Professional Launch

In this episode, Ricot Aladin welcomes Kellie Carlson to discuss how young professionals can proactively partner with HR departments to unlock career opportunities within their organizations. Kellie shares her own nontraditional career journey into HR, emphasizing the importance of mentorship, self-advocacy, and ongoing personal growth.Key Takeaways: Career Journeys Aren’t Linear: Kellie’s path from customer service to VP of HR involved mentorship, returning to school, and continuous learning. She encourages professionals to embrace nontraditional paths and stay focused on forward movement.The Power of Mentorship: Kellie highlights how finding a good mentor (hers was an HR director) helped shape her career. She urges professionals to seek guidance and not be afraid to ask others for help or advice. HR Is a Resource, Not Just Policy Enforcers: Many employees view HR as the “rule enforcers,” but Kellie stresses that HR is there to support employees’ growth and career ambitions. Employees should reach out for career conversations and development planning. Visibility Without Self-Promotion: Getting involved in volunteer opportunities, mentorship programs, or internal committees is a great way to stand out and connect with HR in a positive, productive way. Approaching Tough Conversations: When facing challenges (e.g., with a supervisor), HR can help coach employees on how to navigate conversations effectively, rather than simply stepping in to "fix" things. Career Pathing & Development: Kellie explains how her company offers structured career paths, employee resource groups, and opportunities like shadowing and training to help employees grow and feel a sense of belonging. Advice for Young Professionals:Always research a company thoroughly before applying or interviewing.Take time after onboarding to revisit benefits and development opportunities.Don’t be afraid to network with leaders—even executives.Keep performing well in your current role while expressing interest in new opportunities. 

Ricot Aladin welcomes back Trent Lee, founder of Compass Leadership Advisors and Vistage Chair, for a deep, energizing conversation on what it takes to lead with purpose. Trent opens up about the isolation CEOs often face, the power of strategic peer groups, and why mentorship is never one-sided. From startup struggles to boardroom breakthroughs, Trent shares personal stories, top challenges CEOs face (spoiler: it’s people and isolation), and how aligning personal values with business goals can make or break leadership. With his signature blend of insight and humor, Trent offers unforgettable advice:“Every business needs three things: an executive coach, an operating system, and a peer group.”This is more than a business chat — it’s a roadmap to intentional leadership and building something that lasts.

In this episode of Professional Launch, Ricot Aladin sits down with Bryan Wilburn — a powerhouse fundraiser and president of St. Monica Montessori — to unpack the secrets behind his monumental achievement: raising over $40 million for a non-profit mission.Bryan shares how his journey began as a missionary, what he learned from leading one of the largest Newman Center capital campaigns in the country, and why real fundraising is less about events and bake sales, and more about deep relationships and radical honesty.Together, Ricot and Bryan dive into:The mindset needed to lead long-term fundraising effortsWhy rejection is essential to professional growthHow to build donor trust without being weird 🙃Creating a mentorship culture and leading by exampleThe underrated power of wearing a tie 👔And what it means to leave a lasting leadership legacyOh — and yes, Bryan reveals why lemonade stands and bake sales won't cut it when you’re chasing million-dollar goals. 🍋💸

In this episode, Ricot Aladin sits down with Simone Wai, a community builder and the visionary force behind Folkways, a Fargo-based nonprofit, who shares how her background in marketing evolved into a mission to foster connection, belonging, and economic vitality.They dive into Campus FM, an innovative mentorship and media program connecting college students with the community through paid content creation, helping them build skills, find jobs, and stay rooted locally. Simone also reflects on the power of mentorship, the courage to start imperfectly, and the importance of letting go of projects when their time has passed.This episode is a masterclass in social impact, creative risk-taking, and the beauty of bringing people together.Themes: Community building, mentorship, arts + gathering, career launching, social entrepreneurship, student engagement, nonprofit leadership🎙️ “Running events is like opening and closing a business in one day.” – Simone Wai

In this episode of Professional Launch, Ricot sits down with Tony Anderson, the tech-savvy solutions manager from Photon Phi, to introduce an emerging wireless communication technology: LiFi (Light Fidelity). Unlike traditional WiFi, LiFi uses infrared light for data transfer—offering ultra-secure, high-speed connectivity that can’t be hacked, jammed, or even detected. Tony explains how this breakthrough addresses the looming “spectrum crunch” in the U.S. and complements existing WiFi infrastructure, especially in healthcare, education, and enterprise spaces.Beyond the tech talk, Tony shares powerful reflections on mentorship, community service, and leadership growth, drawing from his experience with Clay County Pheasants Forever and his 20+ year tech journey. This episode is packed with insights for young professionals eager to innovate, lead, and make a local impact.

In this episode, Ricot Aladin sits down with Hans Grafstrom, the CEO of Grafstrom Construction, to explore his unlikely journey from a turbulent early adulthood to leading a thriving construction company with over 50 employees. Hans shares how his business began as a way to make ends meet—and how grit, mistakes, and a deep belief in personal growth turned that hustle into a full-scale operation.💥 Highlights include: Hans' raw and powerful reflection on going from defendant to courthouse builder The unplanned origin story of Grafstrom ConstructionHow to turn chance encounters into career-changing opportunitiesWhy hiring for energy and positivity matters more than technical skillHonest insights into mentorship, learning from mistakes, and the messy business of leadershipReal talk on firing, feedback, and building a values-based teamThe role books, bedtime, and golf play in Hans' personal growth routine💡 "Never lose your curiosity." That’s Hans’ advice to every young professional—and he’s living proof that consistent growth and the willingness to ask questions can change everything.🎯 Whether you’re launching your career, leading a team, or mentoring others, this episode is packed with wisdom, humor, and heart.🔥 Plus: Learn how Professional Launch is building a new mentoring platform to connect students with local professionals. Sign up to volunteer at professionallaunch.org!

In this insightful and inspiring episode of Professional Lunch, Ricot sits down with Sheriff Jesse Jahner to explore the values, challenges, and personal journey that define leadership in law enforcement. With a rich professional history and a passion for service, Sheriff Jahner shares wisdom that extends far beyond the badge. 

In this insightful and inspiring episode of Professional Launch, host Ricot Aladdin sits down with Dr. Colleen Fitzgerald, Vice President of Research and Creative Activity at North Dakota State University (NDSU). From her accidental start in linguistics to leading cutting-edge research initiatives, Dr. Fitzgerald shares her vibrant career journey and the values that guide her leadership.She dives into the power of resilience, the role of failure in personal growth, and the transformative impact of mentorship and undergraduate research. Whether you’re a new grad navigating the job market or a student exploring career paths, this episode is packed with honest wisdom and actionable advice.Expect empowering stories, practical tips for standing out, and a compelling case for the value of listening, curiosity, and doing your homework. Plus, learn how language connects deeply to identity and community in her powerful reflections on revitalizing Native American languages. 

In this episode of Professional Launch, host Ricot Aladdin dives deep into the real-world value of networking and relationship-building in early career development. He’s joined by Kurtis Karn, Associate VP of Talent Acquisition at KLJ Engineering, and Alex Cassett, a college intern with a knack for marketing and meaningful connections.From Kurtis’ journey through pharmaceutical sales to his passion for mentorship and talent strategy, to Alex’s inspiring path from high school competitions to professional internships—this episode is packed with actionable insights and heartfelt moments.We explore:Why the best opportunities often come from relationships, not résumésThe biggest misconceptions students have about networkingHow to make meaningful connections—even if you’re an introvertThe magic of mentorship and building your personal board of directorsHow to use LinkedIn (and social media) wisely as a young professionalWhy in-person connections still beat digital handshakes (most of the time)Whether you're a student, job seeker, or seasoned pro looking to pay it forward, this episode will inspire you to lean into community and connection to unlock new opportunities.🔗 Plus, learn about the mentoring platform at ProfessionalLaunch.org and how you can get involved.

Graduation is just the beginning — now it’s time to launch! 🚀 In this energizing episode of Professional Launch, host Ricor sits down with KLJ Engineering's Senior Talent Acquisition Consultant, Travis Wilson, to dish out real-world advice for new grads navigating the job market.Whether you're staring at a blank resume, ghosted by recruiters, or wondering if LinkedIn is worth the hype (spoiler: it is), this conversation is packed with practical tips and career-building gems. Travis shares how to build meaningful connections, tailor your applications to stand out, and even impress recruiters when you don’t have internship experience.💡 You’ll learn:How to avoid the biggest job search mistakes new grads makeThe right way to use LinkedIn to open doorsWhat recruiters really look for in entry-level candidatesThe underrated power of thank-you notes and transparencyWhy soft skills, mentorship, and mindset are your ultimate superpowers🎓 Whether you're about to walk the stage or just starting your career journey, this episode will help you launch with purpose and confidence.👉 Connect. Grow. Launch. It all starts here. 

On this episode of Professional Launch, Ricot sits down with former mayor and tech industry veteran Kory Peterson for a warm, insightful, and surprisingly funny journey through his 40-year professional path — from coding on punch cards in the ‘80s to mentoring high school entrepreneurs. Kory shares how he “gave up chemical engineering for Lent,” switched to computer science, and stumbled into a tech career that spanned weather graphics, biometrics, startup adventures, and public service.💼 Career Nuggets:Why curiosity fuels longevity in any careerThe hard (and expensive) lessons learned from jumping into startups without mentorsHow working in a failing company led to the birth of a new one — in the back of a warehouseWhat it’s really like to pivot from software engineer to small-town mayor during a growth boom🌱 Advice for Grads & Young Pros:“Graduation is just the beginning” — learn, adapt, and talk to peopleDon’t fear changing your major or career path; instead, follow what lights you upNetworking isn’t optional — even if you're an introvert, stretch that comfort zone🌍 Giving Back:Kory also shares powerful moments from his mission work in Haiti, the emotional impact of restoring sight, and how service has shaped his professional philosophy.🎓 Final Thoughts:Mentorship, resilience, and asking the right questions are Kory’s north stars. Whether you’re launching a startup, joining the workforce, or finding your footing, this episode is packed with hard-won wisdom and heart.

In this powerful and deeply personal episode, Ricot Aladin welcomes Troy White, founder of Upstream and Beyond the Barriers, for an honest conversation about trauma, transformation, and helping young professionals rise above the limitations holding them back. A former marketing exec turned mental wellness advocate, Troy shares how his own story of childhood trauma and anxiety led him to develop the Cognitive Transformational Model—a framework that’s changing lives from boardrooms to jail cells.Together, they unpack how our hidden thoughts shape our reality, why fear of success can be just as limiting as fear of failure, and what it means to truly rewire your belief systems. Whether you're a young professional seeking clarity, a leader wanting to build trust in your team, or simply someone looking to live with more intention—this episode is for you. 

In this inspiring and wisdom-packed episode, host Ricot Aladin sits down with Retired Major General Michael Haugen to uncover a lifetime of leadership lessons. From enlisting in the Air National Guard in 1967 to commanding over 4,500 service members, General Haugen shares how a passion for aviation led to a career defined by mentorship, innovation, and people-first leadership.He opens up about his first experiences with flight, the role of mentorship in shaping his career, and how understanding individual differences is the key to powerful leadership. Whether flying fighter jets or navigating organizational transformation, Haugen emphasizes the importance of listening, lifelong learning, and leading with empathy.

On this episode of Professional Launch with Ricot Aladin, Ricot sits down with community leader and entrepreneur Aaron Hill to explore his journey from co-founding Fargo Brewing Company to becoming a commercial real estate pro and dedicated public servant.Aaron shares how his small-town North Dakota upbringing and values of service and hospitality shaped his leadership philosophy. He opens up about the highs and lows of launching Fargo's first craft brewery and the powerful lessons he learned in business, management, and resilience.Now serving as the President of the Fargo Park Board, a board member for the YMCA and United Way, and a commercial realtor at Goldmark Commercial, Aaron reflects on the transition from entrepreneurship to real estate—and why mentorship, networking, and community engagement have been cornerstones of his career.We also dive into the unspoken power of mentorship—those relationships that may not have formal titles but shape us nonetheless. Aaron offers practical insights for young professionals, especially around asking for guidance, trusting yourself, and being open to pivots in your career path. 

On the debut episode of Professional Launch on WDAY Radio, Ricot Aladin welcomes back longtime mentor, educator, and Professional Launch board member Jane Pettinger for a deep and heartfelt conversation about mentorship, community, and empowering young professionals.🔑 Key Moments & Timestamps:[0:00 – 1:00] – IntroductionRico introduces the mission of the show and Jane Pettinger’s incredible background in education and mentorship.[1:00 – 3:30] – Jane's Early Career & Campus LifeJane shares how she got into higher education after working in social services, and her love for the campus environment.[3:30 – 5:30] – Lifelong Lessons & Finding Joy in WorkJane talks about connection, curiosity, and the importance of having fun—even in retirement.[7:00 – 8:45] – Why She Joined Professional LaunchJane reflects on why she was drawn to Rico's vision for connecting professionals with students.[10:45 – 11:45] – New Initiatives That Make a DifferenceThey highlight the Lunch & Learn series and mentoring efforts with new immigrant communities.[16:30 – 20:30] – Behind the Scenes: MSUM’s Mentoring ProgramJane explains how the mentorship program she ran at MSUM was built to provide students with real-world experiential learning.[23:30 – 26:15] – Tailoring Mentorship to Student NeedsStories of how mentorship helped students pivot, grow, and find clarity in their career paths.[28:40 – 31:00] – Bridging the Gap for First-Gen & Rural StudentsJane offers advice for both students and supervisors on how to build meaningful professional connections.[33:15 – 34:30] – How to Find (or Be) a MentorEncouraging advice for anyone who's never had a mentor, and why just asking can open doors.[35:00 – End] – Final Words of WisdomJane and Rico wrap up the episode with a heartfelt reminder: Keep growing, keep giving, keep launching.

Meet Dr. Colin Irvine, President of Concordia College Dr. Colin Irvine serves as the 12th president of Concordia College, a role he’s held for less than two years. Before joining Concordia, he was the provost and executive vice president at Augustana University in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. https://youtu.be/EvdG7kVzwts In this episode, we had the privilege of sitting down with Dr. Irvine to explore his vision for the future of higher education and the innovative plans he has for Concordia. Our discussion touched on critical topics such as the impact of technology on education, shifting perceptions about the value of a college degree, and the personal journey that led him to this leadership role. Dr. Irvine also shares invaluable advice for young professionals launching their careers, offering insights that are both inspiring and practical.   Fun fact: Dr. Irvine has completed 12 marathons—an impressive accomplishment that highlights his dedication and drive. This is a conversation you won’t want to miss! Support Professional Launch on Giving Hearts Day! Our podcast is designed to inspire and empower your professional journey. Whether you're just starting your career or looking for fresh perspectives, you'll hear from seasoned professionals who share their stories, successes, and valuable advice. Discover the paths they've taken and gain insights to help shape your own. Tune in and let their experiences guide your next steps!

Hello professionals Let’s talk about Executive Presence with Cortnee Jensen. What it is and what it is not. How you develop it to inspire confidence and motivate others. Cortnee is indeed the guest who can share about Executive presence as her journey has required her to learn the set of skills that is the makeup of good executive presence. Cortnee is the Interim CEO of the Northern Front Autonomous Systems Engine and the Executive Director of Strategic Partnerships at the University of North Dakota (UND). Cortnee previously served as the Director of Strategy and Transformation for the State of North Dakota Department of Commerce, through which she founded and operated the ND Global Engagement Office. In her initial position with the Department of Commerce, Cortnee managed economic development efforts in the aerospace/UAS and technology sectors and managed collaborative Intellectual Property commercialization efforts between the State and the North Dakota University System. Prior to her move to North Dakota, Cortnee worked for more than a decade in the non-profit sector, focusing on strategic planning, cross-national networking, identifying and creating novel revenue streams, and raising critical funds. Give this conversation a listen and share your thoughts on the topic.