The Cave Boat
By Michael Cave
The Cave BoatDec 09, 2023
My Heart is Full! ❤️
This afternoon I was forwarded an email from one of my staff that sent kind words about me upstream to executive leadership.
This is why I do what I do the way I do it. My heart is full.
This email made my 2023! Big things in store for 2024!
Enjoy!
Captain Michael Cave
Digital "We" - Digital Awareness Comes Full Circle
Greetings Seagoers!
I had the honor of setting sail with James (Jimmy) Baker, Author and Public Sector Marketing Strategist recently, and we had a great conversation about his most recent book.
This book is designed for kids, parents, grandparents, and everyone else in between to learn how to protect their digital dust, identity, and privacy. Link to book
If nothing else, this podcast will give you cause to stop and pause and reflect on you and your family's cybersecurity posture.
Jimmy and I go way back, all the way to 2009. It was great to sail with him!
Enjoy!
Captain
Daylight Savings Time Meets Mr. Earley!
Greetings Listeners!
I can't say enough about how much good content is in this episode! I reconnected with Bob Earley, another one of the Azalea Little League Baseball legends doing big things in the Hampton Roads Community. We talk about Life, Liberty and the Pursuit of Happiness - just kidding - we definitely cover a lot of ground with topics such as Little League Sports, the impact of mentoring on one's future, our dads, hopes, dreams and the sucker punch that is life.
This episode was fun to record. I hope you enjoy listening as much as I enjoyed recording it. We had a great chat and covered a lot of ground!
Cheers,
El Capitan
Guess Who's Coming To Dinner (Again!!!) - A Second Serving
Greetings Content Curious and Loyal Listeners!
Yours truly (Captain Caveman) set sail with a wonderful band of passengers yesterday evening. Raw content here chock full of over 130 years of collective government wisdom! A must watch and listen to episode, and some of the best podcast content to date! This was so much fun! 👏🏾.
This podcast episode sails into deep, reflective waters and stops at some important ports of call. This voyage also covers the storied careers of 4 of the State of California's most seasoned retired technology executives, offers insights into their individual formulas for success and sheds light on the future of IT in the State of California, outlining a surprising call to action. Current IT leaders should definitely have a listen (and a laugh!).
Dale Jablonsky Teri Bennett Paul Benedetto Joe Panora thank you SO MUCH for hopping aboard for another voyage. What a wonderful fireside chat we had. Sorry you all didn't get to order any virtual food! 🤣. But boy oh boy was this voyage fun!
Cheers,
El Capitan
Priorities: Why I stepped down from my last job, and from the horse's mouth
Greetings Listeners,
Recently, I authored a post about why I stepped down from one of my most recent jobs as California's first Chief Product Officer, even though it was a promotion for me. I figured I would kickoff my first podcast of 2023 by making my narration of this post my first content of the season. There's just something different about hearing it rather than reading it.
Enjoy!
Captain
(El Capitan)
Succeeding While Black: Fire on the High Seas!
What an Episode! This one goes deep! Life is hard folks. It's amazing what we are given in terms of gifts and talents and how things happen in our lives that chart an unexpected course that is mostly out of our control.
Courtney Heath (aka "Tank") joins Captain Caveman on the high seas for a mentally stimulating and inspiring chat on 10/24/2022. I can't say enough about how deep this episode goes! Courtney has had quite a journey. This episode is a must listen!
There is nothing worse than someone approaching you with a perception that is based off of a flawed assumption that, because , you shouldn't be doing this or can't do that or be that. Unconscious bias is a mother! Remember, sometimes people see things in you that you might not even see, and that opens up doors that lead to incredible opportunities. Be tuned into that frequency!
Enjoy this content, my friends. I certainly enjoyed recording it with Courtney!
Blessings
Captain Caveman
Founder of Captain Caveman Ventures
Radio Voices Square Off: Vibing with Vidhu Shekar
Greetings Listeners and Content Enthusiasts!
Man...I thought I had a radio voice for the ages...Vidhu Shekhar has me beat! Vidhu stopped by my house for lunch and a lunchtime chat on the high seas in person, which was a first and I will definitely be doing more of these types of podcasts!
Over full bellies, we chat about the impact of the pandemic on the collective society, what it all means in terms of our families and lives, and we just have a good time.
Lunchtime just got a whole lot more interesting. A new opportunity to connect and vibe has surfaced on the high seas!
Enjoy the content!
Captain
Old Bay Seasoning - Bringing the Flavor 757 Style
Greetings Listeners!
This (very explicit) podcast just happens to be one of my absolute favorites. It is chock full of wisdom and flavor! You don't hear Josh's Norfolk accent...until he says "phone"...haha!
It was very windy out on the high seas, but you'll also hear the many birds of Norfolk following our cruise ship in the background :)
Most folks from Norfolk will always call me Mike, by the way ;). Some things never change! :)
My good friend Josh Updegraff go sailing and into quite deep waters, actually. We cover:
- What a restaurant experience should be - product quality
- Learning about a city through its food
- The impact of comfort food
- Executing against a plan
- Sharing positive vibes (we absorb the energy of others around us!)
- Respect
- Mindfulness
- Spreading Love
- Equality
- Getting Culture
- Speaking the TRUTH (Telling people what they need to hear, not what the want to hear!)
- Mentorship
- Paying it forward (with ice cream sandwiches - ice cream helps spread love!)
- The Age of Consciousness
We're all just human beings at the end of the day. "We're all in the same...fuckin' game!"
"If you're gonna talk the talk, walk the walk. Don't fuckin' cop out and be a bullshit artist!"
Wake up! It's time to do good! Sit back, relax and enjoy the content!
Cheers and Blockem'!
Captain Caveman
Evolution Personified: Kumar Sah Braves the High Seas
Greetings Listeners!
Let your mind wander and wonder with this insightful episode! Kumar Sah and Captain Caveman set sail on a thought-provoking excursion that covers evolution, humanity, what's in a name, and our planet. Talk about no shortage of things that make you go hmmm!
Enjoy!
Captain Caveman
Fun Audiobook Audition: 30 Days of Detox
This audiobook audition caught my eye. Detoxes are hard, and this one would be quite the combo! Enjoy!
Captain Caveman
Audiobook Audition: The Roadmap to your Dream Backyard Homestead: How to kick off your homesteading journey, grow fresh fruits and vegetables you love and keep chickens
Attention Homesteaders!
Growing food of your own is always a hit and miss adventure. I don't know of anyone that is good at it out the gate. Enjoy this audiobook audition!
Okra I "tried" to grow at the last house we had is pictured in the cover photo. Timing is everything with okra!
Audiobook narration audition: Hiring Method Simplified: Revolutionized Remote Hiring & Retaining Solutions For The Long-Term Success Of Your Business
Greetings Content Enthusiasts!
Enjoy one of my latest audiobook narration auditions!
Captain Caveman
Episode Speciale: Captain Caveman Sings in DUTCH!!!
Greetings Sailees!
In the spirit of bringing unique content to my podcast, I've decided to sing one of my favorite Dutch tunes in (you guessed it)...Dutch!
Enjoy!
Captain Caveman
Lyrics in Dutch:
Acda En De Munnik – De Beatles En De Buren
He hallo!
Kijk mij eens het gras zien groeien
En iedereen maar denken da'k niks doe
Maar niets minder waar
Want al ben ik dan niet klaar
Ik ben de wedstrijd met de Beatles en de buren moe
He hallo!
Kijk mij eens de wolken breken
Liggend op mijn rug hier in het gras
Verslagen maar preciezer
Van what een wedstrijd met de Beatles en de buren was
Alles moet aparter dan apart
Alles moet unieker dan uniek
Alles moet bijzonder
En dat alles maakt dat alles weer moet
Alles moet aparter dan apart
Alles moet unieker dan uniek
Alles moet bijzonderder dan
Alles what allang bijzonder was
What de Beatles en de buren was
La la la
La la la
La la la
La la la
En voor de rest moet je bij de Beatles en de buren zijn
Translated to Engels (English):
Hey Hello!
Look at me see the grass grow
And everyone thinks I don't do anything
But nothing could be further from the truth
'Cause even if I'm not ready
I'm tired of the Beatles and the neighbors game
Hey Hello!
Look at me breaking the clouds
Lying on my back here in the grass
Reported but more precise
From what a contest with the Beatles and the neighbors was
Everything must be separate than separate
Everything must be more unique than unique
Everything must be special
And all that means that everything has to be done again
Everything must be separate than separate
Everything must be more unique than unique
Everything must be more special than
Everything that was special for a long time
What the Beatles and the neighbors was
la la la
la la la
la la la
la la la
And for the rest you have to be with the Beatles and the neighbors
The Duke of Hazard: Captain Sets Sail with Bubba Gaming
***WARNING: Very explicit language! You've been warned!***
The Cave Boat is an equal opportunity sailing vessel that promotes diversity and inclusion. After all, variety is the spice of life! The Captain sets sail with Charles "Bubba Gaming" Duke, aka Bubba Duke - the Sultan of Shit Talking! The two sea goers set sail and chat about the good ole days of Little League baseball, high school baseball at rival schools, the trials and tribulations of a content creator and brand management, and poke fun at the super special Norfolkian dialect.
Eastern District veterans should have a listen!
Enjoy the episode, and that special Norfolkian southern drawl!
Captain Caveman
Link to Watermelon Crawl song mentioned on this podcast
Audiobook Audition: Overcoming Self-Doubt: A Guide To Building A Successful & Positive Mindset
Greetings Listeners!
I figured I'd take the radio voice for a spin and submit an audition since I hadn't done one in a while. Enjoy!
Captain Caveman
Catch of the Day: The Captain Reels in a Fellow Podcaster
Greetings Listeners!
The FIRST voyage of 2022 has now concluded! It sure did feel good to be back on the high seas. It had been a minute! For my maiden voyage of 2022, I reeled in a fellow podcaster, Joe Toste of Tech Tables and brought him aboard my virtual cruise ship for a voyage on the high seas. If you want to learn just how deep the podcasting rabbit hole goes, this episode is worth a listen!
On this voyage, we covered:
- Cryptocurrency
- About Joe
- Podcasting as a full-time job
- Podcasting as a hobby
- Remote work
- Challenges retaining talent
- The impact we can have on a community
- Grace and Community
- Words of wisdom (from us both!)
Thanks for hopping aboard, Joe! I look forward to connecting again in the future!
Fair Winds and Following Seas,
Captain Caveman
Special Bonus Episode: Oh Megadesk by Captain Caveman
Greetings Listeners and Podcast Enthusiasts!
'Tis the season for Holiday Humor! Here are the full lyrics to the song I wrote and recorded this morning:
Oh Megadesk, Oh Megadesk,
Beloved productivity!
Oh Megadesk, Oh Megadesk,
You keep a Captain happy!
So many screens, so much to do,
No window screens to toggle through,
Oh Megadesk, Oh Megadesk,
You keep a Caveman happy!
------
Oh Megadesk, Oh Megadesk,
A true tech geek must have one!
Oh Megadesk, Oh Megadesk,
A multi-screen conundrum!
Web surfings, Teams and even Zoom
A single screen provides no room
Oh Megadesk, Oh Megadesk,
A must-have for us tech geeks!
-------
Oh Megadesk, Oh Megadesk,
A PDF or Word doc
Oh Megadesk, Oh Megadesk
From 8AM to 5 O'Clock
You qualify if you have two
Big monitors and a TV too
Oh Megadesk, Oh Megadesk
Now telework is fun!
--------
Oh Megadesk, Oh Megadesk,
I narrate books and podcast
Oh Megadesk, Oh Megadesk,
Essential if you multitask!
I read the word up on one screen,
And on Screen two, the track I clean,
Oh Megadesk, Oh Megadesk
A worker bee's best friend!
-----
Oh Megadesk, Oh Megadesk,
HDMI, Display Port.
Oh Megadesk, Oh Megadesk,
Call Cap-i-tan for Tech Support
No one's config too big or small
Mount your TV, up on your wall
Oh Megadesk, Oh Megadesk,
Essential for remote workers!
-------
Cheers,
Captain Caveman
To the Moon! Cryptocurrency Book Audition
Greetings Listeners and Cryptocurrency Enthusiasts!
Another hobby of mine is investing in and trading cryptocurrencies, so I figured it would be fun to audition for this audiobook on investing in cryptocurrency.
Dogecoin and Shiba Inu to the moon! :)
Captain Caveman
This one's for the Children: Kids project audition
Greetings Podcast Enthusiasts!
I think I've found a way to pass the post Thanksgiving holiday idle time buy nurturing my podcasting hobby. In this case, I'm auditioning for some short projects that won't eat up gobs of time that I can mow down quickly.
Check out this kids trivia audiobook project I've auditioned for. Let me know if you think I'll get the part!
Cheers,
Captain Caveman
**Image copyright Kiki Publications**
Anchors Away: California's Next Generation of IT Leaders Set Sail Soon!
Greetings Listeners!
In January, the next cohort of the IT Leadership Academy, ITLA 29, gets underway! California state government has an IT Leadership Academy named ITLA.
What Is ITLA?The Information Technology Leadership Academy (ITLA) is a 17-week program for public sector IT professionals with a focus on developing the critical leadership skills needed by the state’s IT workforce.
Participants in the academy are selected from state and other public agencies and departments that work in information technology programs. Individuals with a vision for enterprise-wide thinking, strong potential for career advancement into executive or senior management positions, and experience carrying out their organization’s mission and vision are encouraged to apply.
ITLA is the State of California IT community's equivalent of Top Gun flight school. I went through the program in 2015-2016, and it really jumpstarted my career.
I've prepared a virtual speech for this year's upcoming cohort. I'm looking forward to them listening to it!
Cheers,
Captain Caveman
Catch of the Day: Cruz goes Cruisin' with the Captain (minus Marc Anthony Salsa Tracks)
**Minus the Marc Anthony Salsa Tracks***
Chart your course to the largest network of Latina women working across the technology sector! The Captain returns to the high seas with a fresh wave of Passion!
On this spicy episode of The Cave Boat, the Captain invites Cruz Nieto for a short, but informative 30-minute cruise (see what I did there?) to discuss Latinas in Tech, a multi-chapter professional networking organization founded by Latinas and for Latinas. It was a real treat to listen to the good work this important organization is doing to inspire the next generation of Latinas and highlight the need for the benefit of diversity in the workplace.
More about Cruz: Cruz Nieto is the Chief of the Project Management Office for the CA Environmental Protection Agency. She has more than 20 years experience in the public sector including multiple state departments. Her IT experience includes Chief Technology Officer for the Secretary of State and leading enterprise-wide projects from strategy development through implementation. Cruz also specializes in organizational change management with experience in communications, marketing and event planning. She graduated from Golden Gate University with a bachelor's degree in Business Administration, is a native of Sacramento and Chapter leader of the Latinas in Tech Sacramento Valley Chapter.
Worth a listen!
Perspective of the Seas
Freedom is an interesting term. The last few years it seems we may have lost sight of what it really means to be free. After all, this is still the land of the free and home of the brave. Accordingly, I put this perspective on the high seas for consumption. Our choice was unique to us, and believe me I recognize that there are many unique situations that warrant different choices. My job as Captain isn't to judge, shame or guilt anyone into thinking any particular way - I aim to deliver thought provoking content for listeners to enjoy. I'm glad we made the choice we did. Couldn't imagine the life we have otherwise.
To that end, Cheers!
Captain Caveman
Family Comes In Many Forms: Grateful For My Many Flavors Of It!
I've done some reflection in the week that has passed since accepting a new role and joining a new family. Have a listen to these heart-felt words. Enjoy!
Captain Caveman
Positive Affirmations For Women: Audiobook Audition
Enjoy! Taking the radio voice for a spin. Let's see if it bears fruit!
Captain Caveman
Next Level Evolution: My How the Tables Turn!
Greetings Seagoers!
I'm BACK on the high seas! And I brought some LONG, but amazing content! In this exciting episode, I invited a friend from middle school aboard my now cobweb-free vessel for a welcome back chat. It's great to be back podcasting! This episode gets VERY vulnerable and we cover mental health, team sports, family and music. So much content - something for everyone!
John Cachero is a professional photographer and content creator.
Websites
Fear Not! Captain Caveman WILL Return!
Greetings Listeners!
This is your Captain, Michael Cave
Remember me? You've probably been worried that my boat sank on the high seas after my last 4 passenger voyage (or podcast) titled, "Guess Who's Coming to Dinner" which featured 4 retired State of California Information Technology Executives including Terri Bennet, Dale Jablonsky, Joe Panora and Paul Benedetto. While we had fun on that voyage, NOPE, I've been busy with another venture, so the virtual cruise ship's been docked. Anyone want to help me scrape off all of the barnacles that have been accumulated?
I've actually ventured into the fun hobby of narrating audiobooks! After only a few auditions, I landed my first narration project, which involved roasting coffee for beginners. This was about 8,800 words to narrate, so not long.
From there, I took on narrating an African American Romance novel called A Boss Got Me. That one was fun, but it took a full week for the Philadelphia accent to wear off (evil grin)
My current project went into deep waters, and is a 70,000 narration project where I'm narrating an audiobook of meat recipes called the Traeger Grill Bible. It is my largest project and is taking a while.
Rest assured I am not done podcasting and will be getting back on the high seas hosting guests after taking a short break once I'm done completing this project.
If you're interested in hopping aboard my virtual cruise ship for a chat. You likely know how to get a hold of me.
Calling all Meat Smokers! Bonus Content!
Greetings Meat Lovers!
I wanted to take a moment and share the introduction and 15 minute checkpoint that was approved for the audiobook I've been hired to narrate.
Enjoy!
Captain Caveman
Audition for Cognitive Behavioral Therapy - 11 Simple CBT Techniques to Strengthen Self-Awareness and Overcome Anxiety, Depression and Intrusive Thoughts (Cognitive Behavior Therapy - CBT)
Greetings Listener!
This was fun to narrate. Hope I get the narrator gig! Enjoy
Captain Caveman
My Most Recent Audition: Motivating Your Mind
Greetings Listeners!
My quest to ease my way into the world of narration continues with short books. I liked how this one read so I decided to audition for it. I should hear back about it soon!
Cheers,
Captain Caveman
My First Narrator Gig: The Retail Audio Sample
Greetings Coffee Drinkers!
I'm sharing the retail audio sample from my first audible book narrator gig. The audiobook is titled ROASTING COFFEE FOR BEGINNERS: The Step By Step Guide on How to Roast Green Coffee Beans from Beginner to Expert at Home. The audiobook is currently undergoing final audio quality checks.
I enjoyed working on this project. I hope you enjoy listening!
Cheers,
Captain Caveman
Triple Blessing Audio Book: Dear Angelique (An Open Letter to my Wife)
Greetings Listeners!
This is another bonus item from my recently released audio book, "Triple Blessing - A Father's Story of Infertility, Hope and Love", which is also available on Amazon and Apple as an audiobook in addition to Audible.com, as well as Barnes and Noble, etc as a paperback and e-book.
I wrote a few heartfelt letters to folks in the book, and this is the one I wrote for my wife.
Enjoy and don't forget to order the book!
Captain Caveman
Audible (ACX) Audition Script - Podcasting Mastery
Greetings Listeners!
I'm bringing another bonus episode to you. This is my third Audible.com (ACX) book narrator audition that I've just uploaded. There are so many auditions to choose from. Eventually I'll be hired to narrate a book!
Cheers,
Captain Caveman
Audible (ACX) Audition Script - Leadership Mastery : How to Challenge Yourself and Others to Greatness
Greetings Listeners,
I've uploaded some bonus content: my second crack at an Audible audiobook audition as a narrator. And this one is on one of my favorite topics -Leadership!
Enjoy and Ahoy!
Captain Caveman
Guess Who's Coming to Dinner?: A Fireside Chat At the Dinner Table With Retired Government CIOs
On this exciting episode of The Cave Boat, the Captain lures four (YES FOUR) former State of California technology executives aboard his virtual cruise ship for a fireside chat over dinner on the fine evening of 5/17/2021 covering a variety of thought provoking topics. The episode gets into:
· The Glory Years of Their State Service Careers (Highs)
· Insights into some of the lows (voluntary red meat)
· Pandemic Discussion: What we all learned
· What Government Still Needs To Get Better At
· When they all actually retire what they look forward to doing or not doing
· Words of Wisdom
This episode is filled with jokes (a hearse pulling a U-Haul???), reminiscing, honest commentary and rich insights from leaders that have not only talked the talk, BUT ALSO walked the walk, mentoring insights and heartfelt perspectives upon reflecting on the many stops along the way on their journeys. Current or aspiring CIOs and leaders should give this episode a listen! And remember, relationships matter, have fun and that leaders are people too!
To your muster stations! :)
Captain Caveman
Meet Mr. Stewart: A Conversation at Sea with a Community Innovator
Greetings Virtual Passengers!
I nabbed a really tall fellow for this episode...I mean really tall!
Louis Stewart currently is the Head of Strategic Initiatives for NVIDIA's global Developer Ecosystem. In his role, he is responsible for working with minority serving institutions, government entities, industry partners and a variety of affinity groups to build relationships that enable an increase in tech preparedness, grow the overall developer base and foster a more inclusive AI community.
Louis (we call him Mr. Stewart) served as the City of Sacramento's first Chief Innovation Officer before joining NVIDIA. His role within the City was to promote and drive long term economic growth and job creation through innovation. Mr. Stewart was focused on bridging the public-private divide, reducing process, and growing a strong and vibrant business community. He also encouraged an innovation-driven economy by supporting entrepreneurs, revenue-generating businesses and the creation of high quality jobs.
Prior to his role with the City of Sacramento, he spent 7 years serving as California's Deputy Director of Innovation and Entrepreneurship in the Governor’s Office of Business and Economic Development. In that capacity he oversaw the coordination and promotion of innovative programs, activities, and emerging technologies throughout the State. He managed a robust statewide innovation-based economic development support network of regional innovation clusters called the California Innovation Hubs (iHubs). Mr. Stewart has served in various public sector roles for the past 13 years. His professional experience also includes 17 years in the private sector in sales, marketing, business diversity and information technology.
Mr. Stewart is a service based leader who embodies the belief that he cannot be a success without helping others be successful.
Mr. Stewart grew up in France and Italy, and played professional basketball in Peru and Belgium. Mr. Stewart is a Nehemiah Sr. Fellow for Innovation & Entrepreneurship and received his Bachelor of Arts degree from Santa Clara University.
Find him on Twitter and Instagram as @MeetMrStewart or at meetmrstewart.com
Join Louis and I on a voyage with several interesting ports of call, including:
- pivoting
- resilience
- listening (and translating)
- innovation
- thought leadership
- relationships
Lewis is a down to earth guy, and this episode offers humor, many insightful topics, words of wisdom and designer sock references. And yes, I got a chance to listen to A$AP Ferg. Time to find a shovel! LOL
Have a listen to the conversation with Louis, an Executive Leader, Innovation Strategist, Global Relationship Builder, Board Member, Speaker and Mentor!
Cheers,
Captain Caveman
Chris from the Block: Unpacking the Visionary, The Driver and The Man
Greetings "Cruzers" (pun intended)!
I had the distinct honor recently of hosting one of California's Doers, Dreamers and Drivers from the technology community aboard my virtual cruise ship. Chris Cruz is a progressive, dynamic and visionary leader with over 18 years of experience as a Level C Executive in IT Leadership positions and 30 years of overall IT and business experience with a primary focus in the government sector managing half billion dollar organizations.
Chris's list of accolades is long and impressive! He recently was recognized by StateScoop as the 2020 County Executive of the Year, by NASCIO as the 2018 State Technology Innovator of the Year, (NASCIO.ORG), the 2016 State Scoop Top Government IT Leader, 2015 Top 25 Government Doers, Dreamers and Drivers by Government Technology (www.govtech.com), a recipient of the 2013 Best of California Demonstrated Leadership in Management of Information Technology Award, 2011 Outstanding CIO Leader Award, 2010 Innovation and Vision Award and the 2009 Outstanding CIO Leader Award given by the Center for Digital Government. Best of all, what you'll hear from him about these accolades is that they were all a product of team success - remember, it starts with the people.
In this exciting and insightful episode of Captain Caveman's Cruise Ship, your Captain peels back the layers of the formula for leadership success that worked for Chris and his leadership brand over 3 decades of civil service at the highest levels of both California state and county government.
This episode is a must listen for anyone looking to make the leap to the next level of leadership in their career, and is chock full of nuggets of wisdom covering:
- recognizing and understanding perceptions and powering through them
- adversity and perseverance when confronted with the truth of life
- having goals and creating and managing to a vision
- managing failure and finding motivation
- the art of partnering
- the benefits of putting in hard work and maximum effort
- being respected vs liked
- brand management
There's truly something for everyone in this gem of an episode. At the end, you may find yourself asking "Who am I, and am I comfortable in my own skin?".
Come aboard and have a listen to Chris Cruz upon up and peel back many layers of personal reflection! Fasten your seatbelt after hopping aboard, and prepare to be inspired!
Cheers
From One GovGeek to Another: Cruising With Rebecca Friedman
On this episode of Captain Caveman's Cruise Ship, the Captain sets sail with a fellow "Gov Geek" Rebecca Friedman, founder of Koru Strategies. Koru Strategies is a woman-owned small business focused on the needs of technology and professional services firms. Based in Sacramento, California, Koru Strategies was formed in 2020 with the clear vision of helping improve the business of government through strategic communications, marketing, and business development advisory services by addressing the personalized needs of each of our clients.
Rebecca started this company right when the pandemic first started and was able to "pivot" during this noteworthy event and carry on. This episode is a must listen to for small business owners or individuals on a quest to find their true passions in life.
Fair winds and following seas,
Captain Caveman
Deep, Deep Waters: A Passage of Deep Reflection, from my recently released Audiobook
Greetings Listeners!
I'm honored to release a chapter from my audiobook, Triple Blessing - A Father's Story of Infertility, Hope and Love. I speak from the heart, and cover a lot of ground as far as the wheel of emotions one experiences on an infertility journey.
Have a listen and enjoy, and don't forget to order a copy of the audiobook! It's a great listen!
Cheers,
Captain Caveman
"We're Not In Kansas Anymore.": The Life of a Sales Rep with Matt Toto
Greetings Listeners!
I really am at a loss for words as to what to say about this powerful episode. It's long, but in my humble opinion as Captain of this vessel, it is absolutely beautiful. If you can, listen all the way through - it is totally worth it.
What a voyage this was!
Bon Voyage,
Captain Caveman
People Currency: ThatDudeHodges Books a Second Voyage
Greetings Seagoers!
Chad Hodges, Vice President, ENS-Inc. (Instagram: @ThatDudeHodges) hops aboard for another voyage on the upgraded cruise ship. In this episode, we get back into all things people and enjoy a thought provoking voyage. And yes, Marvel comes up!!!
Worth a Listen!
Fair Winds and Following Seas and Semper Fi!
Captain Caveman
Straight Grinding: The Journey of an Entrepreneur with Lemont Williams
Greetings Listeners!
It's always a pleasure having someone from my old stomping grounds in the 757 (Norfolk, Virginia) aboard. Lemont Williams and I went to the same high school, lived in the same neighborhood, and make use of the same east coast mentality to drive our passions and fuel our success.
Lemont is fellow Maury Commodore, a graduate of Howard University, a real estate entrepreneur, sports broadcaster, father and product of the Hampton Roads area.
In this episode, he shares his background, real estate investing techniques, and some stories about some of the interesting connections he's made along the way. One takeaway I got from this episode is that sometimes a change of scenery can serve as a catalyst to you stumbling upon the best version of yourself.
Dream big or go home!
Captain Caveman
Mentoring Works! Connectors and their Mission of Enabling Personal Growth
Greetings Listeners! Mentoring Works!
Diane Marin runs the San Diego State University Aztec Mentor Program (AMP). It is a wildly successful and popular program that has evolved into being a pillar of the SDSU's Career Services offering.
The podcast offers insights for both mentors and mentees. Come see what food menu selection Diane chose aboard her cruise ship journey about all things mentoring!
Captain Caveman
Be Rich: Living a Fulfilling Life with Brian Richardson (BRich)
Greetings Listeners!
The play on words strikes again!
This is a really great episode! It's a collaboration with my cousin, Brian (BRich) Richardson, who is a recruiter, entrepreneur, husband, father, farmer, bird watcher, deep thinker and spiritual fellow!
This episode packs a wallop!
It covers everything from Kombucha, essential oils, bird watching, growing food, Jeeps, homesteading, and my favorite topic: people!
Enjoy and be prepared for intellectual stimulation as we make our way out to deep waters. I know we said we wouldn't, but we ultimately did! Brian signed up for a 30 minute voyage, but he has the gift of gab and I knew he couldn't put a pin on it in 30! Haha!
Bon Voyage,
Captain Caveman
Media Blast: The Importance of The Story
***Public Service Announcement - TechCA Invasion!!!***
Greetings Listeners!
If you appreciate the art of communication, you'll want to listen in on this episode which features a veteran in the communications world, Bill Maile, CEO of Maile Media LLC and co-founder of TechCA.
Maile Media LLC specializes in content strategy, media relations, media production, and web publishing. Sacramento-native Bill Maile has more than 20 years of experience working in government communications, media production, and publishing.
Set sail with us for a relaxing and insightful chat voyage!
Captain....Caveman!!!!!
PS: Don't forget to listen until the end! **teehee**
Connecting Industry to Government: A Conversation With Jennifer Saha
Greetings Listeners!
On this episode of Captain Caveman's Cruise Ship, we set sail with one of the tech industry's "connectors", Jennifer Saha. Jennifer co-founded TechCA, which strives to connect Industry to government.
Jennifer Saha also founded Golden Bridge Strategies in September of 2019. Prior to starting the company, she oversaw the Computing Technology Industry Association (CompTIA)'s Public Sector Councils which aimed at assisting member technology companies and their efforts to do business with governments.
Prior to joining CompTIA, Jennifer served ten years as an appointee under both Governors Jerry Brown and Arnold Schwarzenegger in the State of California. She most recently served as Deputy Director of Planning, Policy & Research for the California Department of General Services where she oversaw all strategic planning and policy development for the State of California's procurement and business management department.
Prior to her time at DGS, Jennifer was also a Governor's Appointee as Chief of Staff for the California Recovery Task Force, Assistant Secretary for Economic Development at the California Business, Transportation and Housing Agency, and Assistant Cabinet Secretary in Governor Schwarzenegger’s Office.
Jennifer received her bachelor of science from the University of California, Davis and a masters of public administration from the University of Southern California.
Are you a connector? All Aboard!
Captain Caveman
Causes: The Ultimate Sacrifice and a Face to a Name
Greetings Listeners!
On this special episode of The Cave Boat, Captain Michael invites a very inspirational guest, Holly Dillmann, aboard his virtual cruise ship for an enlightening conversation. Holly and Alex Dillmann are the proud parents of Maximus, who was brought into this world despite a tragic period of his parents' lives. Alex served honorably in the US Armed Forces, and was a Staff Sergeant infantryman in the U.S. Army when his convoy ran over an improvised explosive device (IED) in Afghanistan, leaving him paralyzed from the chest down and changing his life forever.
We thank Alex for his service, which has afforded us all life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness.
RIP US Army Sergeant Kristopher J. Gould, and thank you for your sacrifice.
Fair Winds and Following Seas,
Captain Caveman
Bonus Episode: Toulouse in the Spring Song
Greetings Listeners! This is your Captain, Michael Cave!
Today I have uploaded a very special bonus episode. It's a song I composed back in 2008 that I named "Toulouse in the Spring". I lost the sheet music and audio track I had previously created, so this past weekend I took on a project to find some free software and recreate it from scratch.
Toulouse is a city located in the South of France, in the Midi-Pyrenees region. I studied abroad there in 2001 during my final semester at San Diego State University. The city's nickname is "La Ville Rose" or "The Pink City". It really is a magical place, and during my time there, I found myself, and discovered peace.
I think that you can feel that when you listen to the melody of the song. I've also included the lyrics I came up with for this song in the episode description in both English and French.
I really hope you enjoy this song!
Fair Winds and Following Seas,
Captain Caveman
Links to video vignettes:
Truth Fire: Leadership Island Voyage with "DJ EJ" Eric Jenkins
Greetings Listeners!
A stop at the port of call known as Leadership Island! On this episode of The Cave Boat, Captain Michael welcomes aboard fellow CalHR Academy Emerging Leader Award recipient Eric Jenkins.
Eric has held positions in private sector since he was little working for his dad's radio station, then when he was 15 since he was home schooled and was able to work almost full time: everything from fast food, to grocery stores to car lots.
Eric had a knack for talking to people and a passion for people, so he went into sales for a while: auto, vacuums, etc. eventually found my way into police academy and then while in police academy he fell in love with the medical side and went immediately into EMS school, where he worked in both BLS, CCT transport as well as the 911 system for almost 7 years. He then left to work for a friend in a business start up, and after 3 years the business was sold to investors and he entered into government work as an Office Technician to get his foot in the door.
After a year, Eric skipped Staff Services Analyst and went straight into the Associate Governmental Program Analyst classification, then Staff Services Manager I, and was ultimately promoted to Staff Services Manager II (Managerial) where he is currently the Chief of Business Services for Fi$Cal.
Welcome aboard the virtual cruise ship!
Captain Caveman
PS: Lots of Titanic references in this episode, so here's a funny link
Happy Birthday (3/31), Mom!
Happy Birthday!
Love,
Michael
Dear Dad (May 29, 1945 - April 7, 2008): You Are Missed
RIP, Dad!
Your Loving Son,
Captain Caveman