Ask Ashley

In this episode of Ask Ashley, host Ashley Russo sits down with Kafi Payne, a dynamic leader in human resources, to explore the transformative power of empathy and connection in the workplace. Kafi, who has journeyed from being a middle school teacher to a director of HR in the tech industry, shares her inspiring story of adaptability, leadership, and the importance of creating a sense of belonging for all employees. Growing up in multiple countries and moving frequently, Kafi developed a unique perspective on the human experience, which she leverages to foster inclusivity and understanding in her workplace.

Throughout the conversation, Kafi emphasizes the value of being seen and heard within corporate culture. She discusses the challenges and lessons learned during her company’s rapid growth and highlights the significance of creating safe spaces for employees to take risks and learn. With insights on how to engage in hard conversations and the necessity of curiosity over judgment, Kafi's passion for nurturing personal and professional growth shines through, reminding us that the human element is irreplaceable, even in an age dominated by artificial intelligence.

• (00:00) - - Welcome to Ask Ashley Podcast

In this episode of *Ask Ashley*, host Ashley Russo sits down with Jenilee Angeles-Pasco, the Director of Operations at Runpod, Inc., to explore the intricate balance between work and family life. Jenilee shares her inspiring journey from Hollywood to HR, where she has been a pioneering force in shaping organizational culture and employee well-being. With a background that spans various industries, including biotech and entertainment, she emphasizes the importance of being the first HR hire in establishing foundational practices that support diverse employees.

Jenilee opens up about her upbringing as an immigrant and how it has influenced her perspective on work and motherhood. She discusses the challenges of being a working mom, the realness of juggling responsibilities, and the importance of flexibility in the workplace. Throughout the conversation, Jenilee highlights the need for empathy in leadership and the proactive measures her company takes to create a supportive environment for all employees. Tune in for her insights on fostering emotional safety and prioritizing well-being in today’s fast-paced work culture, as she candidly shares both the challenges and rewards of her journey.

• (00:00) - - Introduction to Ask Ashley Podcast

In this powerful episode of *Ask Ashley*, host Ashley Russo sits down with Chuck Thompson, the Vice President of People and Operations at SimuTech Group, to explore his remarkable journey from a troubled childhood to a leadership role in a thriving engineering firm. Chuck opens up about the challenges he faced growing up—struggling with homelessness, addiction, and family trauma—and how these experiences shaped his understanding of empathy, resilience, and the importance of human connection in the workplace.

Through candid storytelling, Chuck shares the pivotal moments that influenced his journey, from the compassion of a stranger during a dark time to the profound lessons learned from his personal and professional relationships. He emphasizes the need for leaders to be adaptable and empathetic, especially in an era where technology increasingly intersects with human experiences. Chuck's insights serve as a reminder that every choice we make can either lead us closer to our desired legacy or take us further away from it, ultimately inspiring listeners to reflect on their own paths and the impact they wish to create.

• (00:00) - - Introduction to Ask Ashley Podcast

Welcome to Ask Ashley, the podcast where we shine a light on the unsung heroes of the workplace. I’m your host, Ashley Russo—financial AI board member, thought leader, and wealth management advisor. 

Each week, we sit down with the inspiring leaders, exploring their journeys, motivations, and the real challenges they face, from job insecurity to the evolving role of AI. In a world where many feel overlooked, these guests are building hope and connection for their colleagues. Join us as we uncover their stories and discover how they’re making a difference, one conversation at a time.