HR in the Car

We’ve unlocked the trunk on our season one wrap-up with Joe Bonilla (Episode 22), Trent Griffin-Braaf (Episode 10), and Catherine Hover (Episode 2) - our panel of serial entrepreneurs! - from sharing learning moments over the last year to what’s coming for each of them. Want landlord horror stories? Check. Looking for their take on building lasting relationships in business? Check. Need to hear our famous “car horn” more than a couple of times? Check! We’ve got that and more, including questions from our guests for Miriam and Tom. So close the glove box, set the cruise control, and listen in to our great season finale!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It’s really too bad you can’t see a smile on a podcast. John Robinson has one of the brightest smiles you’ll ever find. After a successful career in media advertising, John has since started a technology company focused on helping individuals with disabilities find their career home.  We talk about challenges he’s faced, as well as what it means to run into an emotional “flat tire.”  In 2023, Our Ability's CEO was recognized by the Zero Project as an Innovative Solution. In 2018, John Robinson presented with the Chamber Champion Award in recognition of actions that have advanced the mission of the New York State Capital Region Chamber. In 2014, named "One of ten national White House Champions of Change for Disability Employment." Robinson is dedicated to connecting individuals with disabilities towards education and employment through mentoring, workshops, public speaking as well as job placement. Our Ability is the only disability owned and operated business dedicated to building employment opportunities through our job platforms, employment webinars, digital profile system and personal empowerment.  John Robinson is the subject of "Get Off Your Knees: The John Robinson Story" a public television documentary seen around the United States and other countries. Autobiography of the same title published by Syracuse University Press in 2009.  Since Jan 2020 – Our Ability has delivered 12,000+ “apply” clicks to our worldwide partners!  Schedule a MeetingJobs Ability ContactJohn RobinsonCEO, Our Ability, Inc.EmailPhoneLinkedInSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

From teaching English as a Second Language, to living the theater/performer life, all the way to running her own successful pair of businesses in the heart of Schenectady. Kat Koppett joins HR in the Car to tell us about the history of their building (hint – it includes fire poles), and how we can all learn a lesson from the Circus Bow (celebrating failure) in work and home life. Bio Kat Koppett  is the Eponymous Founder of Koppett, a consultancy specializing in the use of improv and storytelling techniques to enhance individual and group performance. She is the author of Training to Imagine: Practical Improvisational Theatre Techniques to Enhance Creativity, Teamwork, Leadership and Learning, and a contributor to The Applied Improvisation Mindset ed. Theresa Robbins Dudeck and Caitlin McClure. She has worked with diverse clients including Meta, Apple, Prezi, PwC, NASA, SUNY, the Workforce Development Institute, NYSID and the Clinton Global Initiative.  In 2019 was the winner of the North American Simulation and Gaming Association (NASAGA)’s Ifill-Raynolds Lifetime Achievement Award. She is the co-director and a performing member of the Mopco Improv Theatre, a founding member and the current vice-president of the Applied Improvisation Network, and the co-host of the podcast Performance Shift: The Art of Successfully Navigating Change. More information on Sivasailam “Thiagi” Thiagarajan can be found here. Contact Kat Koppett Webiste LinkedInPhoneSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Our first, admitted Black Belt joins the show to give us a lesson or two on what Workforce Development can do for the generations to come. Crickett Thomas-O’Dell shares her experience helping businesses like Albany Can Code and Hot Crispy Oil find the funding necessary to create job opportunities in our local communities.   Bio Crickett Thomas-O’Dell joined WDI in 2019 as the Regional Director-Capital Region after spending over three years commuting bi-weekly to Washington, DC as the VP of Operations for a transportation services company. In January 2022 she was promoted to the Statewide Pre-Apprentice Program Coordinator/Director of Community Engagement.  Prior to WDI Crickett spent the bulk of her professional career working in education settings- enrollment management, print to digital learning environments, international educational travel and STEM curriculum implementation at the high school and middle school levels.  Her professional career began in telecommunications in the voice and data industry.  A graduate of Albany High School (NY), both her undergraduate and graduate education occurred at Russell Sage College and Sage Graduate School where Crickett was very active on campus receiving several honors and awards for her contributions to campus life.  She also played both volleyball and basketball for the Sage Gators.    Crickett and her husband Dennis are the proud parents of one daughter, Brianna (Bre) who after graduating from Shenendehowa High School followed in her parents’ footsteps and played collegiate basketball at RIT- Rochester Institute of Technology, while studying engineering.   Living in Saratoga County Crickett and her family enjoy basketball – she and her daughter Bre are both basketball referees, and Crickett is also a high school volleyball and the martial arts referee. Crickett holds a 5th degree Black Belt in Karate and a 1st degree Black Belt in Judo. A member of the Mt. Pleasant Baptist Church in Albany, NY she is active in the Usher Ministry, the Women’s Ministry, the Praise/Liturgical Dance Ministry and sings in the Women’s Day Choir.    Crickett currently serves as the President of the Saratoga Sparks Girls AAU Basketball organization, the Secretary/Treasurer of the Capital District Girls Basketball League, a statistician for the NYS Public High School Athletic Assoc. Media Committee-State Basketball Championships and has served previously on several boards including the Troy YWCA, Troy Boys & Girls Club, RSC Alumnae Association, NYS Association of College Admission Counselors, the National Association of Graduate Admissions Professionals, Faculty Member for the National Assoc. of College Admission Counselors, and the Capital District Counselors Association.    Working within a wide range of industries through meetings with businesses, educational institutions, community-based organizations and unions, Crickett has developed strong relationships and collaborates with a network of professionals who are dedicated to workforce development solutions with a focus on preparing youth, women and underserved communities for the workforce of today and tomorrow. Her position now focuses on making sure that statewide there are opportunities specifically for people of color and women to gain the skills necessary to become members of the unionized building and construction trades.   Crickett works very closely with the NYS Building & Construction Trades, several Workforce Development and Advisory Boards, Labor Councils, and High School Career & Technical Education Committees. She has been featured in the Capital Region Women@Work magazine and the Albany Business Review, and has been asked to serve on several panels to present workforce development issues and trends. Most recently she was named a 2022 Woman of Distinction by Assemblywoman Mary Beth Walsh-NYS Assembly 112th District and a 2022 Woman Who Means Business by the Albany Business Review. She is also a member of the Capital Region Professional Women of Color and a 2021 graduate of Capital Region Chambers’ Leadership Tech Valley/Capital Region Leadership. Recently she has been asked to join the NYS Economic Development Council, the Upstate NY Black Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors and the Center for Economic Growth Leadership Board. Contact Crickett Thomas-O’DellStatewide Pre-Apprentice Program Coordinator/Director of Community Engagement-Workforce Development Institute (WDI)EmailLinkedInSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Our guest this week has been in that category of serial entrepreneur locally. Unless you know him well, you’ll never guess where it all started (you’ll have to listen for that). Our conversation takes us through his journey, some of the life lessons others could apply, to where he is today, as owner of Sandler Training of Albany. He thinks he’s not a coach/mentor, but we think otherwise. His influence on the business scene as well as his non-profit work tell you a lot about who Matt Scarchilli is. Listen in!   Bio Matt has over 25 years sales experience ranging from entry level sales, to sales manager to V.P. Sales to ownership of a sales training company (Winning Process, LLC, dba Sandler Training of Albany). Matt’s sales success over the last 20 years has put him in a position to now be able to share those experiences to help companies grow and flourish.  Matt has been a Capital District resident his entire life growing up in Waterford and settling in Latham for the last 27 years with his wife Kathleen and three children. On the professional side, Matt has worked as a staff pharmacist for Latham Pharmacy and Supervising Pharmacist with Community Health Plan in Troy before transitioning to pharmaceutical sales. As a passionate soccer guy, Matt became president of Latham Circle Soccer Club. This is where he and John Haller met and together they founded SportsSignup. SportsSignup was a SaaS business that automated the tasks in running a youth sports organization (online registration, scheduling, stats, standings, etc.). While at SportsSignup, the company made 3 acquisitions. Matt’s role was Managing Partner and Vice President of Sales. After building the business to national success with 40+ employees and managing a team of 15 in the sales department, SportsSignup was acquired by Time, Inc. in July of 2015. The company was run as Sports Illustrated Play while owned by Time Inc. The SportsSignup software is now owned and run by NBC Sports.  After staying on with Sports Illustrated Play to help with the transition, Matt was ready for his next venture. While at SportsSignup, Matt had employed the Sandler Training team of Albany at the beginning of 2014. He was so impressed with the methodology that he entered into a long-term engagement with them to train his sales team, customer service team, and himself as a manager. When he was approached by the previous Sandler owner (Lorraine Ferguson) to purchase the business, it was not a difficult decision.    Education and Affiliations  A.A.S. Chemical Technology, HVCC, 1986 A.S. Math/Science, HVCC, 1987 B.S. Pharmacy, Albany College of Pharmacy, 1990  Board Member, Big Brother, Big Sisters, Albany Advisory board member, Nerdwise and TROPHECASE  Big Brothers Big Sister of the Capital Region (https://bbbscr.org/)   Contact Info Matt Scarchilli Owner of Sandler of Albany EmailPhoneLinkedInSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

From start to finish, this week we learn from one of our areas brightest entrepreneurs. From working out of a non-airconditioned top floor space, to now working with clients all over the United States, Joe Bonilla talks about what’s like to value and have the presence of mind to remain balanced with work and personal life. Listen in as Joe shares many stories, including how authenticity helps create cultures of sustainability in todays business landscape.   Charitable causes Feed Albany, although they closed end of 2022. Bio Joe Bonilla is a results-driven entrepreneur committed to providing tough, but decisive leadership in communications, startup business, and media. As the co-founder, managing partner, and senior media director of Relentless, an award-winning creative strategy firm headquartered in Albany with offices in Greenville, SC and Las Vegas, Joe has led Relentless to work with some of the most recognized brands (including but not limited to: Deloitte, Uber, Amtrak, Redburn Development, Waste Management, Bow Tie Cinemas, Nine Pin Cider, and many more), public figures (including Albany Mayor Kathy Sheehan, Assemblymember Pat Fahy, Albany County District Attorney David Soares, and several in- and out-of-office), and public entities (Clark County in Nevada, Albany County, City of Troy, and more) over the past decade-plus in business. Originally a two-person operation working out of "Class D" office space, Joe has built Relentless into a communications and creativity powerhouse - working with rising leaders at the local, state, and federal level, startup organizations to Fortune 500 companies all driven to be part of the "public conversation," no matter the terrain or the timezone.  Under Joe's continued leadership, Relentless is recognized for its media relations expertise, excellence in creative design and media production, and ingenuity in solving complex public challenges.  In addition to Joe's leadership with Relentless, Joe - alongside Relentless co-founder Rich Fazio and award-winning former journalist Liz Benjamin - co-founded Motor Oil Coffee, a startup craft coffee company based in the Capital Region, and CivMix, a news and commentary platform. Further, Joe has worked to develop and manage back office business operations for Jack Carpenter and Taylor Rao, the co-founders of Two Buttons Deep, to help build the brand into the fastest growing media outlet in Upstate New York.  Prior to Relentless, Bonilla handled media outreach for a leading enterprise technology public relations firm and was a communications director for a New York State Assemblywoman. Bonilla also served as the founding executive director of the Capital Craft Beverage Trail Association, a leading craft beverage trade association in New York State. Joe is a graduate of the Nelson A. Rockefeller College of Public Affairs & Policy at the University at Albany (B.A. Public Policy, concentration in Community Relations). While attending UAlbany, Joe produced a series of events that featured former President Bill Clinton and the late legendary journalist Barbara Walters to campus as part of the World Within Reach Speaker Series that brought increased attention to the University community.  Bonilla previously served as chairman of the City of Albany’s Public, Educational, and Government Access Oversight Board, president of the board of directors for Capital CarShare Inc., and as vice chair of Troy Prep Charter School. Bonilla was also a regular panelist of WAMC Northeast Public Radio’s nationally-syndicated and award-winning news and discussion program The Roundtable, co-host of CivMix’s The Mix podcast with former journalist Liz Benjamin, and hosted “Behind The Buttons” on Two Buttons Deep. Bonilla is also a co-founder of Feed Albany, a non-profit charity focused on providing meals to in-need and at-risk individuals in the Capital Region in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.  Active within the community, Bonilla serves on the following boards and commissions:  Secretary and Governance Committee Chair, University at Albany Alumni Association Trustee, Maria College Board Member and Communications Committee Chair, Ronald McDonald House Charities of the Capital Region Board Member, Rensselaer County Regional Chamber of Commerce Board Member, United Way of the Greater Capital Region Advisory Board Member, Nelson A. Rockefeller College of Public Affairs and Policy Capital Region Board Member, New York League of Conservation Voters Board Member, New York Urban Orchards  Bonilla, a graduate of the Nelson A. Rockefeller College of Public Affairs & Policy at the University at Albany (B.A., Public Policy), has recognized by: City & State Magazine (Albany Rising Stars 2017, Upstate Power 100 2021, Political Consultants Power 75 2021, PR Power 50 2022, PR Power 50 2023) Capital Region Hispanic Chamber (Business Person of the Year 2022) Hispanic Coalition of New York (40 Under 40 Latino Rising Stars 2012) Albany Business Review (40 Under Forty 2014) University at Albany (Thirty Under 30 2014) Nelson A. Rockefeller College of Public Affairs and Policy (Young Alumnus in Political Science Award 2017) Albany County Legislature (Beyond the Call Award 2020)  Contact Joe BonillaManaging Partner and Senior Media Director at Relentless Awareness LLCLinkedInSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This weeks guest, Reg Harnish, talks about what it was like transitioning from working with big business, to altering his view and approach working with 99% of the business market in the US – Small Business. We shared a lot of great stories, hinting at how Reg’s timeline looked like Bill Gates’. You’ll love hearing about what would be in Reg’s Roadside Assistance Kit, as well as how one of his favorite charities leaves him inspired to help.  Bio Reg Harnish is a nationally recognized cybersecurity veteran, investor, board member, advisor, speaker, author, and CEO of OrbitalFire. Reg is also the founder and former CEO of GreyCastle Security, a former Executive Vice President at the Center for Internet Security, and the former CTO of Autotask. OrbitalFire is a leading cybersecurity services provider focused on simplifying, automating, and ultimately solving security challenges for the underserved – small businesses. Reg is responsible for the company’s vision, strategy, and growth. Reg is a fellow of the National Cybersecurity Institute, a member of the Forbes Technology Council, and a board advisor to numerous high-growth cybersecurity startups. Reg has been featured in Time Magazine, Forbes, The Washington Post, CBS Nightly News, CIO Magazine, Dark Reading, Software Magazine, ComputerWorld, InfoWorld and countless other media outlets. Reg has been practicing cybersecurity for nearly two decades. His experiences, skills, and sometimes provocative perspectives have established him as a highly respected thought-leader and sought-after keynote speaker in the industry.  Contact Info Reg Harnish CEO, OrbitalFire Cybersecurity  LinkedInAmerican Red CrossSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Know what a Mustang Sally moment is? You’re going to love our next guest’s story of Mustang Sally. Along with that, Amy brought our first four legged guest star to the show (Paxton). Listen in as we discuss the impact culture can have on your business as well as the relationships you make with customers. Amy shares how she measures culture when matching her team with her customers and how it creates greater connectivity and partnerships.  Bio Amy Roman is a Certified Public Accountant in the State of NY as well as a Certified M&A Advisor and Certified CultureTalk Partner. She is the founder and owner of Strategic CFO Resources LLC, d/b/a CEFO Advisors. The business was formed in June 2013, with the idea of helping small businesses balance Strategy, Finance, and Culture to achieve optimal results. Amy’s career began as a Staff Accountant for UKW (UHY) in Albany from 1985 through 1990. Amy moved to New York City in the early 90’s and worked for several small and mid‐sized companies in senior financial positions for 20 years. Much of what Amy’s experience was focused on included helping CEOs build value within their firm to achieve their optimal exit valuation. The last 10 years in NYC included working for the portfolio companies of private equity firms. She worked on acquisitions, divestitures, and was brought into organizations as the CFO when facing margin dilution problems, maximizing value for exit as well as similar types of challenges. While in NY, it became apparent to Amy that being a CFO was rarely a full-time position. Amy found that 20% of her time was spent at the CFO level and the other 80% was spent filling in wherever necessary. When Amy moved back to Albany, she realized she could assist multiple businesses as a fractional CFO. When Amy first opened CEFO Advisors, she worked with up to 6 small businesses at any given time as their fractional CFO. Several of these businesses remain clients today. Today, CEFO Advisors works with over 45 businesses assisting with their accounting operations and CFO Advisory needs. CEFO has a team of 20 individuals who are CFOs, Controllers, Accountants and Bookkeepers. The firm grew 72% between 2020 and 2021 and the compound annual growth rate since 2018 was 56%. Together we share the passion to support small business owners grow their businesses and achieve their dreams.  Contact Info Amy RomanCEO of CEFO Advisors, Inc. LinkedInSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Your business space has a drastic impact on your company's identity and brand. In this episode of HR in the Car, Todd Stevens talks to us about the many elements involved in choosing the right space to invite your people to work with you on a daily basis. We walk through Todd’s journey into the commercial real estate space and learn about his impact on local business culture and engagement, through designing and developing the right space for their organizations. Additionally, we learned something new about our neighbor, that he is a long-standing, volunteer firefighter in the Town of Colonie.    Bio Todd is a Vice President with Cresa and has managed the Albany office’s accounts since 2017. As their clients’ advocate, he provides guidance in implementing real estate strategy to meet their operational and financial goals. His specialties include strategic planning, market analysis, site selection, financial analysis and integrated transaction management. Todd has been an active volunteer firefighter in the Town of Colonie since the age of 14 having served as a captain and lieutenant over the years. He served on the board of directors of Habitat for Humanity Capital District for eight years and held the offices of treasurer and board president.  Of Special Interest Shaker Road-Loudonville Fire DepartmentHabitat for Humanity Capital District  Contact Info Todd StevensVice PresidentCresa Albany LinkedInSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Being passionate about what you do is a critical part of success. When you listen to Khamel Abdulai, you’ll hear just that. We get to learn about why Learning & Development is so important to organizations, and how leaders will know they’ve really made an impact on their teams. His approach and style of connecting with people are part of what sets him apart, and we always leave our conversations wanting more.    Bio Khamel Abdulai is the Senior Director of Talent Development at Excelsior University, where he oversees training and professional development initiatives. Khamel also works with partners across Excelsior to support Excelsior’s strategic objectives, change management, and employee engagement. He’s also been an instructor at the College of St. Rose and is an active supporter of several local non-profits, including serving on the Board of the Albany Center for Economic Success and the McNulty Veteran Business Center – organizations that support the creation of entrepreneurs and business owners. Khamel was born and grew up in Ghana, and moved to Albany, New York, to complete a bachelor’s degree in geology. In addition, he is also a graduate of the College of St. Rose’s Huether School of Business.  Recommended Resources:            The HBR Manager Handbook The Harvard Business Review (site and periodical) The MIT Sloan Review (site and periodical) Any book by Clayton Christensen Podcasts: This one, of course! HBR Ideacast TED at Work Contact Information Khamel AbdulaiSenior Director of Talent DevelopmentExcelsior University LinkedIn  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Stories give people context on a journey – from hero stories, to romance, drama, adventure. This week we get to listen to the story of how Annmarie Lanesey started her career, then transitioned into the world of a special non-profit that’s blossoming with needs and calls from around the state and beyond. Learn about the CanCode communities, and how their impact has been felt from around the region – and in many cases, being a life changing path to career happiness. Bio Serial entrepreneur, front end developer, Agile project manager and artist, Founder Annmarie Lanesey operates on the conviction that industry, commerce, and human creativity thrive best where economic and cultural barriers to human development are addressed directly. In her capacity as CEO of custom software developer Greane Tree Technology, her successful hire of a fully self-taught Ruby on Rails developer inspired the vision of Albany Can Code. Annmarie is tireless in working to grow the region’s software sector, and to extend software and IT training opportunities to everyone who has aptitude for this work.  If there were any specific organizations you thought of which need a little extra buzz, please let us know, but mostly our information will point back to CanCode - so maybe a list of the various locations would be nice to have in the show notes.  Contact Info Annmarie Lanesey, CanCode Communites annmarie@cancode.org cancode.org CanCode Communities:   Albany: https://albanycancode.org/  Appalachia: https://cancode.org/appalachia/  Berkshires: https://cancode.org/berkshires/  Mohawk Valley: https://cancode.org/herkimer/  New Americans: https://cancode.org/new-americans/  NYC: https://cancode.org/new-york/  Saratoga: https://cancode.org/saratoga/  Western NY: https://cancode.org/jamestown/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What was your first career? You’ll NEVER guess Joanmarie’s.  We were blown away and you will be too. Tune in as we talk about things going on in the employment law landscape, as well as what Joanmarie has experienced with her businesses (related to the HR community). Yes, we’re old pals who’ve seen a lot together, but we promise you’ll enjoy the stories we’re about to get into.Bio Joanmarie quickly learned that the most interesting legal work of all is employment law - and she’s never looked back. In starting her own practice in 2010, Joanmarie combined her passion for employment law with her enthusiasm for technology, efficiency, and collaboration. Dowling Law is (nearly) a paperless office. Joanmarie advises and represents for-profit and not-for-profit employers of all sizes in a variety of labor and employment matters, including screening and hiring, discrimination and harassment, reasonable accommodations, leave management, unionization and labor relations, wage and hour, and discipline and discharge.  Dowling Law focuses on being preventative: creating solid handbooks, policies, and procedures, training managers and supervisors, and strategizing on employee relations in a way to reduce the risk of legal liability.    Joanmarie’s goal - whether presenting before an audience or speaking with a client - is to make employment law accessible. Not to brag, but she was once described as “making wage/hour presentations as tolerable as possible.” (Pretty high praise, right?)  She is a frequent presenter and writer on a variety of employment issues.   In addition to proactive counseling, Joanmarie also conducts workplace investigations on a wide array of legal or policy violation allegations, including workplace discrimination and harassment, code of conduct or ethical violations, bullying, or other alleged misconduct. Joanmarie is a trained investigator and member of the Association of Workplace Investigators. From the Podcast Shari Harley is a great start for HR professionals looking to coach supervisors on providing just-in-time feedback. We're huge Shari Harley fans, so we recommend you visit her YouTube channel where she has videos that anyone can use to get started on better feedback discussions.  And, we can't not include a Ted Lasso clip. In this scene, Ted is working with his assistant coach when Nate, the kit man, comes into the office to take out the trash. While this scene is accessible to anyone, you have to watch the series to really understand the complexities of the relationship between Ted and Nate!  Contact Info Joanmarie M. Dowling, Esq. Managing Member, Dowling Law, PLLC  jdowling@dowlinglawny.com  Dowling Law, PLLC website   Clarity HR Solutions LLC websiteSign up for legal updates from Dowling Law   Sign up for "Moment of Clarity," Clarity HR Solutions' HR update See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We’re joined this week by Jessie Zweigenthal.  She’s a prime example of what one can accomplish in their career with grit, drive, and determination. Jessie shares her story about how she got her start working with the Jahnels, and several of the roles they “invited” her to try out over her 14 years with them. We talk about some of the great initiatives Jahnel Group has going in the community, including connecting with local schools to expose students to new career possibilities in their backyard.  Bio Jessie serves as the Director of Employee Engagement at Jahnel Group, a Capital Region based software consulting firm, where she helps employees connect with each other and with the mission of the company. She is a wife and working mother who strives to set an example of what it means to live well and bring others along for the ride. As a Schenectady High School graduate who wandered into a decade-long career in software design and project management accidentally, she is on a mission to help other underprivileged students land in the software industry on purpose. Contact Info Jessie Zweigenthal Director of Employee Engagement, Jahnel Group jessiez@jahnelgroup.com www.jahnelgroup.comLinkedInSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The first guest to bring props. We love it. You will too. Sit back and hear about her Roadside Assistance Kit and what’s in it to help save any given day – from the lens of an HR professional. Jennifer shares her stories from the trenches, some laughter, and fun having worked with so many businesses and supporting a number of non-profits throughout her career.  Bio Jennifer is the President and Co-Founder of Integra HR, LLC. After 30 years in leadership and executive roles, in a variety of industries across non-profit and for-profit sectors, Jennifer founded Integra HR. Why? Because she knows owners do not start companies and leaders do not join companies to understand the complexities of HR, and she does. Integra takes on the HR complexities, so owners and leaders can focus on their core business. Jennifer’s passion is working with clients to avoid costly HR mistakes, maximizing ROI in solid HR practices, and embracing “Aha” moments. When leaders excel employees say, “I love working here” and the organization moves mountains! Jennifer and the Integra team help clients achieve increased productivity and healthy work environments through a unique blend of services, a collaborative approach, and thinking outside the box. Early in her career Jennifer built HR functions where HR did not exist. Throughout her career she has achieved valuable expertise in HR, training, cultural and organizational transformation, compliance, risk management, operations, and program development. Jennifer received her Business Management degree with a concentration in psychology from the Rochester Institute of Technology. She is passionate about learning, holds multiple HR certifications, is a certified Employee Assistance Coaching Specialist and also certified in Mental Health First Aid. There is one last thing to know, and it goes beyond Jennifer’s love for HR and connecting people to the right resources. She has a mission-driven soul and found purpose by giving back and serving her community. In fact, she formed Integra’s Give Back & Impact program that benefits agencies and schools serving vulnerable populations. Lastly, Jennifer has served on numerous boards and was an elected Board of Education member for six years.  Connect with her to learn how you can focus on your core business and ultimately shake things up in our community and the business world!  Book: "Good to Great" by Jim Collins  Some of the great organizations she mentioned who do great work: Berkshire Farm Center & Services for Youth https://www.berkshirefarm.org/  Jennifer L. Massey, SPHR, SHRM SCP, EA-CS™ Integra HR, LLCPresident & Co-Founder EmailLinkedIn  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Our first visit with multiple guests this week. Join us as we have a great conversation with Beth Miller-Guthier and Marj Adams from the Women's Employment Resource Center (WERC) of Albany.  When you think about mission driven organizations, and people who eat, drink, and breath their mission, Beth and Marj are the poster-children. We'll give a small nod to the NY Football Giants, but spend most of our time talking about the efforts WERC puts into the community to help women return to the workforce. How they got through the pandemic, and the inspiring stories they share about the many women who've graduated from their program. Bios Elizabeth Miller Guthier, PHR, SHRM-CP, is the Executive Director of the Capital District Women’s Employment & Resource Center (WERC), one of 12 centers throughout New York State that help Displaced Homemakers find employment. Her passion for the Center started 26 years ago when she was hired as the Training Coordinator, developing the employment network still used today.  In her current position, she is responsible for all of WERC’s operations and ensuring the overall success of the agency. In addition to her accomplishments with WERC, Beth has more than 35 years of experience as an active community member and volunteer. She is also honored to have been recognized multiple times for her generosity, spirit and leadership for making a difference in the lives of women in our community.  Local cause - Twin Rivers Council (Scouts – welcoming boys and girls) https://trcscouting.org Elizabeth Miller Guthier, PHR, SHRM-CPExecutive DirectorCapital District Women’s Employment & Resource Center (WERC)(518) 225-3131www.cdwerc.org  Marjorie Adams, PHR, SHRM-CP is the Employment & Training Coordinator at the Capital District Women’s Employment and Resource Center (WERC) in Albany, NY. Marj has over 20 years of experience in training and development and facilitates career readiness and computer training workshops to assist women who are seeking employment. She is an active member of the Capital Region Human Resource Association and the Workforce Readiness Committee. She partners with an extensive network of employers to help women succeed in their careers. Marj has a Bachelor’s Degree in Human Resources and is a certified Professional in Human Resources.  Local cause – CRHRA (www.crhra.org)  Marjorie A. Adams, PHR, SHRM-CP  Employment & Training Coordinator  Capital District Women's Employment & Resource Center (WERC)  (518) 242-8250madams@cdwerc.orgwww.cdwerc.orgSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Miriam and Tom are co-hosts of HR in the Car. We don't like to tout or own horns, but we're the fun bunch (as you've heard from previous episodes). Our combined experience in HR, along with our general sunshine, rainbow, and unicorn approach to things sometimes gets us into trouble.  All kidding aside, one of the main reasons we started this podcast was to be a resource and highlight our many guests on the show. We love being matchmakers - that's what recruiting is all about!  You can learn lots about us in this episode, but also on Alaant.com, LinkedIn, and the great beyond. Enjoy the show and share with your friends!   Connect with Miriam: Miriam Dushane, PHR, SHRM-CP Managing Partner Alaant Workforce Solutions  LinkedIn | Alaant.com Connect with Tom: Tom Schin Director, Talent Acquisition Partnerships & Recruitment Consulting Services Alaant Workforce Solutions LinkedIn | Alaant.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week's episode welcomes longtime Alaant friend Mario Pecoraro to the show. We all got into this space around the same time, so if it sounds like we’ve known each other for a long time, that’s why. Mario shares some stories of how he was born into the investigative industry, how he had to teach court clerks about what he could have access to, and more.  Bio Mario Pecoraro is an entrepreneur, corporate visionary, author, and founder of Alliance Risk Group Inc. The company specializes in background screening, insurance fraud investigations, process service, and property/casualty adjusting services. Prior to founding the company in 2005, Mario worked for fifteen years as a private investigator in his parent’s family-owned firm where his passion for investigations began. Mario published, “The Claim Game: Twenty Best Practices When Managing and Investigating Workers’ Comp Claims” which provides readers with best practices on how best to reduce overall risk related to fraudulent workers’ compensation claims. His second book, “Avoiding Costly Hiring Mistakes,” provides all the tips, best practices, and warning signs HR Professionals should look for when making hiring decisions. He is a sought-after industry expert who is invited to speak at national conferences on risk mitigation, a Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) Recertification Provider who conducts accredited webinars for HR professionals, and a Florida Licensed Education Instructor providing webinars for Florida Insurance Adjuster CE Credit. He has been featured on many local and national media outlets including ABC’s 20/20 as the “gold standard for those who want to screen out the fakes.”  Information & Links Charity: CAPTAIN Community Human Services – Mario is a former board member and heads the company effort to support their annual Thanksgiving Drive and other giving opportunities. Contact Information Email: sales@allianceriskgroup.com LinkedInTwitterWebsiteSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

You hear a lot about people who are self-made, and Trent fits that bill. Our episode features his description of how he got where he is today (yes, by car is part of it). You’ll be inspired to hear about what he includes in his figurative Roadside Assistance Kit (Thanks Jen Massey!).  He’s a shining example of being open to the possibilities of what people can do for you if you just give them a chance.  Buckle up and enjoy!  Bio Trent Griffin-Braaf is the founder & President of GB Logistics which has a partnership for Amazon's last-mile delivery for XL packages and service-related delivery, & Tech Valley Shuttle whose mission is to combat poverty through transportation solutions. Our catalyst program “Driven to Work” helps organizations utilize commuter benefits to take away the dreaded question “do you have reliable transportation from the job application.”  Trent is distinguished by his ability to identify, leverage, and develop businesses. Throughout his career, he has helped managers, and owners increase company morale and bottom line by addressing team issues, offering leadership, team development, marketing, and budgeting. He has a contagious enthusiasm and passionate belief in people that inspires them to become prouder, stronger, and more valuable contributors to their organizations.   Contact Information Email: Trent@techvalleyshuttle.com  WebsiteLinkedInFacebook Noteworthy Podcasts  https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/entrepreneur-trent-griffin-braaf-ceo-of-g-b/id1421238104?i=1000496426558  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P7yq1J-ZtlU  https://www.trucknhustle.com/last-mile-delivery/  https://crucibleleadership.com/2020/04/trent-griffin-braaf-dealing-drugs-cost-him-his-freedom-prison-taught-him-humility-and-the-rewards-of-serving-others-17/   See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Denise Horan, the founder and principal of Integrated Management & Sales Consulting, provides solutions to help organizations grow revenues, find new marketing opportunities and develop effective sales and management leaders.  Denise spends her time coaching entrepreneurs, training sales leaders and teaching business development skills to attorneys and other non-sales professionals.  Most recently, Denise has launched her first book, Stories From The Sales Field, a collection of 60+ interviews from great sales performers.  Her book is also available on Amazon, Barnes and Noble and Chapters Indigo.  Bio Denise Horan is a graduate of Syracuse University with a Bachelor of Science in Psychology; she also earned a Masters of Business Administration from the University at Albany. She has served as an adjunct professor at The Sage Colleges, trained entrepreneurs for the Entrepreneurial Assistance Program at The Capital Region Chamber of Commerce and for The Smart- Up Program at The Rensselaer Development Center of the Rensselaer County Regional Chamber of Commerce.  In addition, Denise Horan teaches Marketing & Ethics for The Albany County Bar Association and Marketing Your Practice for The New York State Bar Association.  Denise Horan is a member of The Consulting Alliance, facilitator of The Circle Leadership Group and the founder of the Sales Performer’s Club of the Capital Region.   Denise Horan serves on the board of the Women’s Employment & Resource Center. Horan is a member of The Executive Women’s Golf Association/ LPGA Amateurs and has served on their board for most of her 20 year membership.   Horan has been recognized by the YWCA for advancing the empowerment of women, by the Stakeholders as Volunteer of the Year, The Women’s Employment & Resource Center as a pearl of wisdom and empowerment and by The Capital Region Chamber of Commerce as a Women of Excellence.   Contact Information Denise F. HoranPrincipal, Integrated Management and Sales Consulting - Sales Coach - Sales Consultant - Sales Trainer - Leadership Coach - Public Speaker - Author - Business Development Strategist WebsiteFacebookInstagramTwitterLinkedInSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We’ve known Suzanne O’Connor for a long time and have always enjoyed hearing her thoughts about the next generation of great employees. This bridges college students/grads and employers from all around the region. Her stories from working with students coming into the professional world will make you laugh and appreciate where today’s younger generation is coming from, in addition to uncovering their passions. Seatbelts on folks, listen in, and learn a little more about what Growth Mindset is.  Bio As Associate Director at the Siena College Career and Internship Center, I have many responsibilities including program planning, creating class presentations, and teaching the Exploring Careers class. However, my FAVORITE role is having career conversations with students in one-on-one coaching sessions.  It is a gift to serve students as a guide in decision-making at this very important time in their lives. I have learned to listen more and talk less. Providing a safe space for all students to explore their identities as they impact career development is so rewarding.  Before I moved into counseling in higher education, I spent many years in the business world.  I am living proof that one can study liberal arts, in my case English, and follow a path from business to higher education.  Remember, choosing a major is not the same as choosing a career.  I enjoy gathering with my very large and extended family. Pool parties and holiday dinners provide plenty of opportunities for teasing and laughter. My 6-year-old grand-niece continues to delight me with her incredible life observations - and love of all things cats. Also, I am in a daily Wordle competition with two siblings and one niece. Competition is the operative word!  I am an ordained interfaith minister and enjoy guiding people to whatever spirituality looks like for them.  This is a very important part of my life.  I live in Colonie with my husband and very large dog, Bear.  Advice to students: “What do you want to be when you grow up?” is the wrong question. College is a time to explore your interests and understand your career options. Your path will not be a straight line and trust that you will figure it out. There will be many steps along the way and seeking guidance from career counselors, professors, internship supervisors,  summer jobs and community service colleagues will all impact your decision-making. Stay with it and see where your career will take you!  The National Association of Colleges and Employers   Contact Information Suzanne O'Connor, M.S.Ed. Associate DirectorCareer and Internship Center | Siena College soconnor@siena.edu LinkedIn Profile518-783-2339 See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.