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This week on Outside Insights, I sit down with Dr. Wes Bowman — a man whose path was anything but linear. Labeled in grade school. Flunked out of college — three times. Built a successful practice by learning to turn shame and failure into the fuel for a meaningful life.

Wes is a career psychologist, the Director of the Delaware Family Center, and someone who’s spent decades helping people reframe their reality — and find their way forward.

In this conversation, we get into:

• Why thoughts literally create your own reality
• How stress hijacks your brain — and how to get it back
• What happens when we stop running from anxiety and start learning from it
• The power of saying “no” without guilt
• Why embracing change may be the only path to peace

We talk about the “United States of Amygdala” — Wes’ term for the overactive, overstimulated mental state most of us live in without even realizing it. And we explore how to manage that reality with science, presence, and practical tools.

There are no quick fixes here. But if you’re willing to sit with it, this episode will give you something more valuable: perspective.

Listen to the full conversation HERE.

Until next time, friends,

Chris

P.S. One quote that Wes shared—and that I keep coming back to—is from Gary Emery’s book Rapid Relief from Emotional Distress:

“In your mind, via your thoughts, you create your own separate reality.”
It’s simple. It’s unsettling. And it’s also a roadmap.

If this conversation resonates, forward it to a friend or colleague. Insight is meant to be shared.

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What does it take to turn scientific expertise into a thriving business? In this episode of Outside Insights, host Chris Burkhard speaks with Andrew Cottone, a chemist-turned-entrepreneur whose journey from research to leadership offers invaluable lessons in business, resilience, and innovation.

Andrew built his career solving complex chemistry challenges, co-founding Adesis and later selling it to Universal Display Corporation. But his ambition didn’t stop there. Now, he’s leading Aternium, Inc. (formerly First State Hydrogen), an initiative set to make Delaware a key player in sustainable energy.

In this conversation, Andrew shares:

• The Chemistry of Success — how Adesis became a powerhouse in R&D and manufacturing, impacting industries from electronics to pharmaceuticals
• Leadership in Action — the transition from entrepreneur to CEO and the hard-earned lessons in building culture, empowering teams, and scaling a company
• The Green Hydrogen Revolution — why he sees Delaware as a future hub for sustainable energy and how First State Hydrogen is leading the charge
• The Role of Family and Purpose — the personal values that kept him grounded through the highs and lows of entrepreneurship

Andrew’s story is one of grit, vision, and the ability to see opportunity where others see obstacles. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, a leader, or simply curious about the future of clean energy, this episode is packed with insights you won’t want to miss.

Listen to the full episode HERE.

Until next time, friends,

Chris

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Have you ever wondered what IT services and barbecue have in common? There’s more overlap than you might expect! In this episode of Outside Insights, I talked with Jake Ruddy, the President of PCS, a leading IT services company. He is also the creative force behind Rum and Cook, a rapidly growing YouTube channel dedicated to barbecue.

Jakes’s journey focuses on building, scaling, and leading businesses while enjoying slow-smoked ribs. He discusses what it takes to grow a business, emphasizing that leadership and customer service are essential. Additionally, he shares how he transformed his passion for barbecue into a profitable side hustle.

What You’ll Learn

• Mastery, Tech & BBQ — Discover the surprising similarities between running an IT company and perfecting the ideal brisket.
• Scaling & Leadership — Understand the challenges of business growth, effective delegation, and developing the next generation of leaders.
• Mindset & Money — Explore how affirmations, goal-setting, and financial literacy contribute to achieving success.
• Content & Community — Learn how Rum and Cook evolved from a passion project into a thriving brand.
• Customer Service Wins — Find out why exceptional service is key to any successful business.

Jake’s Must-Read Book List

• Leadership and Self-Deception — The Arbinger Institute
• The Richest Man in Babylon — George S. Clason
• The Culture Code — Daniel Coyle

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In this episode of Outside Insights, I sit down with Raymond Lee, founder of Careerminds, to explore his inspiring journey from HR professional to building a global virtual outplacement company. Starting his business during the 2008 recession, Raymond shares how he pivoted, embraced innovation, and ultimately scaled and sold the company—all while continuing to lead it.

We discuss the challenges of entrepreneurship, like the tough decisions he faced as a leader, including navigating his team through social movements like Black Lives Matter. Raymond opens up about what it takes to build a company culture rooted in action, empathy, and trust.

He also introduces his “Career Success Model,” a framework that’s guided him through change:

• Choice: Making intentional decisions about your path.
• Mindset: Embracing growth and learning from mistakes.
• Agility: Knowing when to pivot and adapt.
• Trust: Believing in the process, even in uncertain times.

On a personal level, Raymond shares how starting CrossFit at 52 has become a cornerstone of his daily routine, fueling his energy and focus. Whether you’re navigating a career transition, leading a team, or exploring entrepreneurship, his story is full of relatable insights and inspiration.

This is more than a story about business—it’s a conversation about resilience, growth, and making bold choices. I think you’ll find it as motivating as I did.

Listen to the episode here

Until next time, friends,

Chris

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What does it take to lead with purpose and create meaningful impact in your community? Is it resilience, creativity, or perhaps the ability to connect with others in unexpected ways?

In the latest episode of Outside Insights, I sat down with Colleen Davis, Delaware’s State Treasurer, to uncover her journey from a small-town childhood to managing billions in state investments. Colleen’s path is anything but conventional—spanning neurosurgery, finance, and public service—and it’s packed with lessons on leadership, resilience, and the power of building connections.

I encourage you to listen to the podcast during your next workout, commute, or downtime to explore these key takeaways:

1. The Power of Resilience

Growing up as one of eight children in a family that faced financial hardship, Colleen learned early on how to rebuild from the ground up. Those experiences instilled a boldness and adaptability that have shaped her approach to life and leadership.

Her story is a reminder that setbacks don’t define you—your response to them does.

2. Leadership Rooted in Connection

As State Treasurer, Colleen oversees $11.2 billion in investments and serves on 33 boards, all while championing innovative programs like Delaware Earns, a retirement savings plan for workers without employer-sponsored options. But what sets her apart is her ability to connect people and solve problems through relationships.

Her approach highlights how collaboration and creativity can lead to impactful outcomes.

3. Breaking Barriers to Build Bridges

In high school, Colleen took on a leadership role early, petitioning to create her school’s first girls' soccer team—a move that not only changed her trajectory but also inspired others.

This spirit of determination and advocacy remains a central theme in her career.

4. The Importance of Financial Innovation

Colleen shared insights into her role as a steward of public funds and her efforts to create long-term financial security for Delaware residents. Her team’s work on Delaware Earns exemplifies innovation in public service—offering small businesses a free, easy-to-implement retirement savings option for employees.

5. Lessons in Vulnerability and Growth

From navigating personal challenges to running for public office, Colleen’s story underscores the value of embracing vulnerability and learning from every experience.

Her career path reminds us that success isn’t always linear, but persistence and adaptability make all the difference.

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What does it take to build a life or career you’re proud of? Is it grit, a strong network, or maybe just a willingness to admit you don’t have all the answers? In the latest episode of Outside Insights, I sat down with Mark Doughty, founder of Looper Consulting. Mark assists leaders in making informed decisions, refining strategies, and developing leadership skills.

During our discussion, we delved into the unique perspective Mark brings to the table, exploring what happens when we embrace vulnerability, prioritize relationships, and commit to personal growth—no matter how messy the process might be.

I encourage you to listen to the podcast during your next commute to learn more about these key lessons:

1. Relationships Are Everything

Mark emphasized the pivotal role of relationships in both personal and professional success. Your network isn’t just a list of names—it’s the depth and quality of those connections that truly matter. He shared how his ability to forge meaningful relationships has been a cornerstone of his achievements—underscoring the truth that no significant accomplishment is ever a solo endeavor.

“Relationships are one of the most important assets we have in this entire world, even outside of business. When it comes to business, how strong your network is and how solid your relationships are dictate a lot of your success. No one does it alone.”

2. Leading with Vulnerability

If you’ve ever felt that showing vulnerability might be a sign of weakness, Mark’s perspective is a game-changer. As someone who’s navigated through depression while leading teams and growing businesses, he’s discovered that vulnerability, when coupled with confidence, is a potent symbol of strength. It’s about being genuine and approachable without losing sight of your goals.

3. The Toll of Entrepreneurship

Entrepreneurship isn’t just about the thrill of achieving milestones. Mark shared the stark reality of mental health issues that many entrepreneurs grapple with: anxiety, burnout, and depression. But his story also offered a beacon of hope—by prioritizing your physical and mental well-being, establishing routines, and seeking support, you can weather even the stormiest seasons.

We discuss this topic frequently at Outside Insights, I have shared my own personal struggles with burnout. Giving you the tools to conquer similar feelings is a passion of mine - you can check out related blogs hereand here.

4. The Value of Trial and Error

Mark’s path hasn’t been linear—it’s been full of pivots and learning as he went. He talked about the importance of giving yourself room to experiment and adapt, whether in business or your personal life. Small, consistent steps forward can create massive shifts over time.

5. Clarity and Communication in Leadership

Mark’s advice for leaders is refreshingly practical: explain the “why” behind your decisions. Whether you’re leading a team of three or 300, clarity builds trust and buy-in. And when you open the door to questions, you’re not just inviting collaboration—you’re building a stronger foundation for success.

6. Keep It Simple, Stay Patient

One of Mark’s most significant lessons was the power of simplicity and patience. Growth doesn’t happen overnight. By focusing on what matters most and giving yourself grace along the way, you create space for meaningful progress.

Mark’s jour

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What if the key to success isn’t about what you achieve, but how much you give back?

In this week’s episode of Outside Insights, I sat down with Mike Smith, a public servant whose inspiring journey proves that leadership is rooted in service.

Currently serving in Delaware’s House of Representatives for the 22nd district, Mike’s approach resonated with me on a deep level. We both believe that true leadership is about solving problems and making a positive impact on those around us. In other words, being a servant leader.

Mike’s journey is rooted in lessons from his grandmother, who taught him that a full, purposeful life is built on giving back. Whether it was raising money for those in need or simply helping out in the community, she instilled the belief that true success comes from service. That same philosophy has guided Mike throughout his career.

Here are a few of the most impactful lessons Mike shared during our conversation, but make sure to listen to the full episode for a deeper dive into his approach to leadership.

Leadership is About Helping People
Mike sees his role in public service as one of servant leadership. To Mike, it’s not about the title or recognition, it’s about solving problems and being there for others. He shared a great story about learning from Congressman Mike Castle, who taught him early on that politics should never get in the way of simply helping people.

Fulfillment Comes from Giving Back
There’s no greater fulfillment than making a difference in someone’s life. Whether it’s volunteering or stepping up to lead in your community, giving back is at the heart of living a meaningful life.

Engage with Your Community
Mike encourages everyone to get involved, whether by attending local government sessions or volunteering. Community engagement builds trust and understanding, and it’s a key part of being a servant leader.

Lessons from Sports and Coaching
As an endurance athlete and coach, Mike shared three traits that make a great teammate: dependability, skill, and selflessness. These lessons resonated with me because they apply not just to sports but to leadership and life. It's a reminder that success is about showing up for others, not just for yourself.

Mike’s journey and insights are a powerful reminder that leadership is about serving others, making an impact, and constantly striving to be better. Whether you’re leading a team, working in your community, or just looking to grow personally, these lessons can help you close the gap between where you are and where you want to be.

I encourage you to listen to the full episode during your next commute for more of Mike’s inspiring stories and practical advice on leadership. For more on servant leadership, you can also check out a past Outside Insights blog on the topic.

I’d love to hear from you. How are you applying the idea of servant leadership in your own life? How have you been impacted by a servant leader in the past? How are you or will you give back to others? Reply and let me know.

Until next time, friends.
Chris

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Check out the full blog here!

In life, there are assets and liabilities. An asset is a resource that brings value to others and a liability, on the other hand, is a responsibility or obligation. When it comes to your job, the question is simple: would you rather be an asset or a liability?

We all strive to be assets! But let’s acknowledge that no one is an asset 100% of the time—and that’s okay. There are moments when our performance doesn't meet expectations, and that’s part of the growth process. However, if we want to consistently add value and thrive in our roles, we can take steps to close the gap between where we are and where we want to be.

How about a real life example? An employee in an analytics role is looking to build a dashboard for key company metrics. To prepare, she takes a free course on the software needed to build the report before the project even gets the green light. The employee loves what she does, she wanted the knowledge anyway. The outcomes helped the organization tie their outcomes to their strategy for employees, board members and even suppliers. She could have waited to be told what to do and when, this would have been good enough. Instead she added value in a visible way to the entire organization!

So, how do you become and stay an asset?

Creating value is at the heart of being an asset. The more value you create in a day, week, or hour, the more you contribute to the success of your team and company. But how do you consistently create value? Here are a few ways:

• Be a problem-solver: Don’t just identify issues—bring forward solutions. This mindset shows initiative and helps your team move forward.
• Engage deeply: Get involved in your work with purpose. When you find meaning in your tasks, you’ll naturally give more.
• Volunteer: Every meeting presents opportunities to step up. Be the person who takes on challenges and drives them to completion.
• Say "Yes": I once met a plant leader who shared that his rise to leadership came because, during the pandemic, he said "yes" when others hesitated. Sometimes, saying yes to new challenges can open doors.

Becoming an asset is a mindset. It's entrepreneurial. And it's a competitive advantage to a leader or business that can cultivate an asset minded culture. And an advantage to an employee that excels at the concept! Being an asset is about engagement and awareness and about understanding the goals and future of your company. Your actions, if asset minded support the company on its journey.