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Kathy Robideau & Chris Dardis

Unscripted with Versique

A Careers and Business podcast

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About the show

Unscripted with Versique is a podcast brought to you by Versique Executive, Professional, and Interim Recruiting. This series offers a personal look into the inspiring stories of successful Minnesota business leaders and the pivotal experiences that shaped who they are today. Hosted by Kathy Robideau, Chief Growth Officer, and Chris Dardis, Chief Experience Officer, the podcast goes beyond the surface to explore the backgrounds of these accomplished executives, challenging conventional assumptions about climbing the ‘traditional’ corporate ladder. Whether seeking insights into leadership, career growth, or the human stories behind business success, Unscripted delivers thought-provoking conversations that showcase how people truly make a difference.

Newest episodes

Inside a Successful Third Generation Family Business: Packard Culligan Water

55 min

Wayne Packard started his business as one of the original Culligan dealers in 1946, passing the leadership to his son John, who in turn, has now handed over the title of President & CEO to his son Derek. In this entertaining episode hosted by Kathy, John reflects on his career journey, growing the business to over 600 employees in 10 states. Derek adds his vision for the future, and both father & son enjoy a few laughs as they recall navigating the transition from one generation to the next. Connect with Versique 

Putting Family & Relationships First: Granite Bank CEO Gerald Reiter

38 min

Gerald "Jerry" Reiter grew up with nine siblings on his family farm, and when the 80's economic crisis hit, his father encouraged him to find another career path. Gerald went to work in banking and never looked back, rising through the ranks and ultimately buying, saving and transforming Granite Bank into one of Minnesota's most trusted lending partners. In this episode, Gerald retraces his career steps with Kathy & Chris, sharing tips on family business success. Connect with Versique 

Eric Mahler: Leadership Lessons - From a Lifeguard to the C-Suite and Everywhere In-Between

54 min

With a resume spanning 30 years, from entrepreneurial ventures to all levels of corporate America, Aretos Advisory Founder & CEO, Author and Executive Advisor Eric Mahler has seen and done it all. In this engaging episode, Kathy & Chris invite Eric to share his journey from growing up in Iowa, navigating the corporate and entrepreneurial world, to calling the Twin Cities home. Eric also previews his book, "The Center of the Compass", ahead of its December release. Connect with Versique 

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All episodes

Inside a Successful Third Generation Family Business: Packard Culligan Water

55 min

Wayne Packard started his business as one of the original Culligan dealers in 1946, passing the leadership to his son John, who in turn, has now handed over the title of President & CEO to his son Derek. In this entertaining episode hosted by Kathy, John reflects on his career journey, growing the business to over 600 employees in 10 states. Derek adds his vision for the future, and both father & son enjoy a few laughs as they recall navigating the transition from one generation to the next. Connect with Versique 

Putting Family & Relationships First: Granite Bank CEO Gerald Reiter

38 min

Gerald "Jerry" Reiter grew up with nine siblings on his family farm, and when the 80's economic crisis hit, his father encouraged him to find another career path. Gerald went to work in banking and never looked back, rising through the ranks and ultimately buying, saving and transforming Granite Bank into one of Minnesota's most trusted lending partners. In this episode, Gerald retraces his career steps with Kathy & Chris, sharing tips on family business success. Connect with Versique 

Eric Mahler: Leadership Lessons - From a Lifeguard to the C-Suite and Everywhere In-Between

54 min

With a resume spanning 30 years, from entrepreneurial ventures to all levels of corporate America, Aretos Advisory Founder & CEO, Author and Executive Advisor Eric Mahler has seen and done it all. In this engaging episode, Kathy & Chris invite Eric to share his journey from growing up in Iowa, navigating the corporate and entrepreneurial world, to calling the Twin Cities home. Eric also previews his book, "The Center of the Compass", ahead of its December release. Connect with Versique 

Amanda Brinkman - The Purpose Pursuit: Live In Your Purpose, Not "Finding" Your Purpose

1 hr 2 min

You may remember her from the popular TV show "Small Business Revolution", and Amanda Brinkman's on screen persona is exponential in person. In this motivational and inspiring download, Amanda joins Kathy & Dardy in the Versique podcast studio to share her message on purpose, and how kindness goes a long way in business success. Connect with Versique 

B. Kyle: Make Sure Other People Feel Heard & Seen, Without Losing Yourself

54 min

St. Paul Area Chamber President & CEO B. Kyle brings a unique perspective to her role as a leader for over 1700 Twin Cities companies. A veteran Army officer and mother who worked her way up from an admin to leadership roles in the private sector, her focus is always on servant leadership. In this download, she shares her inspirational life journey with Kathy & Dardy, and also explains why she fired, and subsequently rehired Kathy! Connect with Versique 

Joy King: How to Accomplish Goals Through Others, Without Authority

44 min

From a modest upbringing with high standards, to key leadership roles in Twin Cities non-profits, Joy King gets results. In just 15 months as the new CEO of Animal Humane Society, she already has a three-year strategic plan in place after detecting "mission creep" when she took over. In this inspiring episode, Joy sits down with Kathy & Dardy to share her journey from small towns to the big city, and the moment just over a year ago when it all came full circle for her. Connect with Versique 

John Hutchinson: "I Think Most People Fall Into This Trap Where They Become Precisely Inaccurate"

39 min

A true entrepreneur will admit that you have to be a dreamer and often ignore the status quo in your quest to disrupt an industry and change the world. In this episode, Kathy & Dardy invite John Hutchinson to share his journey from growing up in the family sporting goods business to founding and selling CARE Counseling. John proves that perfectionism can hold you, your teams and your company from achieving your goals. Connect with Versique 

Great Clips CEO Rob Goggins: "I Like It When People Challenge Me to Think a Little Bit Differently"

1 hr 1 min

Growing up with a struggling single mom had a profound impact on Great Clips President & CEO Rob Goggins. At the outset of his professional career, he vowed that his family would be better off. Thanks to his work ethic and straightforward approach to business leadership, he's now leading one of America's greatest and most successful franchise companies with over 4,400 locations serving 1.7 million customers weekly. In this episode, Goggins sits down with Kathy & Dardy to share his career journey. Connect with Versique 

Alexis Walsko: Lola Red PR Founder on "Being in the Weeds, Sometimes I Make the Weeds Even Worse"

55 min

The term "entrepreneur" wasn't a cliche when Alexis Walsko founded her PR firm as a 21-year-old, it was just what dreamers did when nobody else was doing it. Her passion has always been connecting people & products, solving problems and the hustle. In this download, she shares her backstory with Kathy & Dardy, and opens up about leadership, strengths, shortcomings and believing in yourself. Connect with Versique 

Lisa Brezonik: Do the Work You Love with People You Enjoy and Make An Impact!

1 hr 1 min

If there's one word to describe Lisa it's "growth"- both professional, personal, and non-stop. She's been a key player in the growth and transitions of companies including Twin Cities staffing company Salo, which was acquired by Korn Ferry. In this episode, Lisa joins Kathy & Dardy to share her career journey, key takeaways in leadership and what inspires her. Connect with Versique 

Angie Whitcomb: As a Leader, I Don't Need To Be the Smartest One at the Table

40 min

As the President & CEO of Hospitality Minnesota, and an advocate for thousands of business owners and workers across the state, Angie Whitcomb can't possibly micromanage her team or those she represents. In this episode, she joins Kathy & Dardy to share how her experience in executive recruiting helped her to step back, trust others, and let everyone grow. Connect with Versique 

Caring, Challenging and Fun! Pulte Homes' Jamie Tharp Leads with 1% Improvement Each Day

44 min

It's not always the big decisions or key moments that make a difference. In fact, those moments are often set up by a series of incremental events. That's why Pulte Homes Minnesota Division President Jamie Tharp encourages her team to improve by 1% per day. In this download, Jamie shares her path to leadership with Kathy & Dardy, a journey that required grit, determination and strong belief in herself. Connect with Versique 

Peter Stenehjem: Fourth Generation Family Banker Brings His Personal Touch to MSP

31 min

Founded as Farmer's State Bank in the small town of Arnegard, North Dakota, First International Bank & Trust has grown to serve rural and urban communities across Arizona, Minnesota, North Dakota and South Dakota. In this episode, it's all about family as Kathy & Dardy welcome fourth generation family CEO Peter Stenehjem to share how his family has kept banking in their bloodline for over 115 years. Connect with Versique 

PJ Hill: Winning With Authenticity and Never Sacrificing for Acceptance

1 hr 12 min

PJ Hill has been a winner at all levels and in multiple professions by simply never, ever giving up. No money? No worries... No car? He'll find a way. Every time opportunity has called, he's answered, no matter what it takes to make it happen. In this inspiring episode, Kathy & Dardy let PJ's game do the talking. The NorthRock Partners financial advisor shares how he found success on the court, and in the business world. Plus, why his goal is to make 1,000 women and minorities millionaires. Connect with Versique 

James Hereford: Believe in Your People and Teams to Achieve Success

54 min

James Hereford grew up in rural Montana, and while helping his father birth a calf realized that wasn't his calling. While he didn't know it at the time, it was the end of his ranching career and the beginning of a successful career in health care. Kathy & Dardy welcome the Fairview Health Services President and CEO open the fall season of Unscripted by Versique Connect with Versique 

Project for Pride in Living President & CEO Karla Henderson: Making Non-Profits Sexy Again!

56 min

Karla started college at age 24, taking her little boy with her to Michigan State University where she earned her degree in Public Resource Management in just four years. She gained significant experience serving under Detroit Mayor Dave Bing, who led the revitalization of the Motor City. In this impactful episode, PPL President & CEO Karla Henderson sits down with Kathy & Dardy to share her career and life journey. Connect with Versique 

Navigate Forward CEO Anne Sample: Why a Lifequake Shouldn't Shake Your Career Foundation

1 hr 1 min

She's held high level HR roles at Whirlpool, Pepsi (twice), Citibank, and in tech, financial services and food & beverage. So "lifequakes" come with the territory when you're navigating the world of big business. In this download, Anne Sample joins Kathy & Dardy to share her journey through corporate America to small business owner, and why communication is the key to success at every level. Connect with Versique 

Dan Schwarz: A Neighborhood Poker Party Leads to a Brewery, Then Full-Circle Back to His Family Business

35 min

Dan Schwarz can thank his wife Katie for at least pointing him in the right direction for success. She was the one involved in the neighborhood book and wine clubs, so Dan decided to start a poker party. That's where he met Brad Glynn, who shared his dream of owning a brewery. The two teamed up to found the popular Lift Bridge Brewing Company. Then, just over a year ago, Dan decided to return to the family business he grew up in, Jonti-Craft, maker of children's furniture. In this fascinating download, Dan shares his entrepreneurial journey with Kathy & Dardy. Connect with Versique 

Steve Grove: How I Found Myself in the Midwest - A Memoir of Reinvention

53 min

He's not only climbed the corporate career ladder, he's explored exotic and faraway places on his journey to become CEO and Publisher of the Minnesota Star Tribune. Stops in Tanzania, Japan, Thailand and India, then back in the US, hired as employee #85 at Google. Ultimately, like most Minnesotans who leave their home state, he found his way back and wrote a fascinating book about it. In this intriguing episode, Steve joins Kathy & Dardy to share his travels, experience and what makes the Midwest, and Minnesota in particular, so special. Connect with Versique 

Luke Gaalswyk: Lessons From Military Service Apply to Executive Leadership Growth

39 min

Integrity, collaboration and listening: Those three key words describe how District Energy St. Paul CEO Luke Gaalswyk motivates and inspires his team. The U.S. Air Force veteran has made the most of his engineering experience and teamwork in the military, ascending to the C-Suite at Ever-Green Energy in September 2022. Luke shares his life and career journey with Kathy & Chris in this inspiring episode. Connect with Versique 

Chris Heim: How a People First Approach and Endurance Sports Play a Role in C-Suite Success

53 min

He grew up in a small Iowa town and wasn't even sure he'd go to college. But that changed one day after stocking shelves at Hy-Vee, and led Chris on an amazing career journey that combined his curiosity and tech savvy with his endless appetite for learning and growth. The Fortra Executive Chairman sits down with Kathy & Dardy to offer why being a vulnerable and transparent leader resonates, and he shares why he took on the role of Mayor of Medicine Lake. Connect with Versique 

Tia Newcomer: The Ability to Adapt and Empower Your Leadership in Different Organizations

46 min

Her journalism and mass communications degree (with three minors) at Nebraska led to a role in... sales. That pivot at the outset of her career put Tia Newcomer on an ascending path through with the titans of industry- Revlon, Clorox, Frito Lay, HP, and later venture capital. Ultimately, a "life quake" led her to join Caringbridge as CEO. In this episode, she sits down with Kathy & Dardy to share how she's adapted, and excelled, in very different roles. Connect with Versique 

Marisa Williams: Bringing Business Leadership to the World of Non-Profit

48 min

Her title reads CEO of Girl Scouts River Valleys, but in reality, she's a coach, cheerleader and accountability partner for her team and corporate partners. In this episode, Marisa Williams shares how she's channeled her strengths and transformed from a leader in the corporate world, to transforming the Girl Scouts across the Twin Cities and beyond. Connect with Versique 

Bridgewater Bank EVP & CSO Mary Jayne Crocker: Curiosity Is a Key Ingredient in Leadership Success

39 min

As many of us have experienced throughout our careers, the best way to learn is by doing- whether you have experience with the task at hand or not. Never led a private company into an IPO? No worries, you'll figure it out! In this episode MJ shares what inspired her career trajectory, and the unique challenges she's overcome thanks to her natural curiosity. Connect with Versique 

The Right Guy at the Right Time: Adam Duininck Brings the Skills and Mindset to Re-Energize Downtown Minneapolis

46 min

He grew up near the farming community of Willmar in Western Minnesota, and despite deep family ties to a rural lifestyle Adam Duininck always aspired to live, work and move the needle in a big city. So how did a kid from the country become such a force in the city as President & CEO of the Minneapolis Downtown Council? In this episode, Adam explains how he navigates today's challenging political divide to build relationships and trust, to work toward common goals and civic projects that everyone can enjoy.  Connect with Versique 

Peanut Butter & Jelly TV CFO Andre Creighton: From Corporate Finance to Startup Leadership, It's More Than Just Numbers

37 min

There's comfort in a C-Suite corporate role, but it can also trigger the question of "what if?" Andre Creighton has successfully played on both sides of the ball. He's a visionary finance leader, with high profile past roles at Cargill and SPIRE Credit Union. He's also launched a startup and now is charged with the CFO and revenue role at PB&J TV. In this download, Kathy & Chris explore Andre's unique career journey, and his commitment to the MSP community. Connect with Versique 

Menttium CEO Missy Chicre: "You Have One Life, How Do You Want to Live It?"

50 min

Her unique background, experience, and curiosity led from academia to consulting, then leadership roles at Best Buy and Cargill. And then, in that "what's next?" moment, the opportunity to devote her experience to advancing women's leadership led her to Menttium. In this episode Missy Chicre joins Kathy & Dardy to retrace her path to professional success, while foregoing work-life balance to create one fulfilling journey. Connect with Versique 

Ancoats Construction Founder & President David Wood: Leave Your Comfort Zone and Chase Your Dreams

49 min

He followed in his father's footsteps, and during a decade at Mortenson rose from an intern to a market sector leader at the Minneapolis construction giant. David Wood could've settled in for a long and lucrative career with few career risks. Instead, he chose to start from scratch, founding his own construction company, Ancoats. In this revealing episode, Coats shares key events from his local upbringing that could've derailed his life, and his career. Instead, he leveraged setbacks into comebacks, and is now growing his own company. Connect with Versique 

Scott Burns: Veteran Entrepreneur's Advice - Forget About "Failing Fast" and Focus on Success

54 min

The word "entrepreneur" has become a cliche in a world where almost everyone has a side hustle. But Scott Burns in truly an entrepreneur in every sense of the definition: an individual who's created and built successful businesses from scratch, while assuming all risks of the enterprise. In this episode, the general partner at Mairs & Power VC shares insight from a lifetime of innovation at the intersection of the public and private sectors, including his most successful ventures, GovDelivery and Structural. Connect with Versique 

Washburn Center for Children CEO Craig Warren: A Military Mindset and Passion for Helping Children

58 min

While he wasn't a military brat, he moved like one in his formative years. That exposure to different people and cultures, his service to our country, and his career journey into the private sector have all shaped the inspirational leader that Craig Warren is today. In this engaging conversation with Kathy & Chis, Craig shares his life and career journey which has led him to a critical role in the future of children across the Twin Cities. Connect with Versique 

Amy Ronneberg: Tell Her "No" and Then Look Out! How a Small Town Kid Rewrote the Rules to Reach the C-Suite

41 min

Successful executives who grew up in small towns, didn't attend the Ivy League schools, or were told they weren't qualified for leadership roles all have one thing in common: A burning desire to prove people wrong. Amy Ronneberg has done just that, every step of the way on her career path. Amy boldly states that "being authentic is my superpower", and her passion to break personal and professional boundaries is why she's now the CEO of NMDP, saving lives worldwide. Connect with Versique 

No Looking Back: Gillette Children's Leader Barbara Joers Focuses on the Future and Grows Leaders from the Bottom Up

56 min

As the President and CEO of Gillette Children's Hospital, Barbara Joers not only navigates the complicated world of healthcare, but the emotional aspect of the providers she leads and the patients and families they all care for. In this inspiring episode, Barbara reveals key moments on her own leadership journey, and how she empowers everyone to contribute by learning from the past, but focusing on the future to find solutions and improve care. Connect with Versique 

Welcome Kathy! Versique Makes a Statement Hire, Adding a Respected Business Leader

31 min

You know her as the Publisher and Market President of the Minneapolis/St. Paul Business Journal—make that former. While you were away over the summer, Kathy Robideau stepped into the role of Chief Growth Officer at Versique. It's a full-circle moment, as Versique CEO Tony Sorensen placed Kathy at MSPBJ 14 years ago and watched her rise from an advertising executive to one of the highest-profile business leadership roles in the Twin Cities. In this episode, Versique's President of Interim Solutions, Chris Dardis, welcomes Kathy to the team as she shares her passion for business—and, more importantly, for the people who make it happen. Connect with Versique 

Leadership Traits That Drive Success | John Mack (Medtronic)

33 min

John Mack was the Divisional President for the Cardiac Surgery division at one of the largest medical device companies in the world—Medtronic. John knows that great leadership skills are formed through following the path of great leaders; and through his mentors he picked up a slew of tips for success. It was these learned skills that brought him through long nights during mergers and acquisitions, leading new projects, and ultimately paving the path to his successful career today.  In this podcast episode, John and Chris cover: Why you should get an Executive CoachSteven Covey’s “7 Habits of Highly Effective People” How to push yourself but know when to ask for helpKnowing the business behind the numbersThe importance of surrounding yourself with a great teamAdvice for those who are trying to move up in their careerExpanding your circles of influence to determine where to put your focusConnect with John Connect with Versique 

Creating Pull Within Your Organization | with Bob Creviston (Agiliti)

39 min

"The sole measures of success for an HR team, as far as I'm concerned , is, how good are you at knowing where the push and where the pull is?"  Bob Creviston is an avid storyteller who recounts his progression from football player at Cornell to Chief of HR at Agiliti Health, a world leader in Medical Equipment Management. His employee-focused leadership style and diligence in addressing challenges has made a lasting impact on his employees, business, and even countries’ labor laws.  In this episode we cover:  Breaking down what the push and pulls are in HR and how balancing it affects overall business successWhat’s the single best leadership advice Bob ever received that he still uses todayAn example of condensing leadership onboarding processes from 6 months to 4 hours.  How COVID impacted Agiliti, responsible for supplying respirators across the nation Connect with Bob Creviston Connect with Versique 

Roadmap to Transforming Culture

41 min

“Leadership is about lighting a fire within others, not under them” ~ Jaime Taets With over 20 years of experience within corporate business culture of which 13 were at Cargill, one of the largest privately held corporations in the world, Jaime Taets has honed the skill of conscious leadership. This ability led her to pave her own entrepreneurial path of starting her own business, Keystone Group International. Today, Jaime uses different platforms to extend her practice of helping leaders on a global scale. She is the host of the Superpower Success Podcast and the accomplished author of two noteworthy books — "You Are Here: Kick-Ass Inspiration for Navigating Your Journey to Success" and "The Culture Climb: How to Foster a Work Culture that Maximizes Your Impact". Jaime’s skills as a visionary and strategist have led her outside the professional world to climb literal mountains, such as Mt. Kilimanjaro, and glean lessons that she applies to her life and help others to do the same. In this episode we cover: How to enact conscious leadership and discover your own leadership superpowerHow to create a change-driven culture in your organizationNavigating your journey to success by getting “unstuck” Connect with Jaime Connect with Versique 

HR Lab 2023 | Reimagining the Impact of Leadership Collaboration

1 hr 7 min

This episode is the recording of Versique’s 12th Annual HR Lab where we dove into the topic of Reimagining the Impact of Leadership Collaboration with top leaders from the Minnesota Timberwolves & Lynx and The Minneapolis Foundation. This thought-provoking event brought together top HR professionals and executive leaders from various industries to explore innovative ways of working together to drive organizational success. In this session, Jenna Estlick, Vice President of HR Interim Solutions at Versique, moderated an expert panel of Twin Cities Leaders in Human Resources and Executive Leadership. In this recap, you'll learn about the various strategies they’ve implemented at their organizations and how they continue to influence culture to attract and retain talent while embracing continuous change in the labor market. Download the takeaways Watch the recording Connect with Versique 

Simplifying How You Work | with Alissa Partee (Restaurant Technologies)

39 min

Food brings people together – for thousands of years humans have come together over food to celebrate and to grieve. Working with some of the biggest food brand industries locally, Alissa Partee brings two core beliefs to her leadership role as Chief People Officer at Restaurant Technologies: lead with love and clarity. In this episode, host Chris Dardis explores with Alissa: The number one mistake business leaders make in employee and system development How to build a high-performing team that achieves the business’ strategic goalsWhat an HR team needs to know about being in a workplace that drives business“I want somebody to be able to say 20 years from now, I was able to do something better for my family or my community because of the environment that I was placed in and supported in. And so whatever I can do to contribute to somebody else’s success or ability to give back or do something that they hadn’t been able to do.” -Alissa Partee Connect with Alissa Connect with Versique 

Modeling Servant Leadership | with Heidi Grange (Northmarq)

35 min

“Know your role. Just like in sports, you may be the starter, sometimes you might be the leader, and sometimes you’re a contributing, supporting player. But put the time and effort into it and know that you still add value to your team. You can’t always be the lead, but you do add value.” ~Heidi Grange Early in Heidi Grange’s career, she remembers leaders taking the time to guide her, coach her, and provide feedback. This investment was incredibly valuable in forming even the small aspects in her career and personal life. Now as Senior VP of HR at Northmarq and board member of HR Executive Forum, Heidi strives to do the same for her team.  In the episode, we cover: The 3 critical points of success and failure companies make during acquisitionsWhat drives employee engagement and cultureDebunking myths about HR Setting healthy boundaries at workConnect with Heidi Connect with Versique 

No Fear Mentality | with Kristin Dean (Arctic Wolf)

31 min

“Live with being kind and working hard. Everything works out when you do that, take risks, and work without fear.” -Kristin Dean  Kristin Dean left her full-time role in HR to pursue her dream of being a stay-at-home mom. After a many valuable years, Kristin desired to return to work, but she internalized the fear of not being able to have both a successful career and a strong present role as a mother.  Eventually, Kristin made the choice to dive back into her career at a few fast-paced tech companies such as Code42, Delegate, and Revel,  eventually landing at Arctic Wolf—where she’s been for the past 5 years. She speaks about the supportive environment of her team, and gives tips for how HR professional can be strategic business partners with executive leadership. Learn about tools for  effective leadership, developing the will to win, and making choices without fear in this episode of People make it possible. Connect with Kristin Connect with Versique 

Ep. 9 - How to Invest in Your Growth | with Anne Sample (Navigate Forward)

35 min

When Anne Sample entered Ohio State University, she was set on becoming a Biochemical Engineer. However, her path took a different direction as she gained various experiences that shaped her career. As an AV expert at a homeroom in high school, she developed a strong interest and confidence in technology. Then, her first job in communications administration for Whirlpool in a small town taught her the importance of prioritizing the business in any task she undertakes and ensuring that her contributions positively impacted the company's success. These experiences helped shape Anne's career aspirations and goals as she entered the HR industry. Throughout Anne’s career she’s held HR management and leadership roles at Thrivent, Caribou Coffee, Pepsi Americas, and Citigroup. In this episode, she expresses the differences between small versus global organizations and how to do business across different world cultures.  Now, as owner and CEO of Navigate Forward, she’s invested in growth, and providing highly customized support to senior executives who are currently in transition.    Connect with Anne Connect with Versique 

Supernaturally Curious | with Sarah Waite (Second Harvest Heartland)

29 min

“We all get to choose how we spend our time. And we either do it with intention, or by accident. So what do you want to be focused on? Where do you want to spend your time? How are you going to make room for those things in your life? And it’s going to mean saying no to some things that you don’t want to, or need to, or choose to.” -Sarah Waite  Sarah Waite is “supernaturally curious.” As the Chief People Officer at Second Harvest Heartland, she is always asking how leaders can think about things differently. From building out talent strategy, to leading change management and traveling across the country, Sarah discovered the most important lessons a company can learn are how to form teams of connection and curiosity that lead to authenticity and inclusion. Sarah is also the President of HR Executive Forum and is committed to building diverse teams that drive business results and strong cultures. Connect with Sarah  Connect with Versique 

Leading With Trust in 2023 | with Chris Dardis (Versique)

39 min

“Every leader should aspire for the people within their team to be able to say, ‘I am a valuable member of a winning team doing meaningful work in an environment of trust.’ And if your team can say that, then they will be engaged within the role.” -Chris Dardis   In this first episode of 2023, we’re taking a look back at our top episodes from 2022, featuring inspiring stories from incredible leaders in business. In addition, Chris Dardis, the host of “People make it possible” and the President of Interim Solutions at Versique, will be behind the mic sharing his own story of career growth, building teams, and the important leadership lessons he’s learned along the way.  In this episode you’ll learn about: Leading with curiosity over criticismBuilding a winning team HR themes from 2022Industry predictions for 2023This episode is guest hosted by Angela Wistrcill, Creative Content Strategist at Versique. Connect with Chris Connect with Versique 

How to Ascend in Your Career | with Erin Feigal (Prime Therapeutics)

39 min

“I always think that the best way to be noticed and considered to ascend into the next role is to be the best you can be at your current role.” -Erin Feigal As the CHRO of Prime Therapeutics, Erin and her team have been pioneers of a new “Way of Work” even before the pandemic began, setting up the future of flexible work for employees. Erin herself was surprised to be on a successor track at a turning point in her career, but embraced the ambiguity by holding fast to a simple principal: “Don’t be hesitant to accept a promotion or change roles because you’re afraid it may mean taking on more work. The work may just be different, not more.” In this podcast episode, Erin encourages leaders to define what they want their role to be, and hold true to it.  “Those things that are uncomfortable that we might be fearful of, it's surprising if you just kind of dive in head first, how quickly you can come out with a different perspective on the other side.” Connect with Erin Connect with Versique 

Redefining Work Culture | with Kristin Gaarder (Calabrio)

29 min

Kristin Gaarder was the very first CHRO of Calabrio, a customer experience intelligence company. As a leader, Kristin’s philosophy lies in providing accountability for her team to take a vision they have, break down barriers, and deliver it with excellence. Kristin has navigated the variances in HR while practicing business in over 40 countries around the world.   Kristin is a member of Chief, a network dedicated to  supporting women executive leaders. She uses her unique experiences to encourage a path of growth through building and strengthening human connection.  “If you consider what’s happening in the world, this special and unique time won’t be here again. So we have such an opportunity to make change and to redefine work culture.” Connect with Kristin Connect with Versique 

Having Faith in Your Journey (with Molly Weiss)

30 min

People grow exponentially when they’re given an opportunity that stretches them to just the right amount. And they just fly. – Molly Weiss Not everyone takes as unique of a path to HR leadership as Molly Weiss. She studied theater history and sang in a band before pursuing post-grad HR and Business from the University of Minnesota. Molly is now a leading industry veteran with 20 years of experience, serving as CHRO of Adolfson & Peterson Construction.  From a young age, Molly learned that work should contribute to the world in a way that is tangible. Years later, Molly followed a call to become an ordained Episcopal Priest—a journey supported by her colleagues and leaders at the time—which shaped her to become a leader with renewed depth of understanding and empathy. Molly teaches us there’s power in saying, “I don’t know” and asking for help. “Long ago I got over the need to be the smartest person in the room,” says Molly. “In fact, I would prefer it if I weren’t. Because that means that everybody around me has so much richness to bring to the table." Connect with Molly Connect with Versique Connect with Versique 

Stories That Shape Us | with Tony Sorensen (Versique)

30 min

"People work hard for money, but they'll give their life for meaning." -Tony Sorensen You can tell a lot about a person by asking them the question, "What is one event that has shaped who you are today?" Tony Sorensen, Founder & President of Versique Search & Consulting, uses this question to vet potential employees and create a culture of meaning and growth at his company. Through challenges as an entrepreneur building a company from the ground up, Tony's vision is one based on being one of the team, creating long-term careers for his team members, and holding fast to Versique's core values including "winning through service & trust." In this episode, Tony shares the vision and passion that started it all, and his excitement for the future. Connect with Tony Sorensen Connect with Versique Connect with Versique 

Hit Home Runs | with Shawn Moren

29 min

"As you build an experience in success or failure, you have more confidence when it comes to an even bigger opportunity or bigger risk...and you can recover and thrive." -Shawn Moren, Executive Advisory/Partner (CHRO Sector), Gartner Shawn was the head of HR at Regis Salons when COVID-19 hit, ravishing the nation and service industry. Regis quickly worked to diligently flesh out a safety and operations plan to ride the turbulent months that followed. No stranger to challenges, Shawn recalled a question her father posed to her at a tennis match when she was younger, "Do you want to hit home runs or do you want to hit base hits? You cannot hit home runs without strikeouts, that's just a part of life." Focusing on connectivity with others, Shawn found success in instilling an environment of meaningful work and values among her team members.   Connect with Shawn Connect with Versique Connect with Versique 

Who will you bring with you? | with Kendall Harrell (Caribou Coffee)

24 min

"To be a leader I needed to get inspired and become a student of culture." -Kendall Harrell, Chief People Officer for Caribou Coffee Kendall began with a desire for orthopedic surgery and sports medicine. Lifetime Fitness became instrumental in his HR career, where he started as a personal trainer and quickly moved into the human resource department, thanks to an incredible mentor who encouraged him along the way. "Who are you going to bring with you?" is a motto Kendall learned from his father, applying this to his leadership style to help other people achieve what they aspire to. At Caribou Coffee, Kendall found connection to a brand with work that he enjoys — "I've always wanted to make sure that I could get to the point in my career where I felt like all of me can come to work." In this episode, Kendall shares more about finding his path, sitting in a coffee shop of inspiration.  Connect with Kendall Connect with Versique Connect with Versique 

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