"CEO² delivers powerful, unexpected, lasting results. I recommend them to any CEO who wants results, not just theories."
~ David Berg, CEO, BIG Idea Group

It's one thing to please the CEO, but what about the rest of the enterprise? How about your direct reports, your managers and employees at every level?  What will CEOing^TM mean to them? Here are 50 real comments from real people.

Testimonials 

“CEO² engages people in a way that ordinary management practice cannot. Every person in the company behaves differently than they did before. Their approach quickly helps the CEO align and engage people with the business plan at a level I have never seen before.” 
- Merritt Lutz, Chairman, Morgan Stanley Technology Holdings

"CEO² helped me create the kind of company that people want to work for and invest in.  Their ability to generate enthusiasm and focus, combined with a reality based, bottom-line approach to follow-through gives their work the one-two punch others are missing. Remarkably, their process is still making a difference nine years later. Frances and Tom and the technology they have developed helped transform my management team and company on two separate occasions.  They have incredible business, marketing and operational insight and an ability to motivate teams to perform to new levels."

- E. Michael Thoben III, Chairman/CEO/President, Interlink Electronics

"Purpose & Passion. Management gurus say we need it. Spiritual gurus say it's inside. But Tom and Frances show us how to access it. CEO²'s work is extraordinary. This stuff needs to be taught in graduate school."
- Dennis Gomes, CEO, Gomes Casino Management Company 
Former CEO, Steve Wynn's Golden Nugget, Donald Trump's Taj Mahal, Tropicana Resort

PKG began its journey with CEO² in the spring of 2011; it has been a fascinating nine months.  But let me start at the beginning.

Homy Panahi, President and CEO of PKG, is a visionary leader who passionately believes that fostering healthy relationships and teamwork is essential for success. In less than a decade, he led PKG to become one of the region's fastest growing tech companies serving customers in the medical, avionics, industrial and instrumentation industries with innovative user interface systems. However, a few years ago it started becoming painfully evident that something wasn't working. Although, to all appearances, we were doing a lot of things "right," we on the senior staff were struggling: strategy felt off, the organization needed restructuring, employees were running harder than ever but productivity was declining and morale was sinking. We had reached what CEO² calls our ceiling of complexity, where our ways of Being and Doing that had worked in the past were just not equipped to take us to a higher level of performance.

To Homy's credit, when introduced to CEO², he immediately sensed that their unique transformative approach aligned with his personal values and objectives. So, even though a few members of the management team were resistant to introducing such an in-depth process to an already stressed organization, we made the commitment and dove in.

The CEO² concept is simple: master yourself, master relationships, and master a Game Worth Playing^TM. Imagine your entire company arriving at work in the morning with an air of excitement, enthusiastically anticipating the challenges of the day.  Motivated individuals each working in a way aligns with their personal passions.  Self directed teams improving the way business occurs.  Employees able to openly discuss and resolve difficult topics with one another.  A trained leadership team supporting and developing their staff.   This is very different than the standard western-culture business model, and very different than it was at PKG nine months ago. But that's what we have today.

I wouldn't have believed it if I hadn't experienced it myself. I'm not even sure that I could adequately describe how we got here. The changes weren't all overnight, of course. And it's taken a lot of work. But we were already running hard and on fumes, and the interesting thing is that once we got into the program and past the storming stage, even though we were still running hard, it became lighter and actually joyous, because we were running together, not against each other.

Like most companies today, PKG is faced with many challenges. However, we also have many great opportunities and have found a way to proactively engage with them. CEO² has helped PKG develop the skills and processes to succeed in both situations and turn problems into opportunities. We are about half-way through the planned program. At this point, much of the responsibility is on PKG to practice application of what we have learned. Every employee here now knows that practice leads to mastery -- of self, relationships, and our Game Worth Playing^TM, which for PKG is "Enriching the Lives of Those We Touch." It is comforting to know that for the next nine months, as we perfect these skills, CEO2 will be with us working side-by-side to ensure our success. 

CEO² is not just a "program”; it is a way of being which begins with “to thine own self be true.” I honestly believe that this culture is possible and within reach for any leader who is willing to trust the process, trust your people and make the commitment to follow through no matter what. It has been incredibly fulfilling for me to have been part of co-creating a work environment which is energized, effective, and rewarding for each person here. CEO² provides a structured, proven approach that enabled us to make this change quickly, and with far greater ease than I would have thought possible.

If you're ready for change and open to new ways of seeing, being and doing, jump in. The water's just fine.

"CEOing™ helps me make better decisions personally and professionally so my life is simpler, more productive and more fun."
- Bill Bachrach, CEO, Bachrach & Associates Inc.

"CEO² has a unique way of cutting through the personal frustrations and emotions that can cripple a company to focus that energy on solutions.  For me, this has resulted in the creation of a happy, focused, extremely productive team that is leading the charge of our company's growth."
- Lisa Pomerleau, Directing Manager, Bachrach & Associates Inc.

"Eighteen months ago, BAI employees had little cohesion and little teamwork. There was unrest amongst many employees, and very much of an 'I/Me' attitude. Teamwork, for the most part, was non-existent. There was little regard for a 'higher self' attitude or approach. Since that time, through CEO²'s leadership, training and guidance, the following has been accomplished:

• Each employee has discovered his/her Purpose and Passion
• We have moved from a position of 'just about everything being wrong' to a position of 'most things are going well, with a smaller number of things going not so well'
• We are proactive vs. reactive – we are now living on Purpose rather than living to react to whatever happens (MY Purpose and Passion!)
• Many times we focus on our Purpose and Passion and not on our ego selves
• Teamwork, both functional and cross-functional, is alive and well and cooperation is the norm rather than the exception
• Employees get along with each other, and in many cases help each other without being asked
• Thinking about something from a 'flow-chart perspective' is becoming a standard way of life
• Problems are being identified and addressed, rather than left to fester and grow
• There is now a 'can-do' attitude vs. a 'what’s the use' attitude that used to exist
• There is much more of a 'we' culture vs. the 'I' culture that used to exist

We now have excellent cross-departmental cooperation which was limited or non-existent before. CEO² has given us a path to a more successful model – a model involving everyone, using the strengths of each individual to make a stronger team and a stronger company. With their involvement, leadership and guidance, we are on our way to taking on all challenges and being successful at accomplishing things which before would have been impossible."
- Leslie C. Lyons, VP Client Services, Bachrach & Associates Inc.

“The transformation of the BAI organization under the guidance of the CEO² team was astounding. I don’t believe I have seen a more difficult turnaround in such a horrible economy. The revitalized BAI team is now cohesive, forward looking and proactive…a clear 180 from where they were when CEO² began. If you want results and are willing to do the work to get there, CEO² is the solution.”
- Rick Barrera, CEO, Overpromise, Inc.

"CEO² delivers powerful, unexpected, lasting results.  I recommend them to any CEO who wants results, not just theories."
- David Berg, CEO, BIG Idea Group

"CEO² helped our company manage through a difficult time and really come together as a team. Tom Voccola managed to overcome the initial skepticism and resistance many of us brought to the table, myself included. Now that I'm the new CEO, I plan to implement everything he taught us. Tom is an executive coach and mentor that can help transform a leadership staff into a high performance team. Tom's approach is without question effective, his program is inspirational, and the results speak for themselves. I would definitely hire him again."
- Mark Strauch, CEO, Business Engine

"CEO² has made a lot of friends here."
-  Doug Dickey, CFO, Business Engine

"Sales guys don't get too excited about training. Over the past 30 years I've been to most of them. Intellectually stimulating, but rarely lasting. The CEO² approach was remarkably different.  It challenged us in ways that normal training could never do. We examined our beliefs, our identity and the degree to which we were connected to one another as people. It made a profound difference to me personally as well as professionally. CEO²'s approach to bringing out the best in professional performance through personal introspection was indeed unique and instrumental in improving my personal approach to business.  Their ability to facilitate changing attitudes and stimulate higher performance through team interaction, goal setting and systematic process refinement was a true defining moment in my business leadership skill suite."
- Charles Beck, VP Sales, Business Engine

"Tom Voccola transformed a dysfunctional executive team during a time of crisis at Business Engine into a cohesive and effective team.  He made a significant positive impact to our business. Tom is a superb leader and consultant and the processes he created and implements at CEO² work! I recommend his company and him highly."
- Bill Marshall, VP Quality, Business Engine

“I will never forget Tom pulling me aside and telling me that I was underachieving in the organization. That led me to some soul searching in which I realized that the only thing that was holding me back was Fear, Uncertainty and Doubt.  I printed the letters FUD on a piece of paper and taped it to my office computer monitor and bathroom mirror. They continually reminded me to take risks, push the envelope and live into my Purpose and Passion. I would never have risen to VP of Product Strategy and Marketing at BE or started my own business, had he not led me to realize who I really am, what is important to me and what is holding me back. Tom's CEO² program had a dramatic impact on my company, career and personal life. I can directly attribute a significant improvement in company culture, a promotion and several positive changes in my personal life to Tom.  I highly recommend Tom to any company or individual who desires a breakthrough improvement."”
- Stephen Goldsmith, Product Manager, Business Engine

"When I heard about the CEO² sessions, I thought to myself, 'We are going to have to take three days off from work, we're really busy, I've done these things before.' I had a healthy degree of cynicism. But was it worth it? Absolutely!  It was probably the best three days I have ever invested in my entire life. I'm not going to say too much about what goes on with these three days with Tom, but I can say that you are in for a surprise...I really feel Tom and George are part of the BE family...they really get it. I am committed and free in my mind. I'm dedicated and I'm happy.  I'm relishing the prospects for this year.  I now know I have the ability to be powerful.  I'm really charged up about this. I know you're going to enjoy what's coming. You're going to love doing this. Don't be frightened; I think we laughed for three days straight!"
- Julian Moore, UK Sales, Business Engine

“CEO² is a transformation methodology. You might be thinking, 'Oh no, it's just another team building exercise,' but there are some key differentiators, especially around relationships and standing in your personal power. I now feel that I have the power to get my job done...no more personal and organizational limiting beliefs holding us back. I know my role and how I can personally contribute to the company."
- John Sims, Product Manager, Business Engine

"Thank you both from the bottom of my heart.  You are both what I consider 'angels' here on earth, and I am honored and privileged to have you in my life.  I sometimes pinch myself in disbelief that my fortune is so amazing...You both have forever changed my life and the lives of everyone around me...You have exploded through any expectations I had (about changing my company)...God Bless you and your family. I look forward to our lifelong friendship."
- Kathy Bradford, Co-CEO, Coldwell Banker Premier

“When Tom and Frances from CEO² first started working with our real estate company at the 3-day workshop, my colleagues and I were a bit skeptical. I wondered if they would be like all the other motivational speaker programs I had been to. They weren't. Tom and Frances challenged me to think more deeply than I had before in a workshop. In a fun way I learned how to appreciate qualities in myself, in my co-workers and how to work more effectively as a team player. Through it all, I uncovered confidence and leadership skills that I didn't know that I had. Tom and Frances are great coaches. Anyone who attends a CEO² program will gain much more than most programs out there.”
 - Andrea Harlan, Real Estate Agent, Coldwell Banker

"Within a few years after I began working with CEO² we moved to the top of our corporate portfolio of companies in terms of sales, productivity and revenue.  What's been most gratifying is that it's been the guys on the shop floor, the blue collar workers, who have stepped forward as leaders and innovators to get the job done. We've come a long way. Thank you CEO²."
- Jim McGovern, President, Corona Clipper

“CEO² is one of the most dedicated and passionate organizations I have ever worked with. Their focus on the stated objectives leads to successful results time and again.”
- Don Cummings, President, Cummings Communications

“Tom has a gift of insight and wisdom into leadership and high performance that is truly remarkable. Through his work with over 300 senior executives, in an up-close and personal way, plus his own work on himself, he is able to support others in creating major changes in their personal and professional lives, and in the businesses they lead. This wisdom and insight assists those fortunate to work with Tom in turning new ideas into effective action. This occurs through a more powerful, clearer, compelling vision and is enabled through self-awareness, translating into truly effective leadership that can bring life and business-changing results. I unequivocally recommend Tom as a business partner, professional associate and friend.”
- Paul Dies, President, Essex of Oak Park

"I found the CEO Visioning illuminating and enlightening.  I was impressed and amazed with the ability of the process to draw out subsurface thoughts and crystallize them in to actionable plans.  I commend you for your overall service to any CEO wishing to gain goal clarity.  I am personally appreciative for the value received.  It was well worth my time."
- Chuck Coonradt, CEO, The Game of Work

"Tom is absolutely passionate about helping people gain clarity on their unique purpose and passion.  He and his wife, Frances, have developed programs that can really help both organizations and individuals, particularly those at the early stage of developing self-awareness, know how to articulate clearly what they are all about."
- Dawna Jones, President, InSight Out Consulting Inc.

“CEO² is a powerful agent for organizational change. Their program created more effective teams at my company by making people feel accountable and simultaneously empowering them to accept that accountability. This empowerment ranged from the CEO down to the lowest line worker. They also gave us tools for evaluating the dynamics within a company that will be useful to me for the rest of my career. I would highly recommend CEO² for their ability to help get a company engaged and moving forward together.”
- Mike Ambrose, VP Engineering, Interlink Electronics

"As CEO of a Deloitte Technology Fast 50 company for 5 years in a row, I had some pretty sharp tools in my shed. However, working with Frances as my coach, I have made significant changes in my leadership awareness and style. She introduced me to new leading-edge ideas and methods while we addressed several delicate situations within my company. She has helped me see each issue as a strategic opportunity. By perceiving and then handling these issues differently than I had in the past, my leadership IQ has increased significantly. Frances’ coaching accelerated my ability to shift the dynamic and start turning results faster than I was headed on my own. If you have an opportunity to work with Frances, you will be thankful you did. I can’t say enough about her intelligence, experience and professionalism."
- Drew J. Kaplan, CEO, ISWest

“Tom Voccola is truly an inspiration. My experience with him has been very rewarding. Knowing and spending time with him, along with reading his book, has allowed me to look at life from a fresh perspective and given me a motivational outlet.  Tom showed me how to find my Purpose and Passion. Working from a heart-driven focus versus ego-driven focus has allowed me to be more successful in business. I know that Tom cares about everyone he meets. He strives to help the person as well shape the community, or business as a whole.”
- Jonathan Kravatz, CEO/Broker, Kravatz Realty

"When I first met CEO² I was faced with some important decisions, both for myself and for the future of the department. The Los Angeles MTA Human Resources Department (120 professionals serving over 9,000 staff) had been through a rash of Deputy Directors before me and I was viewed by the staff as just another body in the revolving door. The Department was described at the time as a toxic environment in which to work. This was, in my view, primarily the result of a badly handled merger between two giant transportation authorities four years prior.  Overall, the Department was working hard, yet creating more problems for itself than it was solving. That was three years ago. During and immediately following the CEO² experience I received almost universal support behind my vision of what the department could be. From that day forward, using our own internal training and development group to forward the process, we were able to create the kind of environment we all desired to work in. The CEO² process gave me an opportunity to point my people in a new direction. CEO² helped me do that by rapidly transforming the group right before my very eyes."
- Ray Inge, (Former) Director of Human Resources, Los Angeles Mass Transit Authority

"All leaders of great companies will tell you that their greatest asset is their people.  I think this is especially true for a small company like OEN.  So how do we, as leaders of the business, grow and manage this most precious asset?  CEO² gave us the insight and tools to take a group of very special and talented people and turn them into an exceptional team. In my 20 years of running start-ups, I have never had a greater or more exciting and valuable experience than we had with CEO²."
- Curtis Overstreet, Chairman, Optical Entertainment Network

"Defining my Purpose, Passion and Values helped me understand the Why of my life. Living from Purpose rather from Ego has made me a better leader, husband and father."
- Preston Buck, VP European Operations, Optical Entertainment Network

"Tom taught me the importance of clarity in vision and mission.  He strengthened my ability to focus and fostered my loyalty.  Most importantly, he instilled in me the valuable ability to listen to and value all other members of our team.  Tom's influence has been, and will continue to be, invaluable to my future success.  Tom's ability to stimulate personal growth in these extremely valuable core attributes is utterly amazing."
- Doug Workings, SVP, Outside Plant & Facilities, Optical Entertainment Network

"Tom led us through some difficult times as we re-evaluated the strategic path for our startup company.  His guidance was always appreciated and he was highly regarded.  Tom is highly skilled at helping you get what it is that you truly want and removing hidden obstacles."
- Joseph Trahan, President & COO, Optical Entertainment Network

"Thanks to CEO², our company has identified its core values and principles as a team. We are learning and living what it means to be a leader and how to make a difference, both as a team member in a startup company and in our personal lives.  Tom Voccola has the ability to understand and connect with a wide range of individuals and his straight-up presentation style engages and stimulates. We are proud to have CEO² on our team."
- Jo Lynn Foo, VP Content, Optical Entertainment Network

"When I was first told we were going to participate in a leadership training my first reaction was 'Good grief, days lost and meetings to suffer through'. CEO² was a pleasant surprise. The experience quickly united me with my co-workers, and allowed us to genuinely define our mutual vision. I got to see how personal and professional acknowledgement can strengthen a company, and pave a clear path to our higher purpose as we recognize ourselves in one another. Tom Voccola has a way of setting the room at ease, and before we knew it, we were relating to each other and our most intimate passions toward success."
- Phyllis Rankin, Creative & Art Director, Optical Entertainment Studios

"Frances Fujii is a truly exceptional individual, coach and life guide. In a matter of a couple days, Frances led me on a journey that showed me the consistent thread that was woven through the fabric of my life and career. Her work was equally well received by our foundation’s Board, as she bridged from my Vision to the work of bringing our Board together during our annual retreat. Her skills with business and facilitation led us to a very successful outcome, including strategies, goals and next actions. Without her portfolio of skills and wonderful personality, this journey would have never been the same, nor would we have so easily seen where we must guide our foundation as it continues its journey of Love."
- Joe DiDonato, Chairman, The Orphan Foundation

"Frances’ work with our Board was just amazing ...pulling together various themes, concerns, needs, emotions and yet staying in context with where we are now and where we need to go. It was a delight to work with her, and I am so appreciative of the talent and energy that she brings to coaching, facilitation, driving to results — and, yes, she is an amazing listener."
- J. Scheffel, Ed.D., Director, The Orphan Foundation

“CEO² offers a highly unique service in transforming people's personal and professional lives. Tom and Frances' workshops have led me to conduct my life and business with a sense of enormous passion, excitement, and fulfillment that will last forever. And Tom's phenomenal book, The Accidental CEO, serves as an inspirational, step-by-step guide to business owners who desire to lead with Purpose & Passion.”
- Joe Lam, CEO, Shining Light Pictures

"CEO² has an uncanny ability to get people at every level talking - and listening - to one another at a much deeper level than the simple day-to-day banter. They take what Tom Voccola calls the 'Surprise Factor' out of running an organization. CEO² helped our senior staff relate to each other in a more meaningful way.  It's made a clear difference in our ability to work together."
- Rami Musallum, CEO, ThruPoint Technologies, Inc.

"What I learned from Tom and Frances helped prepare me for this job. And Tom's book, The Accidental CEO, teaches leadership principles that are crucial to success for any CEO.  It will play an important role in the success of many current leaders and indeed, will launch the careers of many more."
- Pamela Popeilarski, CEO, Tropicana Hotel & Casino

"I can't believe the change in people's attitudes and interest in each other's needs.  These guys are on fire with enthusiasm. Thanks...for taking the intense personal interest that you do when assigned a project of this magnitude. Your methods are obviously successful and your energy is quite contagious."
- David Wilson, General Manager, Ventura Printing

"Prior to our work with CEO², our Department was in near paralysis due to major labor/management conflict. Key managers in the Department were committed to the traditional management style of "top down" administration. Our line staff had no voice in the development of vision, mission or values for the Department. Not only was there a great deal of frustration on the part of labor, there was virtually no dialogue between management and labor. Through an extensive and intensive process, CEO² facilitated a shift in management philosophy that was based on empowerment of all staff of Children and Family Services.

When I retired 3 years later, the relationship between management and labor had improved dramatically. And today, another four years on, representatives from our staff's Union and top management are working together as a team to advocate with the Governor for more social workers and for higher salaries for those social workers. The level of trust between labor and management is at a level never before seen at our department. This is directly attributable to the belief by line staff that they have a voice in decision-making and that their input is both respected and important to management. Labor believes this because a great many of their suggestions have been implemented into daily operations. Bottom line, Children and Family Services enjoyed a dramatic increase in the efficiency and effectiveness of service delivery to clients as a consequence of our work with CEO²."
- Frank Ferrata, Director, Ventura County Children & Family Services

"My Purpose & Passion statement is sitting on my desk and serves as a reminder of what I strive for each day. The two days I spent with CEO² continue to provide dividends and I highly recommend them to any CEOs who strive to be great leaders and want to powerfully communicate their vision and supercharge their enterprise. Not everyone will take the 'risk' of digging down into one's core to discover whether they have what it takes, but for those that do, the rewards are tremendous."
- Peter Quinn, V.P., VOIT Development Company

"I am genuinely in awe...of the magnificent and powerful team that took form before my eyes over the course of a single weekend...in awe that both individuals and departments were able to openly discuss and take positive steps toward resolving formerly 'impossible' issues...On behalf of the entire WEB team, we thank you."
- Al Ekert, Chairman/CEO/President, WEB Equipment Corporation

"CEO² provided the perfect backdrop for our Board and Church leaders when we met to more clearly define our leadership roles and to uncover more effective ways of attaining our objectives for growth. The balanced styles of presentation and exploration that Tom and Frances brought to us were 'made in Heaven'...what a perfectly attuned team! I know that the upward movement our church is experiencing today was seeded from the weekend we all spent with Tom and Frances. How great it is that there are people like them who can take all of us who want to make a difference into new realms of possibility...and attainment. Deepest gratitude for making such a profound difference, guys!"
- Rev. Sue Rubin, Pastor, Westlake Center for Spiritual Living

"Tom Voccola and Frances Fujii have developed an incredibly innovative program for creating dynamic transformation in executives and organizations. Their approach is very user-friendly and can lead to great improvements in personal and organizational performance.  Tom and Frances are both knowledgeable and clear about what they do.  I recommend them individually and as a team to anyone looking to create dynamic, positive change."
- Jim Lockard, Co-Pastor, Westlake Center for Spiritual Living

“Tom and Frances are amazing and gifted human beings. In one three day session, they transformed our organization bringing each individual to clarity of their own passion and purpose. That individual clarity became clarity of vision as individuals came together in unity, defining our mission and core values as a community and a company. It is absolutely amazing to see what we can accomplish together when we are in total alignment with who we are as individuals and who we are as a company. I strongly endorse and urge you to experience CEO².”
- Brett Modesti, President & CEO, WindStar Mortgage

“Tom helped me at an integral transition point. In discussing the turning around of companies, Tom helped my wife and I get in touch with our own strengths and contributions that we can provide to others. Not coincidentally, what Tom taught us strongly correlates to creating healthy organizations and the wise business owner will recognize this.”
- Ryan Addis, VP Strategic Planning, Countrywide Financial
Countrywide was acquired by Bank of America

“Tom is a person that came into my life in a time of hardship. Through Tom’s guidance and with the help of his wife Frances, I was able to find courage in the least place I expected: within me. Tom has enabled me to be in tune with my gifts and to rely on them as a source of strength. He helped me create my Purpose & Passion statement: 'Legacy & Grace - Through choosing love over fear and peace over conflict, I guide myself and others to be at peace with ourselves and live in the moment so that we create a path of clarity and shining light for others to follow.' Thank you Tom!”
- Rosalynn Addis, Inventor

"Tom's CEO² program has completely reshaped the way I build and lead teams.  His approach creates a level of organizational vision, sense of purpose and strength rarely seen elsewhere. If you are looking to break new ground as a leader, or even just re-energize your organization, start here."
- Keith Van Ness, Co-author, Being There without Going There - Managing Remote Teams

"Tom is a real visionary. He has the unique ability to understand the inner strengths (and weaknesses) of those with whom he works, and to lead them in the important voyage of self-discovery. Tom helped me at a critical time in my own career, as I transitioned from employee to owner and president of my own firm.  Through his process and inspiration, I was able to design my style of leadership and service. Above all, Tom helps you be honest with yourself."
- Jim Russell, President, Jim Russell Productions,
Former GM and creator of National Public Radio's Marketplace

"I'm very surprised and impressed with the results I am achieving using CEO²'s principles. Their Purpose & Passion seminar was excellent and led me to discover and overcome some long standing barriers and limitations. I feel more at peace and look forward to what's next with confidence. I just wish I would have known about CEO²'s work long ago."
- Dr. John Wood

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