Behind the Hire Podcast

In this episode of Behind the Hire, Jesse sits down with Julia Stegman, former HP executive turned career coach and author of Discover Meaningful Work, to discuss how executives can navigate layoffs, career transitions, and professional reinvention with greater clarity and purpose. Julia shares the mindset shifts she encourages leaders to make before jumping into a job search, why self-reflection is a competitive advantage, and how growth industries can create a “tailwind” for long-term career success. The conversation also dives into tech-adjacent industries, meaningful leadership, avoiding reactive career decisions, and practical ways executives can realign their careers with their values without necessarily leaving their current organization. This episode is packed with actionable insights for professionals looking to build a more intentional and fulfilling career path. Julia Website: https://discovermeaningfulwork.com/

In this episode, Matt Anderson shares what it really takes to succeed at the executive level in today’s healthcare market. Drawing on over two decades of experience in retained executive search, Matt breaks down what boards, CEOs, and private equity firms are actually looking for when hiring C-suite leaders. From the growing importance of AI and data-driven decision-making to the critical role of outcomes over responsibilities, this conversation dives into the realities of executive hiring. Matt also highlights common mistakes senior leaders make, why networking is more important than ever, and how timing plays a crucial role in career transitions. Whether you’re a healthcare executive exploring your next move or an organization looking to hire top leadership talent, this episode is packed with practical insights you can apply immediately. Matt LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/healthcarerecruiterheadhunter/

In this episode, Jesse sits down with Josh Volinsky, CPA and Co-Founder of Synergy Search, to unpack his transition from public accounting into recruiting and what gives his firm a unique edge in the market. Josh shares how having real accounting experience builds instant credibility with both clients and candidates, along with practical advice on how finance professionals can stand out through strong resumes, concise interview storytelling, and proactive outreach. The conversation also dives into today’s hiring landscape, common mistakes candidates make, and the evolving leadership traits required for CFOs and finance leaders to succeed. Josh LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joshvolinsky/ Company Website: https://synergysearch.com/

In this episode, Gail Audibert shares insights from over four decades in executive recruiting, with a deep focus on the insurance industry. As President of Gail Audibert Associates, Inc., she reflects on her journey from an early career setback to building and scaling her own firm, navigating multiple economic cycles along the way. The conversation explores how recruiting has evolved, what separates top candidates at the executive level, and the realities companies face when building leadership teams. Gail also breaks down common interview mistakes, the importance of telling clear, compelling career stories, and why being both believable and likable can make or break opportunities. For experienced leaders feeling stuck or overlooked, she offers direct advice on recognizing when it’s time to move and how to stay aligned with the market. Gail LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/audibert/

In this episode, Kris Holmes, Principal and Executive Recruiter at O’Connell Group, shares over three decades of experience helping executives navigate their careers and build high-performing teams. Kris breaks down what truly separates top candidates in today’s competitive market, from focusing on long-term career alignment over short-term gains to mastering the art of networking and recruiter relationships. She offers candid insights on why applying online often leads to missed opportunities, how executives can stand out in interviews, and the critical importance of culture fit and self-awareness. Whether you’re actively job searching or planning your next strategic move, this conversation provides practical, no-nonsense guidance to help you position yourself for long-term success. Kris Email: [email protected] Company Website: https://oconnellgroup.com/

In this episode of Behind the Hire, Jesse sits down with Jon Semingson, President of Peak Demand, to explore what is really happening in renewable energy hiring and what executives need to understand to stand out in a more selective market. Jon shares how he fell into recruiting, how Peak Demand supports companies across solar, energy storage, and broader utility infrastructure, and why the best hiring decisions come from clearly defining the business problems a leader needs to solve rather than recycling an old job description. The conversation also dives into the most common interview mistakes executives make, the growing importance of adaptability in a fast-changing market, and why strong leaders must be able to connect their experience directly to business impact. Jon also offers thoughtful perspective on career decision-making, long-term fit, and the leadership traits that will matter most as the renewable energy sector continues to evolve. John LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/solarrecruiter/ Company LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/peakdemand/

In this episode of Behind the Hire, Jesse Gale sits down with Katharine Wilcox, President & Head of Executive Search at Resource Mosaic, to discuss what it really takes to stand out in today’s executive job market. Katharine shares how she built a career in executive search, what she looks for when helping companies build accounting and finance leadership teams, and the biggest mistakes candidates and hiring managers make during the interview process. She also offers practical advice for executives who feel qualified but are not getting traction, including how to think more strategically about their search, navigate rejection, and position themselves as the right fit in a leaner, more demanding market. This conversation is full of honest insight for both senior leaders pursuing their next role and companies looking to hire the right talent. Katharine LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katharinewilcox/

In this episode of Behind the Hire, Jesse Gale sits down with Rich Bradley, Founder of TeamBradley, to talk about what stays true in recruiting even as the market and technology keep shifting. Rich shares how recruiting found him, how his mindset evolved from competition to service, and why relationship building and daily discipline still win. They break down the most common interview mistake he sees from both employers and candidates, skills over culture fit, plus what leaders need more of as AI and digital transformation accelerate, emotional intelligence, curiosity, and strong communication. Rich also gives practical advice for executives who are not getting traction, including using AI tools to prep for interviews the right way, and he closes with a clear take on the biggest disconnect in hiring today, expectations that do not match market reality. Rich LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/richbradley/ Company Website: https://teambradley.com/

In this episode, Jesse Gale sits down with Amy Simpson, Sr. Insurance Industry Recruiter at The James Allen Companies Inc, to unpack what really separates standout candidates from the rest in today’s evolving hiring market. Amy shares insider perspective from years of recruiting across the insurance industry, including the most common interview mistakes executives make, why transparency with recruiters matters more than candidates realize, and the leadership traits companies are prioritizing right now. She also dives into hiring trends for 2026, the shift toward hybrid work, why stability still matters on a resume, and how candidates can position themselves for long term career growth. Whether you are actively job searching or simply want to stay competitive, this conversation offers practical insights straight from a recruiter who sees hiring decisions from the front lines. Amy LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/insuranceopportunities/ Amy Email: [email protected]

In this episode of Behind the Hire, Jesse Gale sits down with David Fishman to unpack nearly 30 years of recruiting experience across executive search and staffing, including C suite and director level placements across manufacturing, engineering, finance, and cross border roles in the U.S. and Mexico. David shares what makes a candidate stand out fast, why your LinkedIn and resume must match, and how recruiters screen for red flags in seconds. He also offers practical job search guidance for senior leaders who are not gaining traction, from treating the search like a full time job to focusing on targeted roles, activating your network early, and using the right keywords and professional designations so you actually show up in recruiter searches. Company Link: https://sparrowsearch.com/

In this episode of Behind the Hire, Jesse Gale sits down with Andy Miller, Founder and CEO of BrainWorks, to unpack what actually separates standout executive candidates from everyone else. Andy shares how he got into recruiting, the types of clients and roles BrainWorks supports across its 14 practice areas, and the key differences he sees between Fortune level companies and fast moving growth stage businesses when it comes to hiring. They also dig into the most common interview mistakes senior leaders make, why specificity and measurable accomplishments matter so much, and the simple preparation habits that instantly make a candidate more credible. Andy closes with practical advice for executives who feel qualified but are not getting traction and the best way to reach him if you want to connect. Andy Email: [email protected]

In this episode, Jesse sits down with Kira Gale of Accenture to unpack what HR transformation really means and why it matters more than most leaders realize. Kira shares how her early work in healthcare technology and global team enablement sparked her move into consulting, then breaks down the biggest hurdles companies face when modernizing HR, from hidden process complexity to the capability gap in a more digital, data-driven HR ecosystem. They also explore what separates leaders who navigate change well, including a reinvention mindset, a clear north star, and leading with both data and people at the center. The conversation closes with a grounded take on AI in HR: using it to reduce transactional work so teams can show up more human, more strategic, and more effective through long transformation journeys. Kira LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kiragale/ Company Website: https://www.accenture.com/us-en

In this episode of Behind the Hire, Jesse Gale sits down with Alex Drury, Partner at Hanover, to discuss what helps healthcare executives stand out in today’s evolving job market. Alex shares his path into executive search, how he partners with healthcare payers, providers, and supporting organizations nationwide, and why a relationship-first approach is essential at the senior leadership level. They cover the traits that quickly differentiate strong candidates, common interview mistakes executives still make, what a great first conversation with a recruiter should include, and what leaders should expect heading into 2026 as healthcare hiring momentum begins to return. Alex Email: [email protected] Company Website: https://www.hanoversearch.com/

In this episode of Behind the Hire, Jesse sits down with Renee Dovich, Founder of Career Encore and a 20 plus year executive recruiting veteran, to break down how recruiting is changing in the AI era. Renee shares how she moved from technical recruiting into building a modern search firm focused on SaaS startups and go to market roles, plus what her AI Talent Partner model looks like for high growth companies. You will also hear practical advice for executives targeting tech and AI driven businesses, including how to sharpen your lane, show clear outcomes, build AI fluency, and use LinkedIn and networking to land roles that never hit the job boards. Renee LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/reneedovich/ Renee Email: [email protected]

In this episode of Behind the Hire, Jesse sits down with Danny Cahill, the longtime leader of Hobson Associates, to unpack how executive search has evolved from a high turnover boiler room model into a more professional, partnership driven firm built for the long haul. Danny shares his take on the real impact of AI in recruiting, why early stage screening is quickly shifting toward automation, and where the human element still matters most at the senior executive level. He also breaks down what executives should do differently when engaging recruiters, including how to find true niche subject matter experts instead of taking a blanket approach. Along the way, Danny connects his background as a playwright and storyteller to what makes great recruiting work, and explains how that led to According to Danny, one of the most well known training platforms in the industry. Danny LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/danny-cahill-a6797a/ Company Website: https://www.hobsonassoc.com/

In this episode, Krystena Sterling joins Jesse to explore how intentional leadership, organizational psychology, and genuine curiosity can reshape the way executives lead. She breaks down why great coaching isn’t about giving answers but about asking the right questions, how unconscious biases influence decision-making, and what leaders should prioritize when stepping into new roles or positioning themselves for succession. Krystena also highlights the importance of feedback loops and staying coachable at the senior level. The episode closes with a powerful look at her equine-based nonprofit, Stable Ground Institute, where horses help foster youth and others develop emotional awareness, connection, and essential life skills. Krystena LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/krystenas/ Company Website: https://www.sterlingccg.com/

In this episode of Behind the Hire, our team sits down with Aurora Baumgartner, an executive recruiter specializing in electronics manufacturing services at FPC of Huntsville. Aurora shares her unexpected path into recruiting, the types of clients and candidates she supports, and the evolving hiring trends she sees within the EMS world. She offers practical advice for executives on how to avoid overselling, make themselves more visible to recruiters, and build meaningful, long-term networking habits. Aurora also breaks down what truly catches her attention on a resume or LinkedIn profile, including clarity around company context and demonstrated industry relevance. This conversation is packed with actionable insights for professionals navigating career transitions in highly specialized technical sectors. Aurora LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aurora-baumgartner/ Aurora Email: [email protected] Company Website: https://fpcnational.com/fpc/huntsville/#!jobs

In this episode, Jesse sits down with Lynn Barboza, an Executive Recruiter at Strategic Government Resources, for a deep and engaging conversation about what truly sets executive candidates apart today. Lynn shares how her early passion for people led her into HR and recruiting, the impact of similarity bias in hiring, and why the strongest executives are those who can clearly and authentically tell their story. The two discuss common interview pitfalls, the power of humble confidence, and the major hiring shifts happening across the public sector as retirements surge and the market becomes increasingly candidate driven. Lynn also highlights how local government organizations can stay competitive by rethinking tenure, embracing nontraditional talent, and offering more flexibility. This episode is packed with insights for executives and hiring leaders alike. Lynn Email: [email protected] Company Website: https://www.governmentresource.com/

In this episode of Behind the Hire, Jesse sits down with Tyler Weiss, an executive recruiter specializing in construction and real estate development at Neeljym Search Group. Tyler shares how he fell into recruiting, why the industry’s massive retirement gap is creating unprecedented opportunity, and how executives can tap into the hidden job market long before roles are ever posted. He breaks down current trends like the rise of data centers and modular construction, explains why visibility and personal branding matter more than ever, and offers actionable advice for standing out, attracting top talent, and staying ahead of the industry’s rapid evolution. Tyler LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tyler-weiss-18754295/ Company Website: https://neeljym.com/

In this episode, Andrea Colabella shares why she launched The Cardea Group in 2009 to deliver a white glove experience for both clients and candidates, and outlines her focus on buy side investment management across hedge funds, private equity, private credit, venture capital, and family offices with a specialty in legal and compliance. She highlights a key trend of firms hiring C suite leaders like general counsels and chief compliance officers earlier in their lifecycle, explains why fractional models are less common than many assume, and pinpoints what makes executives stand out including humble confidence, technical depth aligned to strategy, and the ability to drive culture. Andrea breaks down common interview mistakes such as poor preparation and entitlement, describes the growing premium on leaders who can distill complex issues for non specialists and mentor teams, and offers best practices for companies partnering with retained search including sharing real constraints, trusting market insight, and staying flexible on profiles for newly created roles. Andrea LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/colabella/ Company Website: https://thecardeagroup.com/

In this episode, executive recruiter Suzanne L. Rey traces her path from marketing into search and focuses on director through C-suite roles across real estate development, climate tech, and high-growth startups. Topics include culture and leadership dynamics that make or break a hire, why many managers are never trained to hire, and how subtle biases and overconfidence derail decisions. Suzanne explains why rapport and genuine connection win interviews, shares takeaways from her book Secrets from a Body Broker, and describes how hypnotherapy techniques help executives manage stress, identity shifts, and major career transitions. The episode closes with practical tips for preparing impact-driven stories, aligning with company culture, and partnering effectively with recruiters and hiring leaders. Suzanne LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/suzannerey/ Suzanne Email: [email protected]

In this episode, Alexis and Kimberly share how they help executives navigate the accounting and finance job market, emphasizing why treating the search like a full-time job makes all the difference. We discuss the right way to build relationships with recruiters, the importance of transparency and respect, and the ethical standards that set their firm apart—including their long-standing no-poach policy and commitment to integrity in every search. Alexis and Kimberly also share insights on interview preparation, industry mobility, and why staying positive and proactive can transform any job search. Plus, they remind us that in today’s digital age, nothing beats picking up the phone and being human. Alexis LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexisrogers/ Alexis email: [email protected] Kimberly LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimberly-beason-391031225/ Kimberly Email: [email protected] Company Website: https://www.rwr.com/

In this episode, Ryan shares how he went from campus recruiting to executive search and why he loves the relationship-driven nature of VP to C-suite hiring in B2B enterprise software. He breaks down what top executives do differently, including crisp storytelling of impact and a repeatable playbook. He also offers practical advice for leaders switching industries, including when to step back in scope to gain credibility. You will also hear why networking beats cold applications at the executive level and how to work with VC and PE talent partners. Ryan LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryangood91321/ Company LinkedIn: https://www.zrgpartners.com/

In this episode, Joel Ogle walks through his path from politics into recruiting and how he became a top producer focused on real estate, property management, and facilities roles. He shares the most common executive job search mistakes, why people still hire people, and how to get real value from a recruiter. Joel also introduces his ROPE framework Reality, Opportunity, Preparedness, Emotion and gives practical tips for making industry transitions, building momentum with proactive outreach, and treating your search like a job. Joel LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joelogle1/ Joel email: [email protected] Company website: https://www.allsearchinc.com/

In this episode, Matt shares how he found his way into recruiting, what types of clients and candidates he serves, and the biggest trends shaping the finance and accounting market. We dig into the talent shortage, how AI is changing transactional roles, and why flexibility and speed matter in today’s hiring process. Matt also gives tactical advice for job seekers on tailoring resumes with clear impact and keywords, partnering with a recruiter, and staying persistent through a competitive search. Matthew LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthew-moscati/ Company Website: https://www.ledgent.com/

In this episode, Friddy Hoegener shares how his background in supply chain inspired the creation of SCOPE Recruiting—a boutique firm where every recruiter brings real-world supply chain experience. He discusses common mistakes executives make during interviews, misconceptions about recruiters’ roles, and how networking remains the most powerful tool for career advancement. Friddy also offers practical advice for executives looking to transition industries, the importance of authentic personal branding, and why many hiring processes fail due to internal misalignment before recruitment even begins. Connect with Friddy: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/fhoegener/ SCOPE Recruiting: https://www.scoperecruiting.com/

Jesse talks with Scott Tucker, Executive Leadership Recruiter at Oracle, about how leaders get noticed and hired: tight resumes, focused interviews, smart research, and real culture fit. Straight talk and actionable tips for executives planning their next step.

In this episode of Behind the Hire, I talk with Cheryl Bedard, President and Executive Recruiter at Cheryl Bedard Search. Cheryl shares her journey into recruiting, her unique approach to connecting candidates with opportunities, and advice for executives—especially those transitioning from government to the private sector—on how to position themselves for success. Learn More: www.bedardsearch.com, https://www.linkedin.com/in/cherylbedardsearch/, http://www.careernetworkministry.com/

In this episode of Behind the Hire, Jesse Gale speaks with Jerome Verity-Thomas, Market Head Consultant & Executive Recruiter at Novo. Jerome shares how he was recruited into recruiting, dives into the niche Testing, Inspection, and Certification (TIC) industry, and highlights key hiring trends. Connect with Jerome on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/jerome-verity-thomas

In this episode of Behind the Hire, Jesse Gale sits down with Tomika Sanders, Executive Recruiter at Paylocity, to explore what truly makes executive candidates stand out in today’s market. Mika shares her journey into recruiting, the human impact of her work, and the most common mistakes executives make during the job search. From personal branding to interview preparation and understanding company culture, Mika offers candid advice on how to approach your next career move strategically. Whether you're actively job hunting or planning your next step, this episode is packed with insights you won't want to miss. Tomika Sanders LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tomika-sanders-ma-5aa36a5/

In this episode of Behind the Hire, Jesse Gale speaks with Erin Wood, Executive Recruiter and Training Manager at Aviation Search Group. Erin shares her unique journey from the Army National Guard to executive recruiting, offering grounded advice for candidates navigating the hiring space. She highlights the importance of research before interviews, avoiding overconfidence, and why personality fit can sway the final decision more than just about anything else. Erin also emphasizes networking over cold applications and explains how a personalized message to a recruiter can go a long way.  Erin Wood Contact Information: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/erin-wood29/ Website: http://www.aviationsearchgroup.com

In this episode of Behind the Hire, Jesse Gale speaks with Stefanie Howse, Executive Recruiter and Owner of IN DEMAND Recruitment & Consulting Inc. With over two decades in executive search, Stefanie shares how she built a thriving boutique firm specializing in manufacturing and engineering roles across North America. She breaks down what clients are demanding today—like degrees and citizenship status—and why polished resumes, professional emails, and strong LinkedIn profiles still make or break candidates. Stefanie also offers advice for standing out in a saturated market and explains how boutique firms differ from resume-heavy agencies. Direct, insightful, and packed with practical tips. Stefanie Howse Contact Information: Website: http://www.indemand.ca Phone: 866.424.8505

In this episode of Behind the Hire, Jesse Gale speaks with Regina Angeles, Founder of TalentNow Solutions and a seasoned executive recruiter. She offers practical insight into today’s job market, emphasizing the need for targeted networking over cold applications, especially in a highly competitive landscape. Regina also highlights common mistakes startups make when hiring senior talent, the importance of thoughtful onboarding, and how executive candidates must tailor their story to resonate with first-time founders. Passionate, resourceful, and committed to diversity, Regina brings both clarity and candor to the challenges and opportunities in modern executive hiring.  Regina Angeles Contact Information:   Email: [email protected]  Website: https://www.talentnowsolutions.com/

In this episode of Behind the Hire, Jesse Gale sits down with Roxxann Sczepanik, Partner and Executive Recruiter at Joseph Chris Partners, to explore what truly sets executive candidates apart. Roxxann shares why resiliency matters more than accolades, the most common interview mistake she sees, and what leadership traits today’s employers are really looking for.  You can reach Roxxann at [email protected], connect with her on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/roxxannsczepanik/, or call her at (281) 359-2192.

In this episode of Behind the Hire, Jesse Gale sits down with Bryan Fletcher, Executive Recruiter and Principal at Fletcher Search. From a sudden career pivot to finding purpose in helping others navigate the job market, Bryan shares candid insights on the evolving hiring landscape, common mistakes executives make in their job search, and what today’s candidates need to do to stand out.

In this episode of Behind the Hire, Jesse Gale sits down with Ben Watkins, Executive Recruiter and Co-Founder of Intrinsic Executive Search, to discuss today’s evolving job market. Ben shares key insights on hiring trends across the U.S. and Europe, what top SaaS companies are really looking for, and how executives can position themselves for success.

In this episode, Jesse Gale sits down with Jennifer Abrahamson—an experienced recruiter and career coach who's spent over two decades helping professionals find alignment between their careers and personal values. Jennifer shares her journey from executive office management to launching her own coaching practice and medical industry recruitment agency. Together, they explore today’s job market trends, the most common mistakes candidates make, and why cultural fit may matter more than you think.  🔗 Connect with Jennifer:  Coaching: sjmcoaching.co  Recruiting: med-linkrecruitment.com

In this episode of Behind the Hire, Jesse Gale sits down with Eric Falt, Executive Recruiter and Managing Partner at Executive Search Associates. With over 25 years of healthcare leadership experience, Eric shares his unique perspective on what makes an executive placement truly successful. They dive into topics like the importance of cultural fit, the growing challenges rural hospitals face in today’s market, why interim roles can hurt long-term career prospects, and how good recruiters serve as advocates—not gatekeepers. Eric also shares advice for healthcare professionals looking to stand out in a competitive job market and why doing the legwork before applying makes all the difference. Eric Falt Phone: (303) 951-6378 Company Website: www.letmeshutmydoor.com

In this episode of Behind the Hire, Jesse Gale sits down with Somer Hackley — executive recruiter, founder of Distinguished Search, and author of Search in Plain Sight. Somer shares candid insights on what executives often get wrong in their job search — and what it really takes to stand out in today’s market. The conversation covers the mindset shift candidates need to make — from chasing jobs to becoming a magnet for opportunities. Somer also breaks down what separates great interviewees from average ones at the executive level, and why confidence, clarity, and relationship-building are essential in every career move. Grab a copy of Search in Plain Sight here: https://a.co/d/3Xn1Uwl

In this episode, Jesse Gale sits down with Amy Potts, an executive recruiter specializing in accounting and finance roles in the Detroit market. Amy shares why listening well and positioning yourself as a problem solver are two of the most overlooked ways candidates can stand out in today’s job market. Jesse and Amy talk about current hiring trends, mistakes candidates make, and how long-term relationships with recruiters can lead to unexpected opportunities — sometimes even years later. If you’re a candidate or company looking to connect with Amy, you can reach her directly at: [email protected]