01 E06 The Psychology of Leadership | With Sera Lavelle

Christen Belcher — Thu, 04 Dec 2025 13:00:00 +0000

In this conversation, Dr. Sera Lavelle shares her journey from being a clinical psychologist to co-founding an app focused on emotional eating. She discusses the operational differences between running a therapy practice and a tech startup, emphasizing the importance of company culture, feedback loops, and agile methodologies. Dr. Lavelle also highlights her experience managing a large team of interns, the challenges of project management, and the lessons learned in balancing compassion with business needs. She envisions scaling her app to reach a broader audience while maintaining a focus on mental health and wellness.

We hope you enjoyed this episode of Behind the Ops!
- Christen and the Behind the Ops Podcast team :)

Connect with me:
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/christenldeeb/

SE01 E05 The value of perseverance | With Mark Sabbagh

Christen Belcher — Thu, 27 Nov 2025 13:00:00 +0000

Did you ever feel like your past defines your future? Mark’s story proves that the greatest education is not always found in a classroom.

In this powerful episode of Behind the Ops, host Christen Belcher sits down with entrepreneur Mark Sabbagh to trace his unconventional journey from being a "poor student" to building a successful business ecosystem. Mark is living proof that a lack of a high school diploma doesn't equal a lack of vision and success.

He shares his brutally honest experience of realizing his academic shortcomings and the pivotal mindset shift that followed: "I said, I got to learn." This realization drove him to prioritize personal growth and develop a massive vision—not just for one business, but for an interconnected web of ventures.

Listen in as Mark reveals:

Why his high school actually closed before he got his diploma (and the joke he makes about it!).

The critical moment he questioned his commitment to his entrepreneurial dreams.

The strategic difference between building a single company and aiming for a sustainable business ecosystem.

The true meaning of learning and dedication outside of traditional schooling.

If you need a dose of motivation and a reminder that success is possible regardless of academic background, this episode is a must-watch!

We hope you enjoyed this episode of Behind the Ops!
- Christen and the Behind the Ops Podcast team :)

Connect with me:
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/christenldeeb/

E3SE01 E04 The Challenge of Excellence in Legal Practice | With Lloyd C. Birnbaum

Christen Belcher — Thu, 20 Nov 2025 13:00:00 +0000

In this episode of Behind the Ops with Christen Belcher, Lloyd C. Birnbaum, Founder & Chair of Lauletta Birnbaum, LLC, offers a candid look at the tension between true excellence and “good enough” within modern legal practice. Drawing from his background in Big Law, Birnbaum breaks down how professional standards, client expectations, and the realities of cost-driven legal work collide. This insightful conversation explores the pursuit of high-quality legal service, the pressures attorneys face to balance cost and quality, and why personal commitment to excellence remains essential for long-term success in the law. Perfect for listeners interested in law, professional development, and the operational mindset behind impactful legal work.

Keywords: law, excellence, client expectations, professional standards, legal practice

Key Takeaways

The standard of excellence was instilled early in Lloyd Birnbaum’s legal training.

Many clients are satisfied with “good enough,” creating tension between expectations and ideals.

Maintaining excellence is an ongoing personal challenge within legal operations.

High-quality legal work must often be delivered at competitive prices.

The legal field regularly struggles to balance quality with cost-effectiveness.

Personal standards of excellence remain foundational for long-term professional integrity.

Client expectations vary widely depending on the case and context.

Striking the right balance between client satisfaction and ethical standards is essential.

Excellence can be incorporated into work without significantly increasing cost.

The pursuit of excellence is continual—and central to effective lawyering.
We hope you enjoyed this episode of Behind the Ops!
- Christen and the Behind the Ops Podcast team :)

Connect with me:
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/christenldeeb/

SE01 E03 The Importance of Operational Strategy | With Cliff Carey

Christen Belcher — Thu, 13 Nov 2025 13:00:00 +0000

In this conversation, Cliff Carey, owner of Timeless Hearing, discusses the growth and operational challenges faced by his audiology practice. He emphasizes the importance of adapting strategies for growth, building a talent pipeline, and understanding the customer journey. Carey highlights the significance of creating a positive customer experience and engaging with influencers and primary care providers. He also reflects on the role of communication and attitude in achieving success in entrepreneurship.

We hope you enjoyed this episode of Behind the Ops!
- Christen and the Behind the Ops Podcast team :)

Connect with me:
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/christenldeeb/

Hashtags and SEO Description
#behindtheops #operationspodcast #businessgrowth #scalingbusinesses #operationalexcellence #customerjourney #leadership #businessstrategy #digitaltransformation #processoptimization #efficiency #systemsthinking #businessops #growthmindset #execinsights #opsleaders #businesstransformation #scalesmart
Behind the Ops with Christen Belcher reveals what it really takes to scale a business from the inside out. With over 25 years of experience leading digital transformation and operational excellence, Christen brings candid conversations with operations leaders who are building efficient, data-driven, and customer-centric organizations. Each episode uncovers how top companies design systems, dashboards, and operating models that turn strategy into execution - and chaos into clarity. Whether you’re a founder, COO, or operator, this is your blueprint for scaling sustainably and aligning operations with real business growth.

SE01 E02 Maximizing Impact Through Documentation | With Kevin Kostka

Christen Belcher — Thu, 06 Nov 2025 13:00:00 +0000

In this conversation, Kevin Kostka discusses the significance of documenting processes and creating procedures to enhance efficiency in helping clients. He emphasizes the need to duplicate oneself in order to maximize impact and streamline operations.

We hope you enjoyed this episode of Behind the Ops!
- Christen and the Behind the Ops Podcast team :)

Connect with me:
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/christenldeeb/

SE01 E01 Prioritizing Customer Experience | With Ashlee Foy

Christen Belcher — Thu, 30 Oct 2025 10:40:23 +0000

Welcome to the first episode of the Behind the Ops podcast featuring Ashlee Foy!

In this episode, Christen sits down with Ashlee Foy to unpack what operational excellence really means. It’s not just about process—though the right process can make or break a company. It’s about people. The ones who share your passion for the “HEALTH” of your business and bring it to life every day. Ashlee reminds us that operations succeed or fail through the people behind them—because they shape every client experience, every step of the way.

Let’s go Behind the Ops.

Connect with Ashlee on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashleepa-c/

We hope you enjoyed this episode of Behind the Ops!

- Christen and the Behind the Ops Podcast team :)

Connect with me:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/christenldeeb/

Behind the Ops with Christen Belcher reveals what it really takes to scale a business from the inside out. With over 25 years of experience leading digital transformation and operational excellence, Christen brings candid conversations with operations leaders who are building efficient, data-driven, and customer-centric organizations. Each episode uncovers how top companies design systems, dashboards, and operating models that turn strategy into execution - and chaos into clarity. Whether you’re a founder, COO, or operator, this is your blueprint for scaling sustainably and aligning operations with real business growth.