R.O.G. Return on Generosity – Details, episodes & analysis

“If you give credit to people who deserve it, you will be recognized as a great leader giving your team members the ability to have a voice.”

“Trusting your team leads to better outcomes.”

“Being able to read a room, understand an audience, disarm when you need to, and uplift when you can is the best gift I can give or offer.”

Episode summary |

In this episode of Return on Generosity, host Shannon Cassidy speaks with Jon Sichel, Executive Vice President and General Counsel of Hallmark Media Family Networks. They explore the themes of generosity in leadership, the importance of humor, the value of mentoring, and the balance between compliance and innovation in high-stakes environments. Jon shares personal anecdotes about his upbringing, the influence of his parents, and the lessons learned from both good and bad leadership experiences. The conversation emphasizes the significance of creating a supportive workplace culture where individuals feel valued, their voices heard, and empowered to contribute their best.

R.O.G. Takeaway Tips |

• Humor can change the dynamic in stressful situations.
• Generosity in leadership fosters a positive workplace culture.
• Mentoring relationships are mutually beneficial.
• Learning from both good and bad experiences shapes effective leaders.
• Navigating change requires empathy and support for colleagues.
• Generosity can manifest in small acts of kindness at work.
• Listening and understanding are key to effective leadership.
• Creating a safe environment encourages innovation and collaboration.
• Generosity in the workplace leads to happier employees.
• Most challenges in business are solvable with the right mindset.

Chapters | 

00:00 Introduction to Generosity in Leadership

02:49 The Role of Humor in Leadership

05:40 Navigating Personal Loss and Growth

07:57 Empowering Teams Through Trust

10:14 Creating a Positive Work Culture

11:19 The Importance of Mentoring

14:23 Learning from Good and Bad Leadership

19:23 Embracing Change and Unexpected Opportunities

22:33 Choosing Positivity in Adversity

25:04 Generosity in High-Stakes Environments

29:50 Navigating Change and Supporting Colleagues

30:07 Balancing Compliance and Innovation

37:19 The Longest Banana Split: A Leadership Feat

41:08 Rapid Fire Insights on Leadership

Guest Bio |

Jon Sichel is executive vice president, general counsel and head of Business Affairs for Hallmark Media Family Networks, home of three linear networks, Hallmark Channel, Hallmark Movies & Mysteries, and Hallmark Drama; and subscription video-on-demand streaming service, Hallmark+. Sichel is based in New York and reports to Hallmark General Counsel Erin Kobler and President John Matts.

In this role, Sichel leads all business and legal affairs matters associated with Hallmark Media, while also providing strategic guidance to the senior leadership team on issues impacting ad sales, marketing, digital, strategic alliances, production, international, and distribution. His oversight includes negotiating content rights, production and distribution agreements, talent deals, entertainment content acquisition, and development-related activities. Sichel serves as the primary legal liaison for the legal team at parent company Hallmark Cards, Inc. Sichel also consults on matters of corporate litigation, intellectual property, employment law, and compliance.

Prior to joining Hallmark Media, Sichel was executive vice president of distribution sales and strategy at AMC Networks. Previously, he held various ascending roles at Discovery Inc. and Scripps Networks Interactive (SNI), including general manager of content acquisitions and operations at Discovery. His tenure with SNI also included the international role as managing director of global commercial affairs and managing director of Europe, the Middle East, and Africa.

Sichel earned a Bachelor of Arts degree with honors from Princeton University and graduated cum laude from Harvard Law School.

Bridge Between Resources:

• 5 Degree Change Course
• Free N.D.I. Network Diversity Index 
• Free Generosity Quiz 

Credits: Jon Sichel, Host Shannon Cassidy, Bridge Between, Inc.

Coming Next: Please join us in two weeks, Episode 247, Special Guest, Neen James.

“Mateship is essentially a code of conduct that embodies friendship, equality, solidarity, and it's often forged in adversity.”

“We all have something to give one another.”

“Be generous with your time when you can.”

Episode summary |

In this episode of the Return on Generosity podcast, host Shannon Cassidy speaks with Shayna Goodworth, a yoga teacher and community builder, about the importance of generosity in both personal and professional settings. Shayna shares her journey from Australia to the United States, her understanding of mateship, and how she fosters community through her initiative, Seagulls. The conversation delves into the healing power of the ocean, the significance of connection, and practical ways to be generous in our daily lives. Shayna emphasizes that generosity is not just about financial giving but about investing time and creating meaningful relationships.

R.O.G. Takeaway Tips |

• We grow when we give.
• Generosity is about being of service.
• Mateship is a code of conduct that embodies friendship and equality.
• Creating community is essential for combating loneliness.
• Time is the most precious resource we have.
• The ocean has profound healing effects on our well-being.
• Mindfulness is about being aware of what's going on around us.
• We all have something to give one another.
• Home is where you make it, and it's in your heart.
• Meditation is a crucial part of personal wellness. 

Chapters | 

00:00 Introduction to Generosity and Community

02:53 Shayna's Journey: From Australia to North Carolina

06:02 Understanding Mateship: Building Connections at Work

09:01 The Mateship Pyramid: Social Connections and Loneliness

12:13 Practical Ways to Be a Good Mate

14:53 Generosity in the Workplace: Personal Experiences

17:47 Seagulls Community: Women, Ocean, and Connection

22:06 Space Holding as Generous Leadership

24:52 Balancing Care for Others and Self-Care

28:05 Lessons from the Ocean: Healing and Growth

31:00 Rapid Fire Questions: Insights and Reflections

Guest Bio |

Shayna Goodworth has been a student of yoga since 2012 and to deepen her practice, she took part in a RYT200 hour program in the United Kingdom in 2021 and is passionate about Vinyasa, Yin & Trauma Informed styles of yoga along with meditation as a way to heal the body. Yoga is integral in her daily life and she is currently Longwave’s Yoga resident SeaGal facilitator, devoted to fostering community through a shared connection with the ocean. 

Raised on the Central Coast of New South Wales, Australia, her spiritual path began early through learning about the local environment and waterways. This instilled in Shayna a profound respect for nature and the power of place-based connection. Her vision for SeaGals at Longwave and Wrightsville Beach is rooted in this philosophy: to cultivate meaningful bonds among women and create space to ground, reflect, and honor ourselves in unity. Or simply, her mission is centered around Ocean, Women & Community. These three pillars have helped Shayna inform and hone her leadership styles of inclusion, authenticity and humility and she enters her first year as a 30 year old.

Guest Resources: 

• Find Seagals at https://longwaveyoga.com/schedule 
• Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/longwaveyoga/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/plasticoceanproject.inc/
• A Different Kind of Power by Jacinda Ardern
• Figuring out Thirty by Bridget Hustwaite
• Blue Mind by Wallace J. Nichols

Bridge Between Resources:

• 5 Degree Change Course
• Free N.D.I. Network Diversity Index 
• Free Generosity Quiz 

Credits: Shayna Goodworth, Host Shannon Cassidy, Bridge Between, Inc.

Coming Next: Please join us in two weeks, Episode 246, Special Guest, Jon Sichel.

“Look past people’s faults and find their needs.”

“I knew I couldn’t teach a kid until that kid knew I cared about them or until I made a connection with them.”

“The grind is worth it.”

Episode summary |

In this episode of the Return on Generosity podcast, host Jabari Whitehead engages in a heartfelt conversation with guests Tay Person and Mike Wernert about the themes of fatherhood, personal growth, and the importance of generosity. The discussion explores how their experiences as fathers shape their values, the lessons learned from their own fathers, and the sacrifices they make for their families. They reflect on the challenges of parenting, the need for self-improvement, and the ways they find balance in their lives. The conversation emphasizes the significance of being role models for their children and the impact of generosity in their relationships.

R.O.G. Takeaway Tips |

• Personal growth is a continuous journey for fathers.
• Fatherhood involves giving love and discipline.
• Unlearning old parenting patterns is essential.
• The first moments of parenthood are transformative.
• Sacrifices are a part of being a father.
• Finding time for self-care is crucial for parents.
• Leadership skills are enhanced through fatherhood.
• Generosity is reflected in how children treat others.
• Children observe and learn from their parents' actions.
• Being a good father requires selflessness and high standards.

Chapters | 

00:00 Introduction to Generosity and Personal Growth

03:03 Fatherhood Models and Core Values

03:52 Lessons from Fatherhood: Unlearning and Learning

06:03 Navigating Parenthood: Challenges and Sacrifices

08:13 Refilling the Cup: Self-Care for Fathers

21:16 Reflections on Parenting and Leadership

23:36 Growth in Patience and Understanding

26:51 Authenticity in Leadership

29:22 The Importance of Connection

32:24 Generosity Reflected in Children

39:34 Better Us, Better Them

Guest Bio |

Mike Wernert:

Michael J. Wernert is a respected pharmaceutical leader and U.S. Army veteran known for his authentic, fatherly approach to leadership, with a career spanning 20 years at AstraZeneca and Eli Lilly. Michael’s experience as a teacher, coach, and military officer has shaped his belief that leadership is about investing in people and celebrating their successes. Armed with an MBA from the University of Delaware, a Master’s in Education from West Chester University, and a distinguished military background, he combines strategic expertise with genuine care and support for those around him.

Tay Person:

With over 20 years of experience in K-12 education, Tay has spent his professional career dedicated to improving outcomes in public education. As a teacher, board member, consultant, and leader, Tay has taken a consultative approach to drive results and build lasting partnerships that ultimately benefit children. When he’s not working he’s spending time with his four daughters and wife of twenty-two years.

Guest Resources: 

• The Power of Vulnerability - Brene Brown: https://www.ted.com/talks/brene_brown_the_power_of_vulnerability?language=en

Bridge Between Resources:

• 5 Degree Change Course
• Free N.D.I. Network Diversity Index 
• Free Generosity Quiz 

Credits: Mike Wernert and Tay Person, Host Jabari Whitehead, Bridge Between, Inc.

Coming Next: Please join us next week for Episode 240, Part 2.

“Once they identify the people in the networks that are aligned to their goals and interests, then it's about pouring the value, pouring the generosity, and you're not necessarily expecting anything in return…there's just this general human law of reciprocity where amazing thing happen.”

“Those who achieve NetWORKing Excellence are deliberate about the events that they attend.”

David Olivencia is an accomplished global technology executive and author with deep experience delivering measurable business results for leading organizations. Effectiveness has been demonstrated executing outcomes as a CEO, board member, thought leader, and energetic team coach.

David is the CEO and Co-founder of Angeles Investors. Prior to Angeles Investors, David held various senior executive positions of increasing responsibility at Nippon Telegraph & Telephone (NTT), Ford Motor Company, Oracle, Verizon, Softtek and Accenture.

David has leveraged his expertise in technology, business strategy, digital platforms and networking excellence as an early-stage/Angel investor in 70+ companies. This portfolio includes three unicorns and ten that have garnered more than $100m in valuation.

David is a sought-after speaker for his perspectives on Exponential Technology Disruption, Early-stage Investing, Networking excellence, Artificial Intelligence and Leadership issues. He has presented in prominent forums including the U.S. Congress, National Association of Corporate Directors (NACD), NASDAQ Opening Bell, Great Minds in STEM, BusinessWeek, and Comcast Newsmakers.

David has been recognized as 40 under 40 by Crain’s Detroit Business, Crain’s Chicago Tech 50, and Hispanic Business Magazine’s Most Influential Hispanics in America. From a board service perspective, David has served on many private, civic and non-profit boards throughout his career. He currently serves as a board member of Schurz Communications, Old Plank Trail Bank, N.A a Wintrust Bank (NASDAQ: WTFC), Window to the World Communications: WTTW Chicago, Angeles Investors, IrishAngels and the National Museum of Mexican Art.

David earned his undergraduate degree in Electrical Engineering from Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology (#1 Undergraduate Engineering Program by U.S. News and World Report) and received the school’s 2014 Alumni Career Achievement Award. He earned his M.B.A. (graduating cum laude) from the University of Notre Dame, where he was recognized with the 2007 Distinguished MBA Alumni Award. In 2020, David received an Honorary Doctorate from

Bentley University. Additionally, David has completed the Harvard Business School Corporate Governance program and has completed his Certificate of Director Education from the NACD.

David is married with three children. He enjoys spending his free time running, fishing and with family.

R.O.G. Takeaway Tips:

• Build your foundation. Who am I? Learn about yourself and your strengths.
• Establish a daily and weekly ritual. 
• Who are my key stakeholders? (100 people)
• What are the three things that they care most about? 
• What is your ritual to connect with your key stakeholders?
• Who can you connect with who? 
• Track progress and measure success. (How well are you doing relative to your hypothesis?) 
• Build the default: How can I give? How can I help?

Resources:

• David Olivencia on LinkedIn (in/davidolivencia)
• David Olivencia on Facebook (@dolivencia)
• David Olivencia on Instagram (@prdaveo)
• David Olivencia on Twitter/X (@dolivencia)
• David Olivencia on YouTube (@DavidOlivencia1)
• NetWORKing Excellence: Building a Strong Value-Based Network in an Accelerating Digital World by David Olivencia
• Impactful Networking: “Meet the Author” LIVE - David Olivencia * Book Launch!
• How to Build a Values-Based Network in a Digital World | David R. Olivencia | S6 E8
• Live to 100: Secrets of the Blue Zones on Netflix

Where to find R.O.G. Podcast:

R.O.G on YouTube

R.O.G on Apple Podcasts

R.O.G on Spotify

How diverse is your network?  N.D.I. Network Diversity Index

What is your Generosity Style?  Generosity Quiz

Credits:

David Olivencia, Sheep Jam Productions, Host Shannon Cassidy, Bridge Between, Inc.

Coming Next: Please join us next week, Episode 150, with Zenita Henderson.

“Taking that gratitude and just use it as fuel then to be on a mission for how you're going to be the spirit for those who come beyond us.  I just think that's such a beautiful way to talk about the culture, honoring your ancestors, being aware and reverent toward the spirit of those ancestors.”

Michelle Angela Ortiz is a visual artist/ skilled muralist/ community arts educator/ filmmaker who uses her art as a vehicle to represent people and communities whose histories are often lost or co-opted. Through community arts practices, painting, documentaries, and public art installations, she creates a safe space for dialogue around some of the most profound issues communities and individuals may face.

Her work tells stories using richly crafted and emotive imagery to claim and transform spaces into a visual affirmation that reveals the strength and spirit of the community. For 20 years, Ortiz has designed and created over 50 large-scale public works nationally and internationally. Since 2008, Ortiz has led art for social change public art projects in Costa Rica & Ecuador and as a cultural envoy through the United States embassy in Fiji, Mexico, Argentina, Spain, Venezuela, Honduras, and Cuba.

Ortiz is a 2020 art for justice fund grantee, a pew fellow, a Rauschenberg foundation artist as activist fellow, and a Kennedy center citizen artist national fellow. In 2016, she received the Americans for the Arts Public Art Year in Review award which honors outstanding public art projects in the nation.

R.O.G. Takeaway Tips:

• Collective power can actually make significant change.
• Find a way to bridge your message into action.
• Do not be overwhelmed and find ways to take action.
• Amplify the voices of others.
• Ask yourself: Does the community want what I want to offer?

Resources:

• www.michelleangela.com 
• www.familiasseparadas.com 
• www.lasmadresdeberks.com 
• www.ourmarketproject.com 
• https://www.michelleangela.com/bio/cv
• https://www.michelleangela.com/curriculumvitae
• https://www.penncapital-star.com/commentary/berks-countys-immigrant-detention-center-is-finally-closed-the-work-isnt-over-opinion/
• Michelle Angela Ortiz on LinkedIn (in/michelle-angela-ortiz-370853284)
• Michelle Angela Ortiz on Facebook (@MichelleAngelaOrtiz)
• Michelle Angela Ortiz on Instagram (@michelleangelaortiz)
• Michelle Angela Ortiz on Twitter/X (@michelleaortiz1)
• Amplifying the Voices of Families in Detention | Michelle Angela Ortiz | TEDxPhiladelphia
•  Manos En La Obra - Michelle Angela Ortiz
•  "Familias Separadas" by Michelle Angela Ortiz for Open Source

Where to find R.O.G. Podcast:

R.O.G on YouTube

R.O.G on Apple Podcasts

R.O.G on Spotify

How diverse is your network?  N.D.I. Network Diversity Index

What is your Generosity Style?  Generosity Quiz

Credits:

Michelle Angela Ortiz, Sheep Jam Productions, Host Shannon Cassidy, Bridge Between, Inc.

Coming Next: Please join us next week, Episode 149, with David Olivencia.

“To create generous leaders is to be clear about who you are. That's why I started the book with identity. Who you are and why you do what you do the way you do it.”

Monica Diaz is a transformational coach and diversity, equity and inclusion consultant who empowers her clients to lead their careers, their lives and their business with unprecedented positive impact. She is an inspirational and pragmatic leader, with a clear mission to share knowledge and serve leaders who can and will change the world we live in, which starts with creating the best version of themselves.

Monica’s diverse range of industry experience gives her valuable insights across many sectors and companies. She brings over three decades of experience as a seasoned HR and DEI executive at global blue-chip and Fortune 100 companies, such as Merck & Co, Microsoft, The Walt Disney Company and Royal Caribbean Group. She is the award-winning author of From INTENT to IMPACT – The 5 Dualities of Diversity and Inclusion, a thought-provoking business memoir to strengthen corporate culture and business as a whole.

Her coaching and consulting approach is focused and flexible. She supports leaders without judging them, to build practical and productive solutions. Clients and colleague regard her as a passionate professional, who brings a refreshing perspective on addressing diversity, equity and inclusion. She is always ready with the clear suggestions and wields her humor as a secret weapon, to make everyone feel they are an integral part of a common effort.

Monica has been recognized as a 2022 Literary Titan, Top DEI Leader, a Leader of Team Innovation, as one of Most Influential Minorities in Cable TV and one of the Top 10 Leaders in the Hispanic Executive community. She is a founding member of the Latino DEI Collective and serves as board member of the Puerto Rican Arts Alliance and as Advisory Board member of the HISPA - a youth development organization. She is also an active contributor to organizations empowering children, families, and their communities out of poverty, as well as equality for the LGBTQ community.

Monica’s visionary thought-leadership and fresh perspectives, combined with a high level of energy and relevance, have made her a sought-after public speaker and partner on global DEI strategies, leadership development and culture transformation.

R.O.G. Takeaway Tips:

• Fear leads to inaction.
• Give yourself latitude. Open your mind.
• Be curious and ask others about their preferences.
• Learn it all vs. know it all.
• Leadership is a privilege. 
• Clarify your identity.
• Share yourself with others.
• Seek opportunities to be challenged.

Resources:

• MonicaDiaz.net
• Monica Diaz on Linkedin (in/monicadiaz1)
• A Conversation with Monica Diaz - Author of "From INTENT to IMPACT" - Monica discussing her book,"From INTENT to IMPACT - The 5 Dualities of Diversity and Inclusion"
• Inspiration Interlude I with Monica Diaz - Monica talks about her experience as a 25 years as a global diversity and inclusion leader

Where to find R.O.G. Podcast:

R.O.G on YouTube

R.O.G on Apple Podcasts

R.O.G on Spotify

How diverse is your network?  N.D.I. Network Diversity Index

What is your Generosity Style?  Generosity Quiz

Credits:

Monica Diaz, Sheep Jam Productions, Host Shannon Cassidy, Bridge Between, Inc.

Coming Next: Please join us next week, Episode 148, with Michelle Angela Ortiz.

“If you take a survey, everybody thinks that all of the Latinos just got here the other day and came over the border…More than 68% of most Latinos are born in the US.”

“There are no U-Hauls at funerals.”

In January 2004, Nelson became the first independent Director of the Exelon Corporation that resulted from the merger of PECO Energy and ComEd. Exelon is a Fortune 66 company and is the largest competitive energy company doing business in 48 states, D.C. and Canada. This company, with $60 billion in revenues, employs over 40,000 people nationwide. Exelon works in every stage of the energy business – power generation, competitive energy sales, transmission and delivery. Nelson has been a member of the Risk, Generation and Delivery Committees,  as well as, authored of the Investment Committee’s financial achievement. He is a Director of the PECO Energy Board, the most profitable and safe utility affiliate, serving 1.6 million customers with electricity and gas. Nelson is an investor in a financial institution FinClusive and on its advisory board.

In 1975 he joined the Temple Hospital Board of Directors as Chair of the Professional Affairs Committee until 1993 when the President of the United States appointed him General Counsel to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. He returned to Temple University as  a Trustee in 1997 and served on the Student Affairs and Diversity Committee, Search Committee, Trustee Committee, as well as the Executive Committee. Nelson has played many roles at Temple from teaching to developing a Legal Aid Program for the Law School.

Nelson has served on numerous Corporate Boards including the Legg Mason Family of Funds (1998-2001); Advisory Board of PNC Bank 2008- 2015; Chair, National Foundation for Credit Counseling (NFCC); Chair and Audit Committee, Paradigm Funds (2010-2011); the Board of  Directors of The Convention Center Authority of Pennsylvania (2002-2004); Treasurer and Co-founder, Latino Corporate Directors Association and also the Education Fund from (2014 – present).

Nelson was City Solicitor of Philadelphia from 2001 to 2004, Attorney for Philadelphia Gas Works (serving a million customers) and Counsel to both the Philadelphia Airport, the Philadelphia Water Department, as well as all city personnel.

Nelson was the first Puerto Rican to be admitted to the Pennsylvania Bar and the first Latino Judge in the Court of Common Pleas in Pennsylvania where he served for 12 years. During his tenure, he was appointed Administrative Judge (CEO) by the Supreme Courts where he administered a $90 million annual budget with 2000 employees. He received the National Institute for Justice Award for saving the courts $100 million in 10 years and eliminating a seven years backlog.

Nelson is a senior partner at Dilworth Paxson LLP where he concentrated his practice in litigation, dispute resolution, government relations, energy, and public housing development. His leadership as the Chair of the Diversity Committee, earned him the Philadelphia Bar Association Justice Sonia Sotomayor Diversity Award.

Nelson served on the President’s Commission on the White House Fellows from 2000 to 2012. He was a Fulbright Scholar, a White House  Fellow from 1977 to 1978 and has five honorary doctorate degrees and numerous National Awards.

Nelson graduated with a B.S. in Accounting from St. John’s University and a J.D. from the Temple University Beasley School of Law. A member of Omicron Delta Epsilon Economic Honor Society. Nelson is admitted in Pennsylvania, New York, Washington, D.C. and the U. S. Supreme Court. Nelson has authored his autobiography “Not from Here and Not from There No soy de aqui ni de alla”, Published in October 19, 2018 by Temple Press. He contributes to a weekly 6ABC “Inside Story” roundtable. The publication has won him honors from the Pan American Association, the Pennsylvania Hispanic Chamber of Commerce and Al Dia newspaper. The Philadelphia Legal Intelligencer has recognized him with The Legal’s Lifetime Achievement Award in 2013. Hispanic Business considered him 1 of 100 most influential Hispanic American with thousand honor.

R.O.G. Takeaway Tips:

• Sometimes you have to take steps backwards to take a steps forward.
• Figure out what motivates you, then dig in and don’t stop.
• Don’t fear losing what you have. Believe that you're doing the right thing even if you fail.
• There are no U-Hauls at funerals

Resources:

• Bio and Credentials
• Not from Here, Not from There/No Soy de Aquí ni de Allá. The Autobiography of Nelson A. Díaz

Where to find R.O.G. Podcast:

R.O.G on YouTube

R.O.G on Apple Podcasts

R.O.G on Spotify

How diverse is your network?  N.D.I. Network Diversity Index

What is your Generosity Style?  Generosity Quiz

Credits:

Judge Nelson Diaz, Sheep Jam Productions, Host Shannon Cassidy, Bridge Between, Inc.

Coming Next: Please join us next week, Episode 147, with Monica Diaz.

“Every day I wake up, I don't feel the need to explain why I or the community I identify with exists.”

“I choose chronic self conviction over chronic self-doubt.”

Tiffany Tavarez serves as Senior Vice President, Technology Diversity, Community and Sustainability (TDCS) at Wells Fargo.  This global team focuses on people strategy, cultural transformation, and sustainability. Prior to joining TDCS, Tiffany was Senior Vice President of Community Sponsorships and Strategy, Wells Fargo Advisors and Vice President of Community Relations for the Wells Fargo Foundation. Her career in inclusive philanthropy, program development & strategy and stakeholder engagement has included reputable organizations such as Exelon, Comcast, Temple University, and the Pew Center for Arts and Heritage. 

She has been honored with numerous awards and recognitions including being named in the Philadelphia Business Journal's Top Forty Under 40 (2019); a Women of Excellence honoree by WDAS 105.3 FM (2022) and named one of Philadelphia’s Top Women and Top Latino Power Players by Metro Philadelphia (2023). She was named 2023 Love Ambassador with Love Now Media, a Black-owned social enterprise whose mission is to create a more just, well and equitable future by amplifying acts of love at the intersection of social justice, wellness, and equity. In 2023, Tiffany Tavarez was named a Marshall Memorial Fellow (MMF). MMF is the German Marshall Fund’s flagship leadership development program created to introduce a new generation of leaders from all sectors who facilitate knowledge and network development for effective transatlantic engagement between the United States and European Union. 

Tiffany Tavarez is currently serving as Chair of the Board of Directors for Monument Lab; Member, Board of Directors for Esperanza; Commissioner for the Pennsylvania Commission for Women under Governor Shapiro; Board of Directors, Forum of Executive Women; and Co-chair of the Children’s Scholarship Fund Campaign Committee. She is a first-generation college graduate who has earned degrees from both Temple University and University of the Arts.

R.O.G. Takeaway Tips:

• Choose chronic self conviction over chronic self-doubt.
• Be audacious. Find ways to stretch what's possible and look for solutions to problems 
• Be courageous and take risks. 
• Recognize the impact of language. How are we expressing ourselves?  How are we speaking to ourselves?
• Get to know or leverage something that's external while getting to know and appreciate yourself.
• Discover and learn more about yourself, with delight. 
• Civic engagement and volunteerism in a service area you deeply care about.

Resources:

• Bio and Credentials
• Tiffany Tavarez: An impactful catalyst forging inclusive communities - Al Dia article about Tiffany Tavarez (Insightful details about Tiffany's upbringing!)
• Au·dac·i·ty: a willingness to take bold risks.
• Lunch & Love: Tiffany Taverez | SVP of Diverse Segments, Representation and Inclusion at Wells Fargo
• Fireside Chat with Tiffany Tavarez - Tiffany talks about isolation and creativity

Where to find R.O.G. Podcast:

R.O.G on YouTube

R.O.G on Apple Podcasts

R.O.G on Spotify

How diverse is your network?  N.D.I. Network Diversity Index

What is your Generosity Style?  Generosity Quiz

Credits:

Tiffany Tavarez, Sheep Jam Productions, Host Shannon Cassidy, Bridge Between, Inc.

Coming Next: Please join us next week, Episode 146, with Judge Nelson Diaz.

“When a firm gets large enough to start splitting into departments, moving parts of the work upstairs, downstairs, around the globe. We start replicating job descriptions, engagement drops, outcomes suffer. That's where the fixing work dynamic we're discussing really shows up.”

“The triple win is that you get a higher level of productivity, you get a higher level of employee engagement and you get a better customer experience.”

David Henkin is an accomplished executive and entrepreneur with a proven record of success in prominent global companies as well as start-ups. An expert in architecting and implementing innovative business strategies and solutions improving performance, profitable possibilities, and developing organizational capabilities through a collaborative-growth approach. 

The author of several books, he has taught in a top-rated university business school program while also serving as an innovator, consultant, and coach for corporate and nonprofit leaders in the areas of innovation, work design, business and technology, teams, and leadership among others. His work experience includes Chief Innovation Officer at Vertex (VERX), where he also served as Executive Vice President. In addition, he launched and led as General Manager their public cloud business as well as their managed services and outsourcing practice. 

David was a board member at Wheelhouse Analytics from startup through successful strategic acquisition. He served as Chief Operating Officer at Coates Analytics also from startup through successful strategic acquisition. Prior to that David was a Corporate Officer and Principal at Vanguard serving in their institutional and retail businesses, strategy, and technology. David moved to Vanguard from Accenture where he managed large, complex programs in their communications industry group.

Thomas Bertels, President and Founder, Purpose Works. Thomas has 25 years of global consulting experience, working across industries on projects ranging from strategy design to operating model transformation. He is a recognized thought leader on operational excellence and process redesign. Prior to founding Purpose Works, Thomas was a founding partner of OXYGY/Valeocon Consulting. He started his career with ABB and AON. Thomas is based in Northern New Jersey and enjoys reading and music.

R.O.G. Takeaway Tips:

• Take inventory of the work being done. Pull the pieces apart.
• Analyze what is still useful and ask is there a more innovative way that we could do this? Then, put them back together.
• Consider how you gain feedback.
• Mindset shift and beliefs or interpretations of the role of the employee.
• How could we leverage that talent internally?
• Is there an opportunity? For example, look at your metrics for employee turnover and engagement. 
• Seek a less transactional approach to work. 
• Take small steps. 
• Broaden accountability and make everybody part of the solution.
• Look for the triple win: employees, customers, and the company itself.

Resources:

• https://purpose.works/
• https://fixing-work.com/book/ 
• https://fixing-work.com/authors/ 
• https://mymojo.works/survey/

Where to find R.O.G. Podcast:

R.O.G on YouTube

R.O.G on Apple Podcasts

R.O.G on Spotify

How diverse is your network?  N.D.I. Network Diversity Index

What is your Generosity Style?  Generosity Quiz

Credits:

David Henkin and Thomas Bertels, Sheep Jam Productions, Host Shannon Cassidy, Bridge Between, Inc.

Coming Next: Please join us next week, Episode 145, with Tiffany Tavarez.

“We can open the doors…but if that individual does not find the passion to go through and take on the challenges, they don't go through. They stay in the same spot.”

“I remember studying, afraid to fail because I knew if I failed, I was going back to South Providence, to the streets, which meant jail.”

Harry Potter is a retired education and administrative professional who focused on development and implementation of programs for student welfare. With over 31 years of experience in the education field, he has gained expertise as a facilitator, leader, mediator, and motivator. Many can attest to his compassion towards students and wealth of experience in overcoming obstacles and barriers that prevent individuals from reaching their potential. 

Harry was born in Providence, Rhode Island and attended Providence public schools. As a young man, he displayed a passion for learning and a genuine interest in history and education. This passion led him to be accepted into the Talent Development Program at the University of Rhode Island, where he pursued a Bachelor of Arts degree in History and Secondary Education. He graduated in 1980 with a strong foundation for his future career in education.

Harry returned to the University of Rhode Island, this time as a full-time staff member in 1984. During his time at the URI, he furthered his academic journey and earned a Masters of Science degree in family counseling in 1987. This advanced degree provided him with valuable insights into helping students and families navigate the challenges they faced.

In 1991, Harry decided to focus on making a difference at the grassroots level and joined the Providence School Department as a counselor for elementary and middle schools. His empathetic nature and understanding of family dynamics made him an invaluable asset to the students and their families. Over the next two years, he built strong connections and became a trusted figure for the students he guided.

Driven by a desire to take on greater responsibilities and create a more significant impact on the education system, Harry pursued a master’s degree in Secondary Administration at Providence College. In 1993, he graduated and soon embarked on his journey as an educational leader. In 1993, Harry became the Assistant Principal at Mt. Pleasant High School, where he demonstrated his exceptional leadership and organizational skills. Four years later, in 1997, he was appointed as the Principal of Hope High School. 

Recognizing his leadership capabilities and commitment to student success, Harry was appointed as the Director of the Office of Student Opportunities for the Providence School Department in 2022. In this role, he spearheaded the development and implementation of various District and Community programs aimed at reducing the dropout rate and enhancing student opportunities. His dedication and hard work significantly contributed to creating a more supportive and nurturing educational environment.

Harry has not only made a substantial impact in the field of education, but as a leader in the community as well. He has helped thousands of students to reach their educational goals. He has been personally responsible for graduating over 1350 students from his ADEP program known as ‘The Harry Potter program’. 

After a distinguished career spanning over three decades, Harry Potter retired in 2009, from the Providence School Department. His contributions to education, counseling, and administration left an indelible mark on the lives of students, educators, and families alike. Throughout his career, he championed the importance of providing equal opportunities to all students, fostering a sense of community, and promoting academic excellence.

R.O.G. Takeaway Tips:

• Are you willing to share what makes you successful? (experience, wisdom, resources, encouragement)
• Take time to understand yourself and what makes you who you are.
• Be the ripple effect.
• Notice the needs of others and jumping in to help.
• Pay it forward.

Resources:

• HopeHealth’s Harry Potter: A volunteer leader
• Harry Potter with Katie Couric

Where to find R.O.G. Podcast:

R.O.G on YouTube

R.O.G on Apple Podcasts

R.O.G on Spotify

How diverse is your network?  N.D.I. Network Diversity Index

What is your Generosity Style?  Generosity Quiz

Credits:

Harry Potter, Sheep Jam Productions, Host Shannon Cassidy, Bridge Between, Inc.

Coming Next: Please join us next week, Episode 144, with David Henkin and Thomas Bertels.