Podcast: Carla Balakgie reflects on her career, her legacy and an industry that she truly appreciates

April 22, 2025
As she prepares for her final NAMA Show as president and CEO, Carla Balakgie joins the Vending & OCS Nation podcast for a candid, inspiring conversation. In this second part of our exclusive interview, she shares the lessons, challenges and relationships that defined her 14-year legacy. Industry leaders weigh in on Carla’s lasting impact, offering insight every operator and convenience services professional will want to hear.

After 14 years as president and CEO of NAMA, Carla Balakgie understands the operator mindset and always has the best interests of NAMA members at the top of her priority list. As she approaches her last NAMA Show as president and CEO of the organization, it is a good time for her to reflect on the last 14 years at the helm of the successful industry organization.

Listen now

In this episode of Automatic Merchandiser’s Vending & OCS Nation, the podcast for the convenience services industry, it’s part two of Bob Tullio’s interview with Carla Balakgie. If you missed part one, it's ok. Listen to today’s episode now and go back to hear the great conversation from part one at your convenience.

Part one was a great conversation as Carla discussed her 14-year journey as president and CEO of NAMA. She discussed advocacy: what operators need to do to succeed and the industry’s proactive approach to enhancing its image and increasing revenue opportunities. Tullio also interviewed key industry leaders who shared their perspectives on the impact of Carla Balakgie, including Craig Hesch of AH Management, Pete Tullio of Gourmet Coffee Service and Tom Steuber of Associated Services.

In this episode, an insightful interview, Carla looks back at the people who helped her succeed at NAMA. In addition, she gives us the secret sauce recipe, and she talks about technology, industry newcomers, her legacy and so much more. Of course, Tullio spoke to some other industry heavyweights who shared their perspective on Carla’s positive and long-lasting impact.

For operators, suppliers and anyone in business who wants to get a glimpse inside the mind of a proven leader — an inspirational leader — this is a must listen. If you don’t know Carla well, you’ll see why she’s so successful. Her combination of professionalism and charm is a winning combination.

About the Author

Bob Tullio

Bob Tullio is a content specialist, speaker, sales trainer, consultant and contributing editor of Automatic Merchandiser and VendingMarketWatch.com. He advises entrepreneurs on how to build a successful business from the ground up. He specializes in helping suppliers connect with operators in the convenience services industry — coffee service, vending, micro markets and pantry service specifically. He can be reached at 818-261-1758 and [email protected]. Tullio welcomes your feedback.

Subscribe to Automatic Merchandiser’s new podcast, Vending & OCS Nation, which Tullio hosts. Each episode is designed to make your business more profitable.

 

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