Symplicity Conversations

In this episode of Symplicity Conversations, we sit down with Carmit DiAndrea, Director of AI Data Management at NiCE, to explore how data, AI, and human insight come together to transform customer experience (CX). Carmit shares her unique perspective from working at the intersection of customers, product teams, and analysts—and why quantifiable business value must always come first.

We discuss why AI is only as powerful as the data behind it, how organizations can become truly “data-ready,” and why governance, transparency, and fairness are foundational to success. Together, we unpack the evolution of contact centers, the growing importance of self-service and intent-based automation, and how orchestration connects systems, people, and AI into seamless customer journeys.

Carmit also highlights the rise of AI co-pilots for agents, supervisors, and business leaders, showing how real-time insights can reduce employee burden, improve performance, and increase retention. From building data-driven AI roadmaps to navigating tech debt and the “Frankenstack,” this episode offers practical guidance for leaders who want to move forward with AI—without losing the human connection that makes great CX possible.

• (00:00) - – Welcome & Quote of the Day

In the latest episode of Symplicity Conversations, host Catherine Ripley is joined by Chris Randall, the CEO of Sweep LLC. We talk about the challenges and triumphs of entrepreneurship, the importance of creativity and adaptability in today's business landscape, and what it's like having the lightbulb go off and to make the leap into the unknown.

Chapters

(00:00) The Entrepreneurial Journey Begins

(10:51) Navigating Challenges and Lessons Learned

(13:41) The Importance of Networking and Community

(16:47) Understanding the Business Model of Sweep

(19:45) The Evolution of Sweep and Its Mission

(22:46) Future Aspirations and Market Expansion

(32:05) Expanding Service Offerings

(34:46) The Power of Networking

(37:23) Navigating Business Growth Challenges

(40:12) Embracing Leadership and Impact

(43:04) Building a Credible Brand

(48:36) Innovating For the Future

In this episode of Symplicity Conversations, Michael Meyer, VP of Product and Strategy at Summit, discusses the evolving landscape of data centers, the importance of trust in technology partnerships, and the challenges organizations face in modern IT infrastructure. He emphasizes the need for operational excellence, data governance, and the impact of AI and automation on business decisions. The conversation highlights Summit's mission to provide reliable IT infrastructure solutions and the significance of building long-term relationships with clients based on trust and expertise.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Data Centers and Trust

01:21 Michael Meyer's Journey into Data Center Technology

03:37 The Shift in Data Center Needs

06:50 Data Readiness and Governance

09:14 Summit’s Mission and Core Problems

10:43 Challenges in Modern IT Infrastructure

12:31 Demand for Data Centers and Market Forces

14:25 Misalignment in Business Needs

15:48 Summit as a Partner in Data Center Solutions

20:06 Operational Excellence and Cost Savings

21:02 Impact of AI and Automation on Data Centers

24:29 Revisiting Data Centers and AI Challenges

30:41 Operationalizing AI: Strategies for Success

32:50 Security and Compliance: Addressing Vulnerabilities

38:32 Trends in Technology: Repatriation and Future Strategies

44:47 Looking Forward: Embracing Change and Opportunity

In this episode of Symplicity Conversations, Catherine Ripley speaks with Sandy Harvey, President and Chief Inclusion Strategist at Exodus Consulting Group. They discuss the importance of community and networking, Sandy's journey into diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), and the evolving landscape of leadership in today's workplace. 

The conversation highlights the significance of trust, accountability, and culture in organizations, as well as the personal challenges Sandy faced as a breast cancer survivor. Sandy also shares insights from her newly released book, 'The Inclusion Architecture Blueprint,' aimed at transforming workplace culture through effective DEI strategies.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Symplicity Conversations

03:00The Importance of Community and Networking

06:11 Sandy's Journey into DEI and Leadership

09:09 High-Performing Leadership in Today's Workplace

12:04 Building Trust and Accountability in Teams

15:03 Transforming Workplace Culture

17:48 Self-Awareness and Personal Accountability

20:53 Resilience and Personal Stories

24:01 Sandy's Cancer Journey and Advocacy

26:45 The Launch of Sandy's Book

29:47 Dreaming Big and Overcoming Obstacles

33:03 Conclusion and Call to Action

In this episode of Symplicity Conversations, Catherine Ripley and Doug Seites reflect on their journey over the past year, celebrating milestones, achievements, and the importance of clarity in their operations. They discuss the significance of community engagement, the awards received, and the operational changes that have set the stage for future growth. Looking ahead to 2026, they emphasize the role of technology in transforming business practices while maintaining a human touch. This conversation highlights the importance of reflection, goal-setting, and the excitement for what lies ahead.

Chapters

00:00 Celebrating a Year of Symplicity Conversations

02:54 Reflections on Clarity and Growth

06:01 Achievements and Milestones of 2025

08:49 The Impact of New Beginnings

12:01 Awards and Recognition

15:01 Building a Stronger Team

18:13 Digital Transformation and Women in Technology

23:41 From Screen to Stage: The Amazon Prime Experience

24:48 Creating Impactful Spaces: The Role of Office Design

26:31 Community Engagement: Awards and Events that Matter

28:44 Tech Week Triumph: Hosting a Successful Event

30:31 Reflecting on Achievements: A Year in Review

36:14 Looking Ahead: Goals for the 20th Anniversary

39:00 Understanding Symplicity: Our Mission and Services

45:43 Exciting Future: Technology and Customer Experience

In this episode of Symplicity Conversations, we sit down with Peter Hungerford as he steps into his new role as the Vice President of Manufacturing at The Right Place. We discuss the transformation of the manufacturing sector in West Michigan, exploring the vital role small and mid-sized manufacturers play in economic resilience.
Discover how collaboration, technology, and strategic planning are reshaping the industry amidst disruption. Plus, gain insights into the importance of community connections and continuous learning for thriving in today's fast-paced environment. Don't miss this engaging discussion on building a robust manufacturing ecosystem for the future. Subscribe for more inspiring conversations on leadership, technology, and community building.

Chapters

(00:00) Lonely at the Top: Power, Pressure, and Grace
(00:31) Meet Peter Hungerford & His New Role at The Right Place
(02:00) Career Journey: From Y2K Consulting to Manufacturing Executive
(06:29) Why Small & Mid-Size Manufacturers Power Local Economies
(13:21) Regional Collaboration and Tapping Local EDCs
(15:20) Supply Chain Shocks, Tech Disruption, and Robotics
(18:13) What a Healthy Manufacturing Ecosystem Really Looks Like
(23:42) Barriers to Transformation: Capital, Knowledge, and Time
(33:07) Strategy, Metrics, and Turning Disruption into Opportunity
(40:13) Learning From Mistakes, Building Your Village, and Final Advice

Join us for this episode of Symplicity Conversations as we reminisce about TechWeek Grand Rapids with Andria Romkema, Senior Vice President of Business Development at The Right Place, and Erin Stewart from Symplicity Communications.
Discover the incredible growth and community-driven energy behind this tech event and how it's shaping the future of innovation in West Michigan.
From standout moments like Steve Wozniak’s keynote to the integration of AI and data analytics, we explore what makes TechWeek a unique platform for connection and inspiration. We also discuss the impact of technology on various industries, the importance of networking, and how Grand Rapids continues to balance growth with community values.
 Don't miss out on insights and future plans that highlight the city’s growing tech scene. Subscribe, leave a review, and stay connected for more inspiring conversations!

Chapters

(00:26) Welcome, Guests, and “When Women Support Each Other”
(01:30) How Tech Week Grand Rapids Started and Exploded in Four Years
(05:30) Simplicity’s Data & Analytics Event and Community Energy
(06:30) Steve Wozniak Keynote and the Human Side of Innovation
(13:25) Top Themes: AI, Cybersecurity, Health, and Tech in Manufacturing
(18:20) Every Company Is a Tech Company: Boards, Strategy, and Revenue
(21:15) Students, Networking, and Showing Up to Build Your Career
(26:10) Big Projects Reshaping Grand Rapids: Amphitheater, Stadium, Microsoft, Manufacturing
(35:56) Lessons From Rapid Growth, Peer Learning, and the Future of Tech Week

Join us for an energy raising episode of Symplicity Conversations as we talk business, leadership, and community with Kim Bode, the dynamic owner of 8ThirtyFour Integrated Communications. Known for her bold and unapologetic approach to marketing, Kim shares her entrepreneurial journey, the challenges and triumphs of running a business, and the power of authenticity in today's digital landscape. Discover insights on building a supportive network, embracing resilience, and the importance of genuine connections. Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur or a seasoned business owner, this episode offers valuable lessons and inspiration. Don't miss out—like and subscribe to keep up with more conversations that are rewriting the rules of business and community.

Chapters

(00:00) People Do Business With People, Not Logos
 (00:21) Meet Kim Bodie + 834’s Unapologetic Origin
 (02:20) From Almost FBI to Communications: Early Career Pivots
 (04:45) SmartZone, Networking, and Launching 834
 (09:15) Finding Your People Outside Work and Fighting Founder Loneliness
 (11:37) Bold Female Leadership and Building an Unapologetic Personal Brand
 (20:33) PR, Storytelling, and Why the Founder’s Story Matters
 (24:50) Talent Crisis, Soft Skills, and Creating the Next-Gen Workforce
 (38:38) Leaving a Toxic Relationship, Self-Worth, and Flourishing Again
 (47:20) Dream Bigger, Lift Other Women Up, and Where to Find Kim

Join us in this episode of Symplicity Conversations as we dive into the impactful world of nonprofit work with Becki Postma, Chief Impact Officer, and Kevin Nelson, Director of Donor Development, from Heart of West Michigan United Way.

Discover their inspiring journeys into the nonprofit sector and how they are leveraging technology to address evolving community challenges. Learn about the transformative programs they lead, such as eviction prevention and the 211 helpline, and how these initiatives are creating meaningful change.

Whether you're interested in volunteering, donating, or simply understanding more about the nonprofit landscape, this episode is packed with insights on building a better community.

Don't forget to subscribe for more inspiring stories from leaders shaping the future of business, technology, and community.

Chapters

(00:00) Welcome to Simplicity Conversations + Quote of the Day
(01:20) Becky’s Journey From Banking to United Way
(03:20) Kevin’s Nonprofit Path and “Right Track” Moments
(05:40) United Way’s Mission, History, and Local Impact
(11:40) Behind-the-Scenes Realities of Nonprofit Work
(15:45) Technology, Data, and AI Powering the Mission
(22:50) Key Programs: 211, Eviction Prevention, VITA, Volunteering
(31:10) Partner Agencies, Impact Areas, and Grassroots Support
(33:30) COVID-era Evolution and United Way as Community Builder
(38:50) How to Get Involved and Make an Impact

In this episode of Symplicity Conversations, we dive into the transformative journey of Jaclyn Harrison, a dynamic leader and soon-to-be author. Discover how a chance encounter with a book sparked her creative courage to pursue writing, leading to the development of a captivating fictional series. Jaclyn shares her insights on embracing creativity, overcoming self-doubt, and the power of networking and support. Tune in to explore how simple moments can lead to profound changes and learn about Jaclyn's upcoming book series. Don't miss this inspiring conversation on leaning into creativity and rewriting your story! Subscribe to our channel for more episodes featuring leaders shaping the future.

Chapters
(00:00) Answering the Creative Call
(00:35) Meet Jacqueline Harrison
(01:10) The Inforum Dinner That Changed Everything
(02:17) Discovering Big Magic & Creative Permission
(06:03) Missed Ideas & Finally Acting on the Spark
(09:46) Inside Jacqueline’s Book: A Teenage Insomniac’s Mission
(15:41) Building an Eight-Book Universe
(17:55) The Power of Women Supporting Women
(23:39) Rethinking Networking & Leading With Value
(26:07) Surrendering to the Story
(32:46) Finding and Nurturing Your Spark
(40:01) Flipping the Record: Choosing a New Path