Innovative Leadership

Rich Smith, Owner and President of The Royal United Company, joins Ryan and Steph to discuss what inspired his move to the United States, his five-year immigration journey, and how he turned someone else’s doubts into his own motivation.

Ryan and Steph celebrate 50 episodes of Innovative Leadership by breaking down the stories, stats, and themes that have shaped the show so far.

Dave Shuster, President & CEO at Horizon Goodwill Industries, joins the podcast to discuss finding purpose while making a living, Goodwill success stories, and identifying and closing resource gaps to better serve the community.

Nicholas Natale, Founder, Owner, and Principal Broker at Trust Home Financial, joins Ryan and Steph to discuss his recent grand opening, why he moved his business to downtown Hagerstown, and his process for managing his time and priorities.

Jenn Goldman, President & CEO of Jennifer E. Goldman, LLC, joins the show to discuss misconceptions about nonprofit boards, how she assists organizations in becoming more sustainable, and the lifelong lesson she learned from a high school job.

Jeannie Asbury, Executive Director of Reach of Washington County, joins Ryan and Steph to discuss how leadership positions have found her throughout her life, the most common issues she's seen first-hand in the region, and tips for boosting team morale and camaraderie.

Jeanne F. Singer, Owner of The Law Offices of Jeanne F. Singer, P.A., joins Ryan and Steph to discuss how she became a social introvert, the importance of giving back to the community, and the challenges & rewards of forging your own path.

Brittany Wedd, Executive Director of Children in Need Washington County, joins the show to discuss the value of a strong volunteer base for nonprofits, the stigma around addiction and receiving assistance, and how leaders can openly discuss their mental health and well-being.

Thomas Burge, co-owner of Elite Performance Institute, joins Ryan and Steph to discuss gaining and building trust with clients, why goals need intentionality, and young peoples’ phone etiquette learning curve.

Melissa Noel, co-owner of Noel's Fire Protection and The Yarn Shop, joins Ryan and Steph to discuss the series of unfortunate events that led her and her husband to start a business, the importance of maintaining perspective during difficult times, and why collaboration is so crucial for downtown businesses.