0:00–0:23

• Host Steve Van Diest introduces the Sharpen Podcast by Acumen, a peer community for CEOs and business owners.
• Today's guest, Rick McCullough, is described as a humble and experienced leader.

0:24–2:30

• Rick shares his 40-year career journey, including leadership roles in public/private companies and family businesses.
• After losing his wife of 50 years in 2023, Rick decided to give back to his community, particularly the Denver business sector.

2:31–4:14

• Rick reflects on the challenges of being a CEO, including balancing stakeholder needs and personal values.
• He emphasizes the importance of a trusted advisor for CEOs navigating complex decisions.

4:15–6:53

• Rick discusses his background, including roles at JP Morgan Securities, Deloitte, and leading a public energy company.
• His unique skills blend financial expertise with communication and marketing abilities.

6:54–10:04

• Rick recalls leading innovative financial transactions early in his career, including a groundbreaking tax-exempt financing model for the natural gas industry.

10:05–11:45

• Rick highlights the importance of collaboration and "win-win" solutions in high-stakes leadership scenarios.
• He attributes his leadership style to early coaching experiences and a strong emphasis on preparation.

11:46–14:00

• Rick recounts conducting an operational review of a failing Fortune 500 company, which taught him the critical role of cash flow in business continuity.

14:01–19:13

• Rick shares pivotal leadership moments, including navigating organizational restructuring and difficult decisions rooted in his values.
• He reflects on lessons learned about fairness, resilience, and strategic decision-making during crises.

19:14–23:41

• Rick outlines common leadership challenges, such as aligning corporate goals with team operations.
• He shares a strategy of delegating responsibilities to empower team members and foster growth.

23:42–27:42

• Rick opens up about his personal story, including humble beginnings in Mississippi, a traumatic life-changing event, and his 50-year marriage.
• Losing his wife led him to explore spiritual growth and deepen his faith.

27:43–30:06

• Rick emphasizes his desire to give back by supporting charities and mentoring business leaders.
• He shares insights from recent spiritual readings and their impact on his outlook.

30:07–32:43

• Steve encourages listeners to connect with Rick and Acumen for mentorship and resources.
• The episode concludes with mutual appreciation and a call to action for business owners to seek community and wisdom.