Head of ReputationDefender Chad Angle is a results-driven and versatile executive leader with more than two decades of experience in the field. He has a proven and extensive track record of strategic innovation, driving sustainable growth, and building high-performing teams. A visionary leader, Mr. Angle blends an entrepreneurial mindset with a comprehensive understanding of market dynamics and organizational development, enabling him to consistently develop a culture of integrity and innovation. His unique skills of operational acumen, strategic insight, and people-focused leadership have proven to be vital in propelling organizations towards long-term success.
In his role at ReputationDefender, Mr. Angle leads a global team to deliver innovative solutions in executive privacy and online reputation management, leading on overall strategic direction and operational excellence. Founded in 2006, ReputationDefender is the market leader in its sector, providing a trusted service to empower individuals and businesses around the world. The company offers a diverse range of products and services tailored to meet the unique needs of each client.
Mr. Angle has successfully completed an executive program in leadership at the Stanford University Graduate School of Business and has attended Yale University and Liberty University. He holds Certificates from Franklin Covey and The Arbinger Institute. He has also completed the “Leading Others” and “Leading Leaders” programs at the Leadership Pipeline Institute and the “Empathy and Emotional Intelligence at Work” program at the University of California’s Haas School of Business.
Giving back to the community through voluntary work is key for Mr. Angle. To this end, he has served as a volunteer firefighter, is a board advisor and sponsor for the childhood cancer charity Sky High for Kids, and is an Eagle Scout. Mr. Angle is also an active member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, where he has served in various leadership roles.
What is your typical day, and how do you make it productive?
My typical day begins early with a routine that sets the tone for productivity. I start with meditation, which helps me give thanks and manifest my intentions for the day. This practice grounds me and provides clarity. Following this, I hit the gym for a workout, as physical exercise boosts my energy levels and mental focus. Throughout the day, I maintain a structured schedule, prioritizing my tasks based on their importance and urgency. Regular breaks and moments of reflection help me stay focused and avoid burnout.
How do you bring ideas to life?
Bringing ideas to life involves a multi-step process that starts with thorough research and brainstorming. I gather insights from various sources, including market trends, customer feedback, and team brainstorming sessions. Once an idea is solidified, I focus on securing buy-in from key stakeholders. This involves clear and compelling communication of the idea’s potential value and addressing any concerns or objections. Execution is the next critical step, where I ensure that we have a detailed plan with defined roles, responsibilities, and timelines. Continuous monitoring and flexibility are essential, allowing us to adapt and refine our approach as needed to achieve the desired outcome.
What’s one trend that excites you?
One trend that excites me is the rapid advancement of artificial intelligence and machine learning. The potential applications of AI are vast, from improving efficiency and accuracy in various industries to creating entirely new products and services. AI’s ability to analyze large datasets and derive actionable insights can revolutionize how businesses operate, enhancing decision-making and innovation. Moreover, the ethical development and use of AI present opportunities to address global challenges in healthcare, education, and sustainability, making it a field with both commercial and societal impact.
What is one habit that helps you be productive?
A habit that significantly enhances my productivity is setting and pursuing different types of goals simultaneously. Just as the LDS church teaches young men and women to have physical, spiritual, social, and educational goals, I believe in a balanced approach to goal-setting. By defining objectives across various aspects of life, I ensure comprehensive personal and professional growth. This multi-faceted goal-setting keeps me motivated, helps me maintain a balanced life, and ensures that I am continually improving in all areas.
What advice would you give your younger self?
One strategy that has been instrumental in my career growth is networking relentlessly. This approach is inspired by Jeffrey Pfeffer’s “7 Rules of Power.” Building and maintaining a broad and diverse network has opened doors to new opportunities, provided invaluable insights, and helped me stay ahead in my field. Networking is not just about meeting people but about fostering genuine relationships and offering value to others. This has allowed me to leverage collective knowledge and resources to drive business growth and personal development.
Tell us something you believe almost nobody agrees with you on?
I believe that true success is not just about achieving personal goals but also about making a positive impact on others. Many people equate success with wealth, status, or personal achievements, but I see it differently. I think that our greatest accomplishments come from helping others achieve their potential and making meaningful contributions to our communities. This belief drives me to focus on mentorship, philanthropy, and initiatives that create a lasting positive impact beyond my immediate circle.
What is the one thing you repeatedly do and recommend everyone else do?
I highly recommend incorporating cold plunges into your routine. The health benefits of cold exposure are well-documented, including improved circulation, enhanced immune function, and reduced inflammation. Beyond the physical benefits, cold plunges significantly enhance mental fortitude. They teach you to embrace discomfort and build resilience, which translates into greater mental toughness and the ability to handle stress more effectively. Starting your day with a cold plunge can set a powerful tone for overcoming challenges and pushing your limits.
When you feel overwhelmed or unfocused, what do you do?
I’m an eternal optimist, and it takes a lot to make me feel overwhelmed. To maintain a positive outlook and avoid feeling overwhelmed, I practice gratitude and positive thinking daily. By focusing on what I’m grateful for and acknowledging even the small successes, I keep a positive mindset. Additionally, I make it a point to surround myself with positive influences, whether it’s people, books, or activities. These practices help me stay resilient and focused, even in challenging times.
What is one strategy that has helped you grow your business or advance in your career?
One strategy that has been instrumental in my career growth is networking relentlessly. This approach is inspired by Jeffrey Pfeffer’s “7 Rules of Power.” Building and maintaining a broad and diverse network has opened doors to new opportunities, provided invaluable insights, and helped me stay ahead in my field. Networking is not just about meeting people but about fostering genuine relationships and offering value to others. This has allowed me to leverage collective knowledge and resources to drive business growth and personal development.
What is one failure in your career, how did you overcome it, and what lessons did you take away from it?
Early in my career, I launched a product without conducting thorough market research. The product failed to gain traction, leading to significant financial losses and a dent in my confidence. However, I overcame this setback by taking a step back to analyze what went wrong. I realized the importance of understanding customer needs and market demand before product development. This experience taught me valuable lessons about the necessity of thorough research, strategic planning, and the willingness to pivot when necessary. It also reinforced the idea that failures are learning opportunities that can drive future success.
What is one business idea you’re willing to give away to our readers?
A practical and actionable business idea for readers is to start offering executive privacy consultations. In today’s digital age, maintaining privacy is increasingly challenging for executives who are constantly in the public eye. By providing tailored privacy management services, including personal data audits, digital footprint assessments, and customized privacy strategies, you can help executives protect their personal information and enhance their overall security. This niche service can address a growing need and offer significant value to high-profile clients.
What is one piece of software that helps you be productive? How do you use it?
One piece of software that significantly enhances my productivity is Trello. I use Trello to organize my tasks, set deadlines, and collaborate with my team. The visual interface allows me to create boards for different projects, with each board containing lists of tasks that can be easily moved and tracked. This helps me maintain a clear overview of my progress and ensures that nothing falls through the cracks. Trello’s flexibility and integration with other tools also streamline my workflow, making it easier to manage both short-term and long-term projects.
Do you have a favorite book or podcast you’ve gotten a ton of value from and why?
“How to Win Friends and Influence People” by Dale Carnegie is a book that has had a significant impact on me. It offers timeless advice on building relationships, effective communication, and leadership. The principles outlined in the book have helped me enhance my interpersonal skills, build stronger connections, and become a more empathetic and influential leader. The practical insights and real-life examples make it a valuable resource for anyone looking to improve their personal and professional interactions.
What’s a movie or series you recently enjoyed and why?
I recently enjoyed the movie “Maverick.” The film’s themes of resilience, leadership, and pushing beyond limits resonated with me deeply. It showcases the importance of determination, strategic thinking, and teamwork in overcoming challenges and achieving success. The character development and storyline provide both entertainment and inspiration, making it a compelling watch for anyone looking to draw motivation from cinematic storytelling.
Key learnings
• Establishing a productive daily routine, including meditation and exercise, is essential for maintaining focus and energy.
• Incorporating habits like cold plunges and journaling can significantly enhance mental and physical well-being.
• Bringing ideas to life requires thorough research, effective communication, and strategic execution.
• Building strong relationships and networking are crucial for career and business growth.
• Learning from failures and adapting based on market needs are vital for long-term success.