People Operations Conversations

In this podcast episode, Dr. Jonathan H. Westover talks with Stephanie Van Meter about talent enhancing development and employee engagement within your team. As Chief Operating Officer at Ammunition, Stephanie is a distinguished leader known for fostering teamwork, strengthening communication, and driving organizational growth. Joining Ammunition in 2022, she advanced from Chief of Staff to Chief Operating Officer in 2024, a testament to her leadership and impact across the agency. Her strategic guidance has been instrumental in Ammunition’s recognition by Adweek’s Fastest Growing Agencies, Inc. 5000, The Financial Times, and the Atlanta Business Chronicle. Previously, as Director of Operations, Process, and Development for Barry’s, an international boutique fitness brand, she launched the company’s first learning management system and optimized operational best practices. Stephanie’s passion for people development, operational excellence, and clear communication continues to drive her success and the success of the organizations she leads. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this podcast episode, Dr. Jonathan H. Westover talks with Stephanie Van Meter about talent enhancing development and employee engagement within your team. As Chief Operating Officer at Ammunition, Stephanie is a distinguished leader known for fostering teamwork, strengthening communication, and driving organizational growth. Joining Ammunition in 2022, she advanced from Chief of Staff to Chief Operating Officer in 2024, a testament to her leadership and impact across the agency. Her strategic guidance has been instrumental in Ammunition’s recognition by Adweek’s Fastest Growing Agencies, Inc. 5000, The Financial Times, and the Atlanta Business Chronicle. Previously, as Director of Operations, Process, and Development for Barry’s, an international boutique fitness brand, she launched the company’s first learning management system and optimized operational best practices. Stephanie’s passion for people development, operational excellence, and clear communication continues to drive her success and the success of the organizations she leads. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this podcast episode, Dr. Jonathan H. Westover talks with Namit Jindal about AI, organizational leadership, and scaling your business. Namit Jindal runs a software company called Aerosend.io. They help B2B companies send cold emails that land in the inbox. They specialize in facilitating highly personalized emails that are relevant to the audience. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this podcast episode, Dr. Jonathan H. Westover talks with Namit Jindal about AI, organizational leadership, and scaling your business. Namit Jindal runs a software company called Aerosend.io. They help B2B companies send cold emails that land in the inbox. They specialize in facilitating highly personalized emails that are relevant to the audience. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this podcast episode, Dr. Jonathan H. Westover talks with Lisa M. Sanchez about how leaders can positively impact employee experience. Lisa M. Sanchez is an author, life coach, and the vice president for Employee Experience and Engagement (HR) at ArtCenter College of Design in Pasadena, CA. She leads a team dedicated to enriching the experiences and engagement for faculty and staff. Critical to this work is Sanchez’s direct work in ABIDE (or access, belonging, inclusion, diversity, and equity) and organizational culture. Born and raised in Los Angeles, CA, Sanchez received her bachelor’s degree in Communication Studies from California State University, Northridge, a master’s degree in Organizational Management from the University of Phoenix, and is a Certified Professional Life Coach. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this podcast episode, Dr. Jonathan H. Westover talks with Lisa M. Sanchez about how leaders can positively impact employee experience. Lisa M. Sanchez is an author, life coach, and the vice president for Employee Experience and Engagement (HR) at ArtCenter College of Design in Pasadena, CA. She leads a team dedicated to enriching the experiences and engagement for faculty and staff. Critical to this work is Sanchez’s direct work in ABIDE (or access, belonging, inclusion, diversity, and equity) and organizational culture. Born and raised in Los Angeles, CA, Sanchez received her bachelor’s degree in Communication Studies from California State University, Northridge, a master’s degree in Organizational Management from the University of Phoenix, and is a Certified Professional Life Coach. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this podcast episode, Dr. Jonathan H. Westover talks with Christian Muntean about his new book, "Train to Lead." Christian Muntean has helped hundreds of businesses rapidly grow, increase profitability, and expand impact. He primarily works with entrepreneurial business leaders who are scaling their businesses or preparing for exit or succession. He partners with owners, boards, and executive teams as they make game-changing decisions. Christian is the author of three popular books, with the most recent being Train to Lead. He is a frequent guest on podcasts and has been a contributor to Forbes.com. Christian lives in Anchorage, Alaska with his wife and three active children. He enjoys woodworking and practices Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Abstract: This article examines the evolution from T-shaped to V-shaped professional competency models in response to rapidly changing workplace demands. While T-shaped professionals combine deep expertise in one domain with broad knowledge across multiple areas, V-shaped professionals develop graduated depth across adjacent domains, creating a more fluid transition between specialization and generalization. Drawing on empirical evidence and theoretical frameworks, this paper analyzes the drivers behind this shift, its organizational and individual impacts, and evidence-based strategies for developing V-shaped capabilities. Case studies across technology, healthcare, and consulting sectors demonstrate how organizations are successfully cultivating V-shaped talent to enhance adaptability, innovation, and cross-functional collaboration. The article concludes with a framework for building sustainable talent development systems that foster professional versatility in an increasingly complex business environment. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Abstract: This article examines the evolution from T-shaped to V-shaped professional competency models in response to rapidly changing workplace demands. While T-shaped professionals combine deep expertise in one domain with broad knowledge across multiple areas, V-shaped professionals develop graduated depth across adjacent domains, creating a more fluid transition between specialization and generalization. Drawing on empirical evidence and theoretical frameworks, this paper analyzes the drivers behind this shift, its organizational and individual impacts, and evidence-based strategies for developing V-shaped capabilities. Case studies across technology, healthcare, and consulting sectors demonstrate how organizations are successfully cultivating V-shaped talent to enhance adaptability, innovation, and cross-functional collaboration. The article concludes with a framework for building sustainable talent development systems that foster professional versatility in an increasingly complex business environment. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this podcast episode, Dr. Jonathan H. Westover talks with Kyle Samuels about diversifying your talent pipeline. Kyle Samuels is the founder and CEO of Creative Talent Endeavors (CTE), a retained executive search firm known for helping organizations identify and hire the leadership talent that drives growth, transformation, and long-term value. Under Kyle’s leadership, CTE has been recognized twice on the Inc. 5000 list of fastest-growing private companies and was named the #4 fastest-growing company in Charlotte. What sets Kyle apart is a deep commitment to authenticity, candor, and alignment. Whether he’s partnering with a founder making their first executive hire or a global enterprise reshaping its leadership bench, Kyle brings a direct, empathetic, and values-driven approach to every search. His work is grounded in the belief that hiring the right leader isn’t just about a resume — it’s about long-term fit, trust, and shared purpose. Kyle is also the creator of Fairantee™, a value-based pricing search algorithm that uses data to determine the price of a search, not an arbitrary percentage like most search firms use. This makes using executive search more transparent and equitable. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this podcast episode, Dr. Jonathan H. Westover talks with Andy Lange about the evolving role of HR leaders. Andy Lange, MBA, PMP®, SHRM-SCP, is the Senior Vice President of People at Take Command, bringing over 15 years of combined HR, executive leadership, and operational experience. Prior to his current role, Andy served as CEO for seven years and as a partner and general manager, where he led business operations, talent strategy, and organizational growth. His career blends hands-on HR leadership with executive-level insight, enabling him to build scalable people programs that align with business objectives. Andy’s practical, real-world approach to helping HR leaders elevate their strategic impact through modern benefits strategies has been shared through speaking and editorial opportunities for BenefitsPro, HRSouthwest, business.com and SHRM. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this podcast episode, Dr. Jonathan H. Westover talks with Ab DeWeese about collaborative AI in the workplace. Ab DeWeese is a a serial entrepreneur, AI educator, and author of Essential AI: Your All-in-One QuickStart to Using AI in Business and the Workplace. He’s also the creator of CollabChat AI, a platform designed to help teams work with AI—and each other—to produce better, more reliable results. In this conversation, we’re diving into what HR leaders need to know about collaborative AI: how it reduces risk, strengthens decision-making, and helps people stay at the center of innovation. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this podcast episode, Dr. Jonathan H. Westover talks with Cindy Cavoto Cynthia Cavoto is a seasoned productivity coach and business strategist who empowers professionals and entrepreneurs to reclaim control of their time and build systems that support sustainable growth. As the founder of Cavoto Coaching & Consulting, she brings a unique blend of project management, digital marketing, and neuroscience-informed coaching to her work. Cynthia works with big-hearted, high-achieving individuals who feel stretched thin and are ready to regain clarity, energy, and purpose in their work and life. Her coaching provides not only strategic guidance but also practical tools—like personalized time management systems, downloadable resources, and tailored accountability structures—to create lasting change. With a warm, intuitive, and results-focused approach, Cynthia helps clients move from overwhelmed to empowered. Her work transfo Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this podcast episode, Dr. Jonathan H. Westover talks with Denise Brown about her book, THE FAIRY GOD DOCTOR’S GUIDE TO A GOOD LIFE: A Prescription For The Working Woman. Denise Brown, MD, has over three decades of experience as a physician, CEO, and Chief Strategy Officer. She is a transformation leader who helps women in business learn how to prioritize and avoid stress and burnout. A thought leader in self-care for working women, Brown is a graduate of The University of Chicago’s Pritzker School of Medicine, with training at Stanford and Vanderbilt. She resides in Austin, TX with her husband and children. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this podcast episode, Dr. Jonathan H. Westover talks with Wendy Lipton-Dibner about how leaders build impassioned engagement, unrivaled loyalty, and boundless growth by measuring real-world impact. Wendy Lipton-Dibner, MA, author of WHAT MATTERS MATTERS MOST®: How Leaders Build Impassioned Engagement, Unrivaled Loyalty, And Boundless Growth By Measuring Real-World Impact, is the leading authority on organizational development through strategic and operational impact. A multiple-time bestselling author, sought-after strategist, and serial entrepreneur, Lipton-Dibner is known for her unparalleled ability to help organizations increase profitability by maximizing and capitalizing on the Real-World Impact they create for all stakeholders. President, Founder, and CEO of Professional Impact, Inc., Lipton-Dibner is the developer of Organizational Impact Strategy, inventor of Real-World Impact Metrics, and creator of the companion app. She has helped thousands of enterprise, healthcare, small business, and non-profit leaders increase team effectiveness and revenue as the direct result of making a measurable difference in people’s lives. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this podcast episode, Dr. Jonathan H. Westover talks with Andy Crocker about what losing to Musk and Bezos taught him about real leadership. Andy Crocker is an aerospace executive with three decades of experience building high-performance teams and leading ambitious projects, including NASA’s Human Landing System. He holds degrees in engineering, humanities, management, and leadership and is an associate fellow of the American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics. His multidisciplinary educational background and diverse career shaped his unique perspective that led him to write The Unconditionals in which he reveals the foundational, timeless values that help readers unlock the potential for their greatest personal and professional fulfillment. He recently founded Overview Affection, a company that aims to extend the values contained in The Unconditionals to individuals and organizations. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this podcast episode, Dr. Jonathan H. Westover talks with Chad E. Foster about resilience reimagined and navigating change and transformation. Chad E. Foster is a trailblazer defying limitations with resilience and innovation. Despite going blind at 21, he’s a rainmaker, billion-dollar generator, and tech innovator. Graduating as the first blind executive from Harvard Business School’s leadership program, Chad created CRM software for the visually impaired, doing what tech titans said couldn’t be done. Thriving in a Fortune 500 company, he directed financial strategies that produced billions in revenue and best-in-class margins. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this podcast episode, Dr. Jonathan H. Westover talks with Michael Ang about recruitment advertising and recruitment technologies. Michael Ang, CEO and Founder of Jobelephant.com, Inc., brings over two decades of expertise in recruitment advertising to the table. He has propelled the agency to become a trusted leader in the field, offering unparalleled service and solutions to clients across various industries. Beginning his journey in 1994 as a graphic designer, Michael's entrepreneurial spirit led him to establish JobElephant in 2000, starting from humble beginnings in his garage. Since then, his visionary leadership has guided the agency to unparalleled success, earning recognition as a national leader in recruitment advertising. With a focus on providing outstanding service, Michael personally oversees hundreds of client accounts, many of which have remained loyal to JobElephant for over a decade. His dedication to excellence and commitment to client satisfaction have solidified JobElephant's reputation as one of the most reliable and successful agencies in the industry. Michael's expertise lies in streamlining the recruitment advertising process, taking the workload off clients' shoulders so they can focus on their core responsibilities. Whether it's placing ads in local newspapers, major trade journals, or online platforms, Michael and his team handle it all with the same level of professionalism and efficiency. Michael’s wealth of experience and unwavering dedication to excellence make him an invaluable resource for reporters seeking insights into the dynamic world of recruitment advertising. His innovative approach and commitment to exceptional service continue to set JobElephant apart in the industry. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Abstract: This article explores how mid-career executives can successfully navigate professional reinvention by leveraging their accumulated expertise in new and fulfilling ways. Drawing from two decades of experience working with senior leaders across global industries, the author outlines a comprehensive framework for career transformation that includes intentional self-reflection, strategic skill development, and network expansion. The piece examines various pathways for experienced professionals to create impact beyond traditional leadership roles—including mentoring, advisory positions, flexible work arrangements, content creation, and entrepreneurial ventures. By embracing these approaches with careful planning and persistent implementation, seasoned leaders can craft meaningful second acts that capitalize on their wisdom while maintaining professional growth and personal satisfaction throughout the latter stages of their careers. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Abstract: This article explores the persistence of workplace incivility despite increased focus on professionalism and well-being in modern organizations. It examines the psychological factors enabling rude behavior to evade accountability, including its often subtle and ambiguous nature, power dynamics that shield higher-status offenders, and cognitive biases that distort observers' interpretations. The article presents research-based strategies for organizations to address these issues, including establishing clear civility standards, implementing anonymous reporting systems, and conducting bystander intervention training. Through case studies of companies like Eli Lilly and Verizon, the article demonstrates how organizations can transform workplace culture by taking holistic, learning-based approaches to confronting incivility rather than implementing superficial solutions, ultimately enhancing employee well-being, performance, and retention. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices