The holidays are full of hustle at work and at home. Former Navy SEAL Commander Jon Macaskill shares on the ABOVE CENTER® podcast why it’s not always about pushing harder…and his #1 tip for managing stress when life gets chaotic. Check out the episode: Youtube: https://youtu.be/X5y1EUhycv0 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/dk/podcast/from-seal-grit-to-mindful-leadership-with-jon-macaskill/id1557113848?i=1000736381354 Spotify: https://creators.spotify.com/pod/show/7IyqYMKU9r7tPHZLkEi51F/episode/34QdTcViLiN5bMqD4M1ASF/wizard

A conversation on grind culture, growth, and getting grounded with Retired Navy SEAL Commander, Mindfulness Teacher, and Leadership Coach Jon Macaskill. In this Above Center® conversation, retired Navy SEAL Commander Jon Macaskill brings a powerful blend of grit and grace to the conversation on leadership. Drawing from his experience in elite military service and now as a leadership coach and mindfulness teacher, Jon shares practical tools for navigating pressure with clarity, composure, and compassion. From combat missions to boardrooms, Jon teaches that true leadership starts within. Grounded in faith and forged through adversity, his approach combines mental toughness with emotional intelligence—helping others manage stress, lead with integrity, and stay connected to their why. Key Takeaways from Jon’s Leadership Philosophy 1. Mental Toughness Starts Early Jon credits his high school track coach for instilling grit and resilience long before SEAL training. That foundation—built on discipline, consistency, and accountability—shaped how he approached stress and setbacks throughout his life. 2. Know Your Why (Big and Small) Staying “above center” requires a clear purpose. Jon believes leaders need both a broader mission and day-to-day motivation. Whether pushing through cold water in SEAL training or leading a team through chaos, it’s your “why” that keeps you focused. 3. Sleep Is the First Strategy Jon doesn’t believe in reducing stress—he believes in managing it. And it starts with sleep. As a father of three and former SEAL, he’s seen firsthand how rest impacts patience, clarity, and emotional regulation. Rest isn’t weakness—it’s readiness. 4. Busy ≠ Productive Grind culture isn’t a badge of honor. Jon challenges leaders to unplug, slow down, and prioritize presence over productivity. He introduces tools like “to-don’t lists” and 20-minute focus blocks to retrain the brain toward mindfulness. 5. Presence Is More Powerful Than Perfection Whether on the battlefield, in a classroom, or at the dinner table—Jon believes leadership is about showing up fully. You don’t need perfect conditions. You need presence, resourcefulness, and the courage to start. 6. Start Small With Mindfulness Jon teaches that meditation doesn’t require silence, incense, or long hours. Start with two minutes. Sit still. Be with your thoughts. Consistency, not complexity, builds clarity. 7. Lead with Awareness and Action From pulling teeth in Nepal to managing morning chaos with his kids, Jon shows that leadership isn’t about titles—it’s about how you show up in the hard moments. His mindset? Do what you can, with what you have, where you are. Favorite Quote “Do what you can, with what you have, where you are.” – Theodore Roosevelt This quote grounds Jon through life’s transitions—combat, career change, even divorce—and reminds him that leadership is about movement, not perfection. ____________________ Jon Macaskill is a retired Navy SEAL Commander turned mindfulness teacher, leadership coach, and resilience practitioner. He blends elite military experience with deep emotional intelligence to help leaders manage stress, sharpen clarity, and lead with heart. Through keynotes, workshops, and 1:1 coaching, Jon works with top-performing teams at companies like Amazon, Microsoft, and PepsiCo. He’s also the co-host of Men Talking Mindfulness, a podcast on showing up fully—especially when it’s hard. His mission? To help leaders integrate grit and compassion in service of something greater. ___________________ ABOVE CENTER® is brought to you by REVEL®, an Executive Search and Coaching firm that helps people and companies grow through the power of great leadership. Our ABOVE CENTER® approach is about staying grounded, clear, and resilient, especially when the stakes are high. In this podcast, we feature leaders in corporate America who share how they navigate the pressures of leadership while living ABOVE CENTER®. We uncover the mindsets, strategies, and personal philosophies that drive high-performing executives to lead themselves and their teams to success. From hiring and retaining top talent to thriving in the first 90 days of a new role, these conversations go beyond leadership—they’re about building a career and a life with purpose, impact, and joy in the journey. https://jonmacaskill.com/ https://www.therevelcompanies.com/ http://revelcoach.com/ Theme: Mental Toughness, Presence, and Purpose-Driven Leadership

If your culture runs on pressure, it will always drain your people. If it runs on purpose, it will multiply their impact. This clip from last month’s REVEL® Leadership Circle explores what it means to lead with emotional intelligence. Learn more + gain access here: https://www.therevelcompanies.com/cloverleaf

Guest: Kyle Dorsey, President, Baptist Medical Center South In this Above Center® conversation, hospital president Kyle Dorsey shares his powerful insights on leading through complexity, nurturing a values-driven culture, and building trust with both patients and teams. As President of Baptist Medical Center South—one of the top 5 hospitals in Florida—Kyle knows firsthand what it means to lead with clarity and care under pressure. From staffing shortages to emotionally charged environments, healthcare leadership demands resilience and relational intelligence. Kyle leads by example, modeling the belief that everyone on the team is a care provider—from surgeons to housekeepers. And when the stakes are high, he believes it's not just about what you do, but how you make people feel. Key Takeaways from Kyle’s Leadership Philosophy 🎯 Trust and Communication Are Everything Kyle emphasizes that every interaction in healthcare hinges on trust—between leaders, teams, and patients. Communication is critical, especially when expectations are high and outcomes matter. 💫 Culture is Built on Consistency From hiring practices to team accountability, Baptist South centers culture through "culture keepers" and shared rituals like open forums and leadership rounding. Everyone—regardless of role—contributes to the patient experience. ✔️ Relationships Before Results When onboarding new leaders, Kyle prioritizes relationships over performance in the first 90 days. Getting to know the team and building trust are foundational to long-term success. ➡️ Presence Over Perfection Kyle believes in being physically present—on nights, weekends, and across shifts. The result? People feel seen, heard, and valued. That presence builds emotional safety and deepens connection. 💌 Lead with Heart (and Handwritten Notes) During weekly rounds, Kyle and his team write personal notes to team members and mail them to their homes. This simple gesture creates a ripple effect of gratitude and meaning beyond the hospital walls. 📖 Favorite Quote “Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world. Indeed, it’s the only thing that ever has.” – Margaret Mead From building high-performing leadership teams to supporting individuals who fall "below center," Kyle's leadership centers on empathy, accountability, and service. His story is a masterclass in leading from within—with purpose, perspective, and the courage to care. ___________________ About Kyle Dorsey Kyle Dorsey is the President of Baptist Medical Center South, one of Florida’s top-ranked hospitals by U.S. News & World Report. A seasoned healthcare executive, Kyle leads with a deep commitment to compassionate care, operational excellence, and team culture. His leadership oversees key hospital services including Labor & Delivery, Emergency, Surgery, Imaging, and the pediatric Wolfson Children’s ER. With a strong background in physician relations and healthcare management, Kyle is known for fostering collaboration, trust, and high-impact leadership in every corner of the hospital. ABOVE CENTER® is brought to you by REVEL®, an Executive Search and Coaching firm that helps people and companies grow through the power of great leadership. Our ABOVE CENTER® approach is about staying grounded, clear, and resilient, especially when the stakes are high. In this podcast, we feature leaders in corporate America who share how they navigate the pressures of leadership while living ABOVE CENTER®. We uncover the mindsets, strategies, and personal philosophies that drive high-performing executives to lead themselves and their teams to success. From hiring and retaining top talent to thriving in the first 90 days of a new role, these conversations go beyond leadership—they’re about building a career and a life with purpose, impact, and joy in the journey. https://www.revelcoach.com/team-workshops https://www.therevelcompanies.com/ https://www.therevelsearch.com/

Guest: Christine G. Johnson, CHRO, Baptist Health Care Theme: Compassionate Leadership, Centering Through Chaos, and Building a Culture of Care In this ABOVE CENTER® episode, Christine Johnson—Chief Human Resources Officer at Baptist Health Care—shares what it takes to lead with heart in one of the most high-stakes, high-stress industries: healthcare. With a team of 40 and influence across the entire hospital system, Christine has anchored her leadership in empathy, clarity, and presence. Her leadership philosophy is shaped by years of experience—and by the quiet power of watching her own mother lead with grace. For Christine, being Above Center® means showing up with intention, even when the day starts in chaos. From greeting her team with genuine energy to making space for difficult emotions, she models a form of leadership that is both kind and unshakably clear. Key Takeaways from Christine’s Leadership Mindset 🔑Culture Starts with the Baptist Way: Christine leads through a cultural framework that puts people first—patients and staff alike. She believes in meeting individuals where they are, especially in their most difficult moments. 🔑Living ABOVE CENTER® Is a Choice: Christine starts each day with intention—centering herself before she centers others. She reminds her team that no two days are the same and creates space for resetting and asking for support when needed. 🔑Transparency in Tough Decisions: When facing hard choices, Christine leads with empathy and clarity. She emphasizes the importance of explaining the “why,” speaking genuinely, and painting a hopeful path forward for her team. 🔑Reframing Negativity with Empathy: When team members are stuck or below center, Christine meets them with breathwork, one-on-one honesty, and reframing. She encourages naming the feeling, creating space for it, and then finding the energy to rise again. 🔑Deep Connections Drive Results: Christine uses intentional rounding, personal check-ins, and team-building days to foster a strong culture. Her secret? Remembering names, celebrating wins, and being present—without always leading with her title. Her Grounding Quote: “Live in the sunshine, swim in the sea, and drink in the wild air.” To Christine, it’s a reminder to embrace light, energy, and breath—even amidst chaos. She brings that same spirit into her leadership, helping her team find joy in the moment and clarity in the chaos. https://www.revelcoach.com/ https://www.therevelcompanies.com/

What does practical AI adoption look like inside hospitals? In this on-demand session hosted by Marcy Stoudt (CEO & Co-Founder, REVEL®), a CHRO and two clinician-informaticists dig into how to reduce burnout, redesign workflows, and hire for the AI era. We trace healthcare’s arc from Meaningful Use → data warehouses → today’s ambient documentation and “smart hospital” platforms, and why culture and cognitive fit (TEL: Trust, Emulation, Load, Learnability) now decide success. What you’ll learn → Why tech rollouts fail without early clinician buy-in and how to fix it → Where AI is working now and what’s next → Cognitive fit explained: designing AI to match thought flow, not just workflow → Hiring in the AI era: curiosity, adaptability, ownership › static skills → Upskilling the current workforce so everyone works at the top of their license → Guardrails, safety, and “fall in love with the problem” as a decision framework → Dream state: payer-provider alignment to end prior auth ping-pong Panelists → Christine Johnson: CHRO, Baptist Health Care (Pensacola): culture, workforce strategy, clinician engagement → Dr. Cassandra Parker: Physician to PM/AI leader: clinical lens on safe, human-centered AI; change management at the elbow → Dr. Mark Pierce: Physician & former CMIO About REVEL® The REVEL® companies purpose is simple: we care about helping people thrive at work. We support growing organizations from both ends of the talent spectrum. REVEL SEARCH helps you hire leaders who align with your culture and make an impact from day one. REVEL COACH offers coaching and development programs that strengthen teams and elevate leadership. Learn more at therevelcompanies.com. Like this conversation? Subscribe for leadership + culture content, and share with your people and teams. Chapters 0:00 The Evolution of Tech in Healthcare 05:14 Lessons from Early AI Rollouts 16:09 Preparing the Workforce for AI Adoption 35:58 Bringing Joy Back to Medicine 40:19 Rethinking Healthcare Systems with AI 46:05 Challenges Ahead and Future Opportunities

Guest: J.B. Kropp, CEO of Cintrifuse and Managing Partner, Cintrifuse Capital In this Above Center® Leadership Podcast conversation, venture fund leader and multi-startup entrepreneur J.B. Kropp shares what it takes to grow businesses—and people—from the ground up. As CEO of Cintrifuse and Managing Partner of Cintrifuse Capital in Cincinnati, J.B. works with early-stage startups, helping founders turn passion into performance through intentional leadership, smart team building, and authentic storytelling. J.B.’s approach is grounded in one core belief: great leaders know their superpower—and build teams that fill in the rest. From mentoring founders to managing his own team, he empowers others to lead with confidence by giving them space to learn, fail, and grow. Key Takeaways from J.B.’s Leadership Philosophy ➡️Empowerment Over Micromanagement: J.B. believes that the best leaders remove barriers and unlock their team’s potential. By stepping back and letting others lead in their zone of genius, he builds high-performing, collaborative teams. ➡️Founders Need Support, Not Perfection: Startups are intense and lonely. J.B. encourages coaching and mentorship as a vital support structure for early-stage founders, helping them stay grounded and aligned with their vision even during tough moments. ➡️Culture Starts at the Top (and Takes Time): From creating a culture club to running all-hands meetings that model core values, J.B. reinforces that culture isn’t a slogan—it’s a leadership practice. He leads by example and gives new hires time to learn, observe, and integrate authentically. ➡️Storytelling is a Superpower: Inspired by a favorite quote from Steve Jobs—“The most powerful person in the world is the storyteller”—J.B. teaches founders to craft authentic, emotionally grounded stories that build connection, drive investment, and move communities. ➡️Side Hustles Keep You Sharp: Whether it’s his pet supplement line or iced tea business, J.B. embraces side hustles as a way to stay curious, energized, and relatable to the founders he supports. He sees hands-on experimentation as key to ongoing growth. ➡️Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs: Start with one piece of paper. If you can write it clearly—what it is, why it matters, and who it’s for—you’re ready to share it. Then find your “smart dummies”—people who are smart enough to give real feedback and honest enough to tell you the truth. ________ ABOVE CENTER® is brought to you by REVEL®, an Executive Search and Coaching firm that helps people and companies grow through the power of great leadership. Our ABOVE CENTER® approach is about staying grounded, clear, and resilient, especially when the stakes are high. In this podcast, we feature leaders in corporate America who share how they navigate the pressures of leadership while living ABOVE CENTER®. We uncover the mindsets, strategies, and personal philosophies that drive high-performing executives to lead themselves and their teams to success. From hiring and retaining top talent to thriving in the first 90 days of a new role, these conversations go beyond leadership—they’re about building a career and a life with purpose, impact, and joy in the journey. https://cintrifuse.com/ https://cintrifusecapital.com/ https://www.therevelcompanies.com/ https://www.revelcoach.com/ https://www.therevelsearch.com/

Guest: Sloan Shanahan, Chief Revenue Officer, FusionIQ Theme: Leading with Intention, Storytelling as Strategy, and Staying Centered in a Fast-Paced World In this episode of the Above Center® Podcast, Sloan Shanahan, CRO of FusionIQ, shares how she leads with clarity, purpose, and resilience in the ever-evolving fintech landscape. Known for building high-performing teams and aligning strategic growth with innovation, Sloan emphasizes the importance of staying true to yourself while scaling businesses and leading others. At FusionIQ, Sloan helps financial institutions modernize their services and democratize wealth, offering a private-labeled platform akin to Robinhood and Betterment. Her leadership style stands out in how she verticalizes her sales team to speak the language of each client segment, enabling more personalized, effective conversations. Key Insights from Sloan: ➡️Storytelling in Sales & Leadership: Sloan trains her teams to slow down, truly listen, and use storytelling to help clients visualize their potential. By understanding pain points through both offensive and defensive strategies, they guide clients with empathy and precision. ➡️Coaching Through Rejection: Sloan uses retrospectives—a practice borrowed from her background in agile methodology—to help reps separate personal worth from sales outcomes. She encourages her team to treat each “no” as a learning opportunity, emphasizing that confidence and mindset directly influence success. ➡️Intentional Presence & Timeboxing: To avoid burnout and stay grounded, Sloan practices presence in all areas of her life, using timeboxing to give undivided attention to what matters—whether that’s a board meeting or dinner with a friend. ➡️Leadership as Influence: A defining moment from her college golf years showed Sloan that leadership means modeling the behavior you want others to follow. Since then, she’s led by example, believing that one’s actions can have lasting ripple effects. ➡️ABOVE CENTER Philosophy: Sloan embraces the idea of living “above center” by acknowledging challenges while choosing growth. Her chosen quote by Dr. Joe Dispenza captures this spirit: “When you choose to prove to yourself how powerful you really are, you have no idea who you will be helping in the future.” For Sloan, this quote is a reminder that leadership is not about perfection—it’s about courage, consistency, and inspiring others through example. ⤵️⤵️⤵️ ABOVE CENTER® is brought to you by REVEL®, an Executive Search and Coaching firm that helps people and companies grow through the power of great leadership. Our ABOVE CENTER® approach is about staying grounded, clear, and resilient, especially when the stakes are high. In this podcast, we feature leaders in corporate America who share how they navigate the pressures of leadership while living ABOVE CENTER®. We uncover the mindsets, strategies, and personal philosophies that drive high-performing executives to lead themselves and their teams to success. From hiring and retaining top talent to thriving in the first 90 days of a new role, these conversations go beyond leadership—they’re about building a career and a life with purpose, impact, and joy in the journey. https://www.therevelcompanies.com/ https://www.revelcoach.com/ https://fusioniq.io/

Guest: Chris Greco, CEO, Waycross Partners In this ABOVE CENTER® conversation, Chris Greco shares what it means to lead a mission-driven organization where service to others is more than a value—it’s a way of doing business. As CEO of Waycross Partners, Chris oversees institutional investment strategies for pension funds serving first responders and public servants across the country. But behind the data and returns is a deeper story: one about purpose, people, and presence. Chris’ leadership is built on intentional culture. He challenges his team to continuously grow—not only through metrics and results but through self-improvement, curiosity, and shared learning. Whether it's encouraging habits that strengthen mindset or reworking presentations that are already winning, Chris models the mindset that being “best in class” is a journey, not a finish line. What sets Chris apart is his human-centered approach: ➡️ He brings real client voices into the room—literally—so his team never forgets who they serve ➡️ He leads with empathy, asking questions that guide his people to their own insights ➡️ He cultivates high standards with kindness, not pressure—earning trust and motivation, not fear His leadership mantra? “Men and women for others.” Inspired by his Jesuit education, Chris sees leadership as a form of service and believes the real measure of success is how well we uplift those around us. Whether you're managing money, mentoring others, or navigating hard decisions, Chris reminds us that great leadership starts with knowing your purpose, sharing it clearly, and showing up with integrity—every single day. ____________ Chris Greco is the CEO, Principal, and Director of Institutional Sales at Waycross Partners, serving on the Board of Directors. Chris works with investment consultants and institutional clients and is responsible for business development and relationship management. In addition to his role at Waycross, Chris serves on the Investment Committee for the International Foundation for Employee Benefit Plans, and works with VE International, benefiting inner-city students through mentorship programs. ABOVE CENTER® is brought to you by REVEL®, an Executive Search and Coaching firm that helps people and companies grow through the power of great leadership. Our ABOVE CENTER® approach is about staying grounded, clear, and resilient, especially when the stakes are high. In this podcast, we feature leaders in corporate America who share how they navigate the pressures of leadership while living ABOVE CENTER®. We uncover the mindsets, strategies, and personal philosophies that drive high-performing executives to lead themselves and their teams to success. From hiring and retaining top talent to thriving in the first 90 days of a new role, these conversations go beyond leadership—they're about building a career and a life with purpose, impact, and joy in the journey. https://www.waycrosspartners.com/ https://revelcoach.com/ https://www.therevelcompanies.com/

Guest: Chris Slaydon, President & CEO, Dealer Blue Sky In this ABOVE CENTER® Leadership Podcast episode, Chris Slaydon shares wisdom earned from leading across diverse industries—from flipping bars and building dealership empires to growing marketing operations in automotive and beyond. His view on leadership? It all begins with duty—to your people, your vision, and the higher standard you hold yourself to. Chris reminds us that the foundation of real leadership comes down to three things: A clear, compelling vision A sense of direction for how to get there A culture where people feel wanted on the journey When things get off track, Chris doesn't spiral—he pauses, revisits his purpose, and leads from what he calls the height of wisdom: the avoidance of stupidity. Inspired by Charlie Munger’s theory of inversion, Chris simplifies business by focusing not just on what to do—but what not to do. Highlights from this episode include: ➡️ Why great leaders are great storytellers—and how Chris keeps 15–30 personal stories ready to share at any moment to unite teams and reinforce vision ➡️ His Two-Page Framework for working through chaos: one page for emotion, one page for fact ➡️ The "epiphany bridge" storytelling method: share the problem, struggle, discovery, and resolution to captivate, teach, and inspire ➡️ How to scale company culture without losing fidelity to the vision—even as employee #80 joins the team ➡️ The importance of quick feedback loops and focusing on micro-adjustments over massive pivots Chris encourages future founders not to get caught up in logos and business plans, but instead to focus on the problem they want to solve—and start solving it. Because ultimately, movement beats perfection. He lives the ABOVE CENTER® mindset every day: driven by purpose, grounded in humility, and constantly aligning actions with the vision of who he wants to be. ABOVE CENTER® is brought to you by REVEL®, an Executive Search and Coaching firm that helps people and companies grow through the power of great leadership. Our ABOVE CENTER® approach is about staying grounded, clear, and resilient, especially when the stakes are high. In this podcast, we feature leaders in corporate America who share how they navigate the pressures of leadership while living ABOVE CENTER®. We uncover the mindsets, strategies, and personal philosophies that drive high-performing executives to lead themselves and their teams to success. From hiring and retaining top talent to thriving in the first 90 days of a new role, these conversations go beyond leadership—they're about building a career and a life with purpose, impact, and joy in the journey. https://www.revelcoach.com/team-workshops https://www.therevelcompanies.com/ https://www.dealerbluesky.com/

What if thriving professionally started with mindset? What if you could move from reactivity to clarity? That’s the idea we shared – and the movement we built. And it all began with a conversation…thank you to John McMahon, John Kaplan, and the Revenue Builders Podcast for creating the space to share this vision.

Guest: Brenda Becker, SVP, Global Government Affairs, Boston Scientific In this commanding Above Center® conversation, Brenda Becker shares what it takes to show up fully and lead confidently—especially when the stakes are high and the spotlight is on. With decades of experience navigating public policy, corporate leadership, and cross-sector influence, Brenda brings sharp insight into what it means to be a centered, grounded communicator and leader. Her Above Center® approach is rooted in three key areas: 🎯Intentional Presence: Choosing when to speak—and when to stay quiet—to amplify your impact 🎯Strategic Communication: Framing your message with clarity, empathy, and precision 🎯Courageous Leadership: Owning your role, your influence, and your responsibility to the people you serve Brenda talks about the power of pausing, especially when emotionally charged moments arise. She reminds us that real influence doesn’t come from over-talking—it comes from aligning your words with your purpose and delivering them with conviction. Standout takeaways: 🎯Confidence doesn’t mean always having the answer—it means knowing when to listen, reflect, and respond with intention 🎯In rooms where power dynamics are real, preparation and mindset are your greatest tools 🎯Above Center leadership is not performative—it’s grounded in authenticity, trust, and clarity of purpose Brenda's story is a masterclass in what it means to be powerfully composed. Through her lens, we see that leading Above Center isn’t just about being seen—it’s about being strategic, compassionate, and aligned with your greater purpose. ABOVE CENTER® is brought to you by REVEL®, an Executive Search and Coaching firm that helps people and companies grow through the power of great leadership. Our ABOVE CENTER® approach is about staying grounded, clear, and resilient, especially when the stakes are high. In this podcast, we feature leaders in corporate America who share how they navigate the pressures of leadership while living ABOVE CENTER®. We uncover the mindsets, strategies, and personal philosophies that drive high-performing executives to lead themselves and their teams to success. From hiring and retaining top talent to thriving in the first 90 days of a new role, these conversations go beyond leadership—they're about building a career and a life with purpose, impact, and joy in the journey. https://www.therevelcompanies.com/ https://www.revelcoach.com/team-workshops

Leading with Heart, Emotional Honesty, and the Power of Alignment with Karen Gaskill Van Bibber, Chief People Officer, All Elite Wrestling In this Above Center® episode, Karen Gaskill Van Bibber shares her evolution as a people-first leader who brings structure, empathy, and vision into one of the most unique corporate cultures: professional wrestling. Now serving as the Chief People Officer at All Elite Wrestling, Karen uses her background in corporate HR to anchor a fast-moving, high-energy creative environment with intentionality and care. Karen’s leadership style is grounded in trust, transparency, and emotional intelligence. She champions the quote: “People don’t care how much you know until they know how much you care”—and it shows in everything from how she handles emotionally charged conversations to how she builds culture virtually. A standout practice Karen shared was her “Two-Page Method”: Page 1: Acknowledge and list emotions to honor the human experience. Page 2: Shift to facts and align on next steps with clarity. This blend of emotional awareness and practical leadership creates space for tough decisions without sacrificing team cohesion or respect. Karen also speaks candidly about: 🎯Transitioning from a strict corporate setting to a creative, nontraditional workplace 🎯Building trust in a fully remote culture (hint: cold calls and real conversations matter) 🎯The value of making decisions after emotions have settled, not during moments of emotional hijack 🎯Helping employees meet her Above Center—with confidence, compassion, and direction Karen’s leadership is a powerful reminder that creating a culture of care doesn’t require sacrificing excellence—it actually fuels it. ABOVE CENTER® is brought to you by REVEL®, an Executive Search and Coaching firm that helps people and companies grow through the power of great leadership. Our ABOVE CENTER® approach is about staying grounded, clear, and resilient, especially when the stakes are high. In this podcast, we feature leaders in corporate America who share how they navigate the pressures of leadership while living ABOVE CENTER®. We uncover the mindsets, strategies, and personal philosophies that drive high-performing executives to lead themselves and their teams to success. From hiring and retaining top talent to thriving in the first 90 days of a new role, these conversations go beyond leadership—they're about building a career and a life with purpose, impact, and joy in the journey. https://www.allelitewrestling.com/ https://www.therevelcompanies.com/

Leadership Through Care, the Power of Pause, and Leading Above Center® with Steffany Whiting, Marketing Executive In this energizing Above Center® conversation, Steffany Whiting reminds us that leadership is not about being in charge—it’s about taking care of those in your charge. With decades of marketing experience and an authentic, team-centered leadership style, Steffany shares how she navigates a fast-paced environment with empathy, structure, and a commitment to staying Above Center®. A key insight Steffany offers is the “pause between stimulus and response”, a leadership practice inspired by Brené Brown that allows space for intentional action. Whether managing competing requests or helping her team maintain focus, Steffany emphasizes that pausing is not weakness—it’s wisdom. She encourages her team to create boundaries, prioritize well, and protect creative energy, all while staying aligned with their brand mission. Steffany also speaks about: ✔️Brand continuity during turbulent times like the COVID-19 pandemic ✔️Empowering her team to say “not yet” without guilt ✔️Cultivating authenticity by making vulnerability a leadership strength ✔️And her personal north star: creating a ‘Camelot’ culture where people are seen, valued, and pushed to grow. She credits her former mentor, who saw something in her before she could see it herself, as the inspiration for how she leads today. Steffanynow passes on that same gift to her team—offering opportunity, belief, and room to step into their best selves. From the power of pause to the permission to be real, Steffany embodies the Above Center® mindset: leading with care, clarity, and connection. _______ ABOVE CENTER® is brought to you by REVEL®, an Executive Search and Coaching firm that helps people and companies grow through the power of great leadership. Our ABOVE CENTER® approach is about staying grounded, clear, and resilient, especially when the stakes are high. In this podcast, we feature leaders in corporate America who share how they navigate the pressures of leadership while living ABOVE CENTER®. We uncover the mindsets, strategies, and personal philosophies that drive high-performing executives to lead themselves and their teams to success. From hiring and retaining top talent to thriving in the first 90 days of a new role, these conversations go beyond leadership—they're about building a career and a life with purpose, impact, and joy in the journey. https://www.therevelcompanies.com/

ABOVE CENTER® is brought to you by REVEL®, an Executive Search and Coaching firm that helps people and companies grow through the power of great leadership. Our ABOVE CENTER® approach is about staying grounded, clear, and resilient, especially when the stakes are high. In this podcast, we feature leaders in corporate America who share how they navigate the pressures of leadership while living ABOVE CENTER®. We uncover the mindsets, strategies, and personal philosophies that drive high-performing executives to lead themselves and their teams to success. From hiring and retaining top talent to thriving in the first 90 days of a new role, these conversations go beyond leadership—they're about building a career and a life with purpose, impact, and joy in the journey. https://www.therevelcompanies.com/ https://www.revelcoach.com/team-workshops

Leading with Perspective, Embracing Discomfort, and Transforming Leadership with guest Jason Fayling, Co-Founder & CTO, SKAI Vision In this insightful Above Center® conversation, Jason Fayling shares how embracing discomfort has shaped his career, leadership style, and entrepreneurial journey. A technologist with over 30 years of experience and a background in martial arts, Jason lives by the mantra: “To be comfortable, you have to be uncomfortable.” From overcoming his introversion as a telemarketer to co-founding a company pioneering AI-driven smart camera solutions for automotive dealerships, Jason reminds us that growth lies just beyond the edge of discomfort. A standout moment in the conversation was his reflection on receiving a Darth Vader doll from his team—an eye-opening moment that pushed him to transform from a micromanager to a more empathetic, relational leader. He credits this shift to the power of zooming out and understanding others’ perspectives, a principle rooted in mentorship and visualized through the “Zoom Book,” a tool he now uses with his team. Throughout the conversation, Jason beautifully illustrates the Above Center® mindset: ✅ Choosing intentional growth over perfection ✅ Building trust through self-awareness and humility ✅ Leading others by first understanding their context, fears, and motivations Whether he's mentoring other startups or creating a culture of shared responsibility with his team, Jason embodies what it means to stay Above Center®—even when the path is uncertain. _____ About the Podcast: ABOVE CENTER® is brought to you by REVEL®, an Executive Search and Coaching firm that helps people and companies grow through the power of great leadership. Our ABOVE CENTER® approach is about staying grounded, clear, and resilient, especially when the stakes are high. In this podcast, we feature leaders in corporate America who share how they navigate the pressures of leadership while living ABOVE CENTER®. We uncover the mindsets, strategies, and personal philosophies that drive high-performing executives to lead themselves and their teams to success. From hiring and retaining top talent to thriving in the first 90 days of a new role, these conversations go beyond leadership—they're about building a career and a life with purpose, impact, and joy in the journey. https://skaivision.com/ https://www.therevelcompanies.com/

What’s the first thing you did when you sat down today? Check your email? Look at Slack? Scan your calendar? Stephanie Licata says there’s a better first step (and we agree): grounding yourself in your strengths and motivation…and it only takes 60 seconds. Take a peek into our process! Try @cloverleafme daily coaching on us: https://app.cloverleaf.me/signup?promo=revelsearchwebsite

How do you build trust in a new role, fast? You don’t assume. You learn how your team really works. Michelle Patterson, a panelist on our recent webinar, jumped in to share how understanding empathy levels and communication styles helped her show up with intention and lead in a way that worked for everyone. That’s what REVELl90™ and @cloverleafme unlock together.

In the first 30-40 days, @Joanne Loiseau doesn’t share the sales playbook. Not because it’s not important… …but because what matters more is helping new hires understand the culture, values, and people they’ll be working with first. That’s exactly the kind of intentional onboarding REVEL90 was built to support. 👀 If you missed this great webinar, keep your eyes out for upcoming ones!!

Magic happens when a new hire feels comfortable, the team sees how they fit, and the manager takes time to really get to know them. That’s where REVEL90 and @cloverleafme come in. Together, we’re turning “guesswork” into intentional onboarding with insights, coaching, and connection from Day 1. 👏 Huge thanks to Joanne Loiseau for sharing her experience during our recent webinar.

Everyone obsesses over making the right hire. But no one talks about what happens after the offer is signed. REVEL90 helps them become a leader faster, better, and with more impact. Learn how we turn hires into high-performers 👉 https://www.therevelsearch.com/revel90 P.S. if you missed our “Lead Fast, Trust Faster” webinar, DM us and we’ll send you the on-demand link!

Becoming a REVEL SCOUT is a unique opportunity to turn bold ideas and dreams into a lifestyle. Our team lives by four core values - Empowering Leaders, Commitment to Connection, Promising Results, and Dedication to Lifestyle. We're building something special with our Scouts. If our story and values resonate with you, grow WITH us! To learn more, visit therevelsearch.com.

REVEL90® is a program designed to help accelerate growth, achieve early wins, and make transitions smoother. Visit therevelsearch.com/revel90 to learn more!

It's a REVELution! Becoming a Revel Scout is a unique opportunity to turn bold ideas and dreams into a lifestyle. To learn more, head to therevelsearch.com/revel-scouts.

At REVEL SEARCH™, we focus on culture, leadership, and purpose to ensure every placement creates a lasting impact. Finding the right match goes beyond sifting through resumes—it’s about aligning talent with the vision, values, and goals that drive your organization forward. Our commitment to you is to deliver exceptional results that build the foundation for high-performing teams and long-term success—starting with your people. To learn more, head to therevelsearch.com.

Everyone deserves to love their Mondays! At Revel Search, we're building a community of passionate recruiters who are changing the hiring game for companies and job seekers alike. If you’re looking for a different kind of recruiting partner, let’s connect! Visit therevelsearch.com.