The Road Less Babbled

Today, we have the pleasure of welcoming our guest, Jason T. Collett, a professional with diverse experiences in music, business, and entrepreneurship.   In this episode, Jovica and Jason delve into important topics such as authenticity, trust, effective leadership, and finding meaning in life and work. They also discuss the challenges people face in the workplace and the significance of understanding different perspectives. With Jason's background in HR, culture, and motivation, he shares valuable insights on how to bring people together for success. Explore how you can discover your purpose, create a fulfilling work-life balance, and make a positive impact in your personal and professional journey. We hope this episode leaves you with thoughts to ponder and inspires you to take positive steps in your own life.   Timestamps: 01:30 Being authentic and building trust in relationships 05:45 Navigating leadership challenges and understanding different perspectives 11:05 Balancing personal passions with professional commitments 16:50 Finding purpose and meaning in work and life 22:35 Understanding millennials' perspectives at work 26:50 Rethinking retirement and work-life balance 32:05 The impact of extreme behaviors in leadership and work environments 35:20 Striving for balance, fulfillment, and collective success 40:40 A powerful story about a mother's mission and its impact 46:20 The obligation to be a catalyst for positive change 49:30 Reflecting on advice for the 18-year-old self and the power of conversations 52:10 Wrapping up and contact information for Jason T. Collett   Connect with Jason T. Collett:   https://jasontcollett.com/     Connect w/ Jovica: LI: linkedin.com/jdjurdjevic IG: @asap_jovi   Music Credit: Clean Break by Density & Time

Join Jovica in an insightful conversation with Brenden Kumarasamy, the founder of MasterTalk, a YouTube channel dedicated to helping people improve their public speaking and communication skills. In this episode, Brenden shares how he discovered his love for case competitions and how it transformed him into a coach and mentor for individuals double his age. Together, Jovica and Brenden explore the importance of intentional communication in various settings and offer practical tips for anyone looking to become a more effective communicator. From using a simple framework for organizing your thoughts to being more empathetic and attentive to your audience, Brenden's advice is both practical and inspiring. Brenden's personal journey is a compelling example of how pursuing your passion can lead to unexpected and rewarding outcomes. His story is a testament to the power of embracing challenges, taking risks, and continuously improving oneself. Listeners who want to learn more about Brenden's coaching services in executive communication and leadership development can visit his website, mastertalk.ca. His YouTube channel (https://www.youtube.com/@MasterTalks) is a great resource for anyone seeking to enhance their communication skills. To connect with Brendan on social media, he can be found on LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/brendenkumarasamy/) and Instagram (@masteryourtalk). Don't miss this engaging and informative episode that may change the way you approach communication. Connect w/ Jovica: LI: linkedin.com/jdjurdjevic IG: @asap_jovi Music Credit: Clean Break by Density & Time

Kisha is a career coach and veteran HR executive who partners with HR professionals to guide them in their careers by assisting, equipping and strengthening them to discover their potential; taking them from stuck and stalled to new and exciting heights in their careers. Kisha loves working with people who have a deep appreciation for growth and know that it takes a willingness to be challenged. Together, with her clients, she drives towards the ideal vision knowing that imperfection is a guarantee, but not a limit. Kisha has often said that "every time I begin working with a new client, I feel honored and blessed to be part of the journey." Kisha brings in-depth growth leadership experience to every professional coaching experience. She understands the importance of listening and discovering, but also know that those things mean nothing unless you have the right motivation and meaningful plan of action that you can commit to execute. Career Highlights: Undergraduate and Graduate degree in Business Administration Certified Civil Mediator in the state of TN Certified professional in Human Resources Taught graduate and undergraduate business and leadership courses Diversity & Inclusion professional and have been featured in publications and on various panels discussing creating diverse and equitable workplaces 15+ years of HR senior leadership experience Connect w/ Kisha: LI: linkedin.com/in/nakisha-hicks- Web: https://www.theelevateher.org/ Connect w/ Jovica: LI: linkedin.com/jdjurdjevic IG: @asap_jovi Music Credit: Clean Break by Density & Time

Dane Vignjevic is the epitome of a self-made person. Born into a first-generation immigrant family, Dane has had a career in just about everything – from electrical work to pattern making to starting his own textile company. He's even dabbled in sales, and it's this experience that led him to his current position as Director of Business Development Operations and Partner at Digitanity. An experienced startup founder and ecommerce expert, Dane knows all there is to know about staffing models and nearshore/offshore development. When he's not shaking things up at work, Dane enjoys spending time with his wife two children and grandchild. Also into bicycling in the little spare time that he has. Connect w/ Dane: LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/dane-vig Connect w/ Jovica: LI: linkedin.com/jdjurdjevic IG: @asap_jovi

Kevin Wohlman , Founder & CEO at Southern Scholar, believes that although fashion is constantly changing, classic styles will always remain – and he portrays this through every dress sock he designs. Through a unique and high-quality material blend, classic color blends, and timeless designs, Wohlman is finally providing today’s gentlemen with a dress sock option that meets their every need. Where he saw a need, he found a passion and Southern Scholar was born. https://southernscholar.com Contact Kevin: IG: @krichwohl @thesouthernscholar LI: linkedin.com/in/kevinwohlman/ Connect w/ Jovica: LI: linkedin.com/jdjurdjevic IG: @asap_jovi http://www.thelogoswave.com Music Credit: Clean Break by Density & Time

Trey Burns graduated Civil Engineering from Clemson in 2010. Student pastor for 6 years. Worked at Chick-Fil-A to own my own restaurant for a year. Currently a full-time single dad and Sustainability Manager at a water plant (been in my current role 5-years). Part-time CEO of my LLC involving real estate investing and keynote speaking. Follow Trey: IG: @trey_burns TW: @trey_burns linkedin.com/in/trey-burns-7800 Connect w/ Jovica: LI: linkedin.com/jdjurdjevic TW: @TheJovPost IG: @asap_jovi http://www.thelogoswave.com Music Credit: Clean Break by Density & Time

Trey Burns graduated Civil Engineering from Clemson in 2010. Student pastor for 6 years. Worked at Chick-Fil-A to own my own restaurant for a year. Currently a full-time single dad and Sustainability Manager at a water plant (been in my current role 5-years). Part-time CEO of my LLC involving real estate investing and keynote speaking. Follow Trey: IG: @trey_burns TW: @trey_burns linkedin.com/in/trey-burns-7800 Connect w/ Jovica: LI: linkedin.com/jdjurdjevic TW: @TheJovPost IG: @asap_jovi http://www.thelogoswave.com Music Credit: Clean Break by Density & Time

Trey Burns graduated Civil Engineering from Clemson in 2010. Student pastor for 6 years. Worked at Chick-Fil-A to own my own restaurant for a year. Currently a full-time single dad and Sustainability Manager at a water plant (been in my current role 5-years). Part-time CEO of my LLC involving real estate investing and keynote speaking. Follow Trey: IG: @trey_burns TW: @trey_burns linkedin.com/in/trey-burns-7800 Connect w/ Jovica: LI: linkedin.com/jdjurdjevic TW: @TheJovPost IG: @asap_jovi http://www.thelogoswave.com Music Credit: Clean Break by Density & Time

Cassandra Rose is a global HR equity leader currently serving as the Chief People Officer at Fringe which is the world’s first platform for personalized lifestyle benefits. Having held roles at multibillion-dollar global brands and unicorn startups, Cassandra developed proven strategies which positively impact the physical, mental, and financial wellbeing of employees. Using real-world examples and leading industry practices, she consults, coaches, and facilitates workshops that empower HR and People Leaders to more effectively connect the value of their talent with the mission of their organization. https://www.mscassandrarose.com/ Connect w/ Jovica: LI: linkedin.com/jdjurdjevic TW: @TheJovPost IG: @asap_jovi http://www.thelogoswave.com Music Credit: Clean Break by Density & Time

Patrick MacAllister is the Founder of Harmony Solutions, LLC. With a decade of experience in the recruiting industry and the last seven years focused on the technology sector, he knows his way around the hiring process. Patrick has worked as a recruiter for both internal talent acquisition teams and external agency recruitment. His philosophy is to embrace the perspective of every candidate and company he’s fortunate enough to support. His experience and pragmatic optimism position him for success with an awareness that while you can’t fill every job or place every candidate, you can leave everyone with a positive experience. Patrick lives in Nashville, TN, with his partners in crime - his dog and cat. When he’s not matchmaking staffing connections, you can find him playing hockey or golf or proudly supporting the Tennessee Volunteers, Nashville Predators, and Tennessee Titans. https://www.harmonysolutions.io/ Connect w/ Jovica: LI: linkedin.com/jdjurdjevic TW: @TheJovPost IG: @asap_jovi http://www.thelogoswave.com Music Credit: Clean Break by Density & Time

Clement Decrop is an author, inventor, and lover of life. Prior to his work, he worked at IBM where he submitted over 130 unique patents in a one calendar year, drove the sales presentation of a $10 billion cloud deal, and led myriad wellness events across 40+ countries on the topics of mindfulness, sleep, exercise, and nutrition.  Clement was born in Belgium and consequently lived in Spain, France, the United States, and the Emirates. He has a B.S. in Mechanical Engineering and an M.P.S. in Management and Organizational Leadership.  His goal is to make everyone realize, as Confucius said: "Everyone lives two lives. The second starts when you realize you only live one." In other words, a transition from your Self to Non-Self.  https://theideaspace.io/  http://www.thelogoswave.com  Music Credit: Clean Break by Density & Time

Eden Murrie is the Chief Executive Officer for Operation Stand Down Tennessee (OSDTN), a veterans’ resource non-profit. Prior to assuming this position, Eden was a Director at the Partnership for Public Service, a Washington DC non-profit.  Previous to this role, Brigadier General Murrie culminated a 29-year Air Force career as the Director of Air Force Services in Washington DC.  She has senior executive experience including working on the National Security Staff for the White House, serving on the staff of a Member of Congress, developing and executing a $2 billion portfolio of worldwide programs and leading multinational organizations.  Additionally, a master navigator with over 2400 flying hours, her flying career included serving as an instructor in 3 different aircraft.  Beyond business endeavors, Eden is a board member for The Women in Military Service for America Memorial Foundation, Tennessee State Veterans’ Homes, Centerstone Military Services and the Davidson County Veterans Court Foundation.  Additionally, she is an adviser for the Nashville YWCA Dress for Success program.  Eden is a graduate of the United States Air Force Academy and has MAs in Political Science and National Security Strategy and an MBA from Vanderbilt’s Owen School of Management.  Married to Jon Murrie for 30-plus years, they have one daughter.  https://www.osdtn.org/  http://www.thelogoswave.com  Music Credit: Clean Break by Density & Time

Michael Collins is a multi-award winning columnist writing for his hometown paper, The Mountain Press, since 2013. He resides in his “beloved” Kodak community of Sevier County, TN with his wife, three lovely daughters, and a delightful son with autism for whom he also serves as faithful sidekick in heroic adventures, fellow Monster Truck connoisseur, eBay shopping facilitator, RC monster truck mechanic, Lego Dimensions tech support, editor and publisher (see Jacob’s blog entries here), best buddy and advocate.  Together, he and Jacob were awarded second place for the best blog of 2017 by the East Tennessee Chapter of The Society of Professional Journalists. In addition to writing, Michael is a Certified Public Accountant and utilizes his skills to further his passion for non-profit organizations.  He serves as the Chief Financial Officer of the Sertoma Center in Knoxville providing services to adults with developmental and intellectual disabilities, in addition to having served on the Board of Directors of the East Tennessee Chapter of the Autism Society of America from 2003 to 2005 and again from 2014 to 2017 as the Treasurer.  Michael also provides accounting and consulting services for other non-profit organizations in east Tennessee and was recently appointed by Governor Haslam to serve a three year term representing East Tennessee on the newly Formed Tennessee Council on Autism Spectrum Disorder. www.Sertoma.com Check out the new Website! http://www.thelogoswave.com Music Credit: Clean Break by Density & Time

It's been a long time coming, but we have finally rebranded our show from "Millennial Manhood" to "The Road Less Babbled"! In this episode, Jovica discusses why we made the change and what it means for the podcast moving forward. Jovica also spends a large portion of the episode describing in detail the current fiasco we are facing in our nation with the airline industry completely dropping the ball and how our current Secretary of Transportation is in way over his head. Check out the new Website! http://www.thelogoswave.com Music Credit: Clean Break by Density & Time

David has loved using strategic insights to drive organizations forward for as long as he can remember.  Across his background as a 4x entrepreneur, board member of for and not-for profit organizations, and an author, his focus is on helping to clearly distill the questions organizations face and then formulate an appropriate response. David began consulting after founding his first company in high school helping businesses with technology.  Since then, he has helped build organizations of all types including: Large, multi-national financial services firms Private equity funds Regional wealth management firms Education focused non-profits In 2019, he founded Family Capital Strategy to work with family members and executives of family offices / family-owned companies to help them think strategically about wealth and build world-class family wealth management organizations.  Prior to founding the firm, David was a partner at a large asset management firm in Nashville after spending many years as a fundamental investor and analyst. David has and continues to serve in a broad range of governance roles.  David is the Chairman of the Board and Chairman of the Investment Committee for the private trust company of a 75 member Midwestern family.  As well, he currently serves as Chairman of the Board of Nashville Classical Charter School, one of the top-performing schools in the state of Tennessee.   He is also on the Board of 21/64, a national practice advising family philanthropies. An Eagle Scout, David is a graduate of Wake Forest University, magna cum laude, Beta Gamma Sigma.  He has completed executive education course work on Family Business Governance at Northwestern University’s Kellogg School of Management.  Additionally, he is a Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) charter holder.  He is also a 21/64 Certified Advisor for those who work in an advisory role with multi-generational families. He was recognized in 2017 as one of Nashville’s Forty under Forty and in 2019 as a recipient of a Nashville Emerging Leader Award – Financial Services Industry. In 2020, he was recognized by the Nashville Post as part of their All Star Board. Connect w/ David: TW: @davidcwellsjr LI: linkedin.com/in/davidcwellsjr https://familycapitalstrategy.com/ Connect w/ Jovica: LI: linkedin.com/jdjurdjevic TW: @TheJovPost IG: @asap_jovi Music Credit: Title: Clean Break Artist: Density & Time

Reggie D. Ford: Author. Advisor. Advocate. Activist.  Reggie Ford is the founder and president of RoseCrete Wealth Management, a financial services firm that provides investment management and financial planning strategies for affluent young professionals and athletes.  Reggie holds his bachelor’s degree in economics from Vanderbilt University and his master’s degree in accountancy from the Owen Graduate School of Management at Vanderbilt University. Reggie has been recognized as one of Nashville’s Black 40 Under 40. He was also nominated for Forbes 30 Under 30 and in 2020, Reggie was featured in the Top 100 People in Finance magazine.  From a community perspective, Reggie serves on the board of several nonprofit organizations and is a member of the Phoenix Club of Nashville. He is also a certified yoga instructor and leads classes for people of all backgrounds. Reggie delivers keynote speeches on various topics ranging from business and finance concepts to discussions about mental health and race.  He enjoys traveling, cooking, reading, practicing yoga, and spending time with family and friends. Reggie lives in Nashville with his wife Katie and their dog, Rosie. Connect w/ Reggie: IG: @reggiedford TW: @reggiedford https://www.linkedin.com/in/reggieford26/ Connect w/ Jovica: LI: linkedin.com/jdjurdjevic TW: @TheJovPost IG: @asap_jovi Music Credit: Title: Clean Break Artist: Density & Time

Blake Hogan is the Chief Executive Officer of Bunker Labs, a former Marine and all-around fascinating guy. Blake’s goal is to ensure that the American dream can be a reality for military veterans and military spouses and, that in doing so, we build a truly inclusive economy. He is focused on guiding Bunker Labs to help close the systemic gaps military veterans and military spouses face, such as access to capital.”. Blake is also the co-founder of a safety product company, BreakAway Safety Solutions, which provides emergency exits for outdoor events making it easy to get fans out of fenced in events. He served as an officer in the Marine Corps from 2008–2012. Connect w/ Blake: LI: linkedin.com/in/blakehogan Web: https://bunkerlabs.org/ Connect w/ Jovica: LI: linkedin.com/jdjurdjevic TW: @TheJovPost IG: @asap_jovi Music Credit: Title: Clean Break Artist: Density & Time

Shan Foster is the Co-Founder and CEO of Fostering Healthy Solutions, LLC where he cultivates solutions for diversity issues through education, training, and execution. His experience includes work in several sectors including entertainment, financial services, technology, media, environmental services, and law enforcement. Foster is passionate about diversity and is seen as a visionary amongst leaders. He also serves as Executive Director of AMEND Together and Vice President of External Affairs at YWCA Nashville & Middle Tennessee. AMEND Together is an initiative that engages men and boys to end violence against women and girls. Under his leadership, AMEND Together has grown to a nationally recognized program with expansion to Texas, Virginia, California, Ohio, and New York. He recruits, educates, and equips men and boys to serve as advocates for violence prevention and cultural change. Described as an enthusiastic leader, gifted public speaker, and skilled facilitator, Foster is committed to elevating the conversation about violence against women, engaging men to be leaders and role models, and educating young men and boys about healthy masculinity and respect. He is a frequent speaker before national and international corporations, regional and national conferences, local and state government entities, and collegiate and national sports programs, including the National Football League and Major League Soccer. Foster is also the author of "What Hurt Didn't Hinder." A story of perseverance, showing that it's possible to reconstruct what it means to be a man, embrace our diversity, and raise everyone up in the process. Foster graduated from Vanderbilt University with a Bachelor of Science in Human and Organizational Development in 2008. During his time at Vanderbilt, Foster was named SEC Men’s Basketball Player of the Year, All-SEC four years in a row, NCAA Division I All-America, and played for the USA Team in the 2007 Pan American games held in Rio De Janairo, Brazil. He was the Lowes Senior CLASS award winner, an award given to the nations senior leader in community, classroom, character, and competition. Foster finished his collegiate basketball career as the all-time leading scorer in school history and was drafted into the NBA by the Dallas Mavericks in 2008. He was inducted to the Tennessee Sports Hall of Fame in 2009, Vanderbilt Athletics Hall of Fame in 2010 and was honored as an SEC Legend during the 2016 SEC Basketball Tournament. Connect w/ Shan: shanfoster.com IG: @shanfoster32 TW: @shanforster_32 Connect w/ Jovica: LI: linkedin.com/jdjurdjevic TW: @TheJovPost IG: @asap_jovi Music Credit: Title: Clean Break Artist: Density & Time

As a black child born in 1971, Ben was adopted in Seattle and raised by white parents in a tough neighborhood in East Vancouver. He experienced relentless violence, bullying, and racial discrimination. As a way to overcome fear and self-loathing, Ben became a competitive boxer, wrestler, and bodybuilder. These positive outlets allowed Ben to channel his hurt, anger, and frustration, eventually owning a gym, helping others as a successful personal trainer and mentoring youth as a community care worker. Ben’s many years working as a nightclub bouncer gave him unique insight into the universal quest for self-acceptance, love, and happiness. Now he works to help men move past their own pain. Connect w/ Ben Smith: www.thegoliathfoundation.com Podcast: anchor.fm/loving-Goliath IG: @lovinggoliath Connect w/ Jovica: LI: linkedin.com/jdjurdjevic TW: @TheJovPost IG: @asap_jovi Music Credit: Title: Clean Break Artist: Density & Time

A #1 national bestselling author, Anthony O'Neal has helped over 250,000 people set out on a path towards a debt-free life with his chart-topping book Debt-Free Degree. He’s reached over 15 million people in 15 different countries through his podcast “The Table” where he always keeps it real, relevant, and relatable. Apart from teaching others how to obtain mental, spiritual and financial freedom, Anthony's mission is to help singles maximize their single season with both intention and grace. When he's not interviewing experts and thought-leaders on his popular Youtube channel, you can find Anthony golfing or on an adventure with his beautiful all-black German Shepherd, Rhaven. https://anthonyoneal.com/ Connect w/ Jovica: LI: linkedin.com/jdjurdjevic Tw: @TheJovPost IG: @asap_jovi Music Credit: Title: Clean Break Artist: Density & Time