Mike Clem | Sweetwater

The Chief Executive Podcast

Join Mark for the latest episode of the Chief Executive Summit, featuring Mike Clem, CEO of Sweetwater, the nation’s largest online retailer of musical instruments and audio/video equipment for creators. Mike shares his inspiring journey from tech and e-commerce professional to leading Sweetwater—a $1.5 billion company with over 10 million customers and a culture centered on building lifelong relationships. After two pianos and four trumpets later, Mark is sold on Sweetwater. Key insights from the conversation: Heart and Culture: Sweetwater thrives by fostering one-to-one relationships and providing over-the-top customer service, from free tech support to personalized guitar inspections. Mike discusses how this culture was shaped by founder Chuck Surack, who started the company in 1979 in the back of a VW bus. Leadership Transition: Mike shares how his 20 years with Sweetwater prepared him to step into the CEO role, including his commitment to preserving its people-first culture while navigating rapid growth. Employee Engagement: With 2,700 employees, Mike emphasizes the importance of leadership accountability for team happiness and engagement, noting how this approach strengthens customer experiences. Balancing Stakeholders: Learn how Mike leads with heart while balancing the needs of employees, customers, investors, and the community. This is a masterclass in scaling with purpose and staying true to core values in leadership. Don’t miss it!