In this episode, host Chris Jaeger welcomes guest KC Smurthwaite from Athletics Admin who shares insights into his 15+ years in higher education and athletics, covering roles from fundraising to corporate partnerships. They discuss the unique challenges of balancing work life and the creative strategies employed to enhance donor experiences and revenue opportunities. KC emphasizes the importance of customized donor cultivation, the significance of playing the 'long game,' and the need for a game plan akin to playing chess rather than checkers. They delve into innovative approaches such as personalized merchandise for donor engagement and the critical role of understanding each institution's and donor's unique needs. Throughout, the discussion highlights the essence of building genuine relationships and the impact of tailored contributions to the success and experience of student-athletes and the broader university community.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Extensive Experience: KC Smurthwaite shares insights from his 15+ years in higher education and athletics, covering various roles including fundraising and corporate partnerships.
• Work-Life Balance Challenges: The discussion highlights the unique challenges of balancing work and life in this field.
• Creative Donor Strategies: KC discusses creative strategies to enhance donor experiences and revenue opportunities, emphasizing the importance of customized donor cultivation.
• Playing the "Long Game": He stresses the significance of long-term planning, comparing the approach to playing chess rather than checkers.
• Innovative Donor Engagement: Personalized merchandise is one example of innovative strategies for engaging donors and strengthening relationships.
• Understanding Unique Needs: Tailoring strategies to the specific needs of institutions and donors is critical for success.
• Building Genuine Relationships: The conversation underscores the importance of building authentic, meaningful relationships, which ultimately benefit student-athletes and the broader university community.

QUOTES

• "In higher education, you’re playing the long game. It is always relationships. It is making sure you're being a good steward to all the folks across campus. And it takes time."
• "We want to be in there. We want to be known. We want to be in the meetings. Now, if they don’t want us in there, we're not going to. But at the end of the day, we want to augment anything that's being done already within the department."
• "The crazy thing was, all the people I sent that shirt to would wear it to games... you took the mailer and you're wearing my shirt that Isent you, has proof of concept."
• "Chess, not checkers... you have to be thinking moves ahead, and you have to be able to pivot and provide solutions to your clientele, and they all come in different ways, shape or form."

Connect and learn more about KC Smurthwaite.
https://www.linkedin.com/in/smurf/

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In the episode In The Club powered by Club Colors, we continue the conversation with Mike Wilkinson, the Assistant Vice President of Student Affairs at the University of South Alabama. Mike shares his journey of adapting to a new campus environment and the importance of being genuine and authentic in both personal and professional life. He emphasized the need for higher education institutions, especially within student affairs, to effectively tell their stories and connect with students through digital media and social platforms. The conversation delves into creating impactful student experiences, highlighting efforts like the return of the homecoming concert and the development of a new Student Involvement Department. The discussion also touches on the significance of mental health awareness, the importance of team leadership, and building strong collaborative relationships across campus. Furthermore, insights about leveraging branding for community building and future goals of personal growth, including aspirations of becoming an NCAA basketball referee, are shared.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Community and Leadership: Emphasizing the importance of genuine leadership and fostering community within student affairs.
• Mental Health: Highlighting the critical role of mental health support and breaking the stigma associated with it.
• Social Media Presence: Encouraging student affairs professionals to utilize social media to tell their stories and engage with students.
• Event Management: Discussing the significance of student engagement through events like homecoming concerts and pre-game tailgate concerts.
• Collaboration: Stressing the power of partnerships and collaboration within the university, especially between student affairs and athletics.

QUOTES

• "Tell your story, the good, the bad, the ugly, how you got to where you're at is a key part of it."
• "We don't tell our story, especially in student affairs… you don't find them. They're a ghost."
• "We have to have courage. We have to have bravery, um, in these walks that we walk."
• "Being genuine is key. That's key. I take a lot of pride in being genuine and being authentic."
• "Hire good people, give them the resources that they need to do their job, and then get the heck out of their way."

Connect and learn more about Mike Wilkinson.
https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelwilkinson7/

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In the episode In The Club powered by Club Colors, we are joined by Mike Wilkinson, the Assistant Vice President of Student Affairs at the University of South Alabama. Mike shares his unconventional path into higher education, starting from his freshman year at the Air Force Academy and his early aspirations of a career in sports. He discusses the pivotal moments that shifted his focus towards student affairs, including personal challenges such as his mother's health struggles and his transformative experience with the Houston Rockets. Mike emphasizes the importance of core values like family, trust, empathy, and creating happiness, and how these values guide his approach to supporting students. The conversation also explores the role of student affairs in enhancing the student experience and the critical skills gained outside the classroom. Mike shares insights on overcoming imposter syndrome, balancing career and personal life, and the significance of storytelling and visibility in higher education.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Career Journey: Mike Wilkinson's transition from aspiring sports professional to a leader in higher education demonstrates adaptability and resilience.
• Personal Adversity: Personal experiences, such as his mother's illness and recovery, significantly influenced his career in student affairs.
• Student Affairs: Emphasizes the importance of holistic education that includes both academic and extracurricular activities, instilling critical life skills in students.
• Leadership: Attributes like empathy, trust, and the ability to handle imposter syndrome are vital for effective leadership in student affairs.
• Community Engagement: Strong student leadership and storytelling are essential in promoting student involvement and success.
• Work-Life Balance: The dedication to student affairs often involves long hours and personal sacrifices, highlighting the commitment required in such roles.

QUOTES

• "Ultimately, people are on this earth to help each other, to lift one another up."
• "If you can swim in three feet of water, you can swim in 30 feet of water, you can swim in 300 feet of water. It's all about your form."
• "Creating opportunities for people and platforms for people to thrive—that’s something that's important to me."
• "The best conversations, the best moments in my career happened behind closed doors, one on one with students."
• "We play a critical role in the university experience and the life experience of these students."

Connect and learn more about Mike Wilkinson.
https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelwilkinson7/

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In the episode In The Club powered by Club Colors, we delve into the critical need for enhancing staff experience in higher education, especially in the post-pandemic landscape with our guest, Kelsey Finn, Vice President of Strategic Initiatives at Compass Group. We discuss the importance of staff feeling connected to their purpose, as it directly impacts student services. The episode also highlights real-life examples from various universities and explores the challenges and strategies of leadership in higher education, with a focus on supporting and retaining staff. Additionally, we feature a conversation with a trailblazing leader who shares insights on being a woman in leadership, empowering others, and the importance of asking questions. This insightful discussion offers valuable advice for young professionals aspiring to take on leadership roles.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Emphasize the importance of staff experience in enhancing student experience.
• Highlight the need for higher education institutions to focus on employee engagement and appreciation.
• Discuss the challenges of rapid leadership changes in academic institutions.
• Address the disparity in the way questions are asked and assumptions made of women leaders compared to men.
• Encourage delegation and empowerment of team members to foster ownership and readiness for leadership roles.
• Recommend asking a lot of questions and staying curious as a way to grow professionally.
• Importance of relationships and networking within the higher education community.

QUOTES

• "Happy staff, happy students."
• "We all want to belong to something."
• "Being the first at anything is really really hard."
• "You can't truly understand it if you haven't done it."
• "If you get a seat at the table, pull your chair right up, be at the table, be engaged."
• "Everyone has the question, who's actually willing to ask the question and be that person?"

Connect and learn more about Kelsey Finn.
https://www.linkedin.com/in/kelseyharmonfinn/

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In the episode In The Club powered by Club Colors, we are joined by Kelsey Finn, Vice President of Strategic Initiatives at Compass Group. Kelsey shares her unexpected journey into higher education, from majoring in parks and recreation to developing successful programs for college students. She discusses her various roles and experiences across multiple universities and organizations, including Illinois State University, UC Berkeley, and NACUS. Kelsey delves into the importance of fostering a sense of belonging and community on college campuses, particularly through food services and creating inclusive spaces. She highlights the critical role of relationships and understanding the unique needs of different stakeholders in higher education. The conversation underscores the significance of the staff experience alongside student success and how Compass Group is addressing these complex challenges.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Career Development: Kelsey Finn shares her unconventional journey to her current role in higher education, emphasizing that career paths often evolve unexpectedly.
• Impact of Internships: Initial professional experiences, such as internships, can significantly shape one's career and future opportunities.
• Higher Education Dynamics: Many professionals in higher education find their roles through serendipitous opportunities and not necessarily through a direct path.
• Role of Relationships: Building and maintaining relationships is crucial for success in higher education and related industries.
• Importance of Student and Staff Experience: The focus on improving both student experiences and staff experiences highlights the evolving needs in higher education settings.
• Adaptability and Innovation: Institutions must innovate to address new challenges, such as increasing student loneliness and creating inclusive spaces.

QUOTES

• "Loneliness is a true problem on college campuses."
• "Always seek consensus."
• "Creating spaces where people feel safe and welcome is crucial."
• “You want to create spaces where everyone wants to have their lunch together versus sit in their individual spaces.”
• “Food is not just about nourishment; it’s about creating connection and community.”
• “We have to consider how we’re impacting students and staff, making them feel seen, cared for, and safe.”
• “It’s all about relationships and being able to speak different languages within the sector you’re engaging with.”
• “Creating spaces that make people feel included and combating the loneliness epidemic on campuses is our current focus.”

Connect and learn more about Kelsey Finn.
https://www.linkedin.com/in/kelseyharmonfinn/

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In the episode In The Club powered by Club Colors, Ian Musselman and the hosts highlight the importance of diverse experiences in shaping versatile skills. They discuss transitioning from general contract work to a specialized role in the automotive industry. Key elements include the value of passion in professional fulfillment, the challenge of delegation, and the significance of a strong, trusted brand in influencing public policy. The guest also emphasizes the importance of team dynamics and consistent brand representation in all interactions, underscoring the impact of personal and company values in daily operations.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Career Journey and Experience: Ian Musselman shared his diverse background, working in various industries including, pharmaceuticals, automotive, and nonprofits, which allowed him to gain broad perspectives and apply general knowledge to specific sectors.
• Passion for Work: Musselman emphasized the importance of working in areas that provide fulfillment, noting his particular passion for cars and transportation, and how this passion drives his continued engagement and enthusiasm in his role.
• Team and Leadership: He highlighted the strength and capability of his team at LKQ, stressing how having a passionate and skilled team is crucial for success.
• Brand and Policy Impact: The significance of a strong brand in influencing public policy was discussed, emphasizing the importance of being a recognizable and trusted entity in the policymaker's mind.
• Brand Engagement: Musselman mentioned how LKQ actively uses branded products to create a lasting impression in various professional settings.
• Personal Interaction: Despite transitioning to different roles within the company, Musselman continues to value personal interactions and remains engaged in various activities and meetings.
• Consistency in Values: The importance of representing oneself and one's company consistently with the desired values and leaving a positive impression.

QUOTES

• “You talk to my teammates…I've been trying to transition away from some of what I've been doing for 25 years...because I'd love it. I really enjoy it. It is still a passion.”
• “We work globally, I've got an incredibly capable and knowledgeable team and I struggle with the fact of handing it off and letting them do other things because I want to have my hands in it.”
• “When you have that passion though, that drives other people towards you as well.”
• “One of the things that we want public policymakers to think about is our brand when they're writing something that is going to affect 200 million vehicles.”
• “Branding is a visual reminder of who you are and what you talked about.”
• “Are you living those same values in which you want people to perceive you and your company?”
   

Connect and learn more about Ian Musselman.
https://www.linkedin.com/in/ian-p-musselman-7a04306/

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In the episode In The Club powered by Club Colors, Ian introduces LKQ, a company with a rich 25-year history rooted in sustainability and innovation. Founded by Mr. Flynn as a means to transform salvage vehicles into valuable commodities, LKQ has grown into a global leader in parts distribution. The company is committed to reusing and recycling nearly every component from end-of-life vehicles, contributing significantly to environmental sustainability. Ian discusses LKQ's expansion into specialized and aftermarket automotive equipment, their efficient operational strategies, and the importance of quick turnaround times for customers. He also delves into LKQ's active engagement in public policy and their robust foundation aimed at giving back to communities. Ian's varied role within the company underscores the importance of transparency and trust in shaping policies and fostering industry collaboration.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• LKQ is a globally recognized leader in automotive parts distribution, specializing in recycling and repurposing salvage vehicles efficiently.
• The company's foundation in sustainability and recycling, including reclaiming end-of-life vehicle parts, helps reduce waste and provides valuable resources for various industries.
• LKQ offers a wide range of products, from recycled vehicle parts to new aftermarket components, catering to diverse needs including emergency vehicles and specialized equipment.
• The company is deeply involved in public policy, ensuring regulations support its operations and contribute to workforce training and development.
• LKQ's corporate culture emphasizes community engagement and transparency, both internally and in external affairs.

QUOTES

• "Being able to take an end-of-life vehicle, analyze what can be used, reused... is a core part of our business."
• "We take pride in our ability to provide our customers with on-demand deliveries, leading to quicker turnaround times in repairs and maintenance."
• "We're the world's largest automotive recycler, recycling close to a million vehicles per year."
• "Being transparent is incredibly important. Being honest and transparent to your partners builds trust."
• "We believe we are a fabric of those individual communities."
• "Having that passion and culture in any industry, I think, is important."

Connect and learn more about Ian Musselman.
https://www.linkedin.com/in/ian-p-musselman-7a04306/

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In the episode In The Club powered by Club Colors, Laurie Buman, the Director of Design and Identity at the University of Chicago, delves into the branding and marketing strategies behind the award-winning Big Brains podcast at the University of Chicago. Discussing the alignment of various university functions, the refreshed branding efforts in 2019, and the importance of creative and fun elements in branding, the conversation highlights the role of centralized documents and licensing sheets in maintaining brand integrity. Additional topics include the challenges and rewards of mission-driven design, insights into creating engaging initiatives such as scavenger hunts, and managing color schemes and logo use across departments. With tips for young designers and reflections on collaborative projects, this episode offers a comprehensive look at maintaining a cohesive and dynamic university brand.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Communication and Meetings: Regular communication and monthly brainstorms are essential for aligning different functions within a university's branding efforts.
• Brand Identity: Successful branding involves putting the podcast brand forward and subtly integrating the university's identity to appeal to a broader audience.
• Audience Engagement: Creative initiatives like changing podcast episode colors and organizing interactive events like scavenger hunts enhance brand engagement.
• Licensing and Marketing: A strong relationship with licensing teams and clear guidelines are crucial for maintaining brand integrity across various products and platforms.
• Educational Impact: Mission-driven design in a higher education setting provides both professional fulfillment and a sense of contributing to societal improvement.
• Adaptability: Being flexible with bookstore merchandise and incorporating trending fashion elements while maintaining core brand identity is important.

QUOTES

• "We wanted it to really feel fresh and exciting... like something we always knew was happening."
• "You have to have a clear description of how those can be used."
• "Figure out where your heart is and what kind of things are important to you."
• "Work that’s aligned with who you are and makes a difference... you're going to be a much happier designer."
• "As a brand director, we have a resource page that says, 'Here’s where you download the guidelines... the assets... the logos.' Very clear."

Connect and learn more about Laurie Buman.
https://www.linkedin.com/in/laurie-buman-b8ab715/

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In the episode In The Club powered by Club Colors,  we are joined by Laurie Buman, the Director of Design and Identity at the University of Chicago, as she takes us through her journey from a high school artist to a vital player in university branding. Laurie shares her experience transitioning from advertising to a purpose-driven role in higher education. She discusses the challenges and triumphs involved in creating and maintaining a cohesive brand identity for UChicago, including the development of a new logo system and brand guidelines. The conversation delves into balancing heritage with modern relevance through careful font selection, digital and physical branding efforts, and the crucial role of environmental graphics, especially in the medical field. Laurie also emphasizes the importance of consistency across various university departments, student organizations, and vendor partnerships, highlighting the collaborative initiatives needed to keep the university's brand both traditional and forward-thinking.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Career Beginnings: Laurie started her journey in creative design with the influence of her high school art teacher and worked her way up through various roles in the University of Milwaukee bookstore.
• Transition to Advertising: She spent 25 years self-employed in the advertising industry, gaining diverse experience with clients and agencies, particularly enjoying branding for startups.
• Higher Education Focus: Laurie moved to a role at the University of Chicago, driven by a desire to apply her design skills to a purpose beyond selling, and now works as the Director of Design and Identity.
• Branding Strategy: She emphasizes maintaining traditional elements while incorporating modern design techniques, such as pairing traditional Garamond font with a modern sans serif font.
• Collaborative Efforts: Laurie's work involves collaboration across various departments to ensure brand consistency, even integrating environmental gr

QUOTES

• "I've always been an artist. And so my high school art teacher really helped guide me on my path to getting into college."
• "I was looking for work that had a little bit more of a purpose from a higher level instead of advertising."
• "One great thing about being the branding director is that I also oversee licensing. I get a really broad view of what's happening at the university."
• "We're an institution that's based in tradition. That cannot change... but we're looking forward to it."
• "It's always based in tradition, but with a modern spin."
• "Being self-employed for 25 years was a great start to coming into a higher education space."

Connect and learn more about Laurie Buman.
https://www.linkedin.com/in/laurie-buman-b8ab715/

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In the episode In The Club powered by Club Colors, join us to explore the intricacies of HR management and hybrid work culture at Hub International. We delve into the unique geographical and cultural aspects of different regional hubs and how these influence organizational culture and community-building efforts. The conversation highlights the significance of creativity, impactful branding, and community in both corporate and educational settings. The discussion also covers the challenges of balancing various HR responsibilities, the importance of maintaining organizational boundaries, and the evolving nature of hybrid work environments. The episode further discusses the relocation of Hub's Chicago office, introducing a modern hotelling system and fostering a sense of community through shared spaces. The role of employee events, such as the Employee Appreciation Day and innovative approaches like live trivia games, is emphasized as a means to foster community and collaboration in the workplace. Overall, this episode provides insights into adaptive strategies in HR and the ongoing evolution of workplace environments.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Geographical and Cultural Impact: Acknowledgment of regional uniqueness influences the brand experience within HUB.
• Innovative Roles: Introduction of region-specific roles to enhance culture and community engagement.
• Organizational Techniques: Emphasis on boundaries and scheduling breaks to maintain productivity and mental well-being.
• Creativity and Balance: Importance of tapping into creativity and balancing professional and personal life.
• Hybrid Work Model: HUB's hybrid work model incorporates flexibility and emphasizes creating meaningful in-person interactions.
• Community Building: Efforts to build community through shared spaces, activities, and team meetings.
• Adaptability and Support: Listening to employees and adapting to their needs, particularly in the return-to-office transition.
• Moments That Matter: Creating significant moments for team collaboration and community, such as events and outings.
• New Office Dynamics: Navigating changes with hotelling and neighborhood concepts in the new office environment.
• Employee Appreciation: Celebrating employees with events and swag, fostering a sense of belonging and recognition.

QUOTES

• - "We allow for the hubs to create and innovate and build that experience that makes sense for their geography in pretty unique ways."
• - "No day is the same, and I find myself trying to find different ways to keep myself organized."
• - "Creating those moments that matter where we bring everybody together for that camaraderie, for that collaboration, for that networking, for that community is so essential to the success of a hybrid environment."
• - "I've found that one of the things that has become really helpful for me is to be transparent about the fact that I might need to have to build breaks in."

Connect and learn more about J'ai Brown.
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jaibrown1/

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