Episódios
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In this episode of The Corporate Couch, I chat with Joel Zeff (see his bio below), a nationally renowned speaker, work culture expert, author, and humorist who has captivated audiences for over 25 years. Known for his hilarious improvisational comedy and insightful messages on leadership, collaboration, and change, Joel brings his unique energy to the podcast.
We explore Joel’s fascinating career journey—from his days as a newspaper journalist to becoming a sought-after keynote speaker. Joel shares how improv has shaped his perspectives on teamwork, communication, and embracing the unexpected. He also talks about the power of celebrating small victories (or "Ta-da!" moments) to fuel passion and creativity in the workplace, letting the Universe point the way, and the one question you should ask as a leader. Joel is also the creator of one of the most iconic traditions at the University of Kansas' historic Allen Fieldhouse during men's basketball games.
Whether you're a seasoned leader or just starting out, Joel’s stories, humor, and actionable insights will leave you inspired and energized. Plus, don’t miss his behind-the-scenes tales from over 2,500 events and the origin of his iconic "Ta-da!" philosophy! Warning: Be prepared to laugh your ass off during this conversation.
Today's episode is brought to you by ExecHQ (Website), a C-suite fractional firm providing elite executives for your business. If you’re having challenges taking your business to the next level, want to augment your leadership team, or prepare your company for increased growth, profitability, and an eventual successful exit, ExecHQ has seasoned executives from every C-suite position, ensuring a perfect fit for your needs and industry dynamics. To learn more about ExecHQ, email Jeff Pelaccio at [email protected].
Joel's bio: Joel Zeff creates energy. His spontaneous humor and vital messages have thrilled audiences for more than 25 years. As a national speaker, work culture expert, author, and humorist, Joel captivates audiences with a unique blend of hilarious improvisational comedy and essential ideas on work and life. He has shared his experience and insight on collaboration, leadership, change, communication, innovation, fun, and passion at more than 2,500 events. His book, “Make the Right Choice: Lead with Passion, Elevate Your Team, and Unleash the Fun at Work”, is consistently listed as one of the top work/life balance books on Amazon (Joel’s latest edition of "Make the Right Choice" launched November 13, 2024). He has appeared on CNBC and featured in the Dallas Morning News, Houston Chronicle, The Kansas City Star, and many other media outlets. For more information, visit his website at www.joelzeff.com. -
In this episode, I sit down with the vibrant and insightful Susie Tomenchok, author, executive coach, TEDx speaker, and negotiation expert (see her bio below). From being a telecom pioneer at Comcast to leading an international company of over 1000 employees to becoming a mentor and coach, Susie shares her inspiring journey and practical advice for professionals at every stage of their careers (including being an early adopter of having a side hustle). We dive into her unique approach to negotiation as a daily practice, not just a high-stakes event, and explore how mastering this skill can transform careers, leadership, and personal relationships. Susie’s passion for helping others unlock their potential shines as she discusses the art of framing conversations, embracing creativity in solutions, and empowering individuals to confidently advocate for themselves.
Whether you’re a recent graduate or an experienced leader looking to level up, this episode is packed with actionable insights and energizing stories.
Today's episode is brought to you by ExecHQ (Website), a C-suite fractional firm providing elite executives for your business. If you’re having challenges taking your business to the next level, want to augment your leadership team, or prepare your company for increased growth, profitability, and an eventual successful exit, ExecHQ has seasoned executives from every C-suite position, ensuring a perfect fit for your needs and industry dynamics. To learn more about ExecHQ, email Jeff Pelaccio at [email protected].
Susie's bio: Susie Tomenchok (Website) is a seasoned expert negotiator, career coach, author, and speaker. She is dedicated to empowering leaders to successfully navigate their professional and personal lives through the game-changing lens of leverage and negotiation. A recognized deal maker, Susie has a rich background overseeing an $80 million portfolio that included industry giants such as ESPN/Disney, Boeing, Gallup, Discovery, Viacom, NBC, and A&E. Her success is attributed to her proprietary P.A.C.E framework, which she expertly applies in negotiating complex deals. A graduate of the prestigious Betsy Magness Institute and the International Coaching Academy, Susie is well-versed in leadership development and coaching methodologies. She leverages her knowledge as the host of the influential podcast Leaders with Leverage and the author of The Art of Everyday Negotiation Without Manipulation, where she shares essential strategies for successfully adopting a Negotiator Mindset™ as an essential path to success. A dynamic speaker, Susie inspires courage in her audiences, encouraging them to become advocates for themselves and others. She dismantles the myths surrounding negotiation, demonstrating how a Negotiator Mindset™ is not only ethical but also drives business growth and career success. Today, Susie collaborates with emerging businesses, large corporations, and individual executives—especially women. She focuses on developing and honing the triple threat of superpowers—a Negotiator Mindset™, self-advocacy, and avoiding the path of least resistance—leading her clients toward business growth and career success as a valued and trusted executive partner. Susie finds immense joy in witnessing clients realize their career and business goals. Susie not only transforms negotiations into triumphs but also inspires individuals to embrace their voices, navigate their desired paths, and achieve unparalleled success in both business and life. -
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After over 100 episodes, Paige Pelaccio Meyer (see her bio below) is my favorite guest so far (I am biased since she is my daughter :-). While she knew she wanted to be a nurse, Paige had a unique career strategy that deviated from the typical nurse's first job. She bought the business she worked at for 5 years when she was 27. Two and half months after taking ownership, Paige was forced to shut down her business for 8 weeks due to COVID regulations. She talks about "embracing the suck" to achieve your long-term goals, her failures of leading people who were once her peers, how being a leader can be lonely, how she wants to help people radiate beauty and happiness (both inside and out), and how knowing what you do not want to do can guide your career.
As a listener of The Corporate Couch, new clients of Refresh Med Spa will receive $50 off (minimum purchase $150). See their website in the bio below and mention The Corporate Couch.
Today's episode is brought to you by ExecHQ (Website), a C-suite fractional firm providing elite executives for your business. If you’re having challenges taking your business to the next level, want to augment your leadership team, or prepare your company for increased growth, profitability, and an eventual successful exit, ExecHQ has seasoned executives from every C-suite position, ensuring a perfect fit for your needs and industry dynamics. To learn more about ExecHQ, email Jeff Pelaccio at [email protected].
Paige's bio: Paige Pelaccio Meyer (LinkedIn) is a nurse turned med spa owner who started working at Refresh Medical Spa (Website) in 2014 as a nurse injector. After 5 years of simultaneously working other jobs to keep afloat, she decided to purchase the business to grow and expand. After navigating a worldwide pandemic as a new business owner, almost 5 years later, the business has grown more than 5x. In late 2024, Refresh is opening its new location, triple its size, to become the first luxury medical spa in Overland Park, KS. Paige started her college career at the University of Kansas and graduated from the University of St. Mary's with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing.
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In this special edition episode of 'The Corporate Couch,' host Jeff Pelaccio interviews Joni Wickham the author of "The Thin Line Between Cupcake and B*tch: Taking Action, Driving Change, and Getting Results". She also co-founded the public affairs firm Wickham James Strategies and Solutions. They discuss leadership in corporate America, the influence of the November 5th, 2024 election on leadership and political parties, and how skills from government and politics transition to the private sector. Joni shares her career journey, insights into effective communication and agenda setting, and reflections on major projects like Kansas City's new airport and streetcar. The episode highlights the importance of meeting audiences where they are and the distinction between leadership and politics. 00:00 Introduction to The Corporate Couch 01:19 Meet Joni Wickham: From Politics to Private Sector 05:03 Insights on the November 5th Election 07:59 Leadership and Politics: A Delicate Balance 08:58 Wickham James Strategies and Solutions 10:42 Kansas City Projects and Achievements 14:05 Final Thoughts and Resources 15:23 Closing Remarks
To learn more, about the topics above, please visit the Wickham James website.
Joni's bio: Joni Wickham (LinkedIn) hails from Raleigh, North Carolina, and arrived in Kansas City almost 15 years ago, bringing her distinctive southern accent and extensive experience from diverse governmental and advocacy roles. Joni served as Chief of Staff to former Kansas City Mayor Sly James, contributing to major development projects and elevating Kansas City's reputation nationally and internationally. Joni’s honors include the 2019 University of Missouri Truman School of Public Affairs Mel Carnahan Public Service Award; and recognition as one of the 50 most influential people in Kansas City. Joni was also honored as a Woman Who Means Business by the Kansas City Business Journal in 2023. In addition to public speaking engagements, Joni leads workshops on a variety of leadership and communications topics and assists clients with their public policy, strategic communications, crisis communications, government relations, and political consulting needs. Additionally, she is celebrated as the author of the best-selling book, "The Thin Line Between Cupcake and B*tch: Taking Action, Driving Change, and Getting Results".
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Anna Murray (see her bio below) is the CEO and founder of emedia the longest-running woman-owned web and digital transformation agency in the US. In this fascinating conversation, we talk about how she found her company by accident, her journey from English teacher to TV journalist, to tech founder, her stories of misogyny in broadcast news, why journalists make great hires, her thoughts on why planning is a fool's errand, three metaphors to diagnose any situation, being a remote work pioneer (and her thoughts on "forcing" people back in the office), the early days of integrating the internet into the fabrics of corporate America, and her mission to evolve cybersecurity to the next level.
You will also enjoy how Anna's grandfather was called "the inventor who powered New York City and how she once gave a tech conference keynote while knitting!
Today's episode is brought to you by ExecHQ (Website), a C-suite fractional firm providing elite executives for your business. If you’re having challenges taking your business to the next level, want to augment your leadership team, or prepare your company for increased growth, profitability, and an eventual successful exit, ExecHQ has seasoned executives from every C-suite position, ensuring a perfect fit for your needs and industry dynamics. To learn more about ExecHQ, email Jeff Pelaccio at [email protected].
Anna's bio: Anna Murray (LinkedIn) is a tech entrepreneur and founder of emedia (Website) LLC, a provider of software development, high-level technology consulting, and project and program management. She has consulted with brands worldwide on their digital strategies, served as interim CIO for Time Out NY, head of interactive at Harvard Business Publishing, and led the digital transformation at the American Association of Advertising Agencies. Anna is well known for her ability to bridge business and tech and is the author of several books, including The Complete Software Project Manager (John Wiley & Sons).
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In this special edition of The Corporate Couch, I welcome back the insightful and inspiring Mary Messner, who first joined us on October 2, 2023, to discuss her remarkable career. Today, we dive deep into a topic close to our hearts: workplace creativity.
Mary, founder of Highline Creative Group, shares her expanded definition of creativity—beyond the arts and crafts—to include innovative thinking, bold problem-solving, and fostering emotional connections within teams. Drawing on her 14-year tenure at Cerner Corporation (now Oracle) and her current work in keynote speaking and workshops, Mary illustrates how creativity fuels growth, drives employee satisfaction, and helps companies tackle their biggest challenges.
We also explore how creativity can transform workplace culture, enhance engagement, and even improve employee retention. Plus, Mary teases exciting details about her new workshop designed to help businesses embed creativity into their DNA.
Don’t miss this engaging conversation packed with actionable insights, personal anecdotes, and even a bit of humor (including a fun challenge involving Mary’s 2024 Halloween costume)!
📌 To learn more, you can connect with Mary using the following link: https://marymessner.com/thecorporatecouch/.
Mary's bio:
Mary Messner has spent her career exploring the power of imagination, resilience, and collaboration in the workplace. Her career as a health care executive at Research Medical Center and subsequently Cerner Corporation fostered a deep appreciation for breaking down limitations and encouraging innovative solutions.
Mary's leadership roles solidified her willingness to take strategic risks and explore new frontiers in business, setting the stage for a pivotal career journey.
Mary took a part-time pause from the corporate world to embrace motherhood, a move that deepened her understanding of how emotions influence decision-making. Returning to Cerner full-time as a Facilitator, Mary reconnected with her love for the stage, recognizing the incredible impact of authentic, engaging communication in inspiring teams and driving change.
Today, Mary is a sought-after keynote speaker and creativity advocate who brings a dynamic blend of experience from consulting, and executive leadership. Through her signature DREAM, FEEL, CREATE framework, she inspires organizations to return to the "playground" of possibilities, empowering teams to embrace innovation, foster collaboration, and cultivate environments where everyone’s ideas are celebrated.
When she isn't focusing on her business, Mary puts energy into the non-profit Madam President Camp and spending time with her husband as they raise their two young daughters.
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In this episode, I have the privilege of interviewing Paul Hatch (see his bio below), a distinguished leader with an extraordinary career spanning the US Navy, Morgan Stanley, UBS, and beyond. From his early days as a Naval officer (and advising two US presidents on Middle East policy) to becoming Vice Chairman of Morgan Stanley Wealth Management, Paul’s journey is marked by innovation, leadership, and resilience. We focus on Paul’s inspiring work with Stage3 Tribe, a groundbreaking initiative to combat ageism in the workplace and empower professionals in the later stages of their careers. Paul shares how Stage3 Tribe fosters a supportive community for seasoned individuals seeking new opportunities and purpose in their professional lives.Join us for an insightful conversation as Paul reflects on his career, how Wall Street has changed over the last 40 years, the impact of moving over 60 times, the challenges of navigating ageism, and how Stage3 Tribe is transforming the narrative for experienced professionals. Whether you’re an industry veteran or just beginning to consider your next chapter, this episode offers wisdom and encouragement for all.
Today's episode is brought to you by ExecHQ (Website), a C-suite fractional firm providing elite executives for your business. If you’re having challenges taking your business to the next level, want to augment your leadership team, or prepare your company for increased growth, profitability, and an eventual successful exit, ExecHQ has seasoned executives from every C-suite position, ensuring a perfect fit for your needs and industry dynamics. To learn more about ExecHQ, email Jeff Pelaccio at [email protected].
Paul's bio: Paul Hatch (LinkedIn) began his career as an officer in the US Navy, after graduation from the US Naval Academy. Following his service, Paul joined EF Hutton as a financial advisor and began a 30-year career at the firm that would become Morgan Stanley Wealth Management. Paul continued to rise through the organization, holding and mastering virtually every field management role, becoming Head of all Global Products and eventually Vice Chairman. Following his time at Morgan Stanley, Paul was appointed to the Board of Focus Financial, the leading provider of capital to the Independent Advisory business. Paul moved to UBS in 2014 where he was Group Managing Director, and Head of Investment Products and Services for the Americas, including all products, programs, services, research, and technology that Financial Advisors use with their clients, along with Wealth Management Capital Markets. Paul was also a founder of Convergency Partners prior to the creation of Vestria Capital. Paul is also the founder of Stage3 Tribe (LinkedIn). It is a community for professionals in the later stages of their careers that offers a supportive and informative space to explore new opportunities. It is a virtual hub for experienced individuals seeking to make a career change and find fulfillment. Members of this community are typically close to retirement or have significant experience in their field. They can connect with like-minded individuals, share knowledge, ask for advice, and network for potential opportunities. Overall, this community focuses on supporting and empowering individuals in the latter stages of their career journey and fighting ageism in the workplace. -
In this compelling episode," Jeff sits down with Bill Brandmeyer (see his bio below), a visionary leader who has transformed organizational development, marketing, and social impact over four decades. Bill shares insights from his remarkable journey, from working with Fortune 500 companies to founding ShareWaves, a nonprofit revolutionizing youth sports access.
Listeners will discover how Bill's passion for breaking down barriers in sports has created tangible opportunities for underprivileged children, and how his professional experiences have shaped his mission-driven approach to community development. You will learn from his struggles with alcohol from being in AA at 21 to now being 29 years sober, being part of a legendary Kansas City family that created multigenerational wealth (as well as the complexity and dysfunction that comes with working with all your family members), building a business that sold for $715 million (2024 dollars), and the reasons for his multiple business failures after the sale of the family business. From personal struggles to philanthropic innovation, Bill's story is a powerful testament to using professional expertise for social good.
Tune in to hear an inspiring conversation about failing, sobriety, leadership, purpose, and the transformative power of sports in building stronger, more inclusive communities.
Today's episode is brought to you by ExecHQ (Website), a C-suite fractional firm providing elite executives for your business. If you’re having challenges taking your business to the next level, want to augment your leadership team, or prepare your company for increased growth, profitability, and an eventual successful exit, ExecHQ has seasoned executives from every C-suite position, ensuring a perfect fit for your needs and industry dynamics. To learn more about ExecHQ, email Jeff Pelaccio at [email protected].
Bill's bio: With over four decades of multifaceted experience in organizational development, marketing, digital content, commercialization strategy, healthcare, hospitality, and event production, Bill Brandmeyer (LinkedIn) drives purpose-driven initiatives that resonate with diverse audiences. Throughout my career, I have partnered with various organizations, from ambitious startups to Fortune 500 companies, collaborating with them to achieve their aspirational goals. A relentless pursuit of excellence and innovation has characterized my professional journey. Starting in organizational development, I recognized the importance of understanding the dynamics influencing success. This foundation allowed me to transition into marketing, where I honed my skills in creating compelling value propositions. Embracing the digital revolution, I led strategies that engage and inspire audiences across platforms. I actively contribute to the Kansas City community's social impact and philanthropic endeavors, focusing primarily on youth sports and education. Believing in the transformative power of sports, I am committed to dismantling barriers that impede underprivileged households from accessing sporting opportunities. The research underscores the profound impact of sports on holistic child development, which propels my dedication to pioneering innovative, collaborative solutions for inclusive sports participation.Bill founded ShareWaves, a public charity registered as a 501(c)(3) that harnesses the transformative power of sports to build better humans. Our mission is to ensure that every child has equitable access to physical activity and high-quality sports engagement. For over half a decade, we have worked to identify and remove barriers preventing children from participating in sports, particularly those from under-resourced households.Our impactful implementation of core strategies has led to quantifiable changes in young lives. For example, we provide targeted microgrants to alleviate financial burdens, invest in high-quality sports programs in marginalized communities, and equip caregivers with essential social and emotional skills. Through our work, we have discovered a systemic youth sports crisis characterized by a "pay-for-play" and "win-at-all-costs" mentality that drives young people away from the transformative benefits of positive sports experiences. Our #Ready2Play Camps and Clinics aim to provide children access to top-tier coaching and training opportunities, fostering a love for sports while offering essential skills and mentorship.A principle that guides my life comes from the biblical text, “From everyone who has been given much, much will be demanded; and from the one who has been entrusted with much, much more will be asked” (Luke 12:48). This wisdom emphasizes the moral obligation to use one’s gifts to glorify God and benefit others. This ethos aligns closely with Uncle Ben’s words to Peter Parker in Spider-Man: “With great power comes great responsibility.”. Bill is also the co-host of the podcast "Movement is the Medicine," where they discuss the profound impacts of exercise, physical activity, and sports participation. -
This episode is a beautiful example of how a person's life/career journey evolves. Sandra Wiley (see her bio below) grew up in a small rural town in Kansas and got married at 19 with aspirations of being a housewife and a mother. She is now a company president and one of the Top 100 Most Influential People in Accounting (10 years running and she does not have an accounting degree :-). Sandra and I discuss:
- Her belief that everyone has a gift and that everything in life happens for a reason
- Taking a career gamble and going from a vice president to an executive assistant (and that decision changed her life)
- How she started life over at 30
- Why work/life balance is a bunch of crap
- Why focusing on relationship building will make your career amazing
- How to build your confidence "muscle"
- Her anxiety when she had to fire someone (and getting a stapler thrown at her).
You will love Sandra's energy, life journey, and leadership advice. She is truly an inspiring person. Please enjoy!
Today's episode is brought to you by ExecHQ (Website), a C-suite fractional firm providing elite executives for your business. If you’re having challenges taking your business to the next level, want to augment your leadership team, or prepare your company for increased growth, profitability, and an eventual successful exit, ExecHQ has seasoned executives from every C-suite position, ensuring a perfect fit for your needs and industry dynamics. To learn more about ExecHQ, email Jeff Pelaccio at [email protected].
Sandra's bio: Sandra Wiley (LinkedIn), President of Boomer Consulting, Inc., is a leader in the accounting
profession with a passion for helping firms grow, adapt and thrive. For ten yearsrunning, Accounting Today has recognized her as a Top 100 Most Influential Peoplein Accounting due to her expertise in leadership, management, collaboration,culture building, talent and training. Sandra’s years of experience and influence as amanagement and strategic planning consultant make her a sought-after resourceamong the best and brightest firms in the country. She is regularly invited to speakat national conferences where she empowers audiences with new ideas and a senseof humor. She is a popular author, having been published in many online and printpublications, and penned two books, The Journey Ahead: A New Roadmap toCollaboration in Your Firm and The Engaged Employee: 10 Initiatives for SuccessfulFirms.
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In this insightful episode, we sit down with Mark Hamberlin (see his bio below), the first Chief People Officer to appear on "The Corporate Couch" podcast. As the executive responsible for human resources strategy and operations at Clark Construction Group, Mark shares his expertise in attracting, retaining, and engaging top talent to drive business success. With decades of experience spanning roles at Danaher, Cisco Systems, Coach Leather, and Hallmark Cards, Mark offers a unique perspective on the evolving role of the Chief People Officer in the modern workforce. We dive into how he aligns talent management, company culture, and business strategy to foster the growth and development of high-performing teams. Listeners will gain valuable insights on:
The critical intersection of human resources, organizational behavior, and corporate strategyHow Human Resources evolved from an admin function to gaining a seat at the executive tableEmbracing a strategy of focusing on experience to further your career (especially for Gen Z)How he embraced the opportunity to be a controller (twice) which made him a better HR executiveStrategies for building a strong employer brand and cultivating an engaged workforceBest practices in talent acquisition, training, and succession planningAdvice for aspiring HR leaders looking to make a strategic impact.Whether you're a seasoned HR professional, a business leader focused on talent management, or simply interested in the evolution of the modern workplace, you will enjoy this conversation with Mark!
Today's episode is brought to you by ExecHQ (Website), a C-suite fractional firm providing elite executives for your business. If you’re having challenges taking your business to the next level, want to augment your leadership team, or prepare your company for increased growth, profitability, and an eventual successful exit, ExecHQ has seasoned executives from every C-suite position, ensuring a perfect fit for your needs and industry dynamics. To learn more about ExecHQ, email Jeff Pelaccio at [email protected].
Mark's bio: Mark Hamberlin (LinkedIn) provides executive direction for Clark Construction Group’s human
resources strategy and operations. Mark is responsible for aligning talent, culture, and organization in order to attract, retain, develop, and engage the best talent for Clark. His role also encompasses talent acquisition and management, training and development, organization development, employee engagement, total rewards, and employee policies. Before joining Clark, Mark served as vice president of global talent acquisition for Danaher, a global science and technology company. Mark’s career has also included human resources and finance leadership roles at Cisco Systems, Coach Leather, and Hallmark Cards. With decades of human resources experience, Mark is instrumental in fostering a strong alignment between business strategy, talent management, and company culture. He is also focused on driving the growth and development of the Clark team.
Mark earned his bachelor’s degree in French, with minors in business and psychology, and a master’s degree in organizational behavior from Brigham Young University.Mark serves on the MBA Advisory Board for the Marriott School of Management and is active with local community service and youth groups.
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In this inspiring episode, we sit down with Fr. Justin Mathews, a Kansas City native whose journey from musician/audio engineer to Orthodox priest and social entrepreneur exemplifies the intersection of faith, innovation, and community transformation. Fr. Justin shares his remarkable story of leading Reconciliation Services (RS) at Kansas City's historic racial and economic divide, growing it from a modest $650,000 organization to a $4.5-million force for change with 30 employees. We explore the launch of Thelma's Kitchen, Kansas City's first "donate-what-you-can" café, and discuss how his unique approach to social leadership has earned him recognition as a NextGen Leader and the Greater Kansas City Chamber of Commerce's ACE Award. As a Civil Society Fellow and member of the Aspen Global Leadership Network, Fr. Justin offers profound insights into building bridges across Kansas City's racial and economic dividing lines, his intersection of faith, entrepreneurship, and running a not-for-profit, innovative approaches to community development and reconciliation, leadership strategies that drive both social impact and organizational growth, and the future of social ventures in urban transformation.Whether you're a social entrepreneur, company/community leader, or someone passionate about creating meaningful change, Fr. Justin's contagious enthusiasm and 25 years of experience offer invaluable lessons in transformative leadership.
Today's episode is brought to you by ExecHQ (Website), a C-suite fractional firm providing elite executives for your business. If you’re having challenges taking your business to the next level, want to augment your leadership team, or prepare your company for increased growth, profitability, and an eventual successful exit, ExecHQ has seasoned executives from every C-suite position, ensuring a perfect fit for your needs and industry dynamics. To learn more about ExecHQ, email Jeff Pelaccio at [email protected].
Justin's bio: With a contagious enthusiasm for social innovation, Fr. Justin Mathews is a Kansas City native with 25 years of experience in developing and executing successful strategies for mission-driven for-profit and nonprofit organizations. He is a serial social entrepreneur, retreat leader, keynote speaker, e-course author, mastermind facilitator for social entrepreneurs, and leadership coach. For 10 years Fr. Justin has been the Executive Director & CEO of Reconciliation Services [RS] (www.RS3101.org) a quickly growing social venture located at 31st and Troost, the historic racial and economic dividing line of Kansas City, MO. The vision of RS is “By living our core values of dignity, community, and advocacy, we cultivate a community seeking reconciliation and reveal the strength of our city.” Since Fr. Justin took over as Executive Director RS has grown from a $650,000 organization with 4 employees to over $ 4.5 million annually with 30 employees and hundreds of volunteers. Fr. Justin is a published author and the creator of The Social Leader Essentials E-Course (www.thesocialleader.org), a transformative leadership development course designed to teach CEOs and senior leaders how to lead with greater social impact to transform their company and community. In 2021 Fr. Justin co-founded the Social Venture Studio (www.socialventurestudio.com) with the KCEDC and Downtown Council’s “Launch KC” initiative. Additionally, In 2018 Fr. Justin led the RS team in the launch of Thelma's Kitchen (www.ThelmasKitchen.org), a 5-star Yelp-rated, social venture “donate-what-you-can” box lunch catering company in Kansas City. In 2022 Fr. Justin was named a NextGen Leader by the Kansas City Business Journal, in 2020 he was awarded the Greater Kansas City Chamber of Commerce’s “ACE Award” for his work in Diversity and Inclusion and then was awarded the “2020 Excellence in Impact” Award from Nonprofit Connect. Father Justin is a Fellow of the fourth class of the Civil Society Fellowship, a Partnership of ADL and The Aspen Institute, and a member of the Aspen Global Leadership Network. Fr. Justin was appointed by Mayor Quinton Lucas to the Heart of the City (Troost) TIF Commission and currently serves as the Vice Chair. He graduated from the Centurions Leadership Program of the Greater KC Chamber of Commerce (2018) where he was the Co-Chair of the “Diversity & Inclusion Committee” and served on the Steering Committee. Fr. Justin attended Belmont University where he graduated Cum Laude with a BA in Business and an emphasis in audio engineering and then in 2007, Father Justin earned his Master's in Divinity from St. Vladimir's Orthodox Theological Seminary and was ordained to the Priesthood in 2006. -
In this powerful episode, I sit down with Ken Bramble (see his bio below), an employee benefits consultant turned mental health advocate whose raw honesty about his personal struggles has resonated with audiences nationwide. Ken opens up about his journey wrestling with imposter syndrome while building a successful 25-year career in the employee benefits space. He candidly shares how anxiety crept into his life as he balanced the mounting pressures of career advancement, family responsibilities, and community service. Drawing from his book "Reflections at the Crossroads: A Journey from Ambition to Authenticity," Ken explores the tension between his faith and material desires, and what it truly cost him to compare himself to the"cool kids club" members. As someone who has witnessed firsthand the evolution of workplace wellness over two decades, Ken brings unique insights into how companies can better support their employees' mental health—a mission that has become deeply personal for him. Through vulnerable storytelling and practical wisdom, Ken challenges us to examine our own crossroads moments and the choices that shape not just our careers, but our very identities. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, questioning your path, or leading a team through mental health challenges (especially as a male), Ken's authentic perspective offers both comfort and clarity for the journey ahead. You will learn from Ken's journey and transparency with struggles.
Today's episode is brought to you by ExecHQ (Website), a C-suite fractional firm providing elite executives for your business. If you’re having challenges taking your business to the next level, want to augment your leadership team, or prepare your company for increased growth, profitability, and an eventual successful exit, ExecHQ has seasoned executives from every C-suite position, ensuring a perfect fit for your needs and industry dynamics. To learn more about ExecHQ, email Jeff Pelaccio at [email protected].
Ken's bio: Ken Bramble (LinkedIn) is a believer, father, husband, employee benefits consultant, and mental health champion. His first book, Reflections at the Crossroads: A Journey of Ambition of Authenticity, is an insightful exploration of life's pivotal moments and the choices that shape our destinies. The book takes you down a path of a father’s challenges with anxiety brought on by the responsibilities of career, family, finance, and community service.
Professionally speaking, Ken is an Employee Benefits Consultant with HUB International. He has worked with clients in the employee benefits space for the last 25+ years and has directly witnessed the shift into our current climate, where more employees are looking to their employers for help around serious issues like mental and financial health. Ken’s client partnership seeks to ensure employers are best set to succeed through today’s critical programming to ensure his clients have a happy, productive workforce.When speaking to groups, and individuals alike, Ken always engages in a genuine, transparent, and vulnerable manner, sharing his personal journey of dealing with anxiety while at the same time building a successful practice.
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In this illuminating episode, Jeff sits down with marketing legend and bestselling author Seth Godin to discuss his new book "This is Strategy" and explore the evolving landscape of college, work, and decision-making.
Episode Highlights:Seth reflects on his entrepreneurial journey, from his college days to founding successful venturesThe genesis of "This is Strategy" and why strategy is crucial in today's rapidly changing work environmentHis thoughts on college (it's not pretty)Insights into the four pillars of strategy: time, games, empathy, and systemsHow job seekers can approach their career strategically in an AI-driven worldThe future of work and creating value beyond traditional job structuresSeth's evolution as a writer and thinker over the past 25 yearsGodin challenges listeners to have meaningful conversations about strategy and offers a fresh perspective on navigating the complexities of modern work life. Whether you're a seasoned professional, an aspiring entrepreneur, or simply curious about the future of work, this episode provides valuable insights to help shape your strategic thinking.
Don't miss this thought-provoking discussion with one of the most influential voices in marketing and business strategy!
Today's episode is brought to you by ExecHQ (Website), a C-suite fractional firm providing elite executives for your business. If you’re having challenges taking your business to the next level, want to augment your leadership team, or prepare your company for increased growth, profitability, and an eventual successful exit, ExecHQ has seasoned executives from every C-suite position, ensuring a perfect fit for your needs and industry dynamics. To learn more about ExecHQ, email Jeff Pelaccio at [email protected]. Seth's bio: Seth Godin (www.sethgodin.com) is an author, entrepreneur and most of all, A teacher Seth is an entrepreneur, best-selling author, and speaker. In addition to launching one of the most popular blogs in the world, he has written 21 best-selling books, including The Dip, Linchpin, Purple Cow, Tribes, and What To Do When It's Your Turn (And It's Always Your Turn). His book, This is Marketing, was an instant bestseller in countries around the world. His new book is THIS IS STRATEGY. His previous books include The Song of Significance and The Practice, and creatives everywhere have made it a bestseller. Though renowned for his writing and speaking, Seth also founded two companies, Squidoo and Yoyodyne (acquired by Yahoo!). He's credited as the inventor of email marketing (the good kind). Seth has given five TED talks, including two that rank as the most popular of all time. By focusing on everything from effective marketing and leadership, to the spread of ideas and changing everything, Seth has been able to motivate and inspire countless people around the world. In 2013, Seth was one of just three professionals inducted into the Direct Marketing Hall of Fame. In an astonishing turn of events, in May 2018, he was inducted into the Marketing Hall of Fame as well. He might be the only person in both. -
You will enjoy this conversation with Andrew Marquardt (see his bio below) the general counsel, co-founder, and CEO of Advantage Tech. Andrew and I discuss the life-changing events in his early teen years that changed his life, how his legal career led him to start an IT company (it also included a legal decision that went against Microsoft), how he never thought he could become an attorney (and his grit to make it happen), the "Oh Sh**" moments he had when he started his company, his advice to people who want to create their own company, the power of emotional intelligence, why he believes in the dignity of work, how the painting company he founded in college was the only reason he landed his first job after graduation, what he thinks of non-compete agreements, the changes in the IT industry the last three decades, and standing of the shoulders of his ancestors (including his trailblazing mom who went to law school after her divorce and becoming the first woman president of the Kansas Bar Association). You will learn about Andrew's career journey and his insight. Enjoy!
Today's episode is brought to you by ExecHQ (Website), a C-suite fractional firm providing elite executives for your business. If you’re having challenges taking your business to the next level, want to augment your leadership team, or prepare your company for increased growth, profitability, and an eventual successful exit, ExecHQ has seasoned executives from every C-suite position, ensuring a perfect fit for your needs and industry dynamics. To learn more about ExecHQ, email Jeff Pelaccio at [email protected].
Andrews's bio: Andrew Marquardt (LinkedIn) has been an attorney for over 30 years. His experience includes litigating employment lawsuits representing plaintiffs and defendants. These cases included non-compete litigation, tort and contract claims, and discrimination suits. In addition to driving the claims through trial, most disputes were resolved through mediation and arbitration. Mr. Marquardt is also the co-founder, CEO, and General Counsel of Advantage Tech (Website), an IT and professional services firm founded in 1997. Advantage Tech places on average 400 contract and full-time employees each year, which translates to several thousand placements over the past 27 years. During that time, Mr. Marquardt has hired and terminated hundreds of employees and has drafted and overseen the implementation of hundreds of employment agreements. Significant employment issues frequently materialize when dealing with a contingent workforce. Dozens of issues arise relating to any number of clauses. However, the one clause that has created the most consternation with the courts has been the non-compete clause in employment agreements.
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Please enjoy this conversation with Jenna Washnieski (see her bio below). Jenna has great energy and we discussed how she was born to be a leader, how a letter she wrote to herself at seventeen predicted her career, why she journals (she has a closet full of them representing the last 20 years), what it's like to be the youngest executive at your company, the beauty of trying different things in your career, why self-awareness is the number one leadership trait, how listening to your intuition helps your career, the importance of having a positive affective presence as a leader, how she incorporates her yoga teaching into helping her leadership coaching clients, creating new roles for yourself without leaving your current company, and why you should be open to exploring your options. She also reveals that her love of dancing led her to work in the cabaret industry :-) You will love Jenna and will learn from her career journey!
Today's episode is brought to you by ExecHQ (Website), a C-suite fractional firm providing elite executives for your business. If you’re having challenges taking your business to the next level, want to augment your leadership team, or prepare your company for increased growth, profitability, and an eventual successful exit, ExecHQ has seasoned executives from every C-suite position, ensuring a perfect fit for your needs and industry dynamics. To learn more about ExecHQ, email Jeff Pelaccio at [email protected].
Jenna's bio: Jenna Washnieski's (LinkedIn) first leadership role was at age 3 when she became a big sister. In the decades to follow, she landed in countless positions of taking charge, making decisions, and influencing people. Her career includes 20+ years in the nonprofit industry, with more than a decade in executive leadership. Jenna currently works as a leadership coach and facilitator, helping companies build exceptional cultures, and supporting leaders as they develop the confidence to create fulfilling lives both in AND outside the workplace. Jenna holds a Master of Public Health specializing in health promotion and behavior change, is an ICF-certified professional coach (ACC), is certified in Integrative Enneagram (IEQ9), and is an Energy Leadership Index-Master Practitioner. Additionally, Jenna is a yoga instructor and finds joy in integrating yoga philosophy with leadership development to help people design more balanced lives. She shares these and other practical (and often irreverent) lessons through her writing, transformational workshops, and on her podcast, In With…The Podcast. When she’s not coaching or practicing yoga, she’s walking her 130-pound Mastiff around Kansas City.
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You will learn and laugh while listening to my conversation with Heidi Lehmann (see her bio below). We talk about how she compares art to creating a startup company ("Making the Strange Familiar and the Familiar Strange), selling her first company to AOL for $105 million, why she uses the "3 Es" (Entrepreneurship, Energy, and Enthusiasm) to make career decisions, her goal to make Kansas City an innovation destination via blockchain (she co-founded the KC Futures DAO), co-producing the BET (later acquired by Viacom/CBS) series "Queen Boss" (8-episode series that strives to find the best and brightest African-American female entrepreneurs and have them compete for the business opportunity of a lifetime.), explain blockchain technology to the average person, why female (especially African- American) entrepreneurs have a hard to obtaining funding for their startup (females entrepreneurs only receive 2% of all venture capital funding), and how she likes her martinis :-) We also have a few celebrity references when she was in the entertainment industry in her first job post-college. The list includes Gus Van Sant, Melissa Etheridge, Lou Diamond Phillips, and Bethenny Frankel (she was also a "seat warmer" at the Oscars one year). Please enjoy my conversation with Heidi!
Today's episode is brought to you by ExecHQ (Website), a C-suite fractional firm providing elite executives for your business. If you’re having challenges taking your business to the next level, want to augment your leadership team, or prepare your company for increased growth, profitability, and an eventual successful exit, ExecHQ has seasoned executives from every C-suite position, ensuring a perfect fit for your needs and industry dynamics. To learn more about ExecHQ, email Jeff Pelaccio at [email protected].
Heidi's bio: Heidi E. Lehmann (LinkedIn) is a seasoned investor, board member, and five-time startup founder leading high-impact global tech deals. As Strategic Director at Ligo Partners, a Miami and New York-based family office, she collaborates with Family Offices worldwide to source investments in cutting-edge startups, venture funds, and real estate, contributing to $455M deployed across 80 companies since 2022. With over 20 years of experience, Heidi has co-founded and scaled venture-backed companies like Kenzen (industrial IoT, $30M raised) and Third Screen Media (mobile ad tech, acquired by AOL for $105M). She advises startup CEOs and holds board and advisory roles with Workplace Healing, Glasswing VC, and Gaingels Syndicate. Heidi co-founded the KC Future’s DAO, driving innovation in Kansas City through blockchain technology, and serves as a Business Advisor to Critical Materials Crossroads, a coalition of investors, innovators, and legislators focused on the energy transition. She also co-produced the media franchise "Queen Boss" (acquired by Viacom/CBS). Featured in Forbes, WSJ, NYT, and more, Heidi is a sought-after speaker and panelist at top conferences like SXSW, Mobile World Congress, and the National NGLCC Conference.
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Honored to have the co-author of one of my favorite books "The Go-Giver" Bob Burg (see his bio below) as our guest on this episode. We chat about his early career, how he became a public speaker, how a "drive-by" mentor changed his sales philosophy and became a key part of the book, a summary of the five laws of stratospheric success, why no one cares about your quota or product, how focusing on adding value to others leads to success, why givers attract, learning systems to be successful, and why your first question for a business endeavor should not be "will it make money?". You will enjoy my conversation with the legendary Bob Burg!
Today's episode is brought to you by ExecHQ (Website), a C-suite fractional firm providing elite executives for your business. If you’re having challenges taking your business to the next level, want to augment your leadership team, or prepare your company for increased growth, profitability, and an eventual successful exit, ExecHQ has seasoned executives from every C-suite position, ensuring a perfect fit for your needs and industry dynamics. To learn more about ExecHQ, email Jeff Pelaccio at [email protected].
Bob's bio: For more than 30 years Bob Burg (The Go Giver) has been successfully showing entrepreneurs, leaders, and sales professionals how to build relationships, communicate their value, and accelerate their business growth. Although for years he was best known for his sales classic, Endless Referrals, it’s his business parable, The Go-Giver, coauthored with John David Mann, that has created a worldwide movement. While part of a four-book series, The Go-Giver itself has sold well over a million copies and been translated into 30 languages. It was rated #10 on Inc. Magazine’s list of The Most Motivational Books Ever Written, and was on HubSpot’s 20 Most Highly Rated Sales Books of All Time. Bob is creator of The Go-Giver Academy online learning portal featuring The Go-Giver® Success Vault which includes all of his online courses as well as additional business-building resources. He also publishes the very popular Daily Impact email. Both of these can be accessed at his website, which is (burg.com) Website.
Bob is an advocate, supporter, and defender of the Free Enterprise system, believing that the amount of money one makes is directly proportional to how many people they serve. He is also an unapologetic animal fanatic and serves as part of a South Florida rescue, foster, and adoption organization.
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In our first conversation with someone born in the Netherlands, you will learn and laugh listening to Michel Koopman (see his bio below). We chat about his great career and discuss why senior leaders (especially C-Suite executives) should approach their careers like athletes, how being process-driven accelerates start-up business growth, how being transparent while being mindful is a great communication approach, why top performers are hesitant to pursue their development, his first paid internship in Hong Kong (it involves waking up the next morning in a taxi after a business dinner :-), how a major surgery at 34-years old changed his career path, why he worked for free, the difficulty he had landing a job post-college (and his major decision to go to the United States for college), and common misconceptions of people of Dutch descent. Please enjoy my conversation with Michel!
Today's episode is brought to you by ExecHQ (Website), a C-suite fractional firm providing elite executives for your business. If you’re having challenges taking your business to the next level, want to augment your leadership team, or prepare your company for increased growth, profitability, and an eventual successful exit, ExecHQ has seasoned executives from every C-suite position, ensuring a perfect fit for your needs and industry dynamics. To learn more about ExecHQ, email Jeff Pelaccio at [email protected].
Michels's bio: Michel Koopman (LinkedIn) is CxO Coaching’s Chief Executive Coach and Founder. He is a senior operator and entrepreneur with a mix of small business and corporate successes in a global capacity. At this stage, he is most passionate about maximizing the business success and potential of others. He and his team dedicate their time as growth advisors and executive coaches to high-performing business executives. His current and past roles include Founder and CEO at 2Swell, Co-Founding Partner at Bond Growth, CCO at Banyan Medical, CEO at getAbstract, Inc, Executive Chairman & President at ARMS Medical, Managing Director at Citrix Systems, plus a number of other prior roles, board and advisory positions. He is a servant leader focused on growing companies by delivering new go-to-market strategies and elevating teams to perform at their full potential. Michel is a passionate business writer, a Forbes Business Council Member, and has published over 80 articles in premier media outlets including Forbes, The Washington Post, Strategy Magazine, Fast Company, The Miami Herald, and more. He is married and a proud father of two, with a love for nature, snowboarding, motorcycles, and fine watches. While he grew up in the Netherlands, he currently lives in Florida and North Carolina and is an avid traveler.
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A fun and insightful conversation with Jamie Crosbie (see her bio below)! Jamie and I talk about the life/leadership lessons from her legendary mom, knowing that she wanted to start a company at an early age, her first public speech at 15 years old in front of 500 people, her first professional job leading a group of accounting clerks (and her story of regularly falling asleep at her desk :-), how to interview salespeople, why a positive mindset is so important, why failure is the path to growth, her preparation process for her upcoming Ted Talk, how having a career strategy prepared her to create her own company, and why you should be comfortable with the uncomfortable. Please enjoy my conversation with Jamie!
Today's episode is brought to you by ExecHQ (Website), a C-suite fractional firm providing elite executives for your business. If you’re having challenges taking your business to the next level, want to augment your leadership team, or prepare your company for increased growth, profitability, and an eventual successful exit, ExecHQ has seasoned executives from every C-suite position, ensuring a perfect fit for your needs and industry dynamics. To learn more about ExecHQ, email Jeff Pelaccio at [email protected].
Jamie's bio: An accomplished senior executive with more than two decades of success across sales, sales leadership, talent acquisition, and management, Jamie Crosbie (Website) is an inspiring and powerful trainer and speaker. Jamie understands the complex interplay of strategic scale growth, lead generation, client communication, market analysis, strategic sales, and business development; because shehas been there, in sales management, talent recruitment andtraining trenches.Jamie’s company consults in top sales talent acquisition; strategic planning and executive leadership; business development strategy; and Peak Performance Mindset® Workshops. Having served as Vice President of Training and Development and Sales at Career Builder, as well as being the founder of ProActivate, an elite sales staffing company, Jamie understands how to motivate, shape and lead successful teams.Jamie was responsible for leading 50-85% annual revenue growth with oversight of an 80-person sales team while managing $35MM operations; driving top sales training, development, and productivity for half of enterprise’s U.S. sales organization; defining, assessing, profiling, and acquiring targeted best talent for domestic and international sales organizations.
Jamie is the author of Journey to the Top: How to Reach Your Peak Performance Life, ThePower of 2, Exponential Sales Leadership and How To Source, Qualify; Hire Elite Sales Talent. As a certified speaker with the High-Performance Mindset® system, Jamie understands how to leverage her extensive experience to help your team go higher and accomplish more. She has been conducting Business Development and Peak Performance Mindset Keynotes and Workshops nationally for companies like Armstrong Relocation Services, Southwest Airlines, EO, Encompass Home Health, MidCo, TPX, Santander, EBSCO Research, and Free Range Concepts. Post-Workshop evaluations have proven that these companies set new sales records, collaborated more effectively, and embraced a more focused and positive sales environment. Simply put, Jamie teaches everyday people to live uncommonly successful lives. Whether you are seeking individual coaching to improve your focus, live more fully, or achieve your goals, or you are looking for ways to inspire and empower your team, you owe it to yourself to learn from this revolutionary mindset workshop. When it comes to selling, you need to be able to connect with clients on a human level, while still showing them how your product solves a problem in their world. Jamie is an acknowledged expert in this area. She has the ability to transfer her skill set, her passion, and her sales knowledge to others via team workshops that work.
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You will enjoy the conversation with the bold and fearless Melea McRae(see her bio below). Melea and I discussed the following: how she navigated being the only female executive at a company, knowing she wanted to be an entrepreneur at an early age (when she was 10 years old she dressed as a "business owner" for Halloween), her advice to female entrepreneurs, finding career success as an intrapreneur, the impact of her mom dying when she was very young, how a palm reader in NYC predicted her future, her roles models (including Murphy Brown), working for Nordstrom's after the company she worked for folded but never receiving a paycheck, how she owned being a "job hopper" when the practice was frowned upon, how the Adam Grant book "The Originals" crystallized her career focus, her work advice to single moms after a divorce, and how she manages her different roles while being heavily involved in the community. Enjoy learning and laughing during my conversation with Melea!
Today's episode is brought to you by ExecHQ (Website), a C-suite fractional firm providing elite executives for your business. If you’re having challenges taking your business to the next level, want to augment your leadership team, or prepare your company for increased growth, profitability, and an eventual successful exit, ExecHQ has seasoned executives from every C-suite position, ensuring a perfect fit for your needs and industry dynamics. To learn more about ExecHQ, email Jeff Pelaccio at [email protected].
Melea's bio: Melea McRae (LinkedIn) is an entrepreneur, marketing strategist, business connector, and adjunct professor with 30 years of experience elevating brands, amplifying missions, and fueling business growth for B2B and B2C clients. In 2016, Melea made the entrepreneurial leap and founded Crux KC, a fast-growing WBE headquartered in KC. Known as the “un-agency,” Crux is a full-funnel outsourced marketing solution customized for organizations of all shapes, sizes, and verticals, combining the expertise of fractional CMOs who build the marketing strategy with a deep bench of experts in each marketing discipline to deliver on that strategy.
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