Ever wonder what separates a good leader from a great one, especially when it comes to scaling companies with purpose and people in mind?

In this episode of Electrifying Growth, Chris Sugden sits down with Ray Lane, former President and COO of Oracle, longtime board member at Carnegie Mellon, and a partner at venture firm GreatPoint Ventures. With experience at IBM, Oracle, and Kleiner Perkins, Ray's diverse background offers a unique perspective on business growth and leadership.

Ray shares lessons from his blue-collar roots, time in the army, and working with legends like Ross Perot and Larry Ellison. Ray discusses how influence drives results, why venture capital needs more than just funding, and the key to making career-defining decisions.

In this episode, you'll learn:

• How Ray Lane's early values and career path shaped his leadership style and approach to growth

• Why influence, adaptability, and listening are critical to scaling a business

• What it takes to be a hands-on, service-minded growth equity partner

Jump into the conversation:

(00:00) Introduction and early career

(03:01) Lessons from McKeesport

(03:20) Impact of mentor and values

(07:55) Joining the army and IBM

(11:47) Path to EDS and Ross Perot

(17:51) Journey at Oracle and Larry Ellison

(37:23) Transition to Booz Allen Hamilton and Kleiner Perkins

(36:38) Venture capital and Great Point Ventures

(40:41) Reflections on career and advice

(44:02) Golf at Oakmont and closing remarks