Turning Chaos Into Opportunity with Consumer Products Industry Veteran & Angel Investor, Tom Browning

Mayhem to Mastery: Leading Transformation from the Middle Podcast
Written By James Thompson

Mayhem to Mastery: Leading Transformation from the Middle with James Thompson & Ronii Bartles, Episode 2


In this episode of the Mayhem to Mastery: Leading Transformation from the Middle, James Thompson and Ronii Bartles speak with Tom Browning, who, after an extensive tenure in the beverage industry, has turned his attention to investing in and mentoring early-stage companies with big growth potential. He is a member of Queen City Angels, one of the largest angel investing groups in North America, a partner at H Venture Partners, which focuses on women-led consumer startups, and an active investor with VentureSouth in Charleston. He also gives back by serving as lead mentor at The Harbor Entrepreneur Center in Mount Pleasant, helping founders chart their own paths.

Tune in to the episode to hear about:

  • Challenges leaders face when transitioning from structured corporate environments to the unpredictable world of startups

  • How prioritization and single-task focus helps teams navigate mayhem and crisis situations in business

  • Ways frontline leaders play a critical role in bridging the gap between top management and operational staff

  • How innovations in the salad industry, such as regional processing and packaging technology, has driven rapid business growth

  • Advice about overcoming intimidation, building momentum, and acting decisively during times of change

Learn more about Tom Browning:

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About this podcast:

Mayhem to Mastery: Leading Transformation from the Middle is a podcast for leaders navigating the messy, high-stakes space between top-down strategy and front-line execution. James Thompson & Ronii Bartles interview change agents, operators, and advisors who have learned to drive results without relying on formal authority. From process optimization to strategic communication — and yes, even competitive compliance — we break down what it takes to lead well when you're in the middle of it all.

Watch or listen to more episodes of Mayhem to Mastery: Leading Transformation from the Middle:

Connect and learn more from your hosts, James Thompson & Ronii Bartles:

James Thompson
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Part I: Alignment - The Hidden Multiplier of Enterprise Value