Leadership Beyond Borders

In this Episode of Leadership Beyond Borders, Kimberli Lewis welcomes Wendi Sturgis, Senior Vice President International at Yext, for a powerful conversation about leadership, disruption, and what AI-driven discovery means for brands today .  This episode explores a pivotal moment in digital transformation — one that feels strikingly familiar to those who have lived through previous platform shifts, from the early internet to search and social media. But this time, AI is fundamentally reshaping how brands are discovered, interpreted, and trusted.  About the Guest Wendi Sturgis is Senior Vice President International at Yext, leading strategy and growth outside North America with a focus on EMEA.    She brings decades of experience across technology, ecommerce and digital innovation, with senior roles at Yahoo!, Oracle and Gartner.   As CEO of Cleverbridge, a global ecommerce and subscription platform, she drove growth and expanded its partner ecosystem.    Previously CEO of Yext Europe and an early member of Yext's leadership team, she played a key role in establishing and scaling the company's European operations.    Her career reflects a strong commitment to innovation, customer focus and diversity in technology, alongside board roles including Sabre and the Georgia Tech Foundation.   Yext (NYSE: YEXT) is a leading brand visibility platform built for a world where discovery happens across AI search, traditional search, social media, websites and direct channels.    Powered by more than 2 billion trusted data points and integrated products, Yext gives brands clarity, control and confidence across digital touchpoints.    Through real-time insights and AI-driven recommendations. Guest social media - LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wendisturgis/  -Website: https://www.yext.com/   Host social media - Website: www.siinda.org - LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimberli-lewis-7a34053/?ppe=1 https://www.linkedin.com/company/search-and-information-industry-association/?viewAsMember=true - Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/followsiinda/

In this episode, we dive into one of the biggest challenges facing business leaders today—retaining top talent. Why do employees stay—or walk away? How can companies turn professional development into a real competitive edge? Join us as we unpack one CEO's firsthand experience navigating the shifting world of talent and retention. Whether you're a business leader, HR professional, or simply curious about the future of work, this conversation will leave you with fresh insights and actionable strategies for building teams that last About the Guest Mark Peters is the author of The Retention Trap: Stop Measuring Turnover, Start Measuring Talent Investment (Post Hill Press, June 3, 2025), which builds on the insights from his first book, The Source.  He is CEO of Butterball Farms, Inc., recognized nationally as one of The Best and Brightest Companies to Work For® from 2018 to 2024.  In 2003, Mark founded a pioneering coalition of West Michigan CEOs and community leaders to create the SOURCE, a nonprofit that has helped hundreds of workers overcome challenges impacting their jobs while delivering an average annual ROI of 200 percent to partner organizations. An engaging speaker and storyteller, Mark has presented at TEDx and other major events. Learn more at RetentionTrap.com. Guest social media - Website:  https://i-3leadership.com/ , s://www.grsource.org/ https://butterballfarms.com/ - Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/i3leadership1, https://www.facebook.com/ButterballFarm https://www.linkedin.com/company/i-3-leadership , https://www.linkedin.com/company/butterball-farms-inc-/posts/?feedView=all Host social media - Website: www.siinda.org - LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimberli-lewis-7a34053/?ppe=1 https://www.linkedin.com/company/search-and-information-industry-association/?viewAsMember=true - Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/followsiinda/  

What does inclusion really mean beyond policies and buzzwords? This podcast explores inclusion as a human experience and a leadership imperative—how people feel seen, valued, and able to contribute. Through real conversations on bias, belonging, and leadership, we look at what inclusion truly looks like in everyday moments. Because inclusion isn't just about who's in the room—it's about how people experience being there. About the Guest Dr. Riza Kadilar was the President of EMCC Global between 2017 and 2024, and she is the author of The Contemporary Leader: The Value of Inclusion in Successful Leadership, published by Wiley in December 2024. The book explores how inclusive leadership drives success in today's complex organizations and is available through major retailers like Amazon and Wiley. With over 30 years of senior banking leadership experience across France, the UK, the Netherlands, and Turkey, Dr. Kadilar has built a career focused on human capital and business growth. He also founded RK Academy to expand access to high-quality learning. A visiting professor, international keynote speaker, and author of seven leadership books, Dr. Kadilar is widely recognized for his contributions to leadership and professional development. Guest social media Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1BjJSKBsxZ/?mibextid=wwXIfr  https://www.facebook.com/share/19e3XT75g4/?mibextid=wwXIfr  LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/rizakadilar  Host social media -Website: www.siinda.org - LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimberli-lewis-7a34053/?ppe=1 https://www.linkedin.com/company/search-and-information-industry-association/?viewAsMember=true - Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/followsiinda/

In Today's episode is about intention—and what happens when you stop operating on autopilot and start leading with purpose. We're diving into how clarity fuels confidence, how inner power is built during life's hardest moments, and how true leadership creates impact long after the spotlight fades. This is a conversation about resilience, alignment, and making intentional choices that shape not just success—but meaning. About the Guest Bianca D'Alessio is the author of the forthcoming book Mastering Intentions: 10 Practices to Amplify Power and Lead with Lasting Impact (Savio Republic, Aug. 5, 2025), a practical guide for high achievers seeking to lead with clarity, purpose, and sustainable influence. Drawing on her experience at the top of one of the world's most competitive industries, the book offers actionable practices for harnessing intention as a source of power, presence, and long-term success. She is also the star of HBO Max's acclaimed series Selling the Hamptons and the top-ranked real estate broker in both New York City and New York State. As the founder of one of the highest-producing brokerage teams in the United States, Bianca oversees a $10 billion international real estate portfolio spanning luxury residential and investment markets. In addition to her brokerage work, Bianca writes a weekly column for Money Magazine and is a frequent expert voice in Forbes, The New York Times, Fox Business, Medium, and The Real Deal. Known for combining strategic precision with mindset mastery, she continues to shape how leaders think about power, growth, and lasting impact. Guest social media - Website: www.biancadalessio.com   - Facebook:  facebook.com/bianca.dalessio.3   - Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/biancadalessio/  - LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/biancadalessio/ Host social media -Website: www.siinda.org - LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimberli-lewis-7a34053/?ppe=1 https://www.linkedin.com/company/search-and-information-industry-association/?viewAsMember=true - Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/followsiinda/

What if leadership isn't about doing more—but about becoming more yourself? In this podcast, Dr. Natalie Pickering invites us beneath the surface of performance and position to explore the inner terrain of leadership. Through honest conversation, real stories, and practical insight, we'll examine identity, awareness, connection, and what it truly takes to lead from the inside out. This is a conversation for leaders who are ready to stop surviving—and start flourishing. About the Guest Natalie Pickering, PhD, is the author of the forthcoming book Leading Becomes You: A Real-World Framework for Leading from Inside Out (Sept. 18, 2025), a practical and deeply human guide that reframes leadership as an inside-out practice grounded in self-awareness, integrity, and courage.  She is a TEDx speaker, organizational psychologist, and executive coach known for helping leaders trade relentless performance pressure for authentic, sustainable influence. Drawing on decades of research and real-world experience, the book offers leaders a clear framework for leading in ways that are both effective and deeply aligned. Natalie is the founder of The BECOMING WORKS, a leadership development firm dedicated to helping organizations scale without losing their soul. Guest social media - Website: https://www.drnataliepickering.com/  - Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/drnataliebecominginstitute/  - LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drnataliepickering/ Host social media -Website: www.siinda.org - LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimberli-lewis-7a34053/?ppe=1 https://www.linkedin.com/company/search-and-information-industry-association/?viewAsMember=true - Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/followsiinda/

Pressure is everywhere—but does it really make us perform better? Most of us believe it does, yet research shows that pressure often disrupts our best work. In this episode, we're breaking down why that happens, the common traps individuals and teams fall into, and three powerful truths about pressure that can change how you perform. We'll also explore the 8% System—a research-backed approach built on high connection and high courage. Designed to help teams and individuals thrive under pressure, make better decisions, and achieve real results, this system has been used by Olympic coaches, NFL teams, and top organizations. Our guest shares practical strategies to transform pressure from a threat into your greatest advantage. About the Guest Dr. JP Pawliw, a globally recognized author and expert on culture, leadership, emotional intelligence, and performing under pressure, wrote the New York Times bestselling book -Performing Under Pressure: The Science of Doing Your Best When It Matters Most. As Co-Founder of the Institute for Health and Human Potential, he surveys more than 40,000 people each month, uncovering behavioral insights that help elite teams—from United States Navy SEALs to Fortune 100 executives—excel in high-stakes environments.  His groundbreaking research on the "Last 8%," the critical moments when people hesitate to speak up or decide, has transformed how organizations build courageous, emotionally intelligent cultures.  Featured in Harvard Business Review and major global media, JP has created a neuroscience-based Last 8% Culture System that equips leaders to act with courage, connection, and accountability. His work has impacted leading organizations including IBM, Microsoft, NASA, The Coca-Cola Company, and National Football League. Guest social media - Website: https://www.jppawliw-fry.com/ - Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/last8project - LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jppawliwfry/ - YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLFQNKGG6__gKdxb4OYeIPzwdz5Va82HHf Host social media -Website: www.siinda.org - LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimberli-lewis-7a34053/?ppe=1 https://www.linkedin.com/company/search-and-information-industry-association/?viewAsMember=true - Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/followsiinda/

As we move into 2026, the way people search and interact with brands is rapidly changing. AI is shifting discovery from traditional search toward personalized, context-aware experiences, and even the interfaces we use are evolving into agent-driven tools that act on our behalf. In this  interview we explore what these changes mean for businesses and how they can prepare for a year where search, ranking, and customer experience will look very different than they do today with one of the worlds experts in search and data. About the Guest Christian J. Ward is Executive Vice President and Chief Data Officer at Yext. He specializes in knowledge graphs and data asset optimization, helping clients identify, value, and structure their knowledge to maximize its impact in AI and search. Christian is the co-author of the Amazon top release Data Leverage and has built hundreds of data partnerships worldwide, working with both startups and major global data companies.  He previously served as Chief Data Officer at Arizent and Data Axle, and as Global Head of Content Innovation at Thomson Reuters. His insights have appeared in the Wall Street Journal, Forbes, Fortune, and Search Engine Journal. He frequently speaks on data strategy, partnerships, and the influence of AI. Yext helps organizations build digital experiences across any channel on its open, composable platform. The Yext Digital Experience Platform organizes content to deliver AI-driven experiences for customers, employees, and partners.  For more than 15 years, thousands of companies have trusted Yext to create seamless experiences across search engines, websites, mobile apps, and hundreds of digital touchpoints. Guest social media -  Website: https://mobile.twitter.com/yext  https://www.yext.com/index.html - LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wardchristianj/ - https://www.linkedin.com/company/yext/ - Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yextinc/  - Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/YextDE/ Host social media - Website: www.siinda.org - LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimberli-lewis-7a34053/?ppe=1 https://www.linkedin.com/company/search-and-information-industry-association/?viewAsMember=true - Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/followsiinda/

Welcome to the show. Have you ever thought about the similarities between nature and business.  Well to be honest until I read the book of todays' guest I never did.  So today we're going to look at this.  We will explore how nature can be one of our greatest teachers in business and leadership. We'll look at what ecosystems can teach us about collaboration, competition, and change—and how these lessons can help organizations not just survive, but truly thrive. About the Guest Ines Garcia is an organizational coach and the Founder and CEO of Get Agile.  She is the author of the forthcoming book Nature's Blueprint for Business: Harnessing the Hidden Power of Edges (Routledge, September 8, 2025), in which she explores how principles found in nature can help organizations create greater impact, adapt to complexity, and reduce waste.  Through her work, Ines supports leaders and teams in rethinking how value is created, delivered, and sustained in fast-changing environments. With extensive experience across industries, Ines partners with organizations that want to move beyond frameworks and tools to achieve meaningful, measurable outcomes. Her approach combines systems thinking, Agile and Lean principles, and practical experimentation, always with a strong focus on people and purpose. She is known for translating complex ideas into actionable practices that teams can apply immediately. Ines designs and delivers hands-on programs for Agile, Project, and Product professionals, helping them strengthen decision-making, collaboration, and delivery capabilities.  Her work emphasizes learning by doing, continuous improvement, and aligning strategy with real customer and business needs. More information about her work, programs, and speaking can be found at www.inesgarcia.me. Guest social media Website:  www.inesgarcia.me  LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/inesgarciaagile/  Host social media Website: www.siinda.org LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimberli-lewis-7a34053/?ppe=1 https://www.linkedin.com/company/search-and-information-industry-association/?viewAsMember=true Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/followsiinda/

Today's conversation is with Karolina Pelc — entrepreneur, former casino dealer, and author of Her Play. Her story is not a story about shortcuts or formulas, but about risk, resilience, and the invisible moments that shape who we become. From the casino floors of post-communist Europe to building and exiting a global tech company, Karolina's journey challenges how we think about luck, ambition, and belonging. This is a conversation about how life is really played. About the Guest Again, Karolina Pelc is the author of Her Play: Making Your Own Luck, available via the following links on Amazon, Target, and Barnes & Noble.  The book is the foundational volume of her Her Playbook series and captures practical insights drawn from a two-decade career across real-money gaming, technology, and executive leadership. Karolina Pelc began her career dealing cards in land-based and cruise casinos before progressing into senior leadership roles and ultimately serving as a board director of a Nasdaq-listed company.   In 2021, she founded BeyondPlay, an engagement SaaS startup focused on player experience and retention. She raised over €7 million in angel and venture capital and scaled the business rapidly.  In under three years, BeyondPlay was acquired by FanDuel in 2024, where Pelc subsequently served as Vice President. Her Play was launched on Necker Island with Richard Branson in attendance. Today, Pelc advises venture capital firms and founders, supports M&A and investment due diligence, and actively invests in and mentors early-stage founders through HerPlay, helping them build resilient companies and create their own luck. Guest social media Website:  https://www.herplay.com/  Instagram:  @storiesbypelc LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/karolinapelc Host social media Website: www.siinda.org LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimberli-lewis-7a34053/?ppe=1 https://www.linkedin.com/company/search-and-information-industry-association/?viewAsMember=true Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/followsiinda/

In today's episode, we turn our focus to small businesses, technology, and the evolving role of digital tools in helping companies grow and stay competitive. We'll be talking about how technology can balance automation with human connection, and how agencies and organizations can better serve small businesses in a rapidly changing digital landscape. About the Guest Rachel is Vice President of Brand & Product Marketing at vcita, where she helps companies serving small businesses turn technology into practical, human-centered tools that owners actually use and trust. Her journey began in college, when she founded her first business helping local companies build their web presence and transition from offline to online marketing. Since then, she has worked across the tech industry, leading marketing and sales enablement initiatives designed to help small businesses grow and thrive in a digital-first world. At vcita, Rachel partners closely with enterprise organizations to define go-to-market strategies, train teams, and launch branded solutions built on the vcita platform. A self-described tech enthusiast, she is passionate about simplifying digital tools to create real opportunities and smoother everyday business operations. vcita is an SMB technology company dedicated to helping small and medium-sized businesses manage and grow their operations. Its AI-driven platform supports scheduling, billing, messaging, and marketing—balancing automation with human interaction. Through inTandem by vcita, enterprise partners can deliver white-label AI solutions that unlock new revenue, reduce churn, and deliver measurable value at scale. Guest social media Website: https://www.vcita.com inTandem: https://intandem.vcita.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/vcitainc Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vcita LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/vcita YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@vcitaofficial   Host social media Website: www.siinda.org LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimberli-lewis-7a34053/?ppe=1 https://www.linkedin.com/company/search-and-information-industry-association/?viewAsMember=true Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/followsiinda/

As we move into 2026, the way people search and interact with brands is rapidly changing. AI is shifting discovery from traditional search toward personalized, context-aware experiences, and even the interfaces we use are evolving into agent-driven tools that act on our behalf. In this  interview we explore what these changes mean for businesses and how they can prepare for a year where search, ranking, and customer experience will look very different than they do today with one of the worlds experts in search and data. About the Guest Christian J. Ward is Executive Vice President and Chief Data Officer at Yext. He specializes in knowledge graphs and data asset optimization, helping clients identify, value, and structure their knowledge to maximize its impact in AI and search. Christian is the co-author of the Amazon top release Data Leverage and has built hundreds of data partnerships worldwide, working with both startups and major global data companies.  He previously served as Chief Data Officer at Arizent and Data Axle, and as Global Head of Content Innovation at Thomson Reuters. His insights have appeared in the Wall Street Journal, Forbes, Fortune, and Search Engine Journal. He frequently speaks on data strategy, partnerships, and the influence of AI. Yext helps organizations build digital experiences across any channel on its open, composable platform. The Yext Digital Experience Platform organizes content to deliver AI-driven experiences for customers, employees, and partners.  For more than 15 years, thousands of companies have trusted Yext to create seamless experiences across search engines, websites, mobile apps, and hundreds of digital touchpoints. Guest social media -  Website: https://mobile.twitter.com/yext  https://www.yext.com/index.html - LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wardchristianj/ - https://www.linkedin.com/company/yext/ - Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yextinc/  - Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/YextDE/ Host social media - Website: www.siinda.org - LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimberli-lewis-7a34053/?ppe=1 https://www.linkedin.com/company/search-and-information-industry-association/?viewAsMember=true - Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/followsiinda/

AI is rapidly transforming how small and medium-sized businesses show up online, raising new expectations for accessibility, compliance, and inclusive digital experiences. As regulations tighten—especially across the EU—AI is becoming essential in helping businesses ensure their websites are usable for all customers. In this episode our conversation explores how AI is reshaping digital discovery, accessibility standards, and the role of web providers in supporting SMBs as they build fully compliant and inclusive online presences. About the Guest Shawn Davis is a content marketing professional at Duda, where he shapes the brand's voice and produces clear, strategic, story-driven content for web professionals.  He focuses on creating resources that help agencies and digital marketers build better websites, strengthen their client offerings, and grow their businesses on the Duda platform.  Through his work, Shawn supports professionals in delivering high-quality digital experiences with confidence and efficiency. Duda is a leading white-label web building platform designed for digital agencies, SaaS platforms, and web professionals serving SMBs. With its end-to-end AI Stack, advanced API-driven automation, and flexible customization options, Duda enables users to build pixel-perfect, feature-rich websites at scale.  As the top platform for Core Web Vitals—key for SEO and AI discoverability—Duda helps teams deliver exceptional performance under their own brand.  Trusted globally by organizations such as Thryv, QDQ, Italiaonline, Solocal, BeeDigital, Fonecta, and Paginas Amarillas, Duda offers a comprehensive solution for creating outstanding digital presences. Guest social media - Website: www.duda.co - Facebook: www.facebook.com/duda   - Instagram: @dudaplatform - LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/duda  - Twitter/X: @dudaplatform - YouTube: www.youTube.com/@dudamobile Host social media - Website: www.siinda.org - LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimberli-lewis-7a34053/?ppe=1 https://www.linkedin.com/company/search-and-information-industry-association/?viewAsMember=true - Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/followsiinda/

Artificial intelligence is reshaping marketing at a speed and scale unlike any transformation before it. From the perspective of a seasoned CMO, AI is not just another tool—it is a structural shift redefining how customer journeys are built, how teams operate, and how brands compete. What once relied on manual execution and intuition is rapidly moving toward real-time intelligence, automated workflows, and new forms of creativity. This episode explores how a seasoned CMO sees these changes are unfolding, what they mean for the marketing workforce and operations, and how organizations can adapt as AI becomes a central force in strategy, execution, and long-term growth About the Guest Sanjay Manchanda is the driving force behind Vendasta's marketing vision, combining strategic insight with a passion for storytelling to fuel growth. As CMO, he leads global marketing, using his deep expertise in brand development, go-to-market strategy, and demand generation to strengthen Vendasta's presence. His experience across both B2B and B2C markets—shaped by leadership roles at Chargebee, Box, and Microsoft—supports Vendasta's mission to empower digital agencies and SMBs. Sanjay has built and scaled high-performing teams, launched successful products, and helped define new market categories. At Microsoft, he was instrumental in the global rise of Office 365, guiding product marketing for enterprise and mid-market segments.  His entrepreneurial mindset, reinforced by co-founding a Silicon Valley startup, brings a strong innovation focus. Vendasta provides AI employees that help businesses attract, engage, and retain customers. Its unified platform streamlines marketing, sales, and operations, replacing scattered tools with one system built for efficiency and growth.  Trusted by millions of SMBs and supported by a global partner network, Vendasta equips businesses to scale confidently. Headquartered in Saskatoon, it employs over 600 team members across Saskatoon, Boca Raton, and Chennai. Guest social media -Website: https://www.vendasta.com   -Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/vendasta   - Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vendasta/   - LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/vendasta/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/sanjay-manchanda-11623a/ - Twitter: https://twitter.com/vendasta   - YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/Vendasta?feature=results_main    Host social media - Website: www.siinda.org - LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimberli-lewis-7a34053/?ppe=1 https://www.linkedin.com/company/search-and-information-industry-association/?viewAsMember=true - Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/followsiinda/

In this podcast episode, we explore the fascinating world of generative AI and its revolutionary impact across various industries. Generative AI, powered by advanced algorithms and neural networks, is impacting almost everything we do or experience. From generating realistic images and music compositions to assisting in medical research and architectural design, generative AI is transforming the way we innovate, create, and interact with technology. In this episode we are going to hear from an AI expert about what AI can do and the real-life implications it is having, as well as the ethical consideration of harnessing the power of generative AI in our rapidly evolving digital landscape. About the Guest Simon  Greenman is a partner at Best Practice AI, a leading AI management consultancy, where he leverages over 25 years of international leadership in AI and digital transformation. He co-founded MapQuest, one of the first AI-driven internet brands, and has a strong track record of driving innovation and growth. Simon has served on the World Economic Forum's Global AI Council and led numerous digital transformations, particularly in private-equity-backed digital marketing firms. His leadership roles have included positions at globally recognized brands like HomeAdvisor, Bowers & Wilkins, and Accenture, where he delivered impactful strategies in technology and business transformation.  Beyond his consultancy work, Simon is deeply involved in early-stage investing and venture advising, serving as a trusted advisor to venture capital firms. He leads the Harvard Business School Alumni Angels AI Global Expert Group, fostering innovation in AI startups. With an MBA from Harvard Business School and a BA in Computing & AI from the University of Sussex—where he built his first neural network in 1989—Simon combines academic rigor with practical expertise. A Fellow of the Royal Geographic Society, he also contributes to advancing the understanding of AI's role in shaping the future. Guest social media Website: https://www.bestpractice.ai  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/simongreenman X: https://twitter.com/sgreenman  Medium: https://medium.com/@sgreenman  Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCSjNUFio9kqq3w0xtz9fa7g https://champions-speakers.co.uk/speaker-agent/simon-greenman Host social media - Website: www.siinda.org - LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimberli-lewis-7a34053/?ppe=1 https://www.linkedin.com/company/search-and-information-industry-association/?viewAsMember=true - Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/followsiinda/    

The adoption of cloud services has significantly impacted today's leadership as cloud computing has changed how organizations conduct business operations, communicate, and collaborate.  The maturity of an organization to adopt cloud and transformational solutions commonly depends on the leadership style and the full support of C-level executives, directors, and senior leaders. Adopting cloud computing can accelerate IT modernization, and business leaders must seriously evaluate the technology that can help them accelerate the required transformation.  But it also means that to accomplish this, leaders today must handle, communicate, and manage differently than they did in the past.  This episode discusses effective leadership within the rapidly moving technology field. About the Guest Claire Milligan, CEO of the startup Aimably, the new approach to AWS  (Amazon Web Services) cost management, guaranteed to delight any accountant. AWS billing creates a blind spot that hurts businesses. AWS costs are typically the second largest line item for a technology business. AWS's standard invoices and developer tools make it extremely difficult to validate billing or keep spending under control. Aimably's software and services transform the AWS billing experience. Whether she's helping businesses transform their cloud spending or hitting the slopes as a ski patroller, Claire Milligan thrives on distilling complex problems down to their core issues — and turning these pragmatic findings into groundbreaking solutions. Through a journey spanning marketing, UX, and leadership roles at tech companies like Tallie and SpringAhead, she's meticulously constructed a diverse skill set built upon hands-on expertise and an unrelenting thirst for knowledge. Guest social media -Website: https://www.aimably.com/ https://www.clairemilligan.com - LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/clairemilligan/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/aimably/ - Twitter:  https://twitter.com/claire_designs @claire_designs Host social media - Website: www.siinda.org - LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimberli-lewis-7a34053/?ppe=1 https://www.linkedin.com/company/search-and-information-industry-association/?viewAsMember=true - Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/followsiinda/

In this episode we engage in an empowering discussion centered around the transformative insights concerning toxic leadership. As industry leaders and innovators, we recognize the critical importance of fostering healthy leadership environments for sustainable success. In this interview, we'll explore the impacts of toxic leadership and uncover strategies to cultivate positive, growth-oriented cultures within our organizations. We engage in a dynamic conversation that aims to empower and equip us with actionable strategies for building thriving workplaces where every individual can flourish. About the Guest Sean Lemson is a leadership expert, executive and team performance coach, and the founder of Motivated Outcomes. His new book is: "One Drop of Poison: How One Bad Leader Can Slowly Kill Your Company". This book is not only chock full of useful and impactful leadership insights, but it also acts like a table of contents for other great leadership books.  Motivated Outcomes is an organization devoted to improving performance, engagement, and leadership in today's organizations.   Sean leads with passion and helps others to do so as well. Leadership is both a right and left brained activity. It requires an eye on the numbers and an eye on team chemistry and motivation. Sean specializes in finding the blind spots in organizations that affect morale and performance and coaching leaders and teams to become high performers.   Guest social media Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/slemson  Website: https://www.motivatedoutcomes.com/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@MotivatedOutcomes    Host social media - Website: www.siinda.org - LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimberli-lewis-7a34053/?ppe=1 https://www.linkedin.com/company/search-and-information-industry-association/?viewAsMember=true - Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/followsiinda/

In today's world, trust matters more than ever. In this episode, we take a fresh look at trust between individuals: how it's built, tested, and sometimes broken. Then, we zoom out to explore how that same trust shapes teams, leaders, and entire organizations. What happens when trust becomes a shared challenge? How does leadership influence it—and how can organizations measure and strengthen it in meaningful ways? We'll also uncover why trust isn't simply something you have or don't. It exists on a spectrum—and when it breaks down, it can be repaired. Our guest in this episode is an expert on trust, offering practical insights for rebuilding trust that lasts. About the Guest Darryl Stickel is the founder of Trust Unlimited and the author of Building Trust: Exceptional Leadership in an Uncertain World, available on Amazon. He holds a PhD in Business from Duke University, where he wrote his doctoral thesis on building trust in hostile environments. After completing his studies, Darryl joined McKinsey & Company before founding Trust Unlimited. Over the years, he has dedicated his career to deeply understanding what trust is, how it functions, and—most importantly—how it can be built.  His unique blend of rigorous academic expertise and extensive real-world experience enables him to help leaders and organizations navigate uncertainty and strengthen relationships. Born and raised in Northern Canada, Darryl now lives in Victoria, BC. He is the proud father of two exceptional sons and travels the world with his guide dog, Drake, as he pursues his mission to make the world a more trusting and compassionate place. Guest social media - Website: https://www.trustunlimited.com/ - Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/trust_unlimited/ - LinkedIn: Trust Unlimited - YouTube: Trust Unlimited Host social media - Website: www.siinda.org - LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimberli-lewis-7a34053/?ppe=1 https://www.linkedin.com/company/search-and-information-industry-association/?viewAsMember=true - Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/followsiinda/

Pressure is everywhere—but does it really make us perform better? Most of us believe it does, yet research shows that pressure often disrupts our best work. In this episode, we're breaking down why that happens, the common traps individuals and teams fall into, and three powerful truths about pressure that can change how you perform. We'll also explore the 8% System—a research-backed approach built on high connection and high courage. Designed to help teams and individuals thrive under pressure, make better decisions, and achieve real results, this system has been used by Olympic coaches, NFL teams, and top organizations. Our guest shares practical strategies to transform pressure from a threat into your greatest advantage. About the Guest Dr. JP Pawliw, a globally recognized author and expert on culture, leadership, emotional intelligence, and performing under pressure, wrote the New York Times bestselling book -Performing Under Pressure: The Science of Doing Your Best When It Matters Most. As Co-Founder of the Institute for Health and Human Potential, he surveys more than 40,000 people each month, uncovering behavioral insights that help elite teams—from United States Navy SEALs to Fortune 100 executives—excel in high-stakes environments.  His groundbreaking research on the "Last 8%," the critical moments when people hesitate to speak up or decide, has transformed how organizations build courageous, emotionally intelligent cultures.  Featured in Harvard Business Review and major global media, JP has created a neuroscience-based Last 8% Culture System that equips leaders to act with courage, connection, and accountability. His work has impacted leading organizations including IBM, Microsoft, NASA, The Coca-Cola Company, and National Football League. Guest social media - Website: https://www.jppawliw-fry.com/ - Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/last8project - LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jppawliwfry/ - YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLFQNKGG6__gKdxb4OYeIPzwdz5Va82HHf Host social media -Website: www.siinda.org - LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimberli-lewis-7a34053/?ppe=1 https://www.linkedin.com/company/search-and-information-industry-association/?viewAsMember=true - Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/followsiinda/

In this episode we discuss one of the most well know Army's in the world, Swiss Army, where leadership is an art form. Renowned for its precision, adaptability, and unparalleled teamwork, the Swiss Army embodies a leadership model that thrives on innovation and collaboration. Just like a well-oiled machine, every member of the Swiss Army plays a crucial role in achieving collective success. Their model emphasizes resilience, versatility, and a deep sense of unity, fostering an environment where everyone's strengths are recognized and utilized for the greater good. About the Guest Patrick Hofstetter originally studied physics while becoming a reserve infantry officer. After completing his MSc, he worked as a physics and math teacher at a high school before studying military science at the Military Academy (MILAC) at ETH Zurich to become a professional officer. He worked for nine years as an instructor at various infantry schools and completed his doctorate at the University of Zurich's Department of Human Resources Management during a stay at the Armed Forces Staff. In 2020, he returned to the status of reserve officer and became the founder of the Academy of Continuing Education at the University of Lucerne. Since 01.01.2023, he has been back at the Military Academy, now as a lecturer in Leadership and Communication, where he can share his civilian and military experience with prospective professional officers and conduct research in the fields of command, leadership, and management. As an active reserve officer, he has commanded the 29th Mountain Infantry Battalion as a lieutenant colonel (OF-4) since 1 January 2022. The Military Academy at ETH Zurich is the educational institution for the education, training, and development of career officers of the Swiss Armed Forces.  It is also an internationally recognized center of competence for military sciences as well as for the assessment center of the armed forces. MILAC trains and educates career officers on the basis of a science-based, value-oriented, and practical foundation. It is the leading institution in Switzerland conducting research in military sciences at the university level, promoting both scientific knowledge and excellence in teaching. MILAC contributes substantially to fulfilling the mission of the armed forces and hence to the security and stability of Switzerland. Guest social media - Website:   https://www.vtg.admin.ch/en/dr-patrick-hofstetter - Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/hofstetter.patrick   - Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/geronimo29th   - LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/patrick-hofstetter-phd-998144100/   Host social media - Website: www.siinda.org - LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimberli-lewis-7a34053/?ppe=1 https://www.linkedin.com/company/search-and-information-industry-association/?viewAsMember=true - Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/followsiinda/

In this episode, we dive into one of the biggest challenges facing business leaders today—retaining top talent. Why do employees stay—or walk away? How can companies turn professional development into a real competitive edge? Join us as we unpack one CEO's firsthand experience navigating the shifting world of talent and retention. Whether you're a business leader, HR professional, or simply curious about the future of work, this conversation will leave you with fresh insights and actionable strategies for building teams that last About the Guest Mark Peters is the author of The Retention Trap: Stop Measuring Turnover, Start Measuring Talent Investment (Post Hill Press, June 3, 2025), which builds on the insights from his first book, The Source.  He is CEO of Butterball Farms, Inc., recognized nationally as one of The Best and Brightest Companies to Work For® from 2018 to 2024.  In 2003, Mark founded a pioneering coalition of West Michigan CEOs and community leaders to create the SOURCE, a nonprofit that has helped hundreds of workers overcome challenges impacting their jobs while delivering an average annual ROI of 200 percent to partner organizations. An engaging speaker and storyteller, Mark has presented at TEDx and other major events. Learn more at RetentionTrap.com. Guest social media - Website:  https://i-3leadership.com/ , s://www.grsource.org/ https://butterballfarms.com/ - Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/i3leadership1, https://www.facebook.com/ButterballFarm https://www.linkedin.com/company/i-3-leadership , https://www.linkedin.com/company/butterball-farms-inc-/posts/?feedView=all Host social media - Website: www.siinda.org - LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimberli-lewis-7a34053/?ppe=1 https://www.linkedin.com/company/search-and-information-industry-association/?viewAsMember=true - Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/followsiinda/