In the latest episode of the Confidence Curve podcast, hosts Ashley and Rick Bowers engage with Heather Zorg, the CFO of EvolvedMD, who shares her transformative journey through various leadership roles. Heather's experience spans global organizations to innovative startups, offering deep insights into how personal and professional growth intertwine. The core of the episode revolves around the theme of scaling with confidence, particularly in small yet rapidly growing companies. Heather’s candid recounting of her challenges highlights the importance of intentionality in leadership and creating a supportive culture. The conversation begins with Heather's path to EvolvedMD, where she has effectively integrated behavioral health into primary care settings.
As the episode unfolds, Heather discusses her transition from larger firms to a smaller company context, where she faced unexpected challenges. The nuances of operating within a venture-backed environment provided her with a unique perspective, emphasizing cash flow considerations and strategic initiatives that can transform an organization. Here, Heather's philosophy of "failing fast" comes into play. She advocates for embracing failure as a learning opportunity and stresses the necessity of transparency in both personal growth and team dynamics.
Transitioning to the discussion of mentorship and coaching, Heather reflects on how the guidance she received from influential mentors has shaped her career. She emphasizes that nearly everyone has something valuable to teach if we are willing to listen. The personal impact of her coach Christina, who has supported her for nearly a decade, reiterates the importance of external guidance in navigating complex leadership challenges and maintaining resilience.
A pivotal point in the episode is the balance between personal and professional domains. Heather candidly shares her struggles as a working mother, the significance of setting boundaries, and ensuring that family commitments do not fall by the wayside amidst career ambitions. Her insights drive home the message that being intentional about one’s priorities can lead to a more harmonious life. It’s not just about saying yes to every opportunity; it’s about making informed choices that align with one’s values and long-term goals.
Moreover, the dialogue explores trust and delegation, two key pillars in effective leadership. Heather discusses the importance of "trust but verify," a mantra that resonates deeply within her leadership style. By allowing team members the space to succeed—and yes, sometimes to fail—she fosters a culture of accountability and open communication. This approach not only empowers her team but contributes to a shared sense of ownership over projects and outcomes.
In wrapping up, Heather shares practical insights about nurturing company culture and the delicate balance of high expectations versus supportive environments. Ashley and Rick encapsulate these themes, encouraging listeners to reflect on their leadership styles, the power of vulnerability, and the imperatives of intentional growth. Heather's story is a reminder that effective leadership is not necessarily about knowing it all but rather about creating a space where learning, sharing, and growing are valued and recognized.
