R.O.G. Return on Generosity

“Being an empathetic leader… knowing who your people are, really caring about them, leading with understanding versus judgment is so critical.” “If you want to be treated well and given opportunities and, you know, have people invest in you and all those kinds of things, then you got to be willing to do that yourself.” “Vulnerability is not a bad thing. It's actually just showing that you're human and showing your humanness.” Episode summary | In this conversation, Shannon Cassidy and Susan Chapman Hughes explore the themes of generosity and empathy in leadership. They discuss the importance of aligning organizational vision and mission, the role of empathetic leadership in fostering a positive work environment, and the necessity of authenticity and vulnerability in leaders. The conversation also touches on the significance of empowering decision-making within organizations, navigating conflict, and the impact of AI on leadership and personal growth. R.O.G. Takeaway Tips | Generosity at work is about giving time and respect. Alignment in organizations requires clarity in roles and decision-making. Empathetic leadership is essential for modern organizations. Authenticity and vulnerability are key traits of generous leaders. Conflict can be healthy and necessary for growth. Leaders should empower their teams to make decisions. Disruption is necessary for innovation and growth. AI can enhance personal and professional efficiency. Feedback is crucial for leadership development. Asking for help is a strength, not a weakness. Chapters | 00:00 The Power of Generosity in Leadership 02:59 Aligning Vision and Mission in Organizations 05:38 The Importance of Empathetic Leadership 09:44 Defining Generous Leadership 12:56 Authenticity and Vulnerability in Leadership 18:10 Navigating Change and Disruption 23:02 Empowering Decision-Making in Organizations 26:03 Leveraging AI for Personal and Professional Growth Guest Bio | Susan Chapman-Hughes is an accomplished global executive and Fortune 500 public board director with extensive executive leadership and transformation experience across the Financial Services, Technology, and Real Estate sectors. As a public board director, she has led Compensation and Audit Committees for both pre-IPO and established companies in the Technology/SaaS, Consumer Packaged Goods (CPG), and Quick Service Restaurant (QSR) industries. Her operational expertise includes serving in multiple executive roles, including EVP, COO, and CAO, where she has successfully led P&L turnarounds as well as digital, data, and operational transformations. Susan is known as a connected leader with a down-to-earth style, who builds trust, fosters collaboration, and energizes teams. A growth-focused executive, she is highly skilled at leading both large-scale and emerging organizations across the globe. As an innovative leader of positive transformation, Susan is passionate about aligning organizations with their core missions and values. She champions a people-centered leadership approach that is inclusive, empowering, and energizing for all stakeholders. Bridge Between Resources: 5 Degree Change Course Free N.D.I. Network Diversity Index Free Generosity Quiz Credits: Susan Chapman Hughes, Host Shannon Cassidy, Bridge Between, Inc. Coming Next: Please join us next week, Episode 243, Special Guest, Kenon Chen.

“With AI, there is so much to innovate, it gives people an equality.” “Everybody has something to give.” “There are three things we all need: a coach, a mentor, and a sponsor. A coach talks to you, a mentor talks with you, and a sponsor talks about you.” Episode summary | In this episode of Return on Generosity, host Shannon Cassidy speaks with Yvette Kanouff, an Emmy award-winning technology pioneer, about the importance of generosity in the workplace. They discuss Yvette's journey from Germany to becoming a leader in technology innovation, the role of AI in shaping the future, and how to create opportunities for others through a generous mindset. The conversation emphasizes the value of networking as genuine connection, the significance of mentorship, and the essence of being true to oneself while navigating challenges in leadership. R.O.G. Takeaway Tips | Generosity fosters growth and collaboration. Innovation is driven by curiosity and problem-solving. Networking should be about building genuine relationships. Mentorship is crucial for personal and professional development. Being true to oneself is essential for effective leadership. AI presents endless opportunities for innovation. Everyone has something valuable to contribute. Generous leadership creates a positive workplace culture. Self-advocacy should not overshadow team recognition. Difficult conversations are part of effective management. Chapters | 00:00 The Power of Generosity 02:31 Yvette Kanouff: A Journey of Innovation 05:20 Embracing Change and Innovation 09:48 AI: Opportunities and Ethical Considerations 13:27 The Art of Networking and Relationship Building 16:11 Return on Generosity: A Personal Philosophy 20:37 Overcoming Barriers to Generosity 22:57 Generous Leadership in Action 28:53 The Importance of Mentorship 32:52 Navigating Disagreements with Grace 37:10 Staying True to Yourself Guest Bio | Yvette Kanouff is an Emmy award winning technology pioneer and Partner at JC2 Ventures, a venture firm founded by Cisco Chairman Emeritus and Silicon Valley legend, John Chambers. Yvette headed the $7B service provider business at Cisco Systems, the worldwide leader in IT, networking, and cybersecurity solutions. She has held CTO and President roles at various companies and has focused on leading technology innovation and invention. Yvette has pioneered technologies instrumental in creating video streaming, app stores, MPEG standards, encoding standards, CDNs, and the DVD. Yvette has received numerous industry awards including a 2020 Lifetime Achievement Emmy for her contributions to television engineering and technology, the National Cable and Television Association’s Vanguard Award for Leadership in Science and Technology, being named an Industry Pioneer, an Emmy for her work in Video on Demand with SeaChange, being named an Industry Wonder Woman, Top Techie, and Woman in Technology; she has been named one of the 11 most influential women in the Television industry, and has consistently been ranked as one of the top 100 industry executives. Yvette began her career in digital signal processing and has a bachelor’s and master’s degree in mathematics from UCF. Yvette is a 2011 recipient of the UCF Distinguished Alumni Award and supports UCF students through the Yvette Kanouff Industrial Mathematics Scholarship, in addition to supporting the University and College of Sciences, where she serves on the Dean’s Advisory Board. Yvette holds several patents and is on various corporate and industry boards. She is a long-standing leader in industry organizations, foundations, and standards bodies, and she has chaired several industry award boards including the Cable Pioneers and IEEE Ibuka medal award committee. Bridge Between Resources: 5 Degree Change Course Free N.D.I. Network Diversity Index Free Generosity Quiz Credits: Yvette Kanouff, Host Shannon Cassidy, Bridge Between, Inc. Coming Next: Please join us next week, Episode 244, Special

“The only thing we have in common is the fact that he’s magical and I’m creating magic in these schools moving kids forward.” “I believe most people have compassion in their soul.” “Are you willing to share without expecting anything back?” Episode summary | In this episode of ROG, host Shannon Cassidy speaks with Harry Potter, a retired education professional, about the importance of generosity in personal and professional life. They discuss Harry's transformative experiences with mentors who opened doors for him, the impact of small acts of kindness, and the ripple effect of giving back to the community. Harry shares his journey from a challenging upbringing to a successful career, emphasizing the significance of noticing the needs of others and being intentional in acts of service. R.O.G. Takeaway Tips | Generosity is not just financial; it includes time and respect. Mentorship can change the trajectory of a person's life. Reflecting on one's journey can reveal the impact of others. Small acts of kindness can lead to significant changes. Being intentional about noticing others' needs is crucial. Everyone has the potential to give back in meaningful ways. Generosity creates a ripple effect in the community. Confidence can be a barrier to seizing opportunities. It's important to share knowledge and experiences with others. Giving back is a way to honor those who helped you. Chapters | 00:00 The Power of Generosity 07:01 Transformative Mentorships 14:08 The Ripple Effect of Kindness 19:57 Noticing and Taking Action 27:58 Giving Back and Leaving a Legacy Guest Bio | Harry Potter is a retired education and administrative professional with over 31 years of experience supporting student success. Known for his compassion, leadership, and commitment to equity, Harry has served as a counselor, principal, and district director, helping thousands of students overcome barriers to achievement. Born and raised in Providence, Rhode Island, he earned his B.A. in History and Secondary Education from the University of Rhode Island, followed by a Master’s in Family Counseling and later, a Master’s in Secondary Administration from Providence College. Harry began his career in counseling before moving into school leadership, eventually becoming Principal of Hope High School and later, Director of Student Opportunities for the Providence School Department. He created impactful programs, including the “Harry Potter Program,” which helped over 1,350 students graduate. Since retiring in 2009, Harry continues to serve the community through hospice work, youth camps, and grief support groups, remaining a passionate advocate for growth, healing, and education. Bridge Between Resources: 5 Degree Change Course Free N.D.I. Network Diversity Index Free Generosity Quiz Credits: Harry Potter, Host Shannon Cassidy, Bridge Between, Inc. Coming Next: Please join us next week, Episode 241, Special Guest, Trish Scanlon.

“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.

“[Rare Diseases Research] deserves to be celebrated the same way that we celebrate athletes and sports in this country.” “Giving is the greatest form of getting.” “You always have a chance to positively impact other people, it's just a matter of what you do with the moments you have.” Episode summary | In this episode of ROG, Shannon Cassidy interviews Brett Brackett, the executive director of Uplifting Athletes, who shares his journey from being a college and NFL athlete to leading a nonprofit focused on supporting the rare disease community. Brett discusses the importance of generosity, the impact of rare diseases, and how Uplifting Athletes engages college athletes in philanthropy. He emphasizes the power of community, the significance of research in rare diseases, and the misconceptions surrounding athletes. The conversation highlights the importance of using one's platform for good and the profound impact of giving back. R.O.G. Takeaway Tips | Generosity can take many forms, including time, talent, and treasure. The average path to diagnosis for rare diseases is 3-5 years. One in ten Americans is affected by a rare disease. Uplifting Athletes hosts events to raise awareness and funds for rare diseases. The Young Investigator Draft celebrates researchers in rare disease research. Athletes often use their platforms to give back to the community. Misconceptions about athletes often overlook their generosity and impact. Success is defined individually, not by external standards. Chapters | 00:00 Introduction to Generosity and Leadership 02:27 Brett Brackett's Journey from Athlete to Advocate 05:32 The Importance of Family and Support Systems 07:27 Uplifting Athletes: Mission and Impact 12:26 Understanding Rare Diseases 16:14 Events and Community Engagement 20:28 Stories of Generosity and Giving Back 25:14 The Power of Generosity 30:20 Misconceptions About Athletes 31:49 The Penn State Experience 33:49 Impacting Lives Through Generosity 35:18 Lessons from Football and Life 39:19 Leadership and Personal Growth Guest Bio | Brett Brackett is a New Jersey native whose passion for helping others has guided him to make a lasting impact on the rare disease community. Through his athletic career and now with Uplifting Athletes, Brett has used the platform of sport to inspire hope, raise awareness, and drive change for those impacted by rare diseases. An exceptional athlete, Brett transitioned from being a top-rated quarterback in high school to a standout wide receiver and co-captain at Penn State, where he earned degrees in Marketing and Economics. His professional football career saw him thrive as an undrafted tight end with teams such as the Miami Dolphins, Philadelphia Eagles, Jacksonville Jaguars, Tennessee Titans, and Seattle Seahawks. In 2017, Brett joined Uplifting Athletes full-time as Chapter Success Manager, where his leadership and experience in sports helped expand the organization’s reach. His deep commitment and strategic vision led him to step into an organizational leadership role in 2018. Since then the organization has funded over $1.2 million in rare disease research grants, hosted over 2,000 individuals impacted by rare disease for one-of-kind Uplifting Experiences and developed 450 student-athletes who have been trained to serve people impacted by rare diseases through Uplifting Athletes’ programming. Brett lives in Pennsylvania with his wife Jamie and their four children. Guest Resources: www.upliftingathletes.org Instagram: @UpliftingAthletes LinkedIn: /Uplifting-Athletes X: @UpliftingAth Facebook: UpliftingAthletes Bridge Between Resources: 5 Degree Change Course Free N.D.I. Network Diversity Index Free Generosity Quiz Credits: Brett Brackett, Host Shannon Cassidy, Bridge Between, Inc. Coming Next: Please join us next week, Episode 238, Special Guest, Linda Shively.

“Relationship is a noun, but 'relationshipping' is a verb and it takes a lot of agency and some skill.” "You have to know what you want." "Pause is power." Episode summary | In this episode of the ROG Return on Generosity podcast, executive coach and psychotherapist Dr. Lani Nelson-Zlupko describes the difference between relationships and “relationshipping”, sharing insights on effective communication, emotional intelligence, and the importance of accountability in relationships to build meaningful connections. She introduces the MOVE method as a practical framework for navigating difficult conversations, emphasizing the value of self-awareness, understanding needs, and negotiating with empathy. The episode highlights key concepts like relationship hygiene, rehearsing communication strategies, and “losing well” as essential tools for personal and professional growth. Together, Lani and Shannon discuss common barriers to effective relationshipping and connection—including ego, fear, and pride—and offer actionable strategies for improving interpersonal dynamics and achieving deeper, more authentic relationships. R.O.G. Takeaway Tips | Relationships require agency and active engagement. Relationship is a noun, but relationshipping is a verb. Understanding what you want is crucial in relationships. Pause is a powerful tool in communication. Navigating needs involves accountability and clarity. The MOVE method helps in effective communication. Rehearsing conversations can lead to better outcomes. Expect defensiveness in interpersonal interactions. Losing well is part of maintaining relationships. Positivity is essential in healthy relationships. Collaboration is key to resolving conflicts. Navigating difficult conversations requires calmness and clarity. Understanding negotiation dynamics is crucial before engaging in discussions. Time is essential for changing relationship dynamics and habits. Apologies are vital for repairing relationships and require accountability. Healthy relationships are built on reciprocity and mutual contribution. Effective communication of needs is key to relationship satisfaction. Overcoming stagnation in relationships involves addressing fears and barriers. Identifying barriers like pride and ego can help in personal growth. Maintaining relationship hygiene involves positivity and curiosity. A small change can lead to significant progress in relationships. Chapters | 00:00 Introduction to Dr. Lani Nelson-Zlupko 01:50 The Importance of Relationships 04:28 Understanding "Relation-shipping" as a Verb 07:08 Navigating Needs and Accountability in Relationships 09:46 The MOVE Method: A Framework for Effective Communication 16:45 Rehearsing Conversations for Better Outcomes 20:59 The Value of Losing Well in Relationships 26:53 Persisting Through Defensive Reactions 30:40 Navigating Difficult Conversations 32:29 Understanding Negotiation Dynamics 33:58 The Importance of Time in Relationships 35:22 The Art of Apology 38:09 Building Healthy Relationships 40:16 Reciprocity in Relationships 42:21 Communicating Needs Effectively 45:01 Overcoming Stagnation in Relationships 46:20 Identifying Barriers to Progress 49:42 Maintaining Relationship Hygiene 53:25 Rapid Fire Insights Guest Bio | Dr. Lani Nelson-Zlupko is an executive coach and psychotherapist with over 25 years of success bringing skills for change management and human resilience to clients and companies around the world. Lani excels in understanding human behavior. She studies why people get stuck and how they move forward. Dr. Nelson's data-driven strategies enable people to elevate the best in themselves and elicit the best in others, with a keen eye to the very real psychological, interpersonal and institutional challenges they must navigate. Her tools for human motivation, collaboration, coping, resilience, accountability, and cohesion have empowered individuals, families, teams, and companies to move forward. Lani earned her bac

“It's important to think bigger than what you know is possible” Episode summary | In this episode of the ROG Return on Generosity podcast, host Shannon Cassidy interviews Sydney Cummings Houdyshell, a certified personal trainer and founder of Royal Change. Sydney shares her journey from a small-town athlete to a global fitness influencer, emphasizing the importance of authenticity, resilience, and community. She discusses her transition from sports to personal training, the creation of her YouTube channel, and the impact of personal tragedies, including the loss of her brother and a traumatic shooting incident, on her mission to help others. Sydney's story is one of overcoming adversity and inspiring others to pursue their passions with heart and dedication. R.O.G. Takeaway Tips | Everyone deserves someone who genuinely cares about them. Authenticity in fitness is more impactful than perfection. It's important to think bigger than what you know is possible. Staying grounded amidst success is essential for personal fulfillment. Chapters | 00:00 Introduction to Sydney Cummings 03:07 The Journey of Authenticity 06:09 Overcoming Challenges and Finding Purpose 09:04 The Birth of Royal Change 12:09 Navigating Personal Loss and Resilience 14:56 The Impact of Community and Generosity 17:46 The Shooting Incident and Its Aftermath 21:12 Gratitude and Moving Forward Guest Bio | Sydney Cummings Houdyshell is a nationally certified personal trainer, fitness nutrition specialist, and the founder of Royal Change, a global fitness brand dedicated to making health and wellness accessible to all. With over 1.7 million subscribers on her YouTube channel, Sydney delivers free, high-quality workouts every single day, inspiring millions to achieve their fitness goals right from their living rooms. Her journey to becoming a fitness powerhouse was anything but ordinary. Growing up as a small-town athlete, Sydney’s passion for sports laid the foundation for her career in personal training. But it was her resilience in the face of personal tragedy—including the heartbreaking loss of her brother and surviving a traumatic shooting incident—that truly shaped her mission. Sydney channeled her pain into purpose, building Royal Change as a beacon of strength, positivity, and community for people around the world. Sydney’s philosophy goes beyond physical fitness—it's about authenticity, resilience, and showing up every day with purpose and heart. Her inspiring story and commitment to empowering others have made her a sought-after voice in the fitness industry and beyond. Guest Resources: https://royalchange.fit/ https://www.youtube.com/@sydneycummingshoudyshell https://www.instagram.com/sydneycummings_/?hl=en https://x.com/sydneycummings_?lang=en Bridge Between Resources: 5 Degree Change Course Free N.D.I. Network Diversity Index Free Generosity Quiz Credits: Sydney Cummings Houdyshell, Host Shannon Cassidy, Bridge Between, Inc. Coming Next: Please join us next week, Episode 234, Special Guest, Sydney Cummings Houdyshell - Part 2.

"Feelings fully felt is bliss." "Breath is always free." "Self-augmentation is the key." Episode summary | In this episode of the Return on Generosity podcast, host Shannon Cassidy speaks with Jason Henkel, founder of Focus to Evolve, about achieving balance and productivity without burnout. Jason shares his journey from a hectic corporate life to discovering the importance of self-management and centeredness. He emphasizes the need for leaders to create high-performance teams and the role of architectural calendaring in productivity. The conversation also explores the potential of AI in augmenting thought processes and the unique strengths of individuals with ADHD. Ultimately, Jason advocates for a shift in workplace culture towards generosity and self-care, encouraging listeners to redefine productivity and prioritize their well-being. R.O.G. Takeaway Tips | Self-management needs to come before time management. The hustle culture is outdated; balance is key to thriving. Feelings fully felt lead to a blissful life experience. Creating a centered atmosphere can positively influence teams. Architectural calendaring helps in organizing tasks effectively. Deep immersion sessions can unlock higher productivity levels. AI can be used for thought augmentation and identifying blind spots. ADHD can be harnessed as a superpower when managed well. Generosity towards oneself is crucial for personal growth. Redefining productivity involves focusing on meaningful outcomes rather than busyness. Chapters | 00:00 Introduction to Balanced Thriving 03:09 Jason's Journey from Corporate Hustle to Balance 06:06 The Importance of Self-Management 09:16 Illuminating a Path to Meaningful Output 12:04 The Power of Stillness and Centeredness 14:56 Creating a High-Performance Team Environment 17:48 Architectural Calendaring for Productivity 20:42 Deep Immersion in Balanced Thriving 23:47 Harnessing Flow State for Enhanced Focus 26:42 Managing Distractions in a Digital World 29:42 Leveraging AI for Self-Augmentation 30:09 Exploring Blind Spots and Self-Awareness 30:37 Augmenting Thought and Learning with AI 33:00 The Future of Work and AI's Role 34:31 Shifts for Enhanced Productivity 36:53 The Importance of Boundaries and Self-Care 38:24 Redefining Busy: From Frenetic to Deliberate 40:43 Creating Evolved Workplace Cultures 43:11 Return on Generosity: Redefining Success 50:00 Unlearning and Embracing Authenticity Guest Bio | Jason Henkel is a speaker, mindfulness coach, and the founder of Focus to Evolve, a company dedicated to helping individuals and teams increase clarity, productivity, and presence in both work and life. With a background in corporate strategy and performance optimization, Jason combines practical tools with mindfulness-based practices to guide clients toward sustainable, values-driven success. Through his coaching, workshops, and keynotes, Jason empowers leaders and professionals to quiet the noise, reduce overwhelm, and reconnect with their deeper purpose—what he calls evolving through focus. His work is grounded in the belief that small, intentional shifts in awareness can lead to powerful transformations in mindset, leadership, and overall well-being. Jason has worked with organizations across industries and brings a grounded, accessible approach to every conversation. Whether he’s guiding a mindfulness session or leading an executive team through a strategy reset, Jason is committed to helping people show up more fully for their work, their teams, and their lives. Guest Resources: Website: https://www.focustoevolve.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasehenkel/ Online Course: https://www.focustoevolve.com/academy Bridge Between Resources: 5 Degree Change Course Free N.D.I. Network Diversity Index Free Generosity Quiz Credits: Jason Henkel, Host Shannon Cassidy, Bridge Between, Inc. Coming Next: Please join us next week, Episode 232, Special Guest, Tim Leake.