Well Being Walks with Kip Hollister

Join me in conversation alongside my esteemed colleague, Kaya Ramjee, a remarkable individual I've had the pleasure of knowing for just over a year.   During our time together, Kaya and I have shared profound discussions on the shared experience of navigating the grief associated with the passing of our beloved sons. Our conversations delve deep into the spectrum of emotions accompanying such experiences, fostering a profound bond of understanding and empathy. Originally from the vibrant city of London and currently residing in the scenic landscapes of Portugal, Kaya hosts the empowering podcast "She's Electric."  Join us as we embark on a journey of well-being, camaraderie, and shared experiences. It's sure to be an enriching and rejuvenating experience for all involved.

In this week’s episode of Well Being Walks, Kip is joined by David G. Breen, principal Designer and Founder of VDA, Inc, an award-winning, full-service, event design and experiential marketing agency. Under David's guidance, VDA achieved remarkable success, including being named "Best In Business" by INC. Magazine in both 2021 and 2022. David and Kip walk through Mount Autumn Cemetery in Cambridge, MA, and talk about their career journeys, opening up communication in the workplace, and just being human. Join us as we walk in nature. Learn more about David and VDA: LinkedIn: @vdaincInstagram: @vdaincFacebook: @thisisVDA

In this week’s episode of Well Being Walks, Kip is joined by Cindy Pierce, Author, Performer, Speaker, Sexuality Educator, Comic Storyteller, Innkeeper and Mom of three young adults. Cindy and Kip walk through Hale Reservation in Dover, MA, and grow from acquaintances to friends as they delve into Cindy’s leadership journey. Cindy takes us through her childhood as the youngest of seven, and how her unique path has shaped her into who she is today – a woman unafraid of failure and excited by new challenges. Her passion for educating our youth is exciting and inspiring. I invite you to listen and learn from all her wonderful advice. Learn more about Cindy Pierce: https://cindy-pierce.com/

In this week’s Well Being Walks episode, Kip is joined by Amy Pocsik, Founder of Bold Moves business coaching and Co-Founder of the Women's Business League, a national networking community. The pair walk around Lake Quannapowitt in Wakefield, MA as Amy shares her story about leaving her job as a CPA and following her entrepreneurial dreams.This episode is a genuine conversation between two women that share a passion for the work they do, centering on human connection and overcoming the challenges of starting your own business. Amy takes us through her journey of following her passions and creating a business that supports like-minded women to help them thrive. Her unique perspective and experiences have given her the ability to open a world of opportunities not only for herself but for those she has connected with as well. Please listen and enjoy. To learn more about the Women’s Business League, click here: https://womensbusinessleague.com/

In this week’s episode of Well Being Walks with Kip Hollister, we are joined by Thaddeus Miles, as he speaks about his experiences as a father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and community leader. As the pair takes a chilly stroll around the Lowell River Walk, Thaddeus describes what led him to devote his life to helping others: through his work at MassHousing, his time serving in The US Air Force, and the development of several nonprofits. His dedication to supporting, loving, and seeing the Black community is inspiring. His most recent work, The Black Joy Project, was recognized by the Boston City Council in September 2022. We are taken through the complex story of his life and delve into how he found his passions for family, photography, and serving others. Thaddeus explains how his unique experiences have allowed him to move from a mindset of victimization to one of empowerment. You will hear vulnerable conversations about taking action and the importance of genuine human connection. We invite you to listen and learn from this powerful and uplifting leader. Learn more about The Black Joy Project: https://linktr.ee/theblackjoyproject

In this episode of Well Being Walks, Kip is joined by Juliette Mayers, Founder and CEO of Inspiration Zone – A woman-and-minority-owned business enterprise providing services to companies looking for a holistic approach to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion. In addition to being the Founder and CEO of Inspiration Zone, Juliette is a published author and has her own podcast, Entering the Inspiration Zone.  Kip and Juliette walk through the Norris Reservation in Norwell and discuss the importance of creating an organization that is diverse, equitable, and inclusive, starting from a place of empathy and awareness. This episode shows the importance of human connection on a deep level and understanding the systemic growth needed to create a positive and sustainable workplace culture. Juliette’s knowledge in this area is admirable, and we invite listeners to listen and learn from her experience as we have.  To learn more about Inspiration Zone, click here: https://inspirationzonellc.com/

This week’s episode of Well Being Walks with Kip Hollister is the second episode of the two-part series with Jim Derick - President and Co-Founder of SAFE Coalition. They walk again through Noon Hill in Medfield, MA; discussing the devastating loss of Jim’s son, Jack, and how to connect with one another and navigate the grieving process. They discuss the stigma around substance abuse disorder and creating a system that supports those affected. Kip and Jim connect on a soul level, bonding over their own journeys with loss and creating an open space for real conversations. This episode is authentic and raw, and we invite you to listen and learn as you join this installation of Well Being Walks. SAFE Coalition is a community organization committed to educating and supporting those affected by substance use disorder and mental health concerns across southeastern Massachusetts. If you or someone you know is struggling with substance use disorder or mental health concerns, please visit their website: https://www.safecoalitionma.org/ In honor of Jack, who tragically lost his battle with his illness on July 15, 2022. 

This week’s episode of Well Being Walks with Kip Hollister is the first part of a two-part series. Kip is joined by Jim Derick, President and Co-Founder of SAFE Coalition – a community organization committed to educating and supporting those affected by substance use disorder and mental health concerns across southeastern Massachusetts. Jim’s son, Jack, struggled with these issues which compelled Jim to create this organization. In the first episode, Jack is still with us. The second episode is recorded two months after Jack’s passing. This series is dedicated to him and his family.  Jim speaks on the importance of living life authentically and the profound steps he took to live in the present moment. He is a leader with a unique perspective on the world that can provide a positive outlook on the sometimes-harsh reality of everyday life. There is so much to gain from this week’s episode, and we invite you to listen and learn.If you or someone you know is struggling with substance use disorder or mental health concerns, please visit SAFE Coalition’s website: https://www.safecoalitionma.org/In honor of Jack, who tragically lost his battle with his illness on July 15, 2022. 

Join us for the first Zoom episode of Well Being Walks! Things were done a bit differently this month as Paul Rubenstein, the Chief People Officer of Visier, is located in Canada. Kip sits outside to instill the essence of nature as Paul describes the story of his shift from data analytics to working in HR. You can tell that he understands what leadership is all about. He talks about the importance of bringing your true self to work. Paul’s story is an interesting one, as he offers a unique perspective on how data can support how to lead people more effectively. We invite you to listen and enjoy his unique story.  Learn more about Visier: https://www.visier.com/

In this episode of Well Being Walks, Kip is joined by Richard Sparacio – Founder of ÁCIO Consulting, and Professor and Coach of Franchising and Family Business at Suffolk University. Join Kip and Richard as they take a walk through Willard Woods in Lexington, MA. They talk through Richard’s shift from selling the companies he invested in, to the new chapter in his life as a Professor where he speaks on the importance of personal connections. Richard is a believer in the power of growing others and focusing on being as much as doing as a leader. He models the true essence of leadership in action. You can learn more about ÁCIO Consulting and all that they do here: https://acioconsulting.com/

Welcome to season two of Well Being Walks with Kip Hollister. Kip is so excited to be launching this next season, with new episodes released monthly.In this episode, Kip reflects on season one and some of the themes that came up from powerful conversations with many people. She spoke with people from diverse backgrounds and shares a number of recaps from these wonderful moments.Season two will capture many of the same themes and the importance of disconnecting from the outside world to bring together minds at a soulful level. At a time when human beings have been so isolated, Kip has the ability to create vulnerability in these conversations which opens up a new space for leading differently. Life is about connection and leadership is about the art of exploring REAL and authentic conversations that bring out the best in each of us. Being out in nature allows for a deeper connection to be made, which we are all craving these days. Take note of the new music written by Chad Hollister and Kip Hollister called “Inner Sovereignty."“We must learn to lead differently during these times of worldly crisis. It is about being HUMAN first.”-Kip Hollister

In this week’s episode of Well Being Walks, Kip walks with Art Papas, Founder and CEO of Bullhorn, Inc., a global leader in software for the staffing and recruiting industry.  Kip and Art walk in scenic Centennial Park in Wellesley, MA.  Art discusses his journey from math major, to aspiring engineer, to entrepreneur and ultimately, CEO.  He also talks with Kip about how being laid off early on in his career presented one of the greatest opportunities for him to follow his passion.  For more information about Art and his company, you can visit: https://www.bullhorn.com/

In this episode, Kip walks with Libby DeLana - Co-founder of Mechanica and previously Design Director at MullenLowe. Libby and Kip walked in beautiful Maudslay Park in Newburyport, MA. Libby is also the author of Do Walk - Navigate earth, mind, and body. Step by step, in which she talks about her 10-year commitment to walking each and every morning. Kip and Libby discuss how their definition of success has evolved and what it means to be a woman in leadership. For more information about Libby and her book, you can visit here: https://linktr.ee/Parkhere

In this episode, Kip walks with Beth Monaghan - CEO of Inkhouse, an integrated PR agency specializing in B2B  technology, with offices across the country.  Beth shares her experience coming through the pandemic while running a company and recovering from a cancer diagnosis.  You will hear many pearls of wisdom around discovering the value in embracing your authentic self.  

This week Kip walks with Andrew Graff, President and CEO of Allen & Gerritsen - a creative-led branding agency.  Andrew’s leadership style is one of introspection and self-reflection.  He talks about the many lessons he learned as a young leader, including giving himself and those around him permission to fail – as some of the most important learning opportunities happen while recovering from setbacks.  

Today Kip walks with Charlie Saponaro, CEO of Medical Records Associates (MRA), a healthcare services company. Charlie talks about his path to becoming a CEO and working in industries in which he had no background or experience. Kip and Charlie also talk about leadership styles, management challenges, and what success looks like today and how that picture has evolved over time.

In this episode of Well Being Walks, Kip walks with Jadi Tavares. Jadi is Head of School at Esperanza Academy - an independent, tuition free middle school for girls in historic Lawrence, MA.Jadi talks about the school’s unique model, which includes a 12-year commitment to their students during which the school provides ongoing social and emotional support as students navigate high school and college. The school’s mission centers on culturally responsive teaching, restorative justice, and a relationship-centered ethos. This is so critical for our future leaders.We invite you to listen to their conversation, which covers vulnerability in leadership, open communication, and the value in showing up as your whole-self. You can learn more about the Esperanza Academy here: https://www.esperanzaacademy.org/

In this week’s podcast, Kip walks with Judy Giovangelo to talk about their shared experiences with loss. Judy discusses being “a Ben”—someone born into an environment with trauma and challenge, and a unique intuition and sensitivity to their surroundings. She tells her son Ben’s story, and how he inspired her to start her foundation, Ben Speaks.Judy and Kip discuss how grief can allow a person to lean into their spiritual essence and guide them to love. Judy discusses how investing in the grief process, finding service work, and self-care can allow a grieving person to move forward. She and Kip discuss how mindset and taking control of subconscious behaviors can help a person find direction and be resilient through life’s challenges.Judy Giovangelo is the founder of Ben Speaks, a foundation where families can access a full spectrum of resources, including Emergency, Therapeutic, Healing, Mental Health, Addiction, Nutrition, and Grief Support. She is also a healer, yoga instructor, artist, and author of the book Phoenix Rising. Find out more about Ben Speaks here: https://www.benspeaks.org/.

This week, Kip walks with Lynn Margherio through the historic Mount Auburn Cemetery. Lynn is the founder of Cradles to Crayons – a nonprofit organization that provides children and families living in poverty with the clothing and everyday essentials they need. Lynn talks about how she adapted amidst the pandemic by encouraging her team to innovate and to find new ways to connect with one another. Lynn and Kip go on to discuss how stepping away from traditional ‘professionalism’ and embracing vulnerability has been an asset in leadership and in life. Listen along to hear Lynn explain how important it is to become involved in your own community, and to also engage with issues faced by those who you may not be exposed to in your everyday life. To learn more about Cradles to Crayons and about how you may be able to support this organization and community, please visit their website: https://www.cradlestocrayons.org/

This week Kip walks with Helen Russell in the woods of Hale Reservation.  Helen reflects on her experience working at Hale as a young adult and how it inspired a life-long love of the outdoors and learning through doing.  Kip and Helen discuss how this experience informs her current role as Executive Director of Apprentice Learning where she serves more than 200 8th graders by providing them with hands-on work experiences.  Kip and Helen also share some engaging conversation around scarcity, fear, and making decisions in the face of adversity.  The ease and flow of the conversation mirrored the  natural beauty all around them.  Helen Russell is Founder and Executive Director of Apprentice Learning which connects middle schools students with real-world job opportunities.  To learn more about Apprentice Learning and how you may be able to help, please visit their website: https://apprenticelearning.org/