Badass Leaders Podcast: Leadership, Career Growth, and Company Culture

In this episode, host Angela Gill Nelms chats with Tracy Lee ( @TheLeadershipExchange )   —entrepreneur, technologist, and advocate for women in tech—about her journey from learning to code to leading in the health and life sciences space. Tracy shares why building community matters, how to hire for culture adds over culture fits, and why meaningful work resonates so strongly with today’s talent.

They dive into the nuances of leadership vs. management, the challenges of scaling engineering teams, and how AI is reshaping the way we work. Packed with real talk, insights, and laughs, this conversation is a must-listen for anyone navigating the evolving tech landscape.

Learn more about Tracy at:
Instagram: ladyleet
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/tracyslee
Website:www.thisdot.co
YouTube: youtube.com/@TheLeadershipExchange
Twitter / X: @ladyleet
Podcasts: The Leadership Exchange by This Dot Labs, and Modern Web

Mentioned in this Episode:
Angela’s episode on The Leadership Exchange: https://youtu.be/0k09L2o46wA?si=kXNIKnPV0cqe_YQe
Cursor: https://www.cursor.com/
V0.dev: https://v0.dev/

Produced by: The AGN Group, Host: Angela Gill Nelms, Producer: Katie Hart
Tagline: Be Brave. Be Badass.
Websites: www.theagngroup.com and www.AngelaGillNelms.com

About The AGN Group:
At The AGN Group, we believe every individual, team, and company can unlock their inner badass, one brave step at a time. www.TheAGNGroup.com.

Social Media Channels:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/badassleaderspodcast/
Twitter: https://x.com/BALeadersPod
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@baleaderspod
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/badass-leaders-podcast2

Want to be a Podcast Guest?
If you are interested in being a guest on the podcast, email [email protected]
 @AngelaGillNelms ​

In this insightful episode, Steve Garraty, author of Grapefruit, shares how his battle with cancer reshaped his views on life, leadership, and gratitude. The conversation explores the power of empathy in navigating grief, the role of appreciation in leadership, and the contrast between managers and true leaders. Listeners gain valuable insights on building a winning culture, transforming underperforming teams, and integrating purpose into leadership. The episode concludes with key lessons on presence, personal growth, and fostering strong, community-driven leadership.

Learn more about Steve at:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/stevegarratyauthor
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stevegarratyauthor
Website: https://stevegarraty.com/meet-author-steve-garraty/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@sgarraty1  @sgarraty1
Book: https://amzn.to/3Y6vs3J
The poem read from Steve’s book: https://www.goodreads.com/quotes/969007-if-you-want-to-know-the-value-of-one-year

Produced by: The AGN Group, Host: Angela Gill Nelms, Producer: Katie Hart
Tagline: Be Brave. Be Badass.
Websites: www.theagngroup.com and www.AngelaGillNelms.com

About The AGN Group:
At The AGN Group, we believe every individual, team, and company can unlock their inner badass, one brave step at a time. www.TheAGNGroup.com.

Social Media Channels:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/badassleaderspodcast/
Twitter: https://x.com/BALeadersPod
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@baleaderspod
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/badass-leaders-podcast2

Want to be a Podcast Guest?
If you are interested in being a guest on the podcast, email [email protected]
 @AngelaGillNelms ​

In this episode, Sherry Grote shares her journey from traditional marketing to becoming a licensed pastor and industry leader. She discusses balancing creativity with data-driven strategies, leading fragmented teams, and the power of communication in workplace culture.

Sherry also introduces Harmony Hero, an initiative empowering marketers and HR professionals to find their voice and drive change. The conversation explores emotional intelligence, team dynamics, leadership, key differences between B2B and B2C marketing, team-building strategies, and the impact of cultural diversity on collaboration.

Learn more about Sherry Grote at:
Facebook: The Harmony Hero
Instagram: @theharmonyhero
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sherrygrote/
Website: www.theharmonyhero.com
The DiSC test: https://discvalueprofiles.com/blog/what-are-the-disc-personality-types-a-deeper-look-at-12-styles/
 @sherrygrotetheharmonyhero

Produced by: The AGN Group, Host: Angela Gill Nelms, Producer: Katie Hart
Tagline: Be Brave. Be Badass.
Websites: www.theagngroup.com and www.AngelaGillNelms.com

About The AGN Group:
At The AGN Group, we believe every individual, team, and company can unlock their inner badass, one brave step at a time. www.TheAGNGroup.com.

Social Media Channels:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/badassleaderspodcast/
Twitter: https://x.com/BALeadersPod
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@baleaderspod
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/badass-leaders-podcast2

Want to be a Podcast Guest?
If you are interested in being a guest on the podcast, email [email protected]
 @AngelaGillNelms ​

In this episode, we sit down with insurance industry CEO Mark Williams to explore the nuances of authentic leadership. Our conversation delves into creating employee-centric cultures, fostering open communication, and balancing business goals with employee well-being. We discuss the significance of vulnerability, empathy, and personal branding, sharing insights on conflict resolution, embracing failures, and encouraging innovation.

Tune in for practical takeaways and personal anecdotes that highlight the human side of effective leadership.

Learn more about Mark at:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-williams-bi/
Website: www.markwwilliams.com
Book: https://amzn.to/4ieUOnZ

Produced by: The AGN Group, Host: Angela Gill Nelms, Producer: Katie Hart
Tagline: Be Brave. Be Badass.
Websites: www.theagngroup.com and www.AngelaGillNelms.com

About The AGN Group:
At The AGN Group, we believe every individual, team, and company can unlock their inner badass, one brave step at a time. www.TheAGNGroup.com.

Social Media Channels:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/badassleaderspodcast/
Twitter: https://x.com/BALeadersPod
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@baleaderspod
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/badass-leaders-podcast2

Want to be a Podcast Guest?
If you are interested in being a guest on the podcast, email [email protected]
 @AngelaGillNelms ​

In this insightful conversation, Jon Sexton ( @Jon.sexton ), shares his journey from aspiring musician to successful entrepreneur in real estate and health clubs. He emphasizes adaptability, mentorship, and the value of building a strong team. Jon explores leadership dynamics, employee transitions, and personal well-being alongside Angela Gill Nelms. They discuss handling separations with grace, balancing coaching with tough decisions, and maintaining health routines. Jon also reflects on scaling teams, memorable career moments, and his ventures into podcasting and television. The conversation wraps up with motivational insights on passion, action, and leadership.

Learn more about Jon at:

Facebook: facebook.com/jonsextontimeline
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jon.sexton
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jondsexton/
Website: www.nashvillehomeagents.com
YouTube: Youtube.com/jon.sexton  @Jon.sexton
Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/episode/0HPowGdfb1kYhE37Y69h5b?si=b-dKjA2fQ4-zjM_wTiQ8Vw

Produced by: The AGN Group, Host: Angela Gill Nelms, Producer: Katie Hart
Tagline: Be Brave. Be Badass.
Websites: www.theagngroup.com and www.AngelaGillNelms.com

About The AGN Group:
At The AGN Group, we believe every individual, team, and company can unlock their inner badass, one brave step at a time. www.TheAGNGroup.com.

Social Media Channels:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/badassleaderspodcast/
Twitter: https://x.com/BALeadersPod
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@baleaderspod
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/badass-leaders-podcast2

Want to be a Podcast Guest?
If you are interested in being a guest on the podcast, email [email protected]

 @AngelaGillNelms ​

In this episode, Angela Gill Nelms talks to fighter pilot and leadership expert Brandon Williams ( @leadershipspeakerpilot ),  who shares powerful insights on building high-performing leaders by understanding human factors.

He explores the critical role of work-life integration, daily habits, and mindfulness in effective leadership. The discussion also examines the challenges of leading in a VUCA (Volatile, Uncertain, Complex, Ambiguous) environment and how lessons from aviation—such as mutual support, debrief culture, and just culture—can transform business leadership. Through real-world examples, Williams emphasizes that great leaders aren’t born; they’re developed through experience, accountability, and continuous learning.

Learn more about Brandon at:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LeadershipSpeakerPilot
Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/leadershipspeaker_pilot/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brandon-williams-speaker/
Website: https://brandonwilliamsspeaker.com/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/

Produced by: The AGN Group, Host: Angela Gill Nelms, Producer: Katie Hart
Tagline: Be Brave. Be Badass.
Websites: www.theagngroup.com and www.AngelaGillNelms.com

About The AGN Group:
At The AGN Group, we believe every individual, team, and company can unlock their inner badass, one brave step at a time. www.TheAGNGroup.com.

Social Media Channels:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/badassleaderspodcast/
Twitter: https://x.com/BALeadersPod
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@baleaderspod
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/badass-leaders-podcast2

Want to be a Podcast Guest?
If you are interested in being a guest on the podcast, email [email protected]

 @AngelaGillNelms @leadershipspeakerpilot ​

In this insightful and dynamic conversation, Angela Gill Nelms and Vicki Bradley ( @wilempowered ), dive deep into the core of leadership—exploring trust, confidence, and personal growth.

Through personal stories and real-world experiences, they discuss overcoming adversity, the power of internal validation, and the role of emotional intelligence in building strong relationships. They highlight the importance of conscious leadership, authentic communication, and the impact of trust on team dynamics. The conversation culminates in a powerful discussion on crafting a personal brand story rooted in authenticity and values, emphasizing the lasting impact of our choices and the legacy we leave behind. This episode is packed with valuable takeaways for aspiring and seasoned leaders alike!

Learn more about Vicki at:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wilempoweryou/
Instagram: @Women in Leadership Empowered @Vicki Bradley @WILEmpowered
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/wilempowered/
Website: https://www.wilempowered.com/
https://www.youtube.com/channel/@UCYP72hX2PZEFI5gjCwxHRWw
Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/2x50hRwRaAFDzLZbfwu0Ol?si=f42eb3cbc4454030&nd=1
Angela’s appearance on Vicki’s podcast: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rkfMbqWh-Ho&t=2124s

Produced by: The AGN Group, Host: Angela Gill Nelms, Producer: Katie Hart
Tagline: Be Brave. Be Badass.
Websites: www.theagngroup.com and www.AngelaGillNelms.com

About The AGN Group:
At The AGN Group, we believe every individual, team, and company can unlock their inner badass, one brave step at a time. www.TheAGNGroup.com.

Social Media Channels:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/badassleaderspodcast/
Twitter: https://x.com/BALeadersPod
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@baleaderspod
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/badass-leaders-podcast2

Want to be a Podcast Guest?
If you are interested in being a guest on the podcast, email [email protected]

 @AngelaGillNelms ​

Angela Gill Nelms and Drew Harden dive into the essence of company culture and leadership, challenging the notion that culture is just about perks. Drawing from Drew's book Retain, they explore the power of visible values, appreciation, and working with like-minded clients. The conversation is packed with actionable insights on fostering joy, connection, growth, and vulnerability in the workplace. Through personal anecdotes and practical strategies, they highlight how authentic leadership and meaningful interactions create a thriving, engaged workforce.

Learn more about Drew at:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drewrharden
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drewharden/
• YouTube: youtube.com/@DrewHarden
• Twitter / X: https://x.com/drewharden
• Drew's book, Retain: https://amzn.to/4k00FyC
• Drew's basketball video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DacuaYxzmRU
• Drew's employee banner video: https://youtu.be/StR2CZ1_RhU?si=noV2iLjoo2Nj4VJJ

About Angela: Angela Gill Nelms is a trailblazer in the creation of exceptional companies and teams. She serves as the Director of Biolocity and is the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of both The AGN Group and the Recovery Advocate Network. Previously, she held the position of Chief Operations Officer at Aetos Imaging, RenovoRx, and Florence Healthcare. With a Bachelor's degree in Biomedical Engineering from Georgia Tech, Angela has a proven track record of successfully navigating the FDA, leading diverse teams, prioritizing the needs of customers and patients, and building exceptional companies.

Angela shares her lessons learned around the country in keynote speeches, coaching, and team-building workshops. Learn more about Angela at www.AngelaGillNelms.com. 

About The AGN Group: At The AGN Group, we believe every individual, team, and company can unlock their inner badass, one brave step at a time. We offer keynote and panel speaking, leadership and team-building workshops, fractional and management consulting, brand and storytelling services. Email us at [email protected] to connect. Learn more at www.TheAGNGroup.com.

Social Media Channels:

• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@bebravebebadass/podcasts
• Spotify:  https://open.spotify.com/show/73Dg8OQ7SqtGtSiCWQUfLB?si=c17c0f1abe29446f
• Apple Podcasts:  https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/badass-leaders-podcast-brave-hearts-brave-conversations/id1788987881
• Audible:  https://www.audible.com/podcast/Badass-Leaders-Podcast-Brave-Hearts-Brave-Conversations-Badass-Leaders/B0DS2CQL9V?source_code=ASSGB149080119000H&share_location=pdp
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/badassleaderspodcast/
• Twitter: https://x.com/BALeadersPod
• TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@baleaderspod
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/badass-leaders-podcast2

Want to be a Podcast Guest?

If you are interested in being a guest on the podcast, email [email protected]. 

 Learn more about the podcast at www.BadassLeadersPodcast.com.

Join host Angela Gill Nelms as she sits down with Marc Reinfenrath to explore the evolution of digital marketing, the power of core values in leadership, and the art of adapting to client needs. Marc shares his journey of founding Spinutech, his challenges, and key lessons in building strong client relationships and thriving team culture.

Together, they dive into modern leadership—navigating pressure, embracing failure, and fostering a culture of growth and vulnerability. They also discuss conflict resolution, employee retention, and how leadership language shapes team dynamics. From creating a social contract within teams to reinforcing values through intentional messaging, this conversation is packed with insights for leaders looking to inspire and empower their teams in today’s ever-evolving workplace.

Learn more about Marc at:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcreifenrath/
Website: www.Spinutech.com
 @spinutech

Produced by: The AGN Group, Host: Angela Gill Nelms, Producer: Katie Hart
Tagline: Be Brave. Be Badass.
Websites: www.theagngroup.com and www.AngelaGillNelms.com

About The AGN Group:
At The AGN Group, we believe every individual, team, and company can unlock their inner badass, one brave step at a time. www.TheAGNGroup.com.

Social Media Channels:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/badassleaderspodcast/
Twitter: https://x.com/BALeadersPod
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@baleaderspod
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/badass-leaders-podcast2

Want to be a Podcast Guest?
If you are interested in being a guest on the podcast, email [email protected]
 @AngelaGillNelms ​

In this episode of the Badass Leaders Podcast, host Angela Gill Nelms sits down with healthcare executive Eric Doherty to explore the evolving relationship between leadership, management, and technology—particularly artificial intelligence (AI). Together, they break down the key distinctions between leaders and managers, the role of trust in effective leadership, and the profound impact AI has across industries, including healthcare.

Eric offers valuable insights on integrating AI into organizations, addressing cybersecurity risks, and navigating the complex regulatory landscape. The conversation also tackles AI’s potential to drive efficiency in healthcare and manufacturing while acknowledging concerns about job displacement. Throughout the discussion, Angela and Eric emphasize the importance of strong leadership, continuous education, and proactive data security measures to harness AI’s power responsibly.

Learn more about Eric at:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ericdohertygloballeader/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VgK-nIOogzI
Twitter / X:  https://x.com/EDohertyGlobal
Recovery Advocate Network Interview:  https://youtu.be/BkXASTyUsa0?si=9PZKH7pF_bwoYEjq

Produced by: The AGN Group, Host: Angela Gill Nelms, Producer: Katie Hart
Tagline: Be Brave. Be Badass.
Websites: www.theagngroup.com and www.AngelaGillNelms.com

About The AGN Group:
At The AGN Group, we believe every individual, team, and company can unlock their inner badass, one brave step at a time. www.TheAGNGroup.com.

Social Media Channels:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/badassleaderspodcast/
Twitter: https://x.com/BALeadersPod
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@baleaderspod
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/badass-leaders-podcast2

Want to be a Podcast Guest?
If you are interested in being a guest on the podcast, email [email protected]

 @AngelaGillNelms ​