Let’s Take a Walk

Making Enterprise Architecture Matter

Join Jon Feld as he leads a dynamic Feld Group Institute Community Call with seasoned experts Mike Childress, Brent Browning, and Stan Alexander. Together, they unpack how EA becomes a game changer in business transformation, bridging today’s agile demands with tomorrow’s strategic vision. Hear their candid insights on avoiding the pitfalls, pacing EA adoption, and turning architecture into a true business enabler.
 
Learn more about the panelists here:
Jon Feld
Stan Alexander
Brent Browning
Mike Childress 

Leading Through Uncertainty: A Playbook for Change in Today’s Economy

Jon and Charlie Feld take us deeper into the tried and true playbook for setting and selling the agenda for change. Together with the Community, they unpack the thinking, stories, and strategy behind establishing the WHY, WHAT, HOW, and WHO. They share practical ideas and discuss the real impact that today’s economic volatility is having on our organizations and decision-making.

Mastering Focus: Time Management, Engagement, and Global Team Strategies with Jeff Roemer

In this episode, we dive into the evolving challenges and opportunities of leadership in a rapidly changing, remote-first world. Charlie is joined by Jeff Roemer, Feld Group Institute Affiliate and retired FedEx VP. Charlie and Jeff explore the critical role of effective time management, the importance of building strong CFO partnerships, and strategies for maintaining employee engagement across global teams. They share insights on fostering personal relationships to drive strategic alignment, navigating the complexities of remote work, and protecting teams from burnout in high-pressure environments. Join us as we unpack how to lead with clarity, connection, and purpose…no matter the chaos you face. 
Learn more about Jeff's career here. 

The Blind Spot Transformation Playbook: Aligning Vision, People, and Strategy

In this episode, Charlie shares the proven Blind Spot playbook that has helped organizations across industries successfully navigate transformation. Whether you’re starting fresh or looking to accelerate an existing effort, this framework will help you align your team around a clear vision and a compelling case for change. 
This episode is structured into four parts:
The WHY – Understanding the urgent need for change and the forces driving transformation.
The WHAT – Defining the critical business and technology shifts required to thrive in the digital era.
The HOW – Crafting strategies to align the organization around a shared vision and executing the transformation—across processes, technology, people, financials, and governance.
The WHO – Identifying the game changers within the organization—those who can lead the narrative and inspire action.
Transformation isn’t just a buzzword. It’s a challenge, an opportunity, and a responsibility. It begins with asking the right questions and empowering the right people. 

Building Culture: Lessons from FedEx and Beyond with Dottie Berry and Chris Winton

Charlie is joined by Dottie Berry, former FedEx VP of IT Strategy, Planning, and Analysis , and Chris Winton, current SVP of Human Resources at Comcast and former Chief of People at FedEx. During this conversation they dive into the evolution of company culture at FedEx and beyond.They explore the role of leadership, talent investment, and adapting HR strategies for the future workforce. Listen for a deep dive into the intersection of culture, leadership, and people.
 
Learn more about their careers here: 
 
Dottie Berry  
Chris Winton 

Smart Scaling: Business Growth and the Founder's Mindset with Kenny Feld

Charlie is joined by Kenny Feld, Chief Transformation Officer, and the earliest member of the Feld Group. Kenny is a Feld Group Institute Affiliate who, in 2024, took a role as the Chief Transformation Officer with Associated Materials, a North American building products manufacturer and distributor. 
Charlie and Kenny get into the complexities of business operations and the strategies needed to scale successfully. Drawing from real-world experiences, including insights from our favorite Herman Lay and the founder model, they explore how understanding a business’s core WHY can lead to better decision-making. 
Join us for valuable insights on business strategy, technology leadership, and organizational growth!
Learn more about Kenny's career here. 

Forging the Future: Leadership & Innovation with Rob Carter, retired FedEx CIO

In this live recording with our Community, we dive deep into leadership, technology, and the art of storytelling with two seasoned leaders—Charlie and Rob Carter. Rob, who spent 25 years as CIO at FedEx, has been instrumental in driving innovation and shaping the future of tech leadership.
We’ll uncover how great leaders adapt, inspire, and drive change. Plus, we’ll discuss the crucial role of agility in staying relevant in today’s fast-paced world.
Whether you're a seasoned executive or an emerging leader, get ready for insights that will transform the way you think about leadership, technology, and the future of our work.
Learn more about Rob here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robcarter1/

Building Trust and Alignment in IT Leadership with Mike Childress, Feld Group Institute Affiliate

Charlie sits down with Mike Childress, an Affiliate of the Feld Group Institute and a seasoned IT leader. As Chief Technology Officer, Mike has played a pivotal role in designing and deploying IT solutions across various sectors, most recently in Transportation.
Charlie and Mike explore the value of building strong connections with teams by walking the halls and emphasize the importance of alignment, trust, and approachability in today’s hybrid work environment.
Find out more about Mike's work and career here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mike-childress/ 

Navigating Complexities: Lessons in Business Adaptation with David Trent of Canfor

Charlie is joined by David Trent, Senior Vice President of Business Development at Canfor. David oversees mergers and acquisitions, growth strategies, sustainability initiatives, and technology. Canfor, a global leader in the forest products industry, is one of the world’s largest producers of sustainable lumber, pulp, and paper.
Together, Charlie and David explore lessons learned across industries and discuss the pressing need for businesses to adapt to challenges like supply chain disruptions, labor shortages, geopolitical conflicts, and regulatory changes. David’s unique blend of business acumen and technical expertise provides a blueprint for navigating these complexities and securing long-term success.
Find out more about David and his career: https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidmtrent/ 

Flying Forward: Technology, Finance, and Cultural Alignment with John Jacobi and Shannon Okinaka

Charlie is joined by John Jacobi, CIO, and Shannon Okinaka, CFO, of Hawaiian Airlines—Hawaii's largest and longest-serving airline. Known for leading all U.S. carriers in on-time performance since 2004, Hawaiian Airlines recently entered a new chapter as part of Alaska Airlines following a completed acquisition last fall. The two airlines are now working toward integrating under a single FAA operating certificate, a process filled with complexities.
John and Shannon bring a unique perspective shaped by Hawaiian culture and an exceptional partnership between technology and finance—an alignment that may be key to navigating transformation successfully.
Learn more about John and Shannon's journeys here:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/johnjacobi/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/shannon-okinaka-2a060139/