Real Time with WLP

Episode 47 with Real Time with WLP dives into the future ofDiversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) in Canada with Namita Khatri, Canadian Leader for DEI at Randstad. Namita shares her insightful perspectives on the current state of DEI in Canada, the strategies for meaningful outcomes duringuncertain times, and how we can all contribute to ensure the sustainability of an inclusive workplace.Don’t miss this thought-provoking conversation! About Namita Khatri Namita is a recognized leader in Diversity, Equity, andInclusion (DEI) within Canada's workforce solutions industry, with nearly 20 years of experience within the industry. As the Canadian Leader for DEI at Randstad, Namita leads both internal DEI strategy and programming as well as the external DEI consulting practice, helping organizations embed inclusive practices that drive business success.With a deep understanding of the intersection between DEIand business performance, Namita has successfully helped organizations decrease costs, increase profitability, and expand into new markets by integrating DEI into their corporate strategy. Her expertise in connecting DEI to tangible business outcomes has made her a sought-after speaker and advisor, having hosted numerous events and webinars on building the business case for DEI and positioning it as a key business driver.Her thought leadership extends to speaking engagements with UN Global Compact Canada, the Canadian Centre for Diversity and Inclusion (CCDI), Women in Governance, Financial Executives International (FEI) and various learning events, including workshops for Randstad’s clients acrossCanada.

In Episode 46, we sit down with Gail Tatebe, Founder of Ki Explore, and Tonya Dickenson, Founder & CEO of Asymmetric by Design, to explore how values-based leadership within their pharma roles, emotional intelligence, and bold decision-making paved the way for their pivots into entrepreneurship.Gail and Tonya share the professional direction and decision points, mindset shifts, and crucial lessons that helped them lead with purpose, both in pharma and beyond.Listen now and get inspired to lead your own career transitions with clarity, courage, and conviction.

Real Time with WLP podcast explores how Gen Z is reshaping the future of work, health, and leadership. Through an engaging and insightful conversation with Dr. Tessa Misiaszek of Korn Ferry, Joanna and Madeleine unpack what Gen Z wants in the workplace, how they’re navigating the healthcare system, and why their values, energy, and expectations are challenging organizations to evolve. With perspectives from both Gen X and Gen Z, this cross-generational dialogue is designed to inform and inspire leaders in pharma while giving Gen Z a seat at the table.Tessa Misiaszek, PhD, MPH, is a seasoned researcher, educator, and author with nearly 30 years of experience in workforce strategy, leadership, and organizational transformation. She has held executive roles in healthcare, education, and consulting, and has taught at institutions including NYU, Harvard, and Simmons University. Tessa co-authored Branding That Means Business and has published widely on topics such as the future of work, generational dynamics, and women's leadership.

Real Time with WLP podcast focuses on why the 55+ generation continues to be underrepresented, overlooked, and often misunderstood – especially in the worlds of health and wellness. Jennifer Meehan, Global COO of the Longevity Lab and EVP of Edelman’s Canadian Brand Practice, is on a mission to help brands and companies understand the value and vitalityof the 55+ generation. In conversation with Jessica Lovett, Jennifer unpacks the myths, highlights the opportunities, and talks about how healthcare and pharma companies can stop overlooking – and start engaging – this powerful and growing audience. As we reflect on how we communicate and collaborate as either part of or alongside the 55+ generation, take a fewminutes and listen to this informative conversation.

Episode 43 of Real Time with WLP explores two topics that are more frequently raised up together within the pharma industry: “innovation” and “risk”. Shannon Keenan, Co Founding Partner and CFO of Artemis Factor, discusses the importance of Inspiring Purposeful Innovation and Embracing Risk to solve real problems and make a meaningful difference.Shannon shares her perspectives on women’s unique strengths to drive change, inspire teams, and overcome barriers. She also highlights the importance of creating a culture that encourages calculated risk-taking and provides tips to prepare for and navigate failure while innovating.To help foster innovation and risk navigation within your role, take a few minutes to listen to this insightful conversation.

Episode 42 of Real Time with WLP is a topic that is seeing a shift in approach from leaders.  Lida Citroën returns to discuss The New Rules of Influence: How to Authentically Make an Impact. A personal branding and reputation management expert, Lida Citroën, joins our podcast for a conversation on this new paradigm of executive presence and influence and shares her perspective on this paradigm shift in leadership where demonstrating authenticity is key.The new leader that is emerging is empowering others through transparency and unwavering passion.  Lida takes this opportunity to discuss how to tap into passion, connect honestly with others, and create space for inclusivity and community. Through her inspiring stories and practical examples, take a few minutes and listen to this thought-provoking conversation.

This month’s Real Time with WLP podcast focuses on UniquePaths to Leadership. Kristina Fusella, a leader who has held multiple leadership roles at Novo Nordisk U.S. (and most recently National Director, Cardiometabolic Education Program - Commercial Execution and Sales) shares her perspective on the benefits of non-linear paths to leadership and tips to communicate your unique value in pursuing opportunities.In conversation with WLP Volunteer and DEI Chair atLundbeck, Virginia Fairbank, Kristina speaks to inspirational vs. authoritative leadership, the learning from and how to leverage ERG experience as a sandbox for futureleadership; and to drive innovation and employee engagement.As you look at how to communicate your own value whenpursuing your own professional milestones, take a few minutes and listen to this informative conversation.

Welcome to a new year of Real Time with WLP.  We are excited for our January podcast release as we invite you to listen to two powerful conversations on Paying it Forward as Leaders:  Allyship and Gender Equity in Action.  Michael Casia, President and Managing Director of Organon Canada, shares his perspective on allyship and gender equity in health.  His perspective on the role of a leader and his personal approach to paying it forward is one that cannot be missed.  Michael Casia serves as the President and Managing Director of Organon Canada, a global healthcare company dedicated to advancing gender equity through its focus on women’s health and strengthening the Canadian healthcare system with cost-saving solutions provided by its biosimilar portfolio. Under Michael’s leadership, Organon Canada has rapidly evolved into a key player in the Canadian healthcare environment, with active involvement in critical areas such as contraception, fertility, menopause, osteoporosis, and women’s cancers. Additionally, the company has emerged as a market leader in biosimilars, with Michael serving as a vocal advocate for their adoption through his role as Vice-Chair of Biosimilars Canada Industry Association.

Bienvenue à une nouvelle année de Tête-à-tête avec FLP. Nous avons très hâte au lancement de notre balado en français et nous vous invitons à écouter la conversation inspirant sur le thème: Payez au suivant en tant que leaders : la solidarité et l'équité de genre en action. Litsa Spiridonakos, directrice des ressources humaines chez Organon Canada, nous présente sa vision sur le fait de se sentir valorisée au sein de son organisation et sur la défense de l’égalité en santé. À titre de directrice des ressources humaines d’Organon Canada, Litsa est responsable de fournir des orientations stratégiques et d’assurer un leadership pour tous les aspects de la fonction des ressources humaines, et d’établir une vision et une orientation pour l’ensemble des programmes, des politiques et des services de ressources humaines qui appuient la mission et les valeurs d’Organon. Litsa possède plus de 15 ans d’expérience dans la promotion de stratégies organisationnelles en matière de gestion des talents, de perfectionnement, de culture et de transformation, qu’elle a acquise en travaillant dans diverses industries, notamment les télécommunications, les services professionnels et, plus récemment, l’industrie pharmaceutique.

Episode 38 features some of our thought provoking past guests: Lida Citroёn, Melissa Leichter, Domenico Benevento, Dyisha Reliford, Kim Ferris, and Julia Brown. In this final podcast of the year, they share their tips on how women and allies can raise up the importance of equity to help close the gender pay gap.

This month’s Real Time with WLP podcast is with Julia Brown, Vice President of Sales and Marketing, Oncology, for Janssen Canada.  In conversation with WLP Board Member Thea Discepola, Julia speaks about her experience with global roles and navigating through cultural diversity and norms. In our 37th Episode ‘Global Leadership: Mastering Career Pivots and Cross-Cultural Success’, she explores how to prepare for these opportunities and challenges and then apply them to future leadership growth. Julia has been with J&J Innovative Medicines for 21 years and is now the Vice President of Sales and Marketing, Oncology, for Janssen Canada.  Previous roles include General Manager of Janssen Commercial Puerto Rico, Business Unit Director for Rheumatology and Dermatology and Vice President of Government Affairs and Market Access.  Julia has a passion for diversity and inclusion and has acted as an Executive Sponsor for DE&I across the J&J Family of Companies in Canada.  Julia served as the President of the Canadian Association for Healthcare Reimbursement (CAHR) for four years and sat on the CAHR Board of Directors for 15 years

As World Menopause month comes to a close, we are pleased to share our 36th episode of Real Time with WLP. Menopause Matters: From Struggles to Strength – Owning Your Menopause Journey – the third of our three-part series – wraps up our conversation with Janet Ko, President and Co-Founder of The Menopause Foundation of Canada, a national non-profit advocacy organization dedicated to breaking the silence and stigma of menopause. In this final episode, Janet shares her personal journey with Joanna Wilson and offers inspiring advice about preparing for menopause and the importance of support for women both in and outside of the workforce. Janet’s insights remind us all of the importance of education, empowering ourselves, and advocating for change.

For World Menopause Day on October 18th,  our 35th episode of Real Time with WLP is the second of our three-part series.   Menopause Matters: It’s Time to Change “The Change”  continues our conversation with Janet Ko, President and Co-Founder of The Menopause Foundation of Canada, a national non-profit advocacy organization dedicated to breaking the silence and the stigma of menopause.  In this episode, we explore the Menopause at Work Report and the push for greater inclusivity and access to menopause care in Canada. The conversation with Joanna Wilson explores why employers must embrace menopause inclusivity, the importance of preparing for menopause, and how both individuals and organizations can help drive change.

In advance of World Menopause Month in October, our 34th episode of Real Time with WLP features Janet Ko, President and Co-Founder of The Menopause Foundation of Canada, a national non-profit advocacy organization dedicated to breaking the silence and the stigma of menopause. In conversation with Joanna Wilson, EVP, Edelman, Janet reveals just how menopause may impact women and their professional journey. Our first in a three-part series, we kick off with Menopause Matters: Navigating Myths, Symptoms & Stigma. In this episode, we tackle menopause as a health equity issue, highlighting The Foundation’s 2022 report The Silence and the Stigma. Join us for this much-needed conversation where we cover how to talk to your healthcare provider, debunk common myths, and explore key symptoms – and hear more about Janet’s goal to close the menopause knowledge gap and empower women in their prime to approach this life stage with confidence. Janet Ko is President and Co-Founder of The Menopause Foundation of Canada, a national non-profit advocacy organization dedicated to breaking the silence and the stigma of menopause. Janet has held numerous leadership roles including Senior Vice President, Communications in the global life sciences and senior care sectors. She is dedicated to helping women thrive through their menopausal years and is a passionate speaker and menopause advocate. Janet is honoured to be one of the top 25 Women of Influence Award recipients for 2023. 

This month’s Real Time with WLP podcast episode is with Melissa Leichter, US Vice President & Commercial Lead, Rare Diseases at Novo Nordisk Inc. In conversation with TJ Geddis, Director Patient Programs & Advocacy at Acadia Pharmaceuticals, Melissa explores the importance of relatable female role models.  Gaining Inspiration and Connection from Relatable Women Leaders is the topic of Episode 33 and highlights the value of meaningful connections for professional growth.  

Real Time with WLP's 32nd episode features Lida Citroën who is an award-winning executive coach and personal branding expert who helps global leaders manage their reputations. She has guided thousands across 30 countries and her work is featured in top media outlets like Forbes and Harvard Business Review. Author of six award-winning books and a recognized keynote speaker, Lida also volunteers to help veterans transition to civilian careers. Her clients include industry giants such as Google, HP, and LinkedIn.

Real Time with WLP’s 31st episode features Kim Ferras, Senior Biopharmaceutical Representative at Amgen, speaking to the importance of Self-investment:  How to make Physical Fitness a Sustainable Priority.   With over 20 years’ experience, Kim, speaks frankly with Virginia Fairbanks, Mental Health Specialist, Lundbeck, on how health and fitness can play a vital role in humanizing the workplace, and can lead to career growth and improving overall business results.  Kim shares her philosophy of making physical fitness achievable and sustainable within one’s personal and professional life. 

This month’s podcast features Dyisha Reliford, VP, DEI Strategic Initiatives with Cencora, sharing why health equity is such an important topic that is re-emerging within our industry for our 30th episode of Real Time with WLP. In this podcast, Dyisha speaks with Angelina Braithwaite, Director, Strategic Client Engagement at Brunel where she shares her own personal journey and how it shaped her professional role in DEI and health based initiatives. Dyisha’s perspective is an opportunity for reflection on how leaders at all levels can instill change during this authentic and inspiring conversation.

Episode 29’s podcast features Domenico Beneveneto, Vice President of the Canadian Business Unit at MIP, our second male guest in our Real Time with WLP series. In this podcast, Domenico speaks with Jody Franklin, Director, Partnerships & Commercial Sales, CPhA, where he shares his philosophy on how one’s own approach as a leader can create workplace opportunities for women to succeed.  Take time to reflect on how women professionals can more proactively seize opportunities. About Domenico Benevento Domenico is a highly accomplished leader with nearly two decades of experience in the pharmaceutical, medical device, and medical consumables industries. Currently serving as the Vice President for the Canadian business unit at MIP, Domenico holds the reins in shaping the strategic direction and overseeing the commercial management of the Canadian division. Known for his customer and stakeholder-centric approach, he brings a distinctive perspective to problem-solving, ensuring that MIP's business aligns seamlessly with the needs of all those involved. Domenico's journey began as an award-winning sales representative, demonstrating proficiency across diverse disease areas including Cardiology, Cystic Fibrosis, and Oncology. His versatility extends to contributions in sales, marketing, training, commercial operations and fostering collaborations with government bodies, all aimed at enhancing healthcare accessibility through innovative solutions. Valuing purpose-driven leadership, Domenico's strategic vision is centered on driving performance and positive outcomes for MIP in Canada. He champions a collaborative, growth-oriented workplace culture, prioritizing the development and well-being of his team while maintaining an unwavering commitment to innovation and performance.

Episode 28 is a special year-end podcast featuring some of our inspiring past guests (Christine Sakdalan, Chris Cummins, Dr. Carol Parker, Vanessa Roknic, Emma Charles, and Dana Singleton).  In this final podcast of 2023, they reflect on what they wish they had known earlier in their careers and share these moments that will inspire you to take pause for your own professional reflection.