MTMG's #ConnectToWork

Episode Synopsis: This episode explores the unconventional career of Kandice Hendricks, who transitioned from the high-pressure world of NHRA drag racing mechanics to becoming a director ofDevSecOps. Kandice details her journey from a marketing role to IT leadership, emphasizing the impact of strong mentorship and the self-discipline she gained as a state powerlifting champion. Listeners will discover how she navigates complex cloud architectures across AWS, Azure, and OCI while maintaining a focus on empathetic leadership and the emerging challenges of AI and post-quantum cryptography.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:💡The process of pivoting from a non-technical role into IT by identifying organizational needs and seeking professional mentorship. ✅Strategies for maintaining multi-cloud fluency and high-level certifications in strictly regulated industries like healthcare and government contracting. 🎯Why modern organizations must prioritize preparation for agent AI and migration strategies for post-quantum cryptography.Key Quotes: 🎤"I have been very fortunate. I've done a lot of, amazing things in my life, and partly because fear isn't something that I really possess, it, I just jump in." 🎤 "You don't know what someone's going through or what someone's past is, so the way that they're reacting to you, youcan't take that personally because it may have absolutely nothing to do with you." 🎤 "Agent AI is like AI in, action and automation with no human intervention . . . you have to understand these beforeyou go implementing them because you're opening up security doors if you don't know what you're doing." Meet The Interviewee: Kandice Hendricks is a seasoned DevSecOps architect and cloud strategist with extensive experience delivering secure, scalable solutions across AWS, Azure, and OCIenvironments. A certified Azure DevOps Engineer Expert and AWS Solutions Architect, she has successfully managed complex technical projects within the healthcare, financial services, and government contracting sectors. Her uniquebackground as a former NHRA crew mechanic and Texas state powerlifting champion informs her disciplined approach to technical problem-solving and her commitment to empathetic, effective leadership.Target Next Role: Seeking a PreSales Solutions Architect role at a commercial consulting company with fewer than 200 employees.Mentioned in this Episode: Radical Candor by Kim Scott, The Four Agreements by Don Miguel Ruiz.How to Connect LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kandicehendricks/Email: [email protected] MTMG’s Pay-It-Forward MissionWith ConnectToWork, we amplify real career stories to inspire and connect professionals. If you or someone you know is navigating a career transition, we’d love to hear your story.✔️ Want to be featured? Contact us at [email protected]✔️ Know someone who could benefit from this episode? Share it with them!Let’s build a stronger professional community together.Subscribe & Share✔️ Follow & Subscribe on your favorite podcast platform.✔️ Leave a Review to help others find the show.✔️ Share This Episode with colleagues & friends.

Episode Synopsis: BJ Knapp joins the podcast to share herperspective on navigating complex SaaS implementations within the healthcare and higher education sectors. She discusses the transition from technical project roles to leadership, emphasizing how a focus on training and mentoring creates self-sufficient, satisfied clients. BJ also explores how her personal passion for sailing and boat restoration has cultivated a "we’ll figure it out" mindset that drives professional problem-solving and resilience.What You’ll Learn in This Episode: 💡 Discover how prioritizing human-centered training and mentorship can significantly increase client adoption and long-term retention. ✅ Learn how personal resiliencebuilt through challenging hobbies like boat restoration translates into aproactive "figure it out" professional methodology. 🎯 Understand theimportance of creating self-sufficient clients by encouraging them to askquestions and master the tools they have purchased.Key Quotes: 🎤 "Once I made that realization [that I enjoy training], my world became about making everybody else better at their jobs and making everybody else's life easier". 🎤"When a client presents me with a new challenge, we'll figure it out. And we do. And we will". 🎤 "I want to do is make your clients self-sufficient and make your clients... glad that they bought the tool that they bought".Meet The Interviewee: BJ Knapp is an accomplished SaaS implementation and client success leader with over ten years of experience guiding healthcare and higher education organizations through intricate technology transitions. She is recognized for her ability to translate sophisticated technical systems into intuitive experiences, having managed platforms for organizations with as many as 1.6 million end users. Throughout her career, she has consistently achieved high client satisfaction and perfect retention rates by fostering supportive, trusted advisor relationships and mentoring over 100 new hires.Target Next Role: BJ is seeking an Implementation Manager or Client Success leadership role within a SaaS organization, ideally inhealthcare or education.Mentioned in this Episode: The Art of Racing in the Rain by Garth Stein, The Day the World Came to Town, Come From Away (play), and Turn the Ship Around (book).How to Connect LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/bjknapp 📧 Email: [email protected] MTMG’s Pay-It-Forward MissionWith ConnectToWork, we amplify real career stories toinspire and connect professionals. If you or someone you know is navigating a career transition, we’d love to hear your story.✔️ Want to be featured? Contact us at [email protected]✔️ Know someone who could benefit from this episode? Share it with them!Let’s build a stronger professional community together.Subscribe & Share✔️ Follow & Subscribe on your favorite podcast platform.✔️ Leave a Review to help others find the show.✔️ Share This Episode with colleagues & friends.

In this episode of MTMG’s ConnectToWork, Eli Shuster sharesinsights from more than two decades designing and leading complex federal solutions. He explains why technical excellence alone is never enough—and how understanding the human dimension is critical to winning and delivering atscale. Eli discusses leadership under pressure, trust-driven collaboration, and how emerging technologies like AI must be paired with governance and empathy.This conversation highlights what it truly takes to build solutions that perform, endure, and earn stakeholder confidence.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:💡 Why the “human solution” matters as much as the technical architecture in federal programs🎯How trust, calm leadership, and collaboration drive winning outcomes at scale✅How AI and automation can enhance—notreplace—human expertise when applied responsiblyKey Quotes:🎤 “Being technically right isn’t often enough—there’s always a human factor that has to be addressed.”🎤“It takes a team to win, and sometimes the best solution is a combination of everyone’s ideas.”🎤“AI isn’t here to replace your job—it’s here to make you more efficient if we use it correctly.”Meet The Interviewee:Eli Shuster is a federal solutions architecture leader withover 22 years of experience translating complex mission requirements into executable, compliant, and cost-realistic technical approaches. He has led multi-billion-dollar federal simulation bids, enterprise modernization strategies, and high-stakes delivery efforts across commercial, federal, andinternational environments. Known for his calm presence, collaborative leadership style, and ability to bridge technical and human needs, Eli consistently builds trust with teams and stakeholders alike.Preferred Next Role:Eli is interested in senior federal solutions architecture or chief architect leadership roles where he can guide complex, mission-critical programs, mentor teams, and shape platform-centric, experience-first solutions.Books, Music, or Podcasts Referenced:The Five Dysfunctions of a Team and leadership lessons inspired by Theodore Roosevelt.How to Connect🔗 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/eli-shuster📧Email: [email protected] MTMG’s Pay-It-Forward MissionWith ConnectToWork, we amplify real career stories toinspire and connect professionals. If you or someone you know is navigating a career transition, we’d love to hear your story.✔️Want to be featured? Contact us at [email protected]✔️Know someone who could benefit from this episode? Share it with them!Let’s build a stronger professional community together.Subscribe & Share✔️ Follow & Subscribe on your favorite podcast platform.✔️Leave a Review to help others find the show.✔️Share This Episode with colleagues & friends.

Senior marketing leader Bridget Griffith shares howadvocating for her team became a defining leadership lesson and why the words “innovative, authentic, positivity” consistently describe her approach. She explains how field marketing is evolving into a strategic growth engine—movingtoward hyper-local personalization, tighter digital integration, and pipeline-level ROI—while never losing the human connection that in-person experiences create. Bridget also discusses how passion projects like travel planning and community fundraisers sharpen the same muscles she uses at work: resourcefulness, detail management, and empathetic leadership. What You’ll Learn in This Episode:💡 How advocating for your team improves morale and outcomes. ✅Where field marketing is headed: hyper-local, digital-integrated, and ROI-tied.🎯Why passion projects outside work build resilience, creativity, and empathy on the job. Key Quotes:🎤 “My job as a leader is to shine the spotlight on my team, not myself.” 🎤“Innovative, authentic, positivity.” 🎤“Field marketing is evolving from event execution to a strategic growth engine.” Meet The Interviewee:Bridget Griffith is a senior field marketing and marketingoperations leader with 20+ years across education, healthcare, and hospitality, including executive-level leadership at Bright Horizons overseeing global teamsand initiatives that grew brand awareness and improved lead quality. She’s consulted for education and travel organizations, delivering measurable winssuch as a 20% CPA reduction and 44% pipeline growth.Preferred Next RoleA leadership position that blends team-building, cross-functional collaboration, and field marketing strategy—leveraging her experience and terminal degree to drive growth and culture. Referenced ResourcesDare to Lead by Brené Brown. How to Connect🔗 LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/bridget-griffith 📧Email: [email protected] MTMG’s Pay-It-Forward MissionWith ConnectToWork, we amplify real career stories toinspire and connect professionals. If you or someone you know is navigating a career transition, we’d love to hear your story.✔️Want to be featured? Contact us at [email protected]✔️Know someone who could benefit from this episode? Share it with them! Let’s build a stronger professional community together. Subscribe & Share✔️ Follow & Subscribe on your favorite podcast platform.✔️Leave a Review to help others find the show.✔️Share This Episode with colleagues & friends.

In this candid conversation, veteran front‑end developerDavid Mack walks us through the pivotal moments that shaped his 16‑year career at Amwell—from abandoning Flash to spearheading React‑based ecosystems that scaled during telehealth’s biggest surge. He reflects on the power ofadaptability, the importance of accessibility, and how hobbyist microcontroller projects keep his problem‑solving sharp. Listeners will come away with tactical insights on staying relevant, building for users, and thriving through rapid industry change.What You’ll Learn in This Episode: 💡 Adapting your tech stack before disruption hits✅Creating scalable, accessible React ecosystems that empower teams🎯Turning hobbyist electronics into professional critical‑thinking skillsKey Quotes: 🎤 "You gotta pay attention to industry standards."🎤"I make sure that the project isn't just done—it's done right, it's done well."🎤"Developers who survive will combine deep technical experience with adaptability."Meet The Interviewee: David Mack is a seasoned front‑end developer and creativetechnologist who spent more than 16 years shaping accessible, user‑centered digital experiences at Amwell. He built React‑powered CMS tools, led WCAG‑alignedaccessibility initiatives, and guided scaling efforts that supported a 300 % surge in provider demandduring COVID‑19 and Amwell’s IPO.Preferred Next Role: David is seeking a senior front‑endposition with a strong React focus where he can collaborate with cross‑functional teams to build performant, accessible interfaces that put users first.Referenced Resources: 10% Happier by Dan HarrisHow to Connect 🔗 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidjmack2008📧 Email: [email protected]’s Pay-It-Forward Mission With ConnectToWork, we amplify real career stories toinspire and connect professionals. If you or someone you know is navigating a career transition, we’d love to hear your story. ✔️ Want to be featured? Contact us at [email protected]✔️ Know someone who could benefit from this episode? Share it with them! Let’s build a stronger professional community together.Subscribe & Share ✔️ Follow & Subscribe on your favorite podcast platform.✔️ Leave a Review to help others find the show.✔️ Share This Episode with colleagues & friends.

Former KORE Wireless VP of Product Management KathleenLaRocque has led multi-million-dollar SaaS and IoT launches, migrated 25 million-plus subscribers onto a new platform in under 90 days, and steered revenue-driving product lines across global markets. In this conversation she shares how curiosity, data-driven decision-making, and unflappable calm power her approach to building products that delight customers and scale fast. You’ll also hear how painting fuels her creativity, why “exciting detours” beat roadblocks,and where AI is taking product management next.What You’ll Learn in This Episode💡 Turning “obstacles” into innovation accelerators✅Building data foundations that make AI truly useful🎯Staying poised under pressure—and why it wins executive trustKey Quotes🎤 “Obstacles are really just exciting detours.”🎤“Remaining calm in challenging situations is absolutely important.”🎤“The foundation of that future is, in fact, the data.”Meet The IntervieweeKathleen LaRocque is a seasoned product executive who’staken products from idea to global scale across SaaS, IoT, and telecom. Her leadership style blends hands-on technical fluency with a passion for cross-functional collaboration and customer-centric innovation.Preferred Next Role: A product-leadership post in agrowth-focused organization—SaaS, AI, FinTech, or other emerging-tech—where innovation and inclusive culture thrive.Books & Media Referenced: Greenlights by Matthew McConaughey, Bits and Pieces by Whoopi Goldberg, Outliers: The Story of Success by Malcolm Gladwell.How to Connect🔗 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kathleenlarocque📧Email: [email protected]’s Pay-It-Forward MissionWith ConnectToWork, we amplify real career stories toinspire and connect professionals. If you or someone you know is navigating a career transition, we’d love to hear your story.✔️Want to be featured? Contact us at [email protected]✔️Know someone who could benefit from this episode? Share it with them!Let’s build a stronger professional community together.Subscribe & Share✔️ Follow & Subscribe on your favorite podcast platform.✔️Leave a Review to help others find the show.✔️Share This Episode with colleagues & friends.

In this episode, Colleen Faria shares her journey fromrecruiting assistant to senior talent acquisition leader for mission-critical contracts in defense, tech, and humanitarian sectors. With over 14 years of experience, she discusses building cleared pipelines, launching her own consultancy, and the future of recruitment in an AI-enhanced world. Colleen also opens up about personal growth, mentorship, and staying resilient through professional transitions.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:💡How creative sourcing and compliance coexist in high-stakes recruiting✅Why networking matters before you need it🎯The mindset shift needed to thrive in the evolving AI recruiting landscapeKey Quotes:🎤"I love recruiting and I plan to do that for the rest of my career."🎤"You have to hone your skills both while employed and while in transition."🎤"AI won't replace recruiters—it will elevate what we do."Meet The Interviewee:Colleen Faria is a strategic talent acquisition specialist with a track record of sourcing top-tier talent across aerospace, government contracting, and tech. She's led recruitment efforts for organizations like The Providencia Group, Blue Origin, and Leonardo DRS, managing everything from DHS contracts to lunar landing programs.Preferred Next Role:Colleen is seeking a remote leadership or senior-level recruiting role focused on building agile, people-first teams in technology, government contracting, or aerospace. She’s also open to consulting opportunities via her business, TalentStack LLC.Referenced Media:Podcast: The Diary of a CEOHow to Connect🔗LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/colleen-faria/📧Email: [email protected]’s Pay-It-Forward MissionWith ConnectToWork, we amplify real career stories to inspire and connect professionals. If you or someone you know is navigating a career transition, we’d love to hear your story.✔️Want to be featured? Contact us at [email protected]✔️Know someone who could benefit from this episode? Share it with them!Let’s build a stronger professional community together.Subscribe & Share✔️Follow & Subscribe on your favorite podcast platform.✔️Leave a Review to help others find the show.✔️Share This Episode with colleagues & friends.

From American-football pitches in Europe to C-suites onthree continents, Marc Hubbard has spent 20 years turning data-driven insights into record-breaking revenue. In this conversation he reveals why failures taught him more than wins, how servant leadership scaled his teams, and why AIis reshaping retail analytics faster than most brands realize. Listeners will hear practical tips on coaching, customer-centric selling, and balancing family, fitness, and high-growth targets.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:💡How to “make your own luck” by pairing hard work with customer empathy✅A simple framework (Why / Why Now / Paper Process) that accelerates enterprise deals🎯Ways AI and digital-shelf pressure are rewriting the rules for retail and CPG revenueKey Quotes:🎤“I’ve learned more from the failures than the successes.” 🎤“You kind of make your own luck in sales—the harder you work, the more it pays off.” 🎤“It’s not about you; it’s about what you’re going to do for the customer.” Meet the Interviewee:Marc Hubbard is an accomplished sales executive who has led high-performing teams at Vizit, PriceSpider, Stackline, Lucid, Advantage Group International, and more, consistently beating multimillion-dollar targets and winning“Salesperson of the Year” twice. He combines a data-first mindset with servant leadership, international experience, and a passion for coaching the next generation of sellers. Preferred Next RoleMarc is seeking a leadership position in sales or account management—ideally VP, CRO, or GM—where he can manage a team serving global brands and retailersin SaaS or data-driven environments. Books, Music & Podcasts ReferencedTerry Pratchett novels, The Lord of the Rings, Harry Potter, MEDDIC / MEDDPICC, and The Challenger Sale for sales methodology inspiration. How to Connect🔗LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marc-hubbardLinkedIn📧Email: Not publicly shared at guest’s request; please connect via LinkedIn.MTMG’s Pay-It-Forward MissionWith ConnectToWork, we amplify real career stories to inspire and connect professionals. If you or someone you know is navigating a career transition, we’d love to hear your story.✔️Want to be featured? Contact us at [email protected]✔️Know someone who could benefit from this episode? Share it with them!Let’s build a stronger professional community together.Subscribe & Share✔️Follow & Subscribe on your favorite podcast platform.✔️Leave a Review to help others find the show.✔️Share This Episode with colleagues & friends.

In this episode, seasoned IT leader Thomas Forkan sharespivotal moments from a 15+ year career modernizing infrastructure across government and retail. Tom opens up about leading during crisis, the power of servant leadership, and learning empathy through personal growth. Listenerswill gain actionable lessons on decision-making under pressure, the importance of compassionate management, and how to translate technology investments into tangible business value. This episode is packed with practical wisdom for IT professionals and leaders seeking to drive meaningful change.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:💡 How to make tough decisions and lead through IT crises✅Why empathy and servant leadership create stronger teams🎯Strategies for aligning IT modernization with real business outcomesKey Quotes:🎤 "In the breach, I’ve got to make command decisions. I’ve got to be the voice in the group of how best to secure us."🎤 "The moment I learned true empathy was becoming a grandfather. I try to coach my team—your family comes first."🎤 "Let’s not chase the shiny toy—use cloud and AI because it’s right for the business, not just because it’s new."Meet The IntervieweeAbout Thomas Forkan:Thomas Forkan is a strategic IT leader with over 15 years of experience driving transformation across both public and private sectors. With a track record of delivering measurable results—including $1.2M+ in cost savings and modernization initiatives for leading retailers—Tom excels in cloud migrations, disaster recovery, and building high-performing teams.Preferred Next Role:Thomas is seeking a senior IT leadership position (remote or in Tampa Bay) where he can lead transformative change, modernize infrastructure, and drive business impact.Referenced Books, Music, or Podcasts:Book: “Leading Geeks” (2003) – a management classic on praise mechanisms and leading technical teams.How to Connect🔗 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thomas-forkan/📧 Email: [email protected]’s Pay-It-Forward MissionWith ConnectToWork, we amplify real career stories toinspire and connect professionals. If you or someone you know is navigating a career transition, we’d love to hear your story.✔️Want to be featured? Contact us at [email protected]✔️Know someone who could benefit from this episode? Share it with them!Let’s build a stronger professional community together.Subscribe & Share✔️ Follow & Subscribe on your favorite podcast platform.✔️ Leave a Review to help others find the show.✔️ Share This Episode with colleagues & friends.

Episode Synopsis: In this episode of MTMG's ConnectToWork, Marc Thaler shares his journey from journalist to global marketing leader. Marc reflects on the evolving job market, the value of staying grounded, and the power of leading with empathy. Listeners will gaininsights on how to stay focused during career transitions, lead high-performing creative teams, and build scalable systems that drive consistent communication.His lessons from running, mentorship, and writing reinforce the importance of controlling what you can control and showing up with purpose.What You’ll Learn in This Episode: 💡How to lead creative teams with clarity and connection✅Why mindset matters more than skillset during career transitions🎯Using marketing systems to deliver global impactKey Quotes: 🎤 "Control what I can control: attitude, effort, and focus." 🎤 "If you don't have time to do it right, when will you have time to do it over?" 🎤 "Running is my reset. It's how I stay the best version of myself for others."Meet The Interviewee: Marc Thaler is a B2B marketing leader and former journalist with over a decade of experience in content strategy, editorial management, and global campaign leadership. He has directed content initiatives for major clients like Microsoft and IBM and built distributed creative teams across three continents. Marc is known as a "culture carrier," leading with empathy, structure, and purpose.Preferred Next Role:Marc is seeking a senior content or marketing leadership position focused on shaping editorial strategies, elevating team performance, and ensuring consistent, measurable impact across all communications.Books, Music, or Podcasts Referenced:"The Let Them Theory" by Mel Robbins"Tuesdays with Morrie" by Mitch AlbomHow to Connect🔗LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcthaler/📧Email: [email protected]’s Pay-It-Forward Mission With ConnectToWork, we amplify real career stories to inspire and connect professionals. If you or someone you know is navigating a career transition, we’d love to hear yourstory.✔️Want to be featured? Contact us at [email protected]✔️Know someone who could benefit from this episode? Share it with them!Let’s build a stronger professional community together.Subscribe & Share✔️Follow & Subscribe on your favorite podcast platform.✔️Leave a Review to help others find the show.✔️Share This Episode with colleagues & friends.

In this episode of MTMG’s ConnectToWork, Raven Parker shares their inspiring journey from IT support to building cloud infrastructure and data engineering solutions. Raven reflects on leading a high-impact project during their internship at Own Company, acquired by Salesforce, and how collaboration and curiosity drive their career. With a focus on making tech accessible and creating inclusive spaces, Raven offers insights that resonate with both early-career professionals and hiring managers looking for mission-driven talent.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:💡How Raven led a status page redesign impacting 7,000+ customers✅Why cross-functional communication is key to technical success🎯The role of creativity and feedback in professional growthKey Quotes:🎤“Being able to uplift others and move forward together is always something I strive to do.”🎤“You might not always see immediate growth, but you'll come closer and closer the more you persist.”🎤“Who cares if I’m a woman in tech, if I can still do the work?”Meet The Interviewee:Raven Parker is an early-career technologist with experience in cloud infrastructure, data engineering, IT support, and full-stack development. They are known for proactive problem-solving, strong cross-functional communication, and building real-world solutions with meaningful impact.Preferred Next Role:Raven is seeking a remote or hybrid data analytics or engineering role focused on building data pipelines, contributing to cloud infrastructure, and growing within a collaborative, mission-driven team.Books, Music, or Podcasts Referenced:The poem The Road Not Taken by Robert FrostHow to Connect🔗LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/raven-parker📧Email: [email protected]’s Pay-It-Forward MissionWith ConnectToWork, we amplify real career stories to inspire and connect professionals. If you or someone you know is navigating a career transition, we’d love to hear your story.✔️Want to be featured? Contact us at [email protected]✔️Know someone who could benefit from this episode? Share it with them!Let’s build a stronger professional community together.Subscribe & Share✔️Follow & Subscribe on your favorite podcast platform.✔️Leave a Review to help others find the show.✔️Share This Episode with colleagues & friends.

In this inspiring episode, Suruchi Patki shares how a careersetback transformed into a powerful period of growth, leading to the launch of her own Agile coaching program and 14 certifications. With a background in leading Agile transformations at major financial and retail institutions, Suruchi discusses the mindset shifts, leadership principles, and coaching philosophies that empower her teams. Her reflections on adaptability, resilience, and continuous learning offer practical inspiration for Agile practitioners and leaders alike.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:💡 How to turn career obstacles into growth opportunities✅ The core traits that define truly great Scrum Masters🎯 How hobbies like pickleball can strengthen Agile facilitation skillsKey Quotes:🎤 "Challenges can either defeat us or redefine us—and I chose the latter."🎤 "Playing pickleball has surprisingly made me a better Scrum Master."🎤 "Agile is simple to learn, difficult to master—but its impact istransformative."Meet The Interviewee:Suruchi Patki is a dynamic Senior Scrum Master and Agile Coach with over 15 years of experience leading IT initiatives across banking, insurance, and retail sectors. Her servant leadership style and passion for authentic Agile adoption have helped teams at Fortune 500 companies deliver significant customer and business impact.Preferred Next Role:Seeking roles as a Senior Scrum Master, Scrum Master, Agile Coach, or Project Manager where she can leverage her Agile expertise to elevate team performance and drive transformation.Referenced Books, Music, or Podcasts:“Scrum Mastery” by Geoff WattsHow to Connect🔗 LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/suruchipatki📧 Email: [email protected]’s Pay-It-Forward MissionWith ConnectToWork, we amplify real career stories to inspire and connect professionals. If you or someone you know is navigating a career transition, we’d love to hear your story.✔️Want to be featured? Contact us at [email protected]✔️Know someone who could benefit from this episode? Share it with them!Let’s build a stronger professional community together.Subscribe & Share✔️Follow & Subscribe on your favorite podcast platform.✔️Leave a Review to help others find the show.✔️Share This Episode with colleagues & friends.

In this episode of MTMG’s ConnectToWork, Kevin Davis shares his journey from full stack developer to strategic project management professional. With a blend of technical fluency and leadership acumen, Kevin discusses how communication, adaptability, and AI proficiency are transforming the future of project delivery. He reflects on the pivotal moments and mentors that helped him evolve beyond coding into a solution-oriented leader, all while maintaining a passion for pushing boundaries through lifelong learning.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:💡How communication skills catalyze career growth in tech and project management✅ Why adaptability and continuous learning are critical for staying relevant🎯 The real-world applications of AI in project management and why they matter nowKey Quotes:🎤 “If you want to move up, stop being just a developer—you have to communicate better.”🎤 “Project managers solve problems. That’s what they do.”🎤“If you don’t know artificial intelligence, you might as well consider looking for a new path.”Meet The Interviewee:Kevin Davis is a former full stack developer turned project manager with a proven track record in digital transformation, automation, and cost-saving initiatives across sectors. He brings strong technical roots and an empathetic leadership style to every team he leads.Preferred Next Role:Kevin is looking for a project management role where he can lead cross-functional teams, drive solutions, and make an impact by turning ideas into real results.Referenced Media:While Kevin doesn’t actively follow books or podcasts, he credits his love of science fiction—especially Star Trek—for inspiring his forward-thinking and boundary-pushing mindset.How to Connect🔗 LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/kevin-davis-pm📧 Email: [email protected]’s Pay-It-Forward MissionWith ConnectToWork, we amplify real career stories to inspire and connect professionals. If you or someone you know is navigating a career transition, we’d love to hear your story.✔️Want to be featured? Contact us at [email protected]✔️Know someone who could benefit from this episode? Share it with them!Let’s build a stronger professional community together.Subscribe & Share✔️Follow & Subscribe on your favorite podcast platform.✔️Leave a Review to help others find the show.✔️Share This Episode with colleagues & friends.

In this insightful episode, Cammie Davis-Wicks, an experienced compliance and privacy leader, reflects on her career journey—from mental health operations to leading national compliance strategies. She shares how she rebuilt a compliance department during the height of COVID-19, and how integrity and communication are central to successful regulation and cultural alignment. Cammie also discusses mentorship, the future of compliance, and how she makes regulations work for people rather than against them.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:💡 How to lead compliance transformation during a crisis✅ The power of mentorship and ethical leadership🎯 Strategies for aligning regulations with real-world operationsKey Quotes:🎤 “I love to read the regulation and figure out how that works for people instead of against people.”🎤 “One of the greatest accomplishments as a leader is seeing the people you coach flourish.”🎤 “Compliance isn’t just red tape—it’s about protecting people and aligning operations with purpose.”Meet The Interviewee:Cammie Davis-Wicks is a nationally recognized leader in healthcare compliance and privacy with over a decade of experience across nonprofit and behavioral health organizations. She has managed compliance for more than 100 programs in 12 states, driven major improvements in Medicaid and HIPAA adherence, and implemented training that reached thousands of employees. Cammie is known for combining deep regulatory knowledge with a human-first approach to leadership and strategy.Preferred Next Role:Senior compliance or privacy leadership role with cross-functional collaboration to advance integrity, regulatory alignment, and data protection in complex organizations.Books, Music, or Podcasts Referenced:Podcast: On Purpose by Jay ShettyHow to Connect🔗 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cammie-davis-wicks📧 Email: [email protected]’s Pay-It-Forward MissionWith ConnectToWork, we amplify real career stories to inspire and connect professionals. If you or someone you know is navigating a career transition, we’d love to hear your story.✔️ Want to be featured? Contact us at [email protected]✔️ Know someone who could benefit from this episode? Share it with them!Let’s build a stronger professional community together.Subscribe & Share✔️ Follow & Subscribe on your favorite podcast platform.✔️ Leave a Review to help others find the show.✔️ Share This Episode with colleagues & friends.

Episode Synopsis:In this episode of MTMG's ConnectToWork, Ellen Greenfield shares her impressive journey as a project and program management leader across industries such as government, finance, hospitality, and tech consulting. She reflects on pivotal career moments like leading a $28M VOIP project for the Air National Guard, and how passion projects like caring for her horses fuel her professional discipline. Ellen offers actionable insights on navigating complexity, leveraging AI in PM, and aligning teams for success.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:💡How to turn around large-scale, at-risk projects with strategic leadership📅The evolving role of AI in project and program management🔎Why empathy and persuasion are essential soft skills for PMsKey Quotes:🎤"I came into it with absolutely no military experience… and within three weeks had the project turning around." 🎤 "I'm responsible for all their care and wellbeing… it’s improved my drive and desire to succeed." 🎤 "Projects are getting more complex. PMs will need both technical skills and soft skills to succeed."Meet The Interviewee:Ellen Greenfield is an accomplished Senior Project and Program Manager with over 15 years of experience leading high-impact technology initiatives. She brings a rare combination of strategic insight, stakeholder alignment, and technical depth to every engagement. Ellen has delivered complex projects across the public and private sectors, including multimillion-dollar VOIP infrastructure, Microsoft migrations, and ERP rollouts. Preferred Next Role:Ellen is seeking a senior remote or hybrid role in Program/Project Management, Customer Success Management, or Technical Recruiting where she can drive impactful outcomes through strategic leadership and delivery excellence.How to Connect🔗 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ellen-greenfield📧 Email: [email protected]’s Pay-It-Forward MissionWith ConnectToWork, we amplify real career stories to inspire and connect professionals. If you or someone you know is navigating a career transition, we’d love to hear your story.✔️Want to be featured? Contact us at [email protected]✔️Know someone who could benefit from this episode? Share it with them! Let’s build a stronger professional community together.Subscribe & Share✔️Follow & Subscribe on your favorite podcast platform.✔️Leave a Review to help others find the show.✔️Share This Episode with colleagues & friends.

Guest:Tripp FerrerEpisode Synopsis:In this episode of MTMG's ConnectToWork, we speak with Tripp Ferrer, a dynamic operations leader known for turning complex challenges into scalable solutions. Tripp shares how applying the Theory of Constraints helped him drive exponential growth and streamline processes across multiple industries. From rebuilding classic cars to redefining rebate programs, Tripp reveals how his analytical mindset and collaborative leadership style shape his approach. This conversation offers tactical insights for operations professionals and inspiring reflections on effective, human-centered leadership.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:💡How to identify and eliminate operational bottlenecks using the Theory of Constraints✅Why collaboration and value-driven leadership matter more than titles🎯 When “off-the-shelf” beats custom-built—insights from Tripp’s car-building and ERP experienceKey Quotes:🎤“AI is great at intelligence—AI doesn’t yet have wisdom.”🎤“Leadership isn’t about title—it’s about actions and impact.”🎤 “Two-thirds of corporate work is often non-value add. Cut that, and your team becomes twice as effective.”Meet The Interviewee:Tripp Ferrer is an experienced operations leader with over 15 years of success driving efficiency, profitability, and cultural transformation across industries. From food service to supply chain and enterprise operations, his achievements include a 7x profit increase at Supermarket Solutions and major post-merger integrations at HD Supply. A proponent of the Theory of Constraints, Tripp excels in process improvement, data-driven strategy, and team development.Preferred Next Role:Seeking a leadership role in operations where he can drive process efficiency, scalability, and profitability—leveraging TOC, strategic execution, and people-first leadership.Referenced in This Episode:Book: The Goal by Eliyahu M. GoldrattBand: NirvanaHow to Connect🔗LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/trippferrer/📧Email: [email protected]’s Pay-It-Forward MissionWith ConnectToWork, we amplify real career stories to inspire and connect professionals. If you or someone you know is navigating a career transition, we’d love to hear your story.✔️Want to be featured? Contact us at [email protected]✔️Know someone who could benefit from this episode? Share it with them!Let’s build a stronger professional community together.Subscribe & Share✔️Follow & Subscribe on your favorite podcast platform.✔️Leave a Review to help others find the show.✔️Share This Episode with colleagues & friends.

Episode Synopsis: In this episode, we speak withAggie Lema-Kowalczyk, an innovative product leader whose experience spans e-commerce, retail, and consumer packaged goods. From her time at DesignPac Gifts where she delivered $30M in annual revenue to her current role at Publix Super Markets driving significant e-commerce growth, Aggie shares insights on team collaboration, maintaining a growth mindset, and staying ahead of technological trends in product management. As a trilingual professional who brings organization, determination, and creativity to every challenge, Aggie offers valuable perspectives on building a successful career in product leadership.What You'll Learn in This Episode:💡 The power of effective team collaboration and how it can amplify results beyond what individual contributors can achieve alone✅ How organization, determination, and creativity form the foundation of successful product management across diverse industries🎯 The importance of maintaining a growth mindset when facing challenges in both professional projects and personal endeavorsKey Quotes:🎤 "I'm an individual contributor, I am very independent, but when you work with a team and you partner with a team, you can do so much more and so much more effectively."🎤 "I'm a creative person... not just from a design perspective, but also in terms of strategy or looking at certain instances or approaches from a different angle, just to see what our options are and how we can achieve a certain goal."🎤 "Where we are now, we will definitely be further along the way a few years from now, if not a few months from now. And so just being ready to follow up on various topics of conversation, of being open to learning and growing, I think is incremental to not only product management, but where we stand as a whole, as a society."Meet The Interviewee:Aggie Lema-Kowalczyk is a Digital Product Manager at PublixSuper Markets with over a decade of experience developing, launching, and optimizing physical and digital products that align customer needs with business objectives. Her career spans impressive achievements including leading strategic roadmap initiatives that contributed to over $2 million in seasonal e-commerce revenue at Publix, boosting e-commerce sales by 496% at Walmart through product expansion, and launching over 600 SKUs annually while managing seven major retail accounts. Aggie is trilingual (Polish, English, and Spanish) and brings strong organizational skills, determination, and creativity to her work across the grocery, furniture, gifting, and apparel sectors. She is seeking a Senior Product Manager position where she can lead innovative product initiatives, deliver exceptional digital experiences, and drive measurable growth across e-commerce, CPG, health & wellness, or retail environments.References mentioned: "Mindset" by Carol DweckHow to Connect🔗 LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/aggieproductleader📧 Email: [email protected]🌐 Website: https://aggielkproductleader.com/MTMG's Pay-It-Forward MissionWith ConnectToWork, we amplify real career stories toinspire and connect professionals. If you or someone you know is navigating a career transition, we'd love to hear your story.✔️ Want to be featured? Contact us at [email protected]✔️ Know someone who could benefit from this episode? Share it with them!Let's build a stronger professional community together.Subscribe & Share✔️ Follow & Subscribe on your favorite podcast platform.✔️ Leave a Review to help others find the show.✔️ Share This Episode with colleagues & friends.

Episode Synopsis: In this episode, we speak with Kristin Huntley, a seasoned content strategy leader with over 13 years of experience spanning global B2B organizations like Wipfli, ESAB Group, and The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society. Kristin shares how she approaches content strategy with authenticity and creativity, the importance of learning from failures, and her vision for how AI can give us back our humanity rather than just driving business metrics. From her experiences in entrepreneurial environments to her creative pursuits as an author and musician, Kristin offers valuable insights on bringing your full self to both work and life.What You'll Learn in This Episode:💡 How to approach professional failures with accountability and use them as opportunities for growth and learning✅ The importance of staying strategic while remaining flexible enough to pivot when circumstances change🎯 Ways to leverage AI and technology not just for business growth but to free up time for meaningful human connectionsKey Quotes:🎤 "You only have to know the next right thing to do. You make a strategy and try to follow it, and sometimes that strategy in the middle of it reveals to you that you need topivot."🎤 "I think the way using AI to really help you do the things that only humans can do well, which is for founders, for executives, for leaders—it's how can AI give you more time or free you up to know your people, to serve your people better."🎤 "It's bringing your full self to the table that is the game changer."Meet The Interviewee:Kristin Huntley is a content strategy powerhouse with over adecade of success leading digital transformation for global brands. As a Senior Content Strategist at Wipfli LLP, she specializes in content governance, SEO, and digital experience strategy. Kristin has led global content strategies that increased organic traffic by 15% in just three months and improved B2B buyer engagement by 10% through data-driven optimization. Beyond her professional achievements, she's a published children's book author ("Georgia and Hound ABCs"), musician, photographer, and advocate for early learning and cancer research causes. Kristin is currently seeking a strategic marketing leadership role where she can drive content strategy, user experience, and brand storytelling alongside a collaborative team focused on growth and innovation.References mentioned:"Linchpin: Are You Indispensable?" by Seth Godin, "Creativity Inc." by Ed Catmull and Amy Wallace, "Steal Like an Artist" by Austin Kleon, Wes Kao's newsletter and Maven course on executive communication and Kristin's own children's book:"Georgia and the Basset Hound ABCs"https://a.co/d/5Iy0MOWHow to Connect🔗 LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/kristinhuntley📧 Email: [email protected]'s Pay-It-Forward MissionWith ConnectToWork, we amplify real career stories toinspire and connect professionals. If you or someone you know is navigating a career transition, we'd love to hear your story.✔️ Want to be featured? Contact us at [email protected]✔️ Know someone who could benefit from this episode? Share it with them!Let's build a stronger professional community together.Subscribe & Share✔️ Follow & Subscribe on your favorite podcast platform.✔️ Leave a Review to help others find the show.✔️ Share This Episode with colleagues & friends.

Episode Synopsis: In this episode, we speak with Melody Philhower, a seasonedprocurement leader whose career spans from Toyota to Baxter International. Melody shares her expertise in strategic sourcing, supplier relationship management, and crisis response, including a pivotal experience managing a supplier bankruptcy that threatened production. Through her stories, Melody illuminates the importance of thorough supplier evaluation, cross-functional teamwork, and being fully present as both a leader and a parent of twins.What You'll Learn in This Episode:💡 How to effectively navigate supplier crises through strong relationships, detailed processes, and cross-functional collaboration✅ The lasting impact of Toyota's principles—problem-solving, detail orientation, and process-driven thinking—on procurement leadership🎯 The value of being fully present and focused when engaging with team members rather than multitaskingKey Quotes:🎤 "We went into full crisis mode, got a team assembled. I need procurement, I need engineering, I need quality, I need operations. I need all of these people to make this happen."🎤 "You have to have a consistent process. It's going to change, but you need to have a standard process whether you're negotiating with suppliers, trying to solve a problem, or figuring out how to move tools."🎤 "Being present and focused for my kids has always been a priority for me... and that's what I really have brought into my professional life."Meet The Interviewee:Melody Philhower is a Senior Director of ProcurementBusiness Processes and Analytics at Baxter International with extensive experience in the automotive and medical technology industries. Her career journey includes leadership roles at Toyota, where she managed multi-million-dollar purchasing operations, and at Baxter International, where she has led procurement data analytics, supplier EDI implementation, and payment term standardization projects. Melody has a proven track record of implementing procurement analytics dashboards, spearheading margin improvement projects, and optimizing supplier management processes. She applies the principles she learned at Toyota—problem-solving, attention to detail, and process-driven thinking—to her leadership approach. Melody balances her demanding career with being a present and engaged mother to twins, bringing that same focused attention to her team members.References mentioned: "Who Moved My Cheese"by Spencer JohnsonHow to Connect🔗 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/melody-philhower-procurement/📧 Email: [email protected]'s Pay-It-Forward MissionWith ConnectToWork, we amplify real career stories toinspire and connect professionals. If you or someone you know is navigating a career transition, we'd love to hear your story.✔️ Want to be featured? Contact us at [email protected]✔️ Know someone who could benefit from this episode? Share it with them!Let's build a stronger professional community together.Subscribe & Share✔️ Follow & Subscribe on your favorite podcast platform.✔️ Leave a Review to help others find the show.✔️ Share This Episode with colleagues & friends.

Episode Synopsis: In this episode, we speak with JohnMunger, a seasoned Customer Success Manager specializing in cybersecurity and SaaS solutions. With a proven track record of driving customer retention and revenue growth, John shares insights from his experience at companies like Swimlane and Varonis. From building relationships with new stakeholders to delivering measurable value, John provides practical strategies for customer success professionals looking to excel in the rapidly evolving cybersecurity landscape.What You'll Learn in This Episode:💡 How to rebuild customer relationships when key stakeholders leave and turn potentially lost accounts into success stories✅ The importance of being detail-oriented, dedicated, and adaptable in customer success roles across different industries🎯 Strategies for customizing communication based on stakeholder personalities and asking powerful questions to direct conversationsKey Quotes:🎤 "Dominic said, 'John, we're now able to respond to both phishing and sim triage cases 40% faster compared to the past. This renewal used to be questionable, but for me now it is confirmed.'"🎤 "The person who asks the question has the power. That's the person who gets to direct where the conversation is going to go."🎤 "As long as you're living by the values that are important to you, then you will be happy. You're not connected to that result anymore."Meet The Interviewee:John Munger is a Customer Success professional withexpertise in B2B SaaS and cloud technology companies, specializing in cybersecurity solutions. As a Senior Customer Success Manager at Swimlane, he managed a portfolio that grew from $5M to $7M in ARR while maintaining a renewal rate of over 90%. Previously at Varonis, he oversaw 40+ accounts managing $10M in business. John brings a unique global perspective from his experience as COO at CORARL Co. Ltd. and General Manager at Passerelles Numériques in Cambodia, where he even created the first recreational dodgeball league in Phnom Penh. He is currently seeking a Senior Customer Success Manager role in cybersecurity or SaaS, where he can leverage his expertise in customer engagement, renewal retention, and strategic growth.References mentioned: The Confidence Gap by RussHarris, Atomic Habits by James ClearHow to Connect🔗 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-munger/📧 Email: [email protected]'s Pay-It-Forward MissionWith ConnectToWork, we amplify real career stories toinspire and connect professionals. If you or someone you know is navigating a career transition, we'd love to hear your story.✔️ Want to be featured? Contact us at [email protected]✔️ Know someone who could benefit from this episode? Share it with them!Let's build a stronger professional community together.Subscribe & Share✔️ Follow & Subscribe on your favorite podcast platform.✔️ Leave a Review to help others find the show.✔️ Share This Episode with colleagues & friends.

Episode Synopsis: In this episode, we speak withJanet Keadle, an accomplished education leader with over 20 years of experience in guiding schools and programs toward success. Janet shares insights on leadership development, creating impactful educational environments, and her passion for connecting students with resources they need to thrive. Her journey from teacher to school principal demonstrates how recognizing potential in others and embracing servant leadership can transform educational outcomes and operations.What You'll Learn in This Episode:💡 How mentorship and leadership opportunities can reveal untapped potential and shape career trajectories✅ The importance of approachability, empathy, and creativity in educational leadership🎯 How to advocate for educational resources and remove barriers for both teachers and studentsKey Quotes:🎤 "She saw it in me... I thoroughly enjoyed it and didn't even see that in myself, but she had seen that in me."🎤 "My passion really is about getting resources out. I do believe that everybody, all students, everybody has this ability to learn and it's our job to help them figure out those resources."🎤 "The most important part of a leader in education is getting those projects done and taking the hats off teachers because teachers' first job is working with students."Meet The Interviewee:Janet Keadle is a results-driven educational leader withover two decades of experience leading teams and driving academic outcomes. As Principal at Accel Schools, she increased passing rates from 37% to 92% and improved employee satisfaction by 75%. Previously, Janet spent 12 years at Stride Learning Solutions in progressively senior leadership roles. Her creative approach to leadership and focus on data-driven decision-making has made her a standout in education management. Janet is currently seeking a program or project management role in the edtech space where she can leverage her leadership skills and cross-functional collaboration experience.References mentioned: Seven Mindsets of Leaders bySteve CookHow to Connect🔗 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/janetkeadle/📧 Email: [email protected]'s Pay-It-Forward MissionWith ConnectToWork, we amplify real career stories toinspire and connect professionals. If you or someone you know is navigating a career transition, we'd love to hear your story.✔️ Want to be featured? Contact us at [email protected]✔️ Know someone who could benefit from this episode? Share it with them!Let's build a stronger professional community together.Subscribe & Share✔️ Follow & Subscribe on your favorite podcast platform.✔️ Leave a Review to help others find the show.✔️ Share This Episode with colleagues & friends.

Episode Synopsis: In this episode, Michelle Popeshares her journey as a seasoned operations executive with extensive experience in technology and healthcare. She discusses the challenges of being a woman in technology leadership, her authentic and inclusive leadership style, and how she helps teams find their best fit within organizations. Michelle offers valuable insights on leadership development, operational efficiency, and creating workplace environments where people can thrive professionally while having fun. What You'll Learn in This Episode:💡 How authentic and inclusive leadership can transform organizational culture and drive better outcomes✅ Why finding the right role fit for employees based on their strengths is crucial for both individual and organizational success🔥 How personal passions outside of work (like Michelle's kickboxing) can develop resilience and leadership skills that transfer to the workplace Key Quotes:🎤 "If you wanna be seen as an equal at this table, you do not take notes like an executive assistant... that was really eye opening for me as a woman at that executive table."🎤 "I'm a very transparent leader. I share as much as I know, as much as I can to help people understand why we're going in the direction that we're going... If you understand it, then you can get behind it."🎤 "You may have really great employees... they're the right person for the bus, but they may be in the wrong seat. Acknowledging that as a leader and finding that best fit within the organization is very important." Meet The Interviewee:Michelle Pope is a results-driven executive leader withexpertise in operations management, business development, and strategic transformation across technology and healthcare industries. Most recently serving as Chief Operations Officer at Cutting Edge Technologies, she has led global security migrations, driven operational efficiency improvements of 15%, and grown revenue by 20% through strategic partnerships. Michelle is currently seeking an executive leadership role where she can leverage her expertise in operational excellence and strategic growth. Michelle recommends "Good to Great" by Jim Collins, which has shaped her leadership philosophy about finding the right organizational fit for talented team members. How to Connect🔗 LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/michellepope📧 Email: [email protected] MTMG's Pay-It-Forward MissionWith ConnectToWork, we amplify real career stories toinspire and connect professionals. If you or someone you know is navigating a career transition, we'd love to hear your story.✔️ Want to be featured? Contact us at [email protected]✔️ Know someone who could benefit from this episode? Share it with them!Let's build a stronger professional community together. Subscribe & Share✔️ Follow & Subscribe on your favorite podcast platform.✔️ Leave a Review to help others find the show.✔️ Share This Episode with colleagues & friends.

Episode Synopsis:In this episode of MTMG’s ConnectToWork, we speak with Jana Sellers, a seasoned leader in market research and competitive intelligence. With a track record of bridging data and strategy at firms like Circana, The NPD Group, and Current Analysis, Jana shares her approach to uncovering actionable insights, navigating industry transformation, and building partnerships that fuel revenue growth. Her commitment to mentorship and go-giver leadership offers a fresh perspective for anyone exploring their next chapter.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:💡 Why CEO buy-in and innovation are critical to competitive strategy✅ How giving back through mentorship can transform your own career🎯 How AI is shifting the future of data governance and cross-functional collaborationKey Quotes:🎤 "Be innovative, be strategic, and be collaborative—that’s what clients consistently tell me I bring to the table."🎤 "When you help others reimagine what their next chapter could look like, you often rediscover your own passion and purpose."🎤 "You can’t just add AI to bad data or outdated processes—it’s about quality, governance, and thoughtful implementation."Meet The Interviewee:Jana Sellers is a market research and competitive intelligence leader with over a decade of experience helping organizations uncover strategic insights that drive growth. With past roles at Circana, The NPD Group, and Current Analysis, she specializes in turning complex data into clear market opportunities. Jana is currently seeking a leadership role in market and growth strategy where she can continue leveraging customer intelligence and strategic partnerships.Referenced Books:Atomic Habits by James ClearThe Go-Giver by Bob Burg & John David MannHow to Connect🔗 LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/janasellers📧 Email: [email protected]’s Pay-It-Forward MissionWith ConnectToWork, we amplify real career stories to inspire and connect professionals. If you or someone you know is navigating a career transition, we’d love to hear your story.✔️ Want to be featured? Contact us at [email protected]✔️ Know someone who could benefit from this episode? Share it with them!Let’s build a stronger professional community together.Subscribe & Share✔️ Follow & Subscribe on your favorite podcast platform.✔️ Leave a Review to help others find the show.✔️ Share This Episode with colleagues & friends.

Episode Synopsis:Nicole Monte brings over two decades of sales leadership experience to this episode of ConnectToWork. From building high-performing teams at U.S. Bank to launching referral partner programs at Talech, Nicole shares her journey through the fintech and SaaS world, her passion for mentorship, and the leadership philosophies that have fueled her success. This episode offers valuable takeaways for professionals navigating career transitions or stepping into sales leadership roles.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:💡How sales leaders can create a collaborative team environment without sacrificing results✅ The power of mentorship and hiring with intention🎯Why AI is changing the game for sales strategy—and what’s still irreplaceableKey Quotes:🎤 "Be tough on results, easy on people. It’s all about how you prepare before the challenges come."🎤 "Sales may seem like an individual sport, but the magic happens when the team works together."🎤 "AI won’t replace the human connection in sales—it’s here to help us be more efficient, not less essential."Meet The Interviewee:Nicole Monte is a seasoned sales executive with over 20 years of experience, primarily in fintech and SaaS. She has held leadership roles at U.S. Bank, where she built and scaled telesales operations, and led Talech's transition from a reseller model to an in-house direct sales team. Nicole is passionate about mentorship and creating collaborative sales cultures. In this episode, she also references CliftonStrengths for Leaders and discusses how her tennis background shaped her leadership style.How to Connect🔗 LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/nicolemonte📧 Email: [email protected]’s Pay-It-Forward MissionWith ConnectToWork, we amplify real career stories to inspire and connect professionals. If you or someone you know is navigating a career transition, we’d love to hear your story.✔️ Want to be featured? Contact us at [email protected]✔️ Know someone who could benefit from this episode? Share it with them!Let’s build a stronger professional community together.Subscribe & Share✔️ Follow & Subscribe on your favorite podcast platform.✔️ Leave a Review to help others find the show.✔️ Share This Episode with colleagues & friends.

In this ConnectToWork episode, Jason Keezel shares hisjourney from military service to mastering Salesforce administration and technical support. With over a decade of experience resolving complex issues and empowering users through documentation and training, Jason offers practical insights into improving system performance and team collaboration. From Marine Corps discipline to CRM optimization, Jason brings a thoughtful and authentic voice to the world of tech support.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:💡 Why humility and resilience are essential in tech support and learning✅ How military and mentorship experiences shaped Jason’s approach to leadership🎯 What AI can’t replace—person-to-person connection in customer successKey Quotes:🎤 “The light at the end of the tunnel is there—it starts as a pinprick, but if you keep pushing forward, it gets brighter every day.”🎤 “You’re never going to be at the top of your game every day, and there’s always something new to learn.”🎤 “AI is great for automation, but we can’t lose the human element. Person-to-person interactions are where it’s at.”Meet The Interviewee:Jason Keezel is a seasoned Support Engineer and Salesforce Administrator with over a decade of experience solving technical problems, training end-users, and streamlining CRM systems. At Salesforce, he achieved a 4.82/5 customer satisfaction score and earned five certifications in just 18 months. Drawing on early lessons from the Marine Corps and a background in customer-focused support, Jason brings a grounded, systems-minded perspective to CRM administration.Podcast mentioned:The Dollop (history-focused and humor-infused)How to Connect🔗 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasonkeezel📧 Email: [email protected]’s Pay-It-Forward MissionWith ConnectToWork, we amplify real career stories to inspire and connect professionals. If you or someone you know is navigating a career transition, we’d love to hear your story.✔️ Want to be featured? Contact us at [email protected]✔️ Know someone who could benefit from this episode? Share it with them!Let’s build a stronger professional community together.Subscribe & Share✔️ Follow & Subscribe on your favorite podcast platform.✔️ Leave a Review to help others find the show.✔️ Share This Episode with colleagues & friends.

In this episode of ConnectToWork, David Campbell shares how he turned around a struggling organization by leading with empathy, resilience, and strategy. From transforming operations and reducing turnover to building high-performance cultures, David opens up about the personal experiences and leadership philosophies that shaped his 17-year career in professional services. It’s a candid conversation about growth, vulnerability, and driving impact through connection.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:💡 Why vulnerability and collective commitment are essential in business transformation✅ How growing plants taught David about team leadership and proactive care🎯 What classic leadership books still hold true—and why they matter at every stageKey Quotes:🎤 “I want to be a bridge builder and a connector. I am only as good as I am able to communicate the value of the future to the people actually doing the work.”🎤 “Leadership is a contact sport. It requires a hands-on approach, just like caring for living things.”🎤 “What got you here won’t get you there. You have to continue to evolve and grow.”Meet The Interviewee:David Campbell is a veteran professional services executive with over 17 years of leadership experience in IT consulting, managed services, and business transformation. As former Chief Operating Officer at Optimal Networks, he turned around organizational culture, cut turnover, and scaled operations through strategy and empathy. David shares how lessons from his mother, his passion for growing plants, and his love of team sports have made him a respected connector and culture builder.Books Mentioned:How to Win Friends and Influence People by Dale CarnegieWhat Got You Here Won’t Get You There by Marshall GoldsmithThe 7 Habits of Highly Effective People by Stephen CoveyHow to Connect🔗 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dcampbellqb📧 Email: [email protected]’s Pay-It-Forward MissionWith ConnectToWork, we amplify real career stories to inspire and connect professionals. If you or someone you know is navigating a career transition, we’d love to hear your story.✔️ Want to be featured? Contact us at [email protected]✔️ Know someone who could benefit from this episode? Share it with them!Let’s build a stronger professional community together.Subscribe & Share✔️ Follow & Subscribe on your favorite podcast platform.✔️ Leave a Review to help others find the show.✔️ Share This Episode with colleagues & friends.

Ben Berliner joins MTMG’s ConnectToWork to share how heevolved from data analyst to cloud automation leader. With expertise in AWS, GCP, and data governance, Ben discusses how automation, problem-solving, and cultural fit shape his approach to scalable analytics solutions. Listeners will gain a grounded perspective on navigating today’s shifting data and tech landscape.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:💡 How automation can eliminate hours of manual data work and improve accuracy✅ Why cultural fit is just as important as technical skill in your career🎯 The future of cloud data: privacy-first, multi-cloud, and AI-enhanced automationKey Quotes:🎤 “Process automation isn’t just a convenience, it’s a necessity for scaling operations and reducing human error.”🎤 “Being in the right environment can make all the difference in how successful and fulfilled you are in a role.”🎤 “Proactive problem-solving makes you highly valuable—identify inefficiencies and fix them.”Meet The Interviewee:Ben Berliner is a data strategist and cloud analytics expert with deep experience in Ad Tech, MarTech, and enterprise data solutions. His favorite professional tools include AWS Lambda, Python, and GCP. In this episode, he shares how building an automated reporting system became a game-changing moment in his career—and why Sudoku and synagogue leadership have sharpened his thinking.Books mentioned:The Four Hour Work Week by Tim FerrissDisrupted by Dan LyonsHow to Connect🔗 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benberliner📧 Email: [email protected]’s Pay-It-Forward MissionWith ConnectToWork, we amplify real career stories to inspire and connect professionals. If you or someone you know is navigating a career transition, we’d love to hear your story.✔️ Want to be featured? Contact us at [email protected]✔️ Know someone who could benefit from this episode? Share it with them!Let’s build a stronger professional community together.Subscribe & Share✔️ Follow & Subscribe on your favorite podcast platform.✔️ Leave a Review to help others find the show.✔️ Share This Episode with colleagues & friends.

In this episode of MTMG’s ConnectToWork, Roxane Johnsonjoins us to share her journey as a strategic HR leader who's driven transformation across industries. With roots in a military family and experience guiding organizations through M&A, global expansion, and culture change, Roxane reveals how empathy, adaptability, and technology are redefining what it means to lead in HR today.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:💡 Why agility and proactive communication are critical for HR leaders during high-growth phases✅ How volunteering and mentoring have shaped Roxane’s leadership style and emotional intelligence🎯 Why HR must embrace AI and data to remain impactful in the evolving workplaceKey Quotes:🎤 “You should no longer call it Human Resources if you remove the human out of it.”🎤 “Mel Robbins’ Let Them taught me to release the pressure of meeting everyone’s expectations and focus on what truly matters.”🎤 “If I had someone walking alongside me like you from the start, I would’ve asked better questions—like how are you measuring productivity?”Meet The Interviewee:Roxane Johnson is a seasoned HR executive with global experience in M&A, talent development, and organizational design. She is passionate about aligning people strategies with business growth and has led initiatives that saved millions in healthcare costs and increased DEI representation in leadership. In this episode, she also references Let Them by Mel Robbins and a profound childhood storybook analogy from the Flat Stanley series, shared by a fellow writer on LinkedIn, as personal sources of insight and perspective.How to Connect🔗 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/roxanejohnson/📧 Email: [email protected]’s Pay-It-Forward MissionWith ConnectToWork, we amplify real career stories to inspire and connect professionals. If you or someone you know is navigating a career transition, we’d love to hear your story.✔️ Want to be featured? Contact us at [email protected]✔️ Know someone who could benefit from this episode? Share it with them!Let’s build a stronger professional community together.Subscribe & Share✔️ Follow & Subscribe on your favorite podcast platform.✔️ Leave a Review to help others find the show.✔️ Share This Episode with colleagues & friends.

Kabir Roy joins MTMG’s ConnectToWork to share his journeyfrom software engineer to global CX and digital transformation leader. From pioneering augmented reality in retail to leading user-centered design at top firms like Ford and BlackRock, Kabir reveals how grit, empathy, and innovation have powered his 20-year career. This episode offers honest reflections on navigating change, adapting in a tech-evolving world, and finding purpose through personal reinvention. What You’ll Learn in This Episode:💡 How a human-first approach can elevate digital transformation efforts💡 Why personal setbacks can fuel professional reinvention💡 The critical role of adaptability and empathy in the future of CX💡 Why strategy, not just tech, will define the next chapter of experience leadership💡 How Kabir sees the evolution of work in the age of AI Key Quotes:🗣️ Mentorship isn’t just about skills—it’s about learning how to lead people🗣️ Passion is my fuel, especially during hard times🗣️ Strategy is the future of experience leadership—it’s where human connection will matter most🗣️ I used guitar to rebuild my dexterity after a life-threatening injury🗣️ We must shape this transformation mindfully—before it shapes us Meet The Interviewee:Kabir Roy is a global digital transformation and customer experience leader with over 20 years of cross-sector experience across financial services, retail, automotive, edtech, and cybersecurity. He’s held senior roles at Qualys, Ford, Reliance Retail, and BlackRock. Kabir holds a U.S. patent and has filed numerous design innovation patents while consistently driving innovation at the intersection of business and design. He references Outliers by Malcolm Gladwell as a key influence on his thinking. How to Connect🔗 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kabirroy/📧 Email: [email protected] MTMG’s Pay-It-Forward MissionWith ConnectToWork, we amplify real career stories to inspire and connect professionals. If you or someone you know is navigating a career transition, we’d love to hear your story.✔️ Want to be featured? Contact us at [email protected]✔️ Know someone who could benefit from this episode? Share it with them!Let’s build a stronger professional community together. Subscribe & Share✔️ Follow & Subscribe on your favorite podcast platform✔️ Leave a Review to help others find the show✔️ Share This Episode with colleagues & friends

Episode Synopsis:In this episode of MTMG’s ConnectToWork, we speak with James I. Bates II, an accomplished Partner Sales Enablement and Channel Sales professional who has spent over a decade helping companies grow through relationship-driven strategies. James discusses how his background in music shaped his leadership skills, how trust forms the foundation of effective partnerships, and how AI is poised to reshape customer experience—when applied strategically.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:How relationship-building enhances partner sales performanceThe leadership lessons James gained from music and familyWhy AI must be applied thoughtfully to deliver valueWhat inspires James and how he stays energized in challenging transitionsKey Quotes:Practice doesn’t make perfect, but it does make you betterEvery relationship is built on trust—without it, you don’t have a relationshipMusic taught me how to harmonize with others and lead with empathyUse AI with intention—don’t deploy it just because it’s availableMeet The Interviewee:James I. Bates II is a seasoned partner sales enablement expert with experience at GoTo Technologies, Jenne Inc., and S&P Data. His work has driven award-winning onboarding programs, improved partner satisfaction, and empowered sales teams across industries. Outside of work, James is a singer and lifelong music lover, a student of history, and a passionate advocate for inclusion. He is an avid listener of the PBD Podcast and recommends books like Choose Your Enemies Wisely by Patrick Bet-David.How to Connect🔗 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamesbatesii/📧 Email: [email protected]’s Pay-It-Forward MissionWith ConnectToWork, we amplify real career stories to inspire and connect professionals. If you or someone you know is navigating a career transition, we’d love to hear your story.✔️ Want to be featured? Contact us at [email protected]✔️ Know someone who could benefit from this episode? Share it with them! Let’s build a stronger professional community together.Subscribe & Share✔️ Follow & Subscribe on your favorite podcast platform✔️ Leave a Review to help others find the show✔️ Share This Episode with colleagues & friends

Episode Synopsis: In this episode, Amber Fallonshares her journey as a Sales Engineer across multiple technology sectors, from SmartBear Software to Shooter Detection Systems. She discusses her approach to sales engineering, the lessons learned from both successes and setbacks, and her philosophy of making a measurable impact in every role she takes on. What You'll Learn in This Episode:How failure can teach more valuable lessons than successThe importance of giving your best effort regardless of outcomeHow baking has taught Amber valuable skills that translate to sales engineeringThe evolution of pre-sales roles and the growing need for technical expertise in salesThe balance between technical knowledge and relationship building in sales engineering Key Quotes:"Sometimes you can do everything right and still lose, but that shouldn't change how you approach.""Sales engineering isn't just a title. It's also like a slider bar where you can see yourself a little bit more towards the sales side or a little bit more towards the engineering side.""The future of sales engineering really focuses on keying into the technical win and leaning towards building relationships in a way that serves the technical aspect of whatever product you're selling.""My philosophy in life is make things better, and I wanna be somewhere I can do that." Meet The Interviewee Amber Fallon is a seasoned Sales Engineer with extensive pre-sales experience across multiple technology companies including Shooter Detection Systems, Ometria, Examity, InsightSquared, and SmartBear Software. Known for her ability to transform technical demonstrations into compelling stories, Amber brings a unique combination of technical expertise and relationship building skills. Her colleagues describe her as "a relentless force for positivity," tenacious, and team-oriented. In her next role, Amber is seeking a long-term position where she can become a subject matter expert and make a measurable, immediate impact. How to Connect🔗 LinkedIn: Amber Fallon 📧 Email: [email protected] MTMG's Pay-It-Forward MissionWith ConnectToWork, we amplify real career stories toinspire and connect professionals. If you or someone you know is navigating a career transition, we'd love to hear your story. ✔️ Want to be featured? Contact us at [email protected] ✔️ Know someone who could benefit from this episode? Share it with them!  Let's build a stronger professional community together. Subscribe & Share✔️ Follow & Subscribe on your favorite podcast platform. ✔️ Leave a Review to help others find the show. ✔️ Share This Episode with colleagues & friends.

Episode Synopsis: In this episode, Erik Wayton sharesinsights from his nearly two decades in sales leadership, discussing his journey from self-focused achievement to an abundance mindset centered on helping others succeed. Erik explores how this fundamental shift transformed both his professional approach and personal fulfillment, along with practical wisdom on building relationships, mentorship, and the future of sales.What You'll Learn in This Episode:How shifting from a self-focused to an abundance mindset transforms professional success and personal satisfactionThe importance of genuine human connection in an increasingly digital sales environmentStrategies for continuous learning and growth through mentorship and daily improvementHow to leverage technology like AI while maintaining the human elements of business relationshipsThe value of vulnerability and openness in professional developmentKey Quotes:"By helping others get what they want, you yourself can be extremely successful and happy, and really take much more pride in what you're doing.""I help people realize their dreams. I help business owners take their business to the next level. And by doing that, they're actually changing the lives of other people that work for them and their families.""I've probably helped over 1000 companies and tens of thousands of employees have been impacted to make them more productive, differentiate themselves, spur new businesses.""It's that abundance mindset that you always have the ability to try to learn something every single day and to get better and better and sharpen your sword."Meet The Interviewee Erik Wayton is the Senior VicePresident of Sales & Marketing at ExtendMyTeam, with nearly two decades of experience in sales leadership. Known for building high-performing teams and driving business growth, his expertise spans technology, financial services, HR outsourcing, and enterprise software. Erik has consistently exceeded sales quotas (achieving 215% of quota in FY23) and is a multiple-time President's Club and Leader of the Year award recipient. Colleagues describe him as driven, high-integrity, and a relentless strategic thinker. As a father of five grown children, Erik brings the lessons of family life into his professional approach, focusing on helping others achieve their goals while building meaningful relationships.How to Connect🔗 LinkedIn: Erik Wayton 📧 Email: [email protected]'s Pay-It-Forward MissionWith ConnectToWork, we amplify real career stories toinspire and connect professionals. If you or someone you know is navigating a career transition, we'd love to hear your story.✔️ Want to be featured? Contact us at [email protected] ✔️ Know someone who could benefit from this episode? Share it with them!Let's build a stronger professional community together.Subscribe & Share✔️ Follow & Subscribe on your favorite podcast platform. ✔️ Leave a Review to help others find the show. ✔️ Share This Episode with colleagues & friends.

Episode Synopsis: In this episode, Brent Blum sharesinsights from his two-decade career in AI and spatial computing, including building Accenture's AR/VR practice from the ground up. Brent discusses the real-world lessons he's learned through product innovation, his approach to time management, and his vision for the future of extended reality technologies.What You'll Learn in This Episode:How real-world validation and testing are crucial for technology innovationThe value of delegating tasks to focus on your highest-value activitiesInsights into the future of XR (extended reality) technology and spatial computingHow AI and XR technologies will converge to transform our daily experiencesLessons from building and scaling emerging technology practices within large enterprisesKey Quotes:"Anyone can dream up a PowerPoint slide that says the future of augmented reality glasses applies to these industries and these use cases... until you really get out there and do it and try it, you don't quite know.""There is no better way to refine your delegation skills and figure out what is the highest and best use of your time than to have to pay someone else to do some of these small things.""XR is the presentation layer of AI. And really our future is about these technologies converging.""I am confident that XR is still the next major computing platform and it's just a matter of time as to when that comes true."Meet The Interviewee: Brent Blum is a seasoned leader in AI, spatial computing, and emerging technologies with over 20 years of experience shaping innovation and business strategy. As the architect of Accenture's AR/VR practice, he grew the team to 350 people and generated $46M in revenue in 2023. His work spans Fortune 500 enterprises, including partnerships with Meta, Microsoft, and NVIDIA, delivering high-impact AI and VR-driven training solutions for emergency response, workforce development, and digital twins. Colleagues describe him as innovative, driven, and organized. He's now seeking a leadership role as a Director of Product & Program Strategy.How to Connect🔗 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brentblum/📧 Email: [email protected]'s Pay-It-Forward MissionWith ConnectToWork, we amplify real career stories toinspire and connect professionals. If you or someone you know is navigating a career transition, we'd love to hear your story.✔️ Want to be featured? Contact us at [email protected] ✔️ Know someone who could benefit from this episode? Share it with them!Let's build a stronger professional community together.Subscribe & Share✔️ Follow & Subscribe on your favorite podcast platform. ✔️ Leave a Review to help others find the show. ✔️ Share This Episode with colleagues & friends.

In this episode, Josh Kail shares insights from his nearly two decades in strategic communications and PR, discussing his "sink or swim" approach to career development, team leadership philosophy, and vision for the PR industry's future. Josh offers a candid look at how early career challenges shaped his management style and why he believes the PR industry needs to refocus on its psychological foundations rather than over-relying on technology.What You'll Learn in This Episode:How embracing early career challenges can accelerate professional growthThe importance of balancing professional demands with creative outlets for mental healthWhy being challenged by team members leads to stronger strategic outcomesHow to establish professional boundaries with clients while maintaining relationshipsInsights into the future of PR and strategic communications in the AI eraKey Quotes:"I like to look at my career, or my early career in particular, as a series of sink or swim moments.""I like to have every member of my team input and preferably argue with me... I want outside views at every level to come in and challenge me.""The foundation of PR is psychological... How does an organization or an individual communicate to individuals? We need to get back to that fundamental."Meet The Interviewee Josh Kail has nearly 20 years ofexperience in Strategic Communications and PR, with a strong focus on high-tech B2B markets. He has worked with clients in AI, Machine Learning, Data, Blockchain, Ad Tech/Mar Tech, digital transformation, and emerging technologies. Throughout his career, he has represented a diverse range of industries, from consumer products to cutting-edge AI advancements. Josh has held leadership positions including Managing Partner at SamsonPR and Senior Vice President at various firms. Colleagues describe him as calm, strategic, and inclusive. Outside of work, he pursues creative outlets including writing, acrylic painting, woodworking, and coffee roasting.How to Connect🔗 LinkedIn: Josh Kail 📧 Email: [email protected]'s Pay-It-Forward MissionWith ConnectToWork, we amplify real career stories toinspire and connect professionals. If you or someone you know is navigating a career transition, we'd love to hear your story.✔️ Want to be featured? Contact us at [email protected] ✔️ Know someone who could benefit from this episode? Share it with them!Let's build a stronger professional community together.Subscribe & Share✔️ Follow & Subscribe on your favorite podcast platform. ✔️ Leave a Review to help others find the show. ✔️ Share This Episode with colleagues & friends.

How do you balance AI-driven automation with authentichuman relationships in Customer Success? In this episode of MTMG’s ConnectToWork, we sit down with Braden Eads, a Customer Success leader and keynote speaker with over a decade of experience working with Fortune 500 clients. Braden shares the career lessons that shaped his leadership style, the power of human connection in business, and his insights on the future of AI in customer engagement.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:The most valuable career lesson Braden learned as a first-time managerWhy human connection is still critical in an AI-driven worldHow empathy, collaboration, and being a helper define his leadership styleThe importance of in-person relationships in customer retentionThe book that changed Braden’s perspective on authenticity and leadershipWhy AI will never replace relationships—only enhance themKey Quotes:💬 "Every escalation is an opportunity. Crisis equals opportunity."💬 "AI can provide knowledge, but it will never create realrelationships."💬 "True leadership starts with asking, ‘How are you really?’"Meet The Interviewee:Braden Eads is a Customer Success strategist and keynotespeaker with a deep passion for helping teams scale, optimize retention, and drive meaningful client relationships. Outside of his corporate experience, Braden is a former member of the Tabernacle Choir at Temple Square, an advocate for AI in business, and a dedicated leader in mentorship and career coaching.How to Connect with Braden Eads:🔗 LinkedIn: Braden Eads📧 Email: [email protected]🌐 Website: BradenEads.comMTMG’s Pay-It-Forward MissionWith ConnectToWork, we amplify real career storiesto inspire and connect professionals. If you or someone you know is navigating a career transition, we’d love to hear your story.✔️ Want to be featured? Contact us at [email protected]✔️ Know someone who could benefit from this episode? Share it with them!Let’s build a stronger professional community together.Subscribe & Share✔️ Follow & Subscribe on your favorite podcast platform✔️ Leave a Review to help others find the show✔️ Share This Episode with colleagues & friends

In this episode of ConnectToWork, we sit down withPracheeta Dhawan, a genetic research specialist with a remarkable career spanning genomics, bioinformatics, and healthcare communication. From publishing research on LMNA variants to driving multimillion-dollar revenue growth in healthcare technology, Pracheeta’s journey is a testament to the power of adaptability and scientific curiosity. She shares her transition back into genetics, the role of AI in genetic research, and the importance of making complex medical data accessible to patients.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:✔️ How Pracheeta successfully transitioned from business roles back into genetics✔️ The future of AI and genetic research in healthcare✔️ The impact of genetic counseling on patient care✔️ How perseverance and continuous learning shaped her career✔️ The importance of effective healthcare communicationKey Quotes:🗣️ “I try to do as much as I can, and I’m a very hardworking person. Persistence is key.”🗣️ “AI is progressing, but genetic research remains essential—especially with new diseases emerging.”🗣️ “The Alchemist inspired me because it shows how overcoming challenges can lead to incredible discoveries.”Meet The Interviewee🔬 Professional Background: Genetic Research Specialist, Bioinformatics Expert, Business Strategist in Healthcare Tech📖 Book Mentioned:The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho🎓 Inspirational Figure: Marie Curie, for pioneering women in scienceHow to Connect🔗 LinkedIn:Pracheeta Dhawan📧 Email: [email protected]’s Pay-It-Forward MissionWith ConnectToWork, we amplify real career stories toinspire and connect professionals. If you or someone you know is navigating a career transition, we’d love to hear your story.✔️ Want to be featured? Contact us at [email protected]✔️ Know someone who could benefit from this episode? Share it with them! Let’s build a stronger professional community together.Subscribe & Share✔️ Follow & Subscribe on your favorite podcast platform.✔️ Leave a Review to help others find the show.✔️ Share This Episode with colleagues & friends.

In this episode of ConnectToWork, we welcome CaitEspe, a customer success leader with nearly 20 years of experience in operations, team building, and process optimization. Cait shares her insights on leading high-performing teams, implementing customer segmentation strategies, and balancing automation with high-value human interactions. She also discusses her passion for mentorship, leadership development, and fostering a customer-centric culture.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:✅ How customer segmentation drives business efficiency and customer retention✅ The importance of resiliency and strategic thinking in leadership✅ Why mentorship plays a crucial role in professional growth, especially for women in leadership✅ How AI and automation are reshaping customer success without replacing the human element✅ Lessons from The Five Dysfunctions of a Team and their impact on building trust within teamsKey Quotes:🗣️ “Customer success is shifting into a hybrid environment—balancing automation and AI with high-value human touchpoints.”🗣️ “Resiliency is key—like a duck on water, calm on the surface, paddling hard underneath.”🗣️ “We need to be intellectually curious—constantly learning and evolving in order to drive impactful customer experiences.”Meet The IntervieweeCait Espe has led customer success and support teams across various industries, optimizing operations and scaling global teams. Her experience spans companies like Efficiently, Zones LLC, and Gene Juarez Salons & Spas. She also serves as an advisory board member and is a recognized thought leader in customer success.📚 Book Mentioned:The Five Dysfunctions of a Team – Patrick Lencioni🎙️ Leadership Influences: Simon Sinek, Jeanne BlissHow to Connect🔗 LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/cait-espe📧 Email: [email protected]’s Pay-It-Forward MissionWith ConnectToWork, we amplify real career stories toinspire and connect professionals. If you or someone you know is navigating a career transition, we’d love to hear your story.✔️ Want to be featured? Contact us at [email protected]✔️ Know someone who could benefit from this episode? Share it with them! Let’s build a stronger professional community together.Subscribe & Share✔️ Follow & Subscribe on your favorite podcast platform.✔️ Leave a Review to help others find the show.✔️ Share This Episode with colleagues & friends.

In this episode of ConnectToWork, we sit down withSheri Gearhart, a distinguished system architect with expertise in AI-driven storage solutions, cloud infrastructure, and enterprise technology. Sheri shares her career-defining moments, the evolution of AI in storage, and her perspective on the future of technology. She also discusses the importance of ethics in AI, lessons from her leadership at Dell Technologies, and her passion for knowledge sharing and mentorship.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:✅ Sheri’s journey from Montana to Texas and her career growth in tech✅ How she helped develop Dell VxBlock, the world’s firstconverged infrastructure system✅ The intersection of AI, cloud storage, and enterprise architecture✅ Why ethics, security, and privacy should be forethoughts, not afterthoughts in AI development✅ The role of mentorship in career success and growth✅ Lessons from balancing technical expertise with business impactKey Quotes:💬 "Technology is like fashion—some things always come back around. But ethics, security, and privacy should never be afterthoughts in AI development."💬 "I love learning new technologies, but what truly excites me is sharing that knowledge with others and making a real impact."💬 "AI and machine learning are the future, but we need diverse perspectives to shape ethical and responsible innovation."Meet The Interviewee:📚 Book Recommendation: No Mud, No Lotus by Thich Nhat Hanh🎙 Mentor Spotlight: Tammy Booth, Chief Revenue Officer at Cloud Soda🐾 Passion Project: Animal welfare advocacy and community cat caretakingHow to Connect with Sheri Gearhart:🔗 LinkedIn:Sheri Gearhart📧 Email: [email protected]’s Pay-It-Forward MissionWith ConnectToWork, we amplify real career stories toinspire and connect professionals. If you or someone you know is navigating a career transition, we’d love to hear your story.✔️ Want to be featured? Contact us at [email protected]✔️ Know someone who could benefit from this episode? Share it with them!Let’s build a stronger professional community together.Subscribe & Share✔️ Follow & Subscribe on your favorite podcast platform.✔️ Leave a Review to help others find the show.✔️ Share This Episode with colleagues & friends.

Guest:David WolfeEpisode Synopsis:In this episode of ConnectToWork, we sit down with David Wolfe, a seasoned strategy and operations leader with experience spanning both the public and private sectors. David shares insights on leadership, resilience through adversity, and how his experiences as a world-class athlete shaped his approach to business. From navigating challenges during COVID-19 to the impact of strong mentorship and AI’s role in the future of operations, this episode is packed with actionable wisdom.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:✅ The leadership lessons David learned from COVID-19✅ Why resilience, positivity, and bringing people together matter in leadership✅ How coaching and mentorship shaped David’sprofessional journey✅ The evolving role of AI in strategy and operations✅ The power of mindfulness and motivation in personal and professional growthKey Quotes:💬 “Enthusiasm is infectious. If you bring positivity to the table, others will follow.”💬 “Automation isn’t a replacement—it’s an enhancement. The human element will always be necessary.”💬 “Coaching isn’t just about building better athletes; it’s about building better humans.”Meet The IntervieweeDavid Wolfe is a strategic operations leader with abackground in public and private sector leadership, coaching, and entrepreneurship. A former world-class athlete, David brings a unique perspective on perseverance, teamwork, and leadership.How to Connect🔗 LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-wolfe-ir/📧 Email:[email protected]’s Pay-It-Forward MissionWith ConnectToWork, we amplify real career stories to inspire and connect professionals. If you or someone you know is navigating a career transition, we’d love to hear your story.✔️ Want to be featured? Contact us at [email protected]✔️ Know someone who could benefit from this episode? Share it with them! Let’s build a stronger professional community together.Subscribe & Share✔️ Follow & Subscribe on your favorite podcast platform.✔️ Leave a Review to help others find the show.✔️ Share This Episode with colleagues & friends.

From IT consulting to sustainable living, Paul Braren hasseen it all. With over 30 years in the industry, Paul shares valuable lessons on technology, problem-solving, and embracing change. He dives into key career moments, the power of mentorship, and his personal journey toward energy efficiency and EV advocacy. Whether you're an IT professional, an innovator, or someone interested in future tech trends, this episode is packed with wisdom and inspiration!3. Key Takeaways & Learnings✅ Lessons from Failure: How a tough consulting experience shaped Paul’s approach to teamwork and problem-solving.✅ The Power of Documentation: Why writing and sharing knowledge is critical for professional growth.✅ Sustainability & EV Advocacy: Paul’s personal experience in making his home all-electric and the challenges of sustainable living.✅ Industry Trends & AI: Thoughts on AI’s impact on IT, data centers, and the future of energy consumption.✅ The Importance of Mentorship: How advice from a senior mentor changed Paul’s career trajectory and inspired him to launch TinkerTry.com.4. Guest Highlights & Background 30+ years in IT, with experience in consulting, enterprise infrastructure, and energy-efficient computing. Founder of TinkerTry.com, a tech blog where he shares practical IT and sustainability insights. Passionate about EV adoption and home electrification, having driven 100,000 miles in an EV and converted his home to be more energy-efficient. Advocate for public speaking in IT, sharing knowledge to help others grow in their careers. 5. Memorable Quotes📢 “Paul answers questions I didn’t even know I had yet!”📢 “You can’t just focus on technical skills; people skills matter just as much.”📢 “We’re at a crossroads in IT—AI is transforming everything, but at what energy cost?”6. Future of the Industry & Trends AI and data center energy consumption: Will AI lead to greater efficiency or unnecessary energy waste? Sustainable IT solutions: The importance of making data centers and enterprise IT more energy-efficient. Decentralized energy production: How solar, wind, and storage solutions can impact how we power homes and businesses. The impact of AI and automation: The potential rise (or fall) of AI-powered productivity and its long-term implications. 7. How to Connect with Paul Braren Website: TinkerTry.com YouTube Channel: TinkerTry BlueSky: Search for Paul Braren 8. The Pay-It-Forward Mission of MTMG’s ConnectToWorkAt MTMG, we amplify real career stories to inspire andconnect professionals. If you or someone you know is navigating a career transition, we’d love to hear your story.✔️ Want to be featured? Contact us at [email protected]✔️ Know someone who could benefit from this episode? Share it with them!Let’s build a stronger professional community together.9. Subscribe & Share CTA✔️ Follow & Subscribe on your favorite podcast platform.✔️ Leave a Review to help others find the show.✔️ Share This Episode with colleagues & friends.

At MTMG, we believe in sharing real career storiesthat inspire and help professionals in transition. In this episode, we sit down with Ben Weiss, a 20-year veteran in B2B technology marketing, with leadership roles at Salesforce, IBM, and Cato Networks. Ben shares insights from his career, lessons in leadership, and why giving back is a fundamental part of his journey.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:✅ Career-defining moments: How Ben handled high-stakes marketing crises and turned them into leadership lessons.✅ Resilience in marketing: Lessons from navigating agency work, corporate giants, and industry shifts.✅ Mentorship & giving back: How Ben supports the next generation of marketing leaders.✅ Insights for hiring managers & recruiters: Why Ben’s skills in strategic planning, relationship-building, and event marketing make him a valuable asset.✅ The future of marketing: Trends in AI, sales-marketing alignment, and the importance of adaptability.Key Quotes:"As a leader, you have to throw yourself on the sword to protect your team. Success isn’t about avoiding mistakes—it’s about how you respond to them.""Marketing isn’t about chasing the next shiny object. If you don’t stop and look around, you’ll miss what’s really driving impact.""Start small. Test one thing at a time. Focus on what works before trying to do it all."📩 Connect with Ben Weiss:🔗 LinkedIn: Ben Weiss, PMP | LinkedIn📧 Email: [email protected] the Mission & Pay It ForwardWith MTMG's ConnectToWork, we amplify real career stories to inspire and connect professionals.Want to be featured? Contact us at [email protected] someone who could benefit from this episode? Share it with them and help us grow this professional community.Subscribe & Share✔️ Follow & Subscribe on your favorite podcast platform.✔️ Leave a Review to help others find the show.✔️ Share This Episode with colleagues & friends.

At MTMG, we bring forward real career stories that inspire and inform professionals in transition. In this episode, we sit down with John Frieslaar, a global leader in telecommunications and technology, who has worked with industry giants such as Huawei, BT, and Lucent Technologies. John shares his experience in network architecture innovation, navigating cross-cultural leadership, and his vision for the future of telecommunications. From leading transformative projects to pioneering systems thinking in business, John’s career offers invaluable lessons for professionals across industries.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:✅ Innovation & Strategy: How John helped BT revolutionize telecom networks.✅ Cross-Cultural Leadership: Lessons from working with global teams and navigating business in China.✅ The Power of Mentorship: How influential mentors shaped John’s career path.✅ The Future of Telecom: AI, 5G, 6G, and the next wave of digital transformation.✅ Systems Thinking & Sustainability: Why holistic thinking is critical for solving today’s business challenges.Key Quotes:“The world is smaller than ever, and success today means knowing how to navigate different cultures and business mindsets.”“If you’re not thinking about the next big transformation, you’re already behind.”“Vision, innovation, and collaboration—those are the three keys to building something that lasts.”Meet John FrieslaarJohn Frieslaar has spent decades at the forefront of telecommunications and technology innovation. From shaping next-generation networks to introducing new broadband services that changed the game, his expertise spans global enterprises, high-stakes business strategy, and cutting-edge digital transformation.Beyond telecom, John is a systems thinker and sustainability advocate, leveraging his knowledge to drive solutions that balance innovation with environmental responsibility.How to Connect with John Frieslaar:🔗 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-frieslaar/📧 Email: [email protected]’s Pay-It-Forward MissionWith ConnectToWork, we amplify real career stories to inspire and connect professionals. If you or someone you know is navigating a career transition, we’d love to hear your story.✔️ Want to be featured? Contact us at [email protected]✔️ Know someone who could benefit from this episode? Share it with them!Let’s build a stronger professional community together.Subscribe & Share✔️ Follow & Subscribe on your favorite podcast platform.✔️ Leave a Review to help others find the show.✔️ Share This Episode with colleagues & friends.