Evolving to Exceptional with Jessica Tietjen

Description: 

In this episode of Evolving to Exceptional, host Jessica Tietjen sits down with Ryan McCrea, Head of Learning and Leadership Development at Ameren, to explore the critical importance of emotional intelligence and psychological safety in today's leadership landscape. With 20 years of HR experience and a background in industrial-organizational psychology, Ryan shares powerful insights on how leaders can foster human-centered leadership that supports their teams' emotional well-being, enhances performance, and drives organizational success.

BIO:

Ryan McCrea is focused on making an impact by helping organizations maximize and develop talent through creative people solutions. He’s passionate about helping others own their career and providing thought leadership on strategic talent management, leadership development, mentoring, team dynamics, and culture building.

Ryan is currently the Head of Learning and Leadership Development at Ameren where he leads a team focused on corporate learning and development programs. Prior to Ameren, Ryan was Vice President – Manager of Talent Development at Commerce Bank. In this position, he launched a corporate-wide professional development program, while overseeing the strategy around people and leadership growth.

Ryan has certifications in Situational Leadership, 4 Stages of Psychological Safety, DiSC, MBTI, and is also a Social and Emotional Intelligence Coach. Ryan received a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from the University of Southern Indiana and a Master of Arts in Industrial/Organizational Psychology from Southern Illinois University Edwardsville.

Ryan lives in St. Louis with his wife, Susan, and two adorable cats, Zooey and Coco. He loves music, movies, fashion, pop culture, and art. Ask him about any of these topics and you may never get away.

Purchase my new book Fiercely Cherished Beings: https://amzn.to/3PKBFem

Download the first chapter for FREE: https://www.evolvingtoexceptional.com/fiercely-cherished-beings 

Website -⁠ https://www.evolvingtoexceptional.com/⁠

LinkedIn -⁠ https://www.linkedin.com/company/evolving-to-exceptional/⁠

Instagram -⁠ https://www.instagram.com/jessicatietjenj⁠

Facebook -⁠ https://www.facebook.com/Evolving-To-Exceptional-109687844842573⁠

Buy The Exceptional Life R-Evolution book -⁠ https://www.amazon.com/dp/1952566282/⁠

Get the first Chapter of The Exceptional Life R-Evolution Free at:⁠ https://www.evolvingtoexceptional.com/firstchapterfreedownload⁠

Description: 

In this episode of the "Evolving to Exceptional Podcast," host Jessica Tietjen sits down with Christina Siewert, HR and Talent Development Director at American Plastics, to explore the challenges and opportunities in talent development within the manufacturing industry. Christina shares her insights on emotional intelligence, leadership development, and creating growth-oriented environments for employees in traditionally hands-on roles. Learn how to build trust within teams, integrate effective onboarding practices, and leverage human connections to boost employee engagement and retention.

 Whether you're an HR professional, leader, or anyone interested in personal and professional growth, this episode dives into strategies to transform workplace cultures for long-term success. Listen now to discover how to empower your teams and create exceptional workplaces that drive productivity and employee satisfaction.

BIO:

Christina Siewert, the HR and Talent Development Director at American Plastics, brings over 30 years of experience in manufacturing, services, and healthcare to her role. Passionate about talent development, she focuses on fostering employee growth and building trust within teams, emphasizing the importance of emotional intelligence and human connections in the manufacturing industry. Her mission is to help every employee reach their full potential by creating environments that support both personal and professional development.

Website -⁠ https://www.evolvingtoexceptional.com/⁠

LinkedIn -⁠ https://www.linkedin.com/company/evolving-to-exceptional/⁠

Instagram -⁠ https://www.instagram.com/jessicatietjenj⁠

Facebook -⁠ https://www.facebook.com/Evolving-To-Exceptional-109687844842573⁠

Buy The Exceptional Life R-Evolution book -⁠ https://www.amazon.com/dp/1952566282/⁠

Get the first Chapter of The Exceptional Life R-Evolution Free at:⁠ https://www.evolvingtoexceptional.com/firstchapterfreedownload⁠

Description: 

In this episode, we dive into the future of performance management with special guest Jason Herman, a veteran HR leader with over 20 years of experience in organizational development and performance improvement. Together, we explore the shift from traditional performance ratings systems to more dynamic and growth-centered approaches. 

Join us as we discuss key topics such as psychological safety, continuous feedback, and the growing influence of AI in the workplace. Learn how to foster a performance culture that balances employee engagement, excellence, and productivity.

Jason shares insights on overcoming the challenges of changing established systems and how to create an environment of growth, resilience, and partnership. 

Whether you're an HR professional, a leader, or someone passionate about personal and professional development, this episode is packed with actionable strategies to build exceptional teams and organizations in today's evolving landscape.

Don't miss this deep dive into modern performance management and the key to unlocking peak potential at work! 

Bio:

Jason Herman is a leadership and organizational consultant with 20+ years’ experience helping companies deliver results through unlocking the potential of their employees. He has worked with organizations across diverse industries including insurance, higher education, telecommunications, and hospitality. One of his proudest achievements was helping healthcare leaders navigate challenges during the pandemic. 

Jason lives his best life when focusing on his well-being by going to the theatre and attending live music concerts with his wife and two daughters. He also enjoys running, basketball refereeing and anything related to the Marvel Cinematic Universe.

Website -⁠ https://www.evolvingtoexceptional.com/⁠

LinkedIn -⁠ https://www.linkedin.com/company/evolving-to-exceptional/⁠

Instagram -⁠ https://www.instagram.com/jessicatietjenj⁠

Facebook -⁠ https://www.facebook.com/Evolving-To-Exceptional-109687844842573⁠

Buy The Exceptional Life R-Evolution book -⁠ https://www.amazon.com/dp/1952566282/⁠

Get the first Chapter of The Exceptional Life R-Evolution Free at:⁠ https://www.evolvingtoexceptional.com/firstchapterfreedownload⁠

Description: 

In this episode of the Evolving to Exceptional Podcast, we are thrilled to have Dr. Amanda Blake join us, an expert in body-oriented leadership coaching and the author of the impactful book, "Your Body Is Your Brain." In this episode, Dr. Blake shares fascinating insights into how our bodies significantly influence our behavior and professional success. We dive into real-life stories of how her clients have transformed their personal and professional lives through body-oriented coaching. From developing stronger self-awareness and setting boundaries to managing conflict better, Dr. Blake's approach integrates the intelligence of the body in ways that reshape not just personal behaviors but also professional environments. She also discusses her upcoming book focused on designing personal practices to embody important qualities, an essential guide for anyone looking to thrive in their life and career. Join us as we explore how embracing our body's intelligence can lead to resilience, adaptability, and extraordinary leadership. Don't miss this deep dive into the transformative power of being in tune with your body to navigate both personal challenges and professional landscapes.

Bio:

Dr. Amanda Blake is an internationally celebrated educator and executive coach with a pedigree spanning more than 25 years and 35,000 students in companies, non-profits, colleges and universities, professional associations, and more. She has shown people in over 50 countries how they can enjoy life more while making a bigger contribution, and has reached many thousands more as a top-rated podcast guest and with her award-winning book Your Body is Your Brain. Her primary research areas are the neurobiology of embodied learning, applied ethics, and leadership effectiveness. Learn more at https://embright.org/ 

Website -⁠ https://www.evolvingtoexceptional.com/⁠

LinkedIn -⁠ https://www.linkedin.com/company/evolving-to-exceptional/⁠

Instagram -⁠ https://www.instagram.com/jessicatietjenj⁠

Facebook -⁠ https://www.facebook.com/Evolving-To-Exceptional-109687844842573⁠

Buy The Exceptional Life R-Evolution book -⁠ https://www.amazon.com/dp/1952566282/⁠

Get the first Chapter of The Exceptional Life R-Evolution Free at:⁠ https://www.evolvingtoexceptional.com/firstchapterfreedownload⁠

In this episode, Jessica and Luis delve deep into discussions of leadership, authenticity, and the transformational power of coaching in the workplace. Luis shares his personal journey from navigating a fear-based and toxic work environment in New York ad sales to thriving in Silicon Valley's more supportive and inclusive culture.

Discover the pivotal moments when leaders display vulnerability and transparency, drastically changing team dynamics and enhancing performance. Luis and Jessica explore the intricacies of implementing coaching programs that empower individuals and leaders alike, fostering a culture of independent problem-solving and decision-making.

Website -⁠ https://www.evolvingtoexceptional.com/⁠

LinkedIn -⁠ https://www.linkedin.com/company/evolving-to-exceptional/⁠

Instagram -⁠ https://www.instagram.com/jessicatietjenj⁠

Facebook -⁠ https://www.facebook.com/Evolving-To-Exceptional-109687844842573⁠

Buy The Exceptional Life R-Evolution book -⁠ https://www.amazon.com/dp/1952566282/⁠

Get the first Chapter of The Exceptional Life R-Evolution Free at:⁠ https://www.evolvingtoexceptional.com/firstchapterfreedownload⁠

Description: In this insightful episode of the Evolving To Exceptional Podcast, host Jessica Tietjen welcomes Jill O'Connell, an experienced HR director with a diverse background in both the legal and manufacturing sectors. Together, they delve into the nuances of decision-making in law firms versus corporate environments, highlighting relationship-building and stakeholder impact in the legal world. Tune in as they tackle the necessity of empathy and professionalism in managing challenging conversations and explore the transformations in the legal industry, marked by pivotal shifts in 2004 and the post-Covid epoch. Discover innovative strategies for professional development that cater to individual learning styles and promote well-being and work-life balance. Jill shares her journey from legal assistant to HR director, offering unique perspectives on navigating environments with strong personalities and the move towards flexible work arrangements. This episode is a profound exploration of fostering genuine connections, enhancing performance through personal growth, and adapting to a changing professional landscape for a truly exceptional career and life journey. 

Bio: Jill M. O’Connell, SHRM-SCP, SPHR 

Jill O'Connell is a highly experienced Human Resources Director with a career spanning over two decades, currently holding a key role at Paule, Camazine & Blumenthal, P.C. Her commitment to cultivating positive work environments is reflected in her extensive expertise, covering areas such as talent acquisition, employee relations, performance management, and employee development, making her a respected leader within the legal sector. 

In addition to her professional accomplishments, Jill is an active participant in several prestigious professional organizations. She serves on the Executive Board of the Gateway Chapter of the Association of Legal Administrators ("ALA Gateway"), contributing to the advancement of best practices in legal administration. Furthermore, Jill actively volunteers with the St. Louis Chapter of the Society for Human Resource Management ("SHRM-STL"), staying engaged in initiatives that enhance the local HR community and staying abreast of the latest industry trends. 

Beyond her professional commitments, Jill is a passionate advocate for diversity and inclusion. She serves as a dedicated facilitator of the YWCA's Witnessing Whiteness program, actively contributing to the program's mission of fostering conversations around race and equity. Her involvement in this initiative showcases not only her commitment to social responsibility but also her role as a dynamic and socially conscious leader in the legal and HR community. With a strategic mindset, hands-on approach, and active engagement in professional organizations and community initiatives, Jill O'Connell continues to be a driving force in shaping human resources initiatives toward continued excellence at Paule, Camazine & Blumenthal, P.C., while championing diversity and inclusion within and beyond the workplace. 

Website -⁠ https://www.evolvingtoexceptional.com/⁠

LinkedIn -⁠ https://www.linkedin.com/company/evolving-to-exceptional/⁠

Instagram -⁠ https://www.instagram.com/jessicatietjenj⁠

Facebook -⁠ https://www.facebook.com/Evolving-To-Exceptional-109687844842573⁠

Buy The Exceptional Life R-Evolution book -⁠ https://www.amazon.com/dp/1952566282/⁠

Get the first Chapter of The Exceptional Life R-Evolution Free at:⁠ https://www.evolvingtoexceptional.com/firstchapterfreedownload⁠

Description:

In this thought-provoking discussion, we have the privilege of hosting Julia Pearson, the strategic genius behind Stratos Creative Marketing. Julia has masterfully crafted a team dedicated to enhancing business owners' relationships with social media while fostering a workplace that prioritizes employees as individuals first and workers second.

We'll explore the delicate balance of offering competitive benefits without straining your budget, crafting policies that nurture employee satisfaction, and addressing the real-world challenges faced by our teams, from childcare to fair wages. Get ready to dive deep into Julia's leadership philosophy, which emphasizes transparency, the harmonious blend of personal and professional, and the art of making decisions that align with our head, heart, and gut.

Bio:

Julia Pearson embarked on her entrepreneurial journey six years ago with a freelancing gig that blossomed into a robust company of 13 dedicated team members. Driven by the passion to assist business owners in navigating the often turbulent waters of social media for their companies, Julia established a mission-centered business aiming to not only enhance online presence but to foster genuine connections between businesses and their audiences. The collective aspiration for the upcoming year is to empower 750 business owners with DIY tools and innovative strategies crafted by Julia's team.

Julia's path to success was not without its hurdles. Fresh out of college, she faced a series of disheartening job experiences that shook her confidence. One employer went as far as to brand her as the most discouraging person they had ever encountered, a confrontation that left Julia questioning her capabilities. However, rather than conceding defeat, she harnessed these setbacks as motivation to create a space where positivity and growth thrived, both for herself and for others aspiring to master the art of social media. This resolve to transform adversity into opportunity is the cornerstone upon which Julia built her business, and it reflects in the company's commitment to their client's success.

Website -⁠ https://www.evolvingtoexceptional.com/⁠

LinkedIn -⁠ https://www.linkedin.com/company/evolving-to-exceptional/⁠

Instagram -⁠ https://www.instagram.com/jessicatietjenj⁠

Facebook -⁠ https://www.facebook.com/Evolving-To-Exceptional-109687844842573⁠

Buy The Exceptional Life R-Evolution book -⁠ https://www.amazon.com/dp/1952566282/⁠

Get the first Chapter of The Exceptional Life R-Evolution Free at:⁠ https://www.evolvingtoexceptional.com/firstchapterfreedownload⁠

Description:

Join host Jessica Tietjen in an enlightening episode of "Evolving to Exceptional" as she engages in a profound conversation with Dr. Frank L. Douglas, discussing the power of reframing in addressing discrimination and fostering equity and inclusion. Dr. Douglas shares his personal journey and insights into Safe Haven Dialogues, a transformative approach that empowers individuals to tackle discrimination by redefining problems and seeking desired outcomes. Discover how reframing can bring positive change to workplaces and beyond, as Dr. Douglas shares compelling stories and practical strategies for achieving transformational results. Don't miss this opportunity to gain valuable insights into creating a more inclusive and equitable world.

Bio:

Dr. Frank L. Douglas, PH.D., M.D. is concerned with the negative impact of anxiety, stress, and discrimination in the workplace. His extensive education and experience allow him to speak with great insight and authority on this important topic. Dr. Douglas believes that personal problems can be reframed to produce better outcomes and increase personal satisfaction. Dr. Douglas is an award-winning industry veteran with three decades of experience in healthcare, the pharmaceutical industry, and entrepreneurship. Dr. Douglas holds a Ph.D. in physical chemistry and an M.D. from Cornell University. He completed his internship and residency in internal medicine at the Johns Hopkins Medical Institution and a fellowship in neuroendocrinology at the National Institutes of Health. In spite of episodes of discrimination, Dr. Douglas became the first Black to be on the board of management of a top 5 global pharmaceutical company. This makes him an excellent choice for lecturing on these revelatory topics. 

https://safehavendialogues-llc.com/ 

Website -⁠ https://www.evolvingtoexceptional.com/⁠

LinkedIn -⁠ https://www.linkedin.com/company/evolving-to-exceptional/⁠

Instagram -⁠ https://www.instagram.com/jessicatietjenj⁠

Facebook -⁠ https://www.facebook.com/Evolving-To-Exceptional-109687844842573⁠

Buy The Exceptional Life R-Evolution book -⁠ https://www.amazon.com/dp/1952566282/⁠

Get the first Chapter of The Exceptional Life R-Evolution Free at:⁠ https://www.evolvingtoexceptional.com/firstchapterfreedownload⁠

Description:

In this episode, we'll explore how Billy's quest for meaning was sparked by heartache that propelled him on a transformative journey that eventually embraced podcasting and mindfulness. Through his personal battles with anxiety and depression, Billy found solace and strength in mindfulness, and now, as a certified coach, he's dedicated to helping others experience the same transformation. 

But today's conversation goes beyond techniques; we'll dive deep into the neuroscience behind mindfulness and its profound impact on our nervous system. Billy's story of transitioning from a life driven by "doing" to one centered on "being" serves as a powerful reminder of the immeasurable value of presence in our high-speed, chaotic world.

Bio:

Billy Lahr is an intentional living and mindfulness coach, certified personal trainer, former educator, and serial overthinker.  Billy is also the host of The Mindful Midlife Crisis, a podcast for people navigating the complexities and possibilities of life’s second half.  Billy spent 21 years as an educator but experienced burnout due to budding mental health concerns, social media harassment from students, and a lack of job satisfaction.  In 2021, Billy left his job as dean of students in order to travel the world in search of meaningful experiences and community.  Since then, he’s been a GPS for those seeking purpose and passion by helping them identify strengths, explore curiosities, synergize with their crew, and cultivate consistency, discipline, patience, and self-compassion.  

--Website: https://www.mindfulmidlifecrisis.com/ 

--Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mindful_midlife_crisis/ 

–TikTok:   https://www.tiktok.com/@mindful_midlife_crisis 

--Twitter: https://twitter.com/MindfulMidlife 

--Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100066593624957 

Website -⁠ https://www.evolvingtoexceptional.com/⁠

LinkedIn -⁠ https://www.linkedin.com/company/evolving-to-exceptional/⁠

Instagram -⁠ https://www.instagram.com/jessicatietjenj⁠

Facebook -⁠ https://www.facebook.com/Evolving-To-Exceptional-109687844842573⁠

Buy The Exceptional Life R-Evolution book -⁠ https://www.amazon.com/dp/1952566282/⁠

Get the first Chapter of The Exceptional Life R-Evolution Free at:⁠ https://www.evolvingtoexceptional.com/firstchapterfreedownload⁠

Description:

In this episode, "Embracing Change in Higher Education”, we explore how the landscape of learning and skill acquisition is transforming within the workforce. From manufacturing to allied health, employers are increasingly integrating training opportunities into the workplace, yet they face the hurdles of implementation and the resistance that can come with change.

Join us as we unravel the challenges and gain insights from Kathryn Neff, who shares inspiring stories of learning and connection in the workplace, emphasizing the need to embrace our differences and work together to foster both individual and collective development.

Bio:

Kathryn Neff had no idea how valuable interviewing and writing skills would become in her HR job when she studied journalism at Mizzou.  After completing Bachelor's degrees in Business Administration and Broadcast Journalism she worked in TV news on the west coast for a couple of years. Missing family events motivated her to move back to the Midwest. She then began working as a temporary employee while obtaining her MBA.  After taking on several temporary assignments, the staffing agency hired her full-time as a recruiter.   She learned a lot about searching for talent and working with people from the staffing agency owners. A partnership with the local community college to assist students with job placement led to a full-time HR role at Mineral Area College 15 years ago.  That current HR role includes compliance, training, benefits administration, recruiting, onboarding, employee rewards, and engagement. 

Website -⁠ https://www.evolvingtoexceptional.com/⁠

LinkedIn -⁠ https://www.linkedin.com/company/evolving-to-exceptional/⁠

Instagram -⁠ https://www.instagram.com/jessicatietjenj⁠

Facebook -⁠ https://www.facebook.com/Evolving-To-Exceptional-109687844842573⁠

Buy The Exceptional Life R-Evolution book -⁠ https://www.amazon.com/dp/1952566282/⁠

Get the first Chapter of The Exceptional Life R-Evolution Free at:⁠ https://www.evolvingtoexceptional.com/firstchapterfreedownload⁠