Third Fork

In early celebration of Mother's Day, today's episode of Third Fork is all about moms!Ryan and Tansley kick things off by sharing heartfelt memories of their own mothers and recounting the stories of their very first jobs. The conversation then shifts to the intersection of motherhood and work, exploring the unique challenges and joys of balancing both. Finally, they reflect on some of the wisest lessons they've learned from their moms—timeless advice that continues to guide them in life and leadership.

This week's episode is a REWIND:At orsa credit union, listening isn’t just polite, it’s a superpower. In this episode of Third Fork, Tansley and Ryan unpack how the art of listening has shaped their leadership, their learning, and their impact.From sticky note reminders like “WAIT” (Why Am I Talking?) to the importance of clarifying questions, they explore why hearing others, often, matters more than being the loudest voice in the room.Whether you're a young professional eager to grow or a seasoned expert hoping to stay curious, this episode dives into how to:·       Use listening as a tool for influence·       Ask better questions that peel back the next layer·       Solicit insights from the smartest people in the room·       Show up with novice eyes, even when you’re the subject matter expertIn a noisy world, listening well might be the ultimate competitive advantage.

In this rewind episode of Third Fork from June 2025, Tansley and Ryan explore how young professionals can be powerful catalysts for innovation, not by having all the answers, but by asking the right questions.From legacy systems that “have always been done that way,” to processes crying out for a fresh look, innovation often begins with a simple but profound curiosity: “Why do we do it this way?”Ryan reflects on the value of healthy skepticism and how the boldness to question the status quo can unlock possibilities others may no longer see. Tansley shares why insight, rather than instant solutions, is where early-career professionals can shine. Even without deep expertise, asking better questions and noticing what others overlook is an invaluable contribution.Whether you're a young leader finding your voice or a seasoned professional hoping to invite new thinking into your work, this episode is a reminder: innovation doesn’t always start with knowledge; it often starts with noticing.

This week friends at work Ryan and Tansley discuss what it means to have friends at work.Understanding all the research out there, they question, if there is a downside and Ryan flexes his HR wisdom! Tansley thinks credit unions the perfect place to develop friends at work and shares how that has shaped her network over the years.Our favorite work friends discuss the importance of boundaries and candor in friendships at work and how promotions can influence or change those relationships. Check this episode and listen with your work friend!

This week on Third Fork—what does it mean to grow up in a world that’s changing faster than ever?Tansley and Ryan explore the realities younger generations are navigating—from AI to the lasting impact of the pandemic. Ryan reflects on his own kids and the future they’re stepping into, while Tansley sees something just as powerful: a deep and steady sense of hope.They bring it into the workplace, too—where multiple generations are learning, stretching, and sometimes struggling to understand each other. But they come back to one truth: No matter how much evolves, our need for real human connection remains—and it matters more than ever.

Today, Tansley and Ryan talk about candor. Specifically, when and how you should tell someone that something is wrong or that they might want to fix something. Candor is kind! A few great examples they discuss:  "You have some broccoli in your teeth" or "Is there something off with the data in this slide?" and ofcourse "Tansley... you have two different boots on."A really fun epsiode with some real practical advice on those awkward encounters we all face. 

This week on Third Fork, Tansley and Ryan reflect not just on the actual seasonal time change but on how one might spring a head in life or work. Ryan talked a lot about the seasonality and importance of a reset to prep for the next season and how as an individual and a team you might get there... he also shares his new obsession with Cloudcode. Tansley shares how at orsa smaller sprints help chunk out the larger goals when we are looking at both short and long term horizons. She also shares that we might just want to ask ourselves, "what makes me happy" and make sure we are intentional about incorporating those things in our seasons. 

This week, Tansley and Ryan talk about how to handle your work life when your personal life gets complicated and noisy.  It is a HUMAN thing! You are not alone!Tansley and Ryan share great advice on how you can walk through your work life, showing up in an authentic way and be successful - even when your personal life turns up the volume!

Join Tansley and Ryan this week as theyrecorded LIVE from GAC. They talk about themes, bug take aways, and the most important thing to do when you come back from a big conference. This is also a VIDEO episode, so check out the youtube channel to see the full live video!

REWIND BACK to our debut episode of Third Fork, we introduced the heart of our podcast — helping young professionals make sense of those unspoken workplace rules. From brushing up on networking etiquette to tackling conference jitters, we’re here to share the real-world insights no one ever spelled out.Join hosts Tansley Stearns and Ryan Brown as they recount navigating their very first big conference (like, the America's Credit Union's GAC this week!) And watch out for even more special GAC content coming in the next week! 

This week on Third Fork, Tansley and Ryan dig into what to do (and what not to do) when you know you’ve messed up. Tansley shares her hot take on apologies, Ryan breaks down why real accountability actually matters, and together they unpack why owning your mistakes is essential—especially in an innovative culture. They also explore apologies from both the over-apologizer and the under-apologizer perspective.Don’t mess it up. Listen to the episode!

A throwback epsiode from 2025 w/ guest co-host Lauren Culp:Get ready to learn from a true trailblazer in the credit union space! This week on Third Fork, Tansley Stearns chats with Lauren Culp, Executive Director of the National Credit Union Foundation, who brings a wealth of experience and expertise to the table. Having led impactful initiatives throughout her career, Lauren shares her secrets for making a swift and lasting impression in new roles, building a reputation as a respected leader, and navigating complex office dynamics. Plus, she reveals the value of being a "respected pest": persistently pursuing goals while earning the trust and support of others. Tune in for valuable insights on accelerating your career growth and becoming a force for positive change in your organization.

We have a lot to celebrate this week as we become orsa credit union! Enjoy this throwback about why stopping and celebrating a milestone like this is important.REWIND: Milestones That Matter: Why We Pause, Reflect, and CelebrateThis week on Third Fork, Tansley and Ryan delve into the complex, yet meaningful, world of milestones, from birthdays and graduations to retirements, work anniversaries, and promotions, and everything in between. Whether you’re the type to throw a party, create a viral social post, or quietly journal in your favorite notebook, milestones are more than markers of time. They’re powerful tools for reflection, renewal, and recognition. Meanwhile, our hosts explore what feels authentic (and what doesn’t) when it comes to professional milestones like work anniversaries and exits. What should we do more of? What are we overthinking?

Say hello to 2026. Tansley and Ryan kick off the new year by sharing what they’re leaving behind in 2025—from habits and social media trends to workout apps that started to sap the joy from movement (sorry, Apple 👀). While fitness stays firmly in their 2026 plans, they’re both skeptical of rigid work resolutions—Ryan is done with unprioritized tasks that drain energy, and Tansley gets curious about long executive leadership trips and who actually has time for them. What is staying? A shared belief that development and education are powerful ways to grow in the year ahead.Light, unfiltered, and the perfect bite to get us ready for the new year. Tag Tansley and Ryan on social and share what you’re leaving behind in 2025.

 In this episode, Tansley and Ryan explore what it means to be adaptive in both work and home life—and how flexibility can open the door to meaningful growth and new opportunities. They also unpack the potential pitfalls of moving too fast, including what can happen when we don’t pause to consider the humans we’re working alongside. Drawing on personal experience, Tansley reflects on early career stretch opportunities that shaped her perspective, while together they discuss how to set healthy boundaries around flexibility—embracing development and change without losing balance, clarity, or care for others. 

Today’s episode of Third Fork centers on audience questions they’ve never seen before. No prep. No scripts. Just real talk.Tansley and Ryan dig into the messy middle of career growth. How to build skills when you’re not sure where you’re headed next, what it looks like to advance without a perfectly mapped-out path, and why starting your day early might quietly be the most underrated power move in the workplace.They also get candid about impostor syndrome (yes, it still pops up) and share how to cultivate genuine relationships with leaders without feeling like you’re networking. If you’ve ever wished someone would tell you the truth about career momentum with heart, humor, and a little tough love, this one’s for you.

This week, Tansley and Ryan unpack the biggest career myths we’ve all been told. From “follow your passion” to “climb the ladder.” Ryan shares why chasing passion might actually lead you in circles and diminish the joy you find in a hobby you are passionate about. Tansley challenges the idea of perfect work-life balance, arguing instead for a life filled with what truly fuels you. Together, they explore why lateral moves can spark just as much growth as promotions, and why “sales” isn’t a dirty word. It’s how we all move ideas forward.

Negotiating pay can feel like walking a tightrope in dress shoes. Ryan’s been on both sides of the table, coaching candidates and now extending offers, and he’s seen how the script changes depending on your role, your leverage, and your timing. Tansley admits she once didn’t even know salary negotiation was a thing. The two unpack what compensation really means beyond the paycheck. From knowing how to start the conversation, to understanding how to collect enough information to make a decision. This one’s for anyone standing at the start of a new career path wondering just how much power they actually have.

In this episode of Third Fork, Tansley and Ryan take a playful jab at the language of work. Those buzzwords and phrases that fill meetings, memos, and Teams/Zoom chats everywhere. From “innovation” to “synergy,” they unpack how jargon shapes culture, signals belonging, and sometimes hides the lack of actual doing. Ryan asks his favorite question: Will my future self roast me for saying this? Tansley reminds us that saying the right thing isn’t the same as doing the right thing. The conversation  hits close to home, and might make you rethink your next “low-hanging fruit.”

Some days hit different. You wake up and something’s off, maybe it’s you, maybe it’s the air. The inbox feels louder, the faces in meetings blur together, and your usual spark is just… missing. We all have experienced them. Sometimes it’s work, sometimes it’s life, sometimes it’s both tangled up together. What matters isn’t pretending you’re fine, it’s learning how to move through it without dropping what makes you, you.Ryan shares, ‘Err on the side of vulnerability, and be cautious about who you share with.’ Vulnerability is powerful when it’s placed well. It’s not about oversharing. It’s about being real in a way that builds trust. Tansley reflects on relationships holistically. If you’re sharing something hard, is it to connect or to unload? Is this a moment to speak, or a moment to listen? Building that instinct is quiet work, the kind that sharpens with experience and a few wrong turns.Relationships are 50-50. They can only hold weight if both people are steady enough to carry their side. Sometimes your 50 looks like speaking up. Other times, it’s asking for space or simply taking a walk. Movement helps. So does sunlight early in the day.

Behind the title and the resume is a human being stepping into new territory.Behind the title and the resume is a human being stepping into new territory. Culture is felt in the little things: an intentional lunch invite, a personal story about values, or a structured check-in from a peer. This episode of Third Fork highlights the art of onboarding leaders with heart. Ryan poses the question of what those first 90 days should look like, while Tansley offers a grounding reminder: every leader is human, butterflies included.

In this episode of Third Fork, Ryan and Tansley break down what it truly takes to connect across generations at work. From legacy systems that challenge even the most tech-savvy new hires to the courage it takes to admit when you don’t know the latest slang, they remind us: stay curious, be open, and leave assumptions at the door.Plus, they share the personal moments that shaped how we show up across generations.

In this episode of Third Fork, hosts Tansley and Ryan dive into the art of small talk at work. This is an underrated skill that can make or break your office experience. They explore practical strategies for young professionals looking to build connections in a new workplace, from confidently introducing yourself to a colleague, to balancing openness with healthy boundaries. Whether you’re navigating a new office environment or trying to strengthen relationships with teammates, this conversation offers insights, real-life examples, and tips for making meaningful connections without overthinking every word.

In this heartfelt episode of Third Fork, Tansley and Ryan explore the bittersweet reality of saying goodbye to a beloved leader when they move on to a new opportunity.Tansley reflects on the importance of celebrating a colleague’s departure as a graduation, a recognition that their growth and success are something to cheer for. She reflects on a quote from the movie Elizabethtown to cope, embrace, and look forward to what's next: "You have five minutes to wallow in the delicious misery. Enjoy it. Embrace it. Discard it. Then proceed." Ryan adds perspective on how teams can process these transitions in healthy ways: acknowledging the grief of change, finding gratitude for what was learned, and practicing openness to whoever steps into the role next, or preparing oneself to take on more responsibility while work is being restructured, temporarily or permanently. Whether you’ve recently said goodbye to a mentor or you’re preparing to lead through a transition, this episode offers tools for navigating the mix of celebration, loss, and hope that comes with every leadership change.

In this episode of Third Fork, Tansley and Ryan dive into the all-too-familiar feeling of vacation guilt. That anxious voice that whispers you’re falling behind, even when you’re supposed to be resting.Tansley opens up with a personal story from her childhood, recalling how she could feel the tension and guilt building at home in the days leading up to family vacations, and how that same mindset can follow us into adulthood. She shares what it’s taken to quiet those feelings and fully unplug, especially during the first couple of days away.Ryan reflects on his own recharge moments, like returning from a week volunteering as a counselor for his kids’ scout troops. Together, they explore practical ways to reduce the pull back into work:Delay sending emails so they don’t re-open your inbox floodgates.Set “micro check-in” windows to glance at your inbox without falling down the rabbit hole.Empower your team to step in during your absence confidently, both planned and unexpected.Whether you struggle to silence your work brain or want to help your team unplug without guilt, this episode offers both empathy and actionable tips to make your time away truly restorative.

We’re rewinding one of our most popular and insightful episodes from the Third Fork archive: Curiosity Over Criticism. In this conversation, Tansley Stearns and Ryan Brown explore the delicate art of navigating unsolicited advice. Tansley shares how leading with questions rather than statements fosters openness and curiosity, while Ryan encourages listeners to assume positive intent, creating space for healthier dialogue. Together, they offer practical strategies for receiving, processing, and growing from feedback. Whether it’s your first time tuning in or you’re revisiting this one, you’ll walk away with tools to transform feedback, wanted or not, into meaningful growth.

In the second part of our Third Fork series on interviews, Tansley and Ryan shift focus to external job opportunities, when your growth journey calls you beyond your current workplace.Whether you’re passively exploring or actively applying, this episode offers practical insights on:How to prepare for external interviews without losing your authenticityNavigating loyalty and transparency with your current leaderWhat to ask (and what to avoid) in a first conversationWhy preparing your current leader to root for you is part of the processHow to stay aligned with your personal values and career goalsIf you're stepping into the unknown, Ryan and Tansley remind you: external opportunities aren’t just about new roles, they’re about renewed clarity on what matters most.

This week on Third Fork, Tansley and Ryan kick off a two-part series on navigating interviews, and we’re starting from the inside out. With experience leading HR and People teams (and with Ryan’s early career roots in recruiting), they unpack the unique dynamics of applying for internal opportunities within your current organization.From preparing to talk about your career growth, to understanding how to balance role satisfaction and ambition, this episode covers:·      What hiring managers look for in internal candidates·      How to frame your contributions without sounding like you're owed the role·      Navigating awkwardness when you’re applying for a job down the hall·      Tips for standing out while staying true to your values·      What not to say in internal interviews (yes, even if they know you)If you're considering your next step within your current organization, this episode is your go-to guide for moving up, across, or in a bold new direction, with purpose and poise.

This week on Third Fork, we’re bringing back one of our most inspiring conversations, perfect for returning from the long weekend and resetting to refocus.In this rewind episode, Tansley Stearns welcomes Cortney Arnold, Community Development Director at Filene Research Institute and leader of The Cooperative Trust. Cortney’s story is a masterclass in perseverance, possibility, and purpose-driven work. Whether you’re early in your career or navigating a new season of leadership, her insights remind us why holding onto our dreams is essential.From building community to championing collaboration, Cortney shares her vision for the future of cooperative finance, the power of lifelong learning, and how young professionals can shape the system from within.If you’ve ever needed a nudge to keep going or a reason to believe that your voice matters in the movement, this one’s still for you.

In this episode of Third Fork, Tansley and Ryan explore how young professionals can be powerful catalysts for innovation, not by having all the answers, but by asking the right questions.From legacy systems that “have always been done that way,” to processes crying out for a fresh look, innovation often begins with a simple but profound curiosity: “Why do we do it this way?”Ryan reflects on the value of healthy skepticism and how the boldness to question the status quo can unlock possibilities others may no longer see. Tansley shares why insight, rather than instant solutions, is where early-career professionals can shine. Even without deep expertise, asking better questions and noticing what others overlook is an invaluable contribution.Whether you're a young leader finding your voice or a seasoned professional hoping to invite new thinking into your work, this episode is a reminder: innovation doesn’t always start with knowledge; it often starts with noticing.

At Community Financial, listening isn’t just polite, it’s a superpower. In this episode of Third Fork, Tansley and Ryan unpack how the art of listening has shaped their leadership, their learning, and their impact.From sticky note reminders like “WAIT” (Why Am I Talking?) to the importance of clarifying questions, they explore why hearing others, often, matters more than being the loudest voice in the room.Whether you're a young professional eager to grow or a seasoned expert hoping to stay curious, this episode dives into how to:·       Use listening as a tool for influence·       Ask better questions that peel back the next layer·       Solicit insights from the smartest people in the room·       Show up with novice eyes, even when you’re the subject matter expertIn a noisy world, listening well might be the ultimate competitive advantage.

Milestones That Matter: Why We Pause, Reflect, and CelebrateThis week on Third Fork, Tansley and Ryan delve into the complex, yet meaningful, world of milestones, from birthdays and graduations to retirements, work anniversaries, and promotions, and everything in between. Whether you’re the type to throw a party, create a viral social post, or quietly journal in your favorite notebook, milestones are more than markers of time. They’re powerful tools for reflection, renewal, and recognition. Meanwhile, our hosts explore what feels authentic (and what doesn’t) when it comes to professional milestones like work anniversaries and exits. What should we do more of? What are we overthinking?

This week, we're heading to our quarterly strategic deep dive, so we’re revisiting an episode that highlights big first meetings. Whether it’s your first time in a strategy planning meeting or you’re facing a boardroom of seasoned leaders, the unspoken rules and quiet influence dynamics can feel overwhelming.In this Third Fork rewind, hosts Tansley Stearns and Ryan Brown revisit what it was like to be the new voice at the table, reflect on what still resonates today, and offer timeless advice to help young professionals enter high-stakes meetings with confidence and clarity.If you're new to the room or mentoring someone who is, this one’s still for you.

This week on Third Fork, Tansley Stearns and Ryan Brown tackle the delicate art of handling unsolicited advice. Tansley emphasizes the power of starting with a question instead of a statement, encouraging listeners to remain open and curious. Ryan advises assuming the best intentions behind the advice, helping to foster a more constructive dialogue. Together, they share practical strategies for receiving, coping with, and acting on feedback, ensuring that every piece of advice becomes a valuable learning opportunity. Tune in to discover how to turn unsolicited advice into a tool for personal and professional growth.

As young professionals, keeping close attention to mental health is essential. In this episode, Ryan and Tansley share their personal commitment to mental health and offer advice on how to prioritize it for ourselves and our teams. 

In today's online-dominated world, having a thoughtful digital presence is essential for young professionals looking to establish themselves in their field. But how do you strike the perfect balance between showcasing your personality and maintaining professionalism? On this week's episode of Third Fork, Tansley Stearns and Ryan Brown share their perspectives on crafting a compelling digital footprint and avoiding common pitfalls. Tune in for practical tips on building a strong online brand that will help you in your career.

Tune in to this week's episode of Third Fork as Tansley Stearns and Ryan Brown dive into a pivotal moment in a young professional's journey: the college internship. They explore how early career experiences, whether thrilling or underwhelming, can shape your path, build resilience, and sharpen your sense of purpose. Drawing from their own stories and lessons learned, Ryan and Tansley reflect on why internships matter, how to stay committed even when the fit isn’t perfect, and how to turn any opportunity into a launching pad for growth.

Meet Jimese Harkley, Chief Community Engagement Officer at Harborstone Credit Union, and mom to a newly minted college grad. On this week's episode of Third Fork, Jimese opens up about the joys and surprises of watching her child launch into adulthood, drawing parallels between parenting and leading teams. She also reflects on the wise counsel of mentors who've shaped her journey, emphasizing the importance of forging your own path rather than trying to replicate someone else's success. Join Tansley Stearns and Jimese as they explore themes of identity, legacy, and finding your unique voice in leadership.

Get ready to learn from a true trailblazer in the credit union space! This week on Third Fork, Tansley Stearns chats with Lauren Culp, Executive Director of the National Credit Union Foundation, who brings a wealth of experience and expertise to the table. Having led impactful initiatives throughout her career, Lauren shares her secrets for making a swift and lasting impression in new roles, building a reputation as a respected leader, and navigating complex office dynamics. Plus, she reveals the value of being a "respected pest": persistently pursuing goals while earning the trust and support of others. Tune in for valuable insights on accelerating your career growth and becoming a force for positive change in your organization.

Tune in to this week's episode of Third Fork as Tansley Stearns and Ryan Brown tackle a crucial yet often stigmatized topic: managing anxiety in the workplace. Rather than aiming for complete elimination, they propose a refreshing approach: embracing a balanced relationship with anxiety to optimize productivity and overall well-being. By sharing their own stories and expert insights, Ryan and Tansley show listeners how to recognize the signs of healthy vs unhealthy anxiety levels and develop personalized strategies for achieving equilibrium.

On this week's episode of Third Fork, Tansley Stearns reconnects with Ryan Brown to tackle one of the most critical aspects of long-term success: setting yourself up for holistic wellbeing. They dive into key decisions made early in their careers that continue to shape their lives today, covering everything from financial planning to boundary-setting and prioritizing purpose over prestige. Listen in as Ryan shares actionable takeaways for investing in your whole self, both personally and professionally.

This week on Third Fork, Tansley Stearns welcomes Cortney Arnold, Community Development Director at Filene Research Institute and Leader of The Cooperative Trust. As a champion of collaboration and lifelong learning, Cortney discusses her work empowering members across the credit union movement through innovative programs and resources. Tune in to hear Cortney's vision for building stronger communities, a lesson on perseverance, and her vision for a brighter future for cooperative finance.

Join us on this week's episode of Third Fork as Tansley Stearns and special guest Emily Sutton candidly explore the many opportunities surrounding us if we just stay curious enough to discover them. Plus, you may recognize Emily's voice... Look out for a clue when you start the show.

Join us on this week's episode of Third Fork as Tansley Stearns sits down with special guest Blake Woods to explore the challenges and triumphs of navigating a career transition as a young professional. With humor and candor, Blake shares his own story of stepping into unfamiliar territory, from mastering the art of using a fax machine to observing leadership habits at play. We'll delve into the lessons he learned along the way, including how to build connections with colleagues, earn trust from leaders, and turn mistakes into opportunities for growth. Don't miss Blake's anecdotes about crashing the GAC and more.

In this episode of Third Fork, we dive into the nerve-wracking but pivotal moment of attending your first big executive meeting. Whether it’s a boardroom full of decision-makers or your first ALCO meeting, knowing how to navigate the unspoken rules can make all the difference.  Join hosts Tansley Stearns and Ryan Brown as they share their first experiences in high-stakes meetings, unpack what they wish they had known, and offer practical tips to help young professionals make a strong first impression.

In Part II of this debut episode of Third Fork, we introduce the heart of our podcast — helping young professionals make sense of those unspoken workplace rules. From brushing up on networking etiquette to tackling conference jitters, we’re here to share the real-world insights no one ever spelled out.Join hosts Tansley Stearns and Ryan Brown as they recount navigating their very first big conference (like, the America's Credit Union's GAC last week!) 

In this debut episode of Third Fork, we introduce the heart of our podcast — helping young professionals make sense of those unspoken workplace rules. From brushing up on networking etiquette to tackling conference jitters, we’re here to share the real-world insights no one ever spelled out.Join hosts Tansley Stearns and Ryan Brown as they recount navigating their very first bigconference (like, the America's Credit Union's GAC this week!)