Karen, Author at Business RadioX ® Page

Leadership, Growth, and Innovation at Arizona Custom Blends

September 25, 2024 by Karen

Phoenix Business Radio

Leadership, Growth, and Innovation at Arizona Custom Blends

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Leadership, Growth, and Innovation at Arizona Custom Blends

In this episode, Karen Nowicki talks with Jeff Weintraub and Gina Benninger from Arizona Custom Blends, a company specializing in manufacturing nutraceutical powders and capsules for other brands. Jeff shares his journey from public accounting to healthcare and ultimately to the nutraceutical industry, emphasizing the company’s focus on quality and timely deliveries. Gina, with nearly 30 years of experience, explains how she sought out a business aligned with her values and has worked to boost the company’s visibility through her marketing efforts.

Jeff and Gina discuss Arizona Custom Blends’ rapid growth and the importance of maintaining a strong culture based on clear mission and values. They highlight how success is about more than profits—it’s about improving lives through quality products and fostering employee and client growth.

Arizona Custom Blends Manufacturing (ACB) is a comprehensive, cGMP certified contract manufacturer specializing in nutritional and dietary supplements. Our mission is to creatively and efficiently surpass our clients’ expectations with every order, as demonstrated by exceptional communication, superior quality, and on-time delivery at competitive prices. ACB manufactures powders and capsules, offering a broad selection of primary and secondary packaging options.

Additionally, ACB provides strategic counsel to our clients, proactively addressing and fulfilling all their manufacturing requirements. We hold certifications and licenses to produce products for NSF & NSF Sport, Informed Choice and Sport, QAI Organic, Non-GMO, Gluten-Free, Kosher, Halal, among others.

Jeff Weintraub, CEO of Arizona Custom Blends Manufacturing, is a dynamic and strategically minded senior executive and entrepreneur renowned for propelling controlled growth, implementing cost-effective measures, and enhancing profitability.

Passionate about health and fitness, his focus on wellness inspired Jeff to establish ACB, a company aimed at aiding businesses in achieving growth through the timely production of superior natural products.

Jeff’s unwavering pursuit of excellence is evident in his dedication to surpassing client expectations.

With a rich background spanning over 26 + years in the natural products and dietary supplement industry, Gina Benninger excels in spearheading business development and sales initiatives.

Her track record as a dynamic Sales Director showcases a unique fusion of technical proficiency, sales expertise, and a genuine passion for the field. Through active involvement in various industry-supported charitable endeavors, She has fostered lasting connections and a reputation for philanthropy.

Moreover, her commitment to mentorship underscores a desire to pay forward the kindness she has received in her professional journey.

Follow Arizona Custom Blends on LinkedIn and Facebook

The Next Frontier: How Black Star Orbital is Leading Space Exploration

September 25, 2024 by Karen

Phoenix Business Radio

The Next Frontier: How Black Star Orbital is Leading Space Exploration

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The Next Frontier: How Black Star Orbital is Leading Space Exploration

In this episode of Phoenix Business RadioX, host, Karen Nowicki interviews Christopher Jannette, co-founder and CEO of Blackstar Orbital, about the company’s mission and Christopher’s journey in aerospace. He discusses their plans to move operations to Sierra Vista, Arizona, and their focus on developing reusable spacecraft to reduce space debris, along with his personal path from the U.S. Air Force to leading an innovative aerospace company. Christopher emphasizes their commitment to sustainability and the refurbishing of satellites to extend their usability.

The conversation also covers leadership and staying ahead of market disruptions, with Christopher stressing the importance of a strong, self-directed team. He compares building a company to teamwork in music and predicts significant advancements in space infrastructure and AI-powered technologies in the next decade. Wrapping up, Karen and Christopher share a few lighthearted moments and encourage listeners to stay connected with Black Star Orbital as they help shape the future of space exploration.

Want to be part of the space revolution? Stay in touch with Blackstar Orbital as they lead the charge into the next frontier!

BlackStar Orbital is an innovative aerospace company focused on redefining satellite technology through the development of reusable space systems. Its flagship project features satellites that launch like traditional spacecraft but return to Earth like spaceplanes, significantly reducing costs, minimizing space debris, and extending operational lifespans.

With applications in defense, communications, scientific research, and life sciences, BlackStar’s modular design enables adaptable solutions tailored to diverse market needs, making space more accessible and sustainable.

The team, composed of experts from NASA, SpaceX, Amazon Kuiper, and other leading aerospace companies, drives BlackStar’s mission to revolutionize access to space with advanced, reusable technology.

BlackStar emphasizes reusability, modularity, and cost efficiency, addressing traditional space system challenges like high costs, short lifespans, and debris generation through innovative satellite designs that redefine modern space operations.

Christopher Jannette is the President and CEO of BlackStar Orbital, a leader in the aerospace industry known for driving the innovation of reusable spacecraft and hypersonic vehicles.

At the helm of BlackStar Orbital, Christopher spearheads the development of modular, reconfigurable platforms designed to support diverse missions in defense, communications, Earth observation, and scientific research. His strategic vision has positioned BlackStar Orbital as a cornerstone of Arizona’s growing space economy, aiming to establish a hub for advanced aerospace and defense operations.

Christopher brings a wealth of experience from his work at industry giants such as SpaceX and NASA. At SpaceX, he played pivotal roles in critical missions, including the Falcon Heavy Demo-1 and the Starship program, where he contributed to the development of thermal protection systems.

His expertise extends to supporting the SpaceX Dragon CRS program, Axiom’s Crew Mission, Inspiration 4, Artemis 1, lunar missionsAstrobotic Peregrine, and Intuitive Machines IM-1 and a number of national security missions – demonstrating his extensive involvement in the return of manned spaceflight to NASA’s Kennedy Space Center.

A decorated USAF veteran, Christopher served as an Integrated Avionics Specialist, earning multiple awards, including the Meritorious Unit Award and the Global War on Terrorism medals. Notably, he was honored with the USAF Humanitarian Service Medal for his participation in the 2011 Fukushima earthquake and nuclear event response.

His diverse experience across government and commercial sectors showcases his commitment to advancing aerospace technology and his exceptional leadership in both innovative and humanitarian efforts.

Connect with Christopher on LinkedIn.

Building Stronger Communities with Arizona Credit Unions

September 25, 2024 by Karen

Phoenix Business Radio

Building Stronger Communities with Arizona Credit Unions

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Building Stronger Communities with Arizona Credit Unions

In this episode of Phoenix Business RadioX, host Karen Nowicki welcomes back leaders from several Arizona credit unions to discuss the growth of Arizona Credit Union Week. The representatives Monica Meyerand of OneAZ Credit Union; Brian Lee of Landings Credit Union; David Krexel of Arizona Financial Credit Union and Mike Waldron of TruWest Credit Union explain how their collaborative effort, called “co-opetition,” promotes keeping financial resources local and reinvesting in their communities. They highlight the success of the initiative, which aligns with International Credit Union Day, and its expansion to include 11 credit unions.

The conversation shifts to financial literacy and education, with credit unions offering programs like Bonsai and My First Nest Egg to teach youth about money management. The guests share personal stories about their careers, emphasizing the community-centered values of credit unions and inviting local businesses to join their initiative. They express excitement about the future of Arizona Credit Union Week and its potential to grow even more next year.

Listen to this enlightening episode and learn more!

Arizona Credit Union week shines a spotlight on the many ways credit unions empower financial independence, strengthen local economies, and serve as a force for good in neighborhoods and communities across Arizona.

Monica Meyerand is OneAZ Credit Union’s VP of Brand and Acquisition, where she builds strategic alliances for corporate partnerships. Monica has over 20 years in marketing, branding, traditional & digital media, public relations, and advertising agency experience.

Monica stays active in the community and recently was appointed to the Board of Directors of Girl Scouts – Arizona Cactus Pine, an organization that helps girls reach their potential and creates a place for growth, character, and leadership.

Monica is also involved as a member with ACEL, National Charity League, Phoenix Chapter, State Forty Eight Foundation, and Young & Empowered.

Connect with Monica on LinkedIn.

Brian Lee is the Chief Executive Officer for Landings Credit Union in Tempe, AZ. He had previously served as the credit union’s Chief Financial Officer. He graduated from Arizona State University with a degree in Accounting and worked for a public accounting firm as an auditor. He then became involved with credit unions working for the National Credit Union Administration as a Principal Examiner.

He is a Credit Union Development Educator (CUDE) and has served as a member of several boards and committees on the national and regional level, focusing on credit union leadership development and advocacy. Brian was recently recognized at the Arizona Advocate of the Year by the GoWest Credit Union Association.

He has contributed at several events as a speaker, facilitator, and panelist covering diverse topics. Brian is active in his community as a graduate of both the Tempe Leadership and ASU Leadership programs and currently serves on local non-profit boards and committees.

Follow Landings Credit Union on LinkedIn, Facebook and Instagram.

Arizona Financial is a $3.3 billion not-for-profit financial cooperative providing consumer and small business banking services and expertise to more than 165,000 member/owners.

Founded in Arizona in 1936, the credit union empowers members to take hold of their financial future through the delivery of leading-edge self-service tools and mobile apps, competitive rates on loans and deposits, robust home loan solutions, identity protection services, and SBA and commercial loans.

Arizona Financial has a history of local community involvement and is the sponsor of the LiveNation Theatre venue and exclusive credit union partner of the Phoenix Rising FC. The credit union has 20 locations across Metro Phoenix and western Arizona and is part of the CO-OP network that provides members nationwide account access at 5,000 credit union branches and 30,000 ATMs.

Deposits are federally insured by the National Credit Union Administration.

David Kexel is the Director of Brand and Communications for Arizona Financial Credit Union.

He has over 25 years of marketing experience and oversees Arizona Financial’s marketing communications, social media, public relations, and partnership programs.

He is a native of Wisconsin but has called Arizona home for more than 30 years.

Follow Arizona Financial on LinkedIn, Facebook and Instagram.

TruWest® Credit Union is headquartered in Tempe, Ariz. and operates as a cooperative providing its members with a lifetime of quality financial services and a culture of caring for its organization, employees and communities.

TruWest is a strong and sound financial institution with more than 90,000 members and assets totaling more than $1.8 billion. TruWest Credit Union has 11 branch locations—eight in metro Phoenix and three in Austin, Texas.

Mike Waldron is the Vice President of Marketing at TruWest Credit Union.

He has been with TruWest for over eight years and has more than 20 years of marketing experience, including marketing management, strategy, public relations, and community development.

Prior to joining TruWest, Mike worked in the hospitality and health benefits industries.

Mike holds a Master of Business Administration from Arizona State University and a Bachelor’s degree in Marketing Communications from Brigham Young University.

Follow TruWest® Credit Union on LinkedIn, Facebook, X and Instagram.

Personal Growth Journey’s S2E6

September 11, 2024 by Karen

Phoenix Business Radio

Personal Growth Journey's S2E6

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Personal Growth Journey’s S2E6

In this episode of “The Future of Work,” hosts Kyle McIntosh and Al Loveland engage in a compelling conversation with guests Dilshad Mint and Karen Nowicki, who share their unique business and personal growth journeys. Dilshad, the owner of America’s Swimming Pool Company of Tempe, opens up about his move from Burma, to New York, to Arizona, where his quest for a safe, private swimming space for his daughters sparked an unexpected passion for pool maintenance. Karen, the owner of Phoenix Business RadioX, reflects on her shift from coaching to radio, driven by the need to reach a broader audience while respecting her clients’ privacy. Their stories underscore the significance of personal development and how their past experiences continue to influence their careers.

The conversation then explores the themes of curiosity, lifelong learning, and authenticity. Karen talks about her commitment to “staying curious,” a guiding principle for her this year, while Dilshad shares how audiobooks helped him overcome reading challenges and fueled his journey as a “student of life.” Al brings in reflections on empathy and wisdom from historical figures like Socrates, highlighting the importance of lifelong learning. Kyle ties these ideas to entrepreneurship, expressing his admiration for curiosity and grit, especially when listening to others’ stories. They also discuss Heroic, a professional development tool that supports growth while fostering creativity.

America’s Swimming Pool Company is a national franchise company owned by Authority Brand and has been in business for over 30+ years.

Dilshad Myint is a passionate, self-driven and dedicated Operations Director with a demonstrated history of leadership and a track record of successfully leading teams in public service, healthcare, nonprofit, and customer service industries. Skilled in research, planning, development of systems and community programs.

Establishing policies and procedures for process improvement with a drive for building relationships, and effective administration.

Dilshad is a natural connector, a problem solver, and a team builder driving positive impact in the community. A proven critical thinker, quick learner, a team player, and a change leader are strong suits that he brings with him.

He is a tenured professional with a growth mindset, he enjoys learning and developing new skills for self-improvement with
emphasis in Emotional Intelligence, Leadership and Management.

Connect with Dilshad on LinkedIn and X, and follow America’s Swimming Pool Company on Facebook.

Karen Nowicki is a distinguished coach and consultant, celebrated for her profound impact on the personal and professional lives of executive leaders and business owners across multiple industries. With a career spanning over 30 years in leadership roles across corporate, small business, and educational sectors, Karen has seamlessly transitioned her vast experience into a highly successful private practice over the last decade. Her clientele is a testament to her versatility and expertise, including C-suite leaders from the realms of technology, medical, higher education, hospitality, and finance.

What sets Karen apart is her holistic approach to coaching. Clients hire her not just for her expertise but for the transformational outcomes they experience—bringing a deeper sense of purpose and fulfillment to their work, lives, and relationships. Karen’s methodology is underpinned by her eclectic and rigorous training in various modalities, making her one of the most sought-after coaches in Greater Phoenix.

Her certifications span an impressive array of disciplines, including communications, facilitative leadership, mindfulness, trauma-informed practices, Tao healing, talent management, neurofeedback, strategic planning, and public speaking. This unique blend enables her to offer tailored, integrative coaching solutions that address the complexities of her clients’ personal and professional challenges.

Karen’s commitment to fostering growth and positive change is evident in the success and satisfaction of her clients. Through her dedicated practice, Karen Nowicki has become a beacon of transformation and resilience, guiding leaders to not only achieve but exceed their goals with authenticity and purpose.

Connect with Karen on LinkedIn.

ABOUT THE FUTURE OF WORK

Welcome to Future of Work Radio Show and Podcast – where business leaders share how they integrate humanity and technology through innovative approaches, healthy culture, flexible workspaces and seamless virtual technology.

ABOUT YOUR CO-HOSTS

With a focus in marketing and a background in various for profit and not for profit companies, including much professional and volunteer work, Kyle McIntosh wondered, “How can I pair the passion and commitment to community progress of a non-profit with the sustainability and reach of a for profit company?”

From this question and perspective a mission evolved to tear down the false distinction between the two sectors and to promote companies with Conscious Capitalism® business models through MAC6.

Albert Loveland has joined the MAC⁶ Team full-time. Al will be helping us to takeMAC⁶ to the next level as Vice President of Operations(and, for all of you who are familiar with EOS, as the MAC⁶Integrator).

Al brings over 25 years of experience in leadership and operational efficiency, first working for JPMorgan Chase for fifteen years and then, for the past decade, with his own consulting business working with small businesses, non-profits, and entrepreneurs.

Al has been working from MAC⁶ as a community member for five years now, acting as the unofficial ‘Mayor of MAC⁶’and helping every day to make this community a great place to be. Please join us in congratulating him as the now Official Mayor of MAC⁶ and as an integral new part of our team!

To learn more about MAC6 Communities, call 480-293-4075 or find them on LinkedIn and Facebook.

ABOUT OUR SPONSOR

MAC⁶ offers flexible spaces and programs to help your team grow, and a community of thriving businesses, just like yours. Advocating Capitalism as a Force for Good, MAC6 is Accelerating the shift to Conscious Capitalism (where Purpose and Profit Unite) through Creativity, Collaboration, Community and Change.

Leadership in the Hospitality Industry E51

September 10, 2024 by Karen

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Arizona Good Business

Leadership in the Hospitality Industry E51

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Leadership in the Hospitality Industry E51

In this episode of Arizona Good Business, host Thomas Barr sits down with Christin Marvin, the founder of Solutions by Christin, to discuss her inspiring journey from the restaurant industry to entrepreneurship. Christin shares her story, starting as a line cook at 15 years old and rising to managing partner in independent restaurants. After experiencing burnout, she and her husband moved to Tucson, where they redefined their lives, leading Christin to establish her own company focused on leadership development in the hospitality industry.

Thomas and Christin discuss the critical role of self-investment and her passion for supporting restaurant leaders, while also introducing her book that aims to help others avoid burnout and succeed as leaders.

Dive deeper into Christin’s journey and insights—listen to the full episode now!

Solutions by Christin partners with independent restaurant owners and operators to address their most pressing leadership and business challenges, enabling them to focus their time and energy where it matters most.

Christin Marvin is a distinguished restaurant coach, author, speaker and host of the restaurant leadership podcast, No Hesitations. With over twenty years of experience, Christin has established herself as a preeminent authority in the field, having spent time in both fine dining and high-volume growth concepts.

As the founder of Solutions by Christin, she partners with independent restaurant owners to address their most pressing leadership and business challenges, enabling them to focus their time and energy where it matters most. Christin excels in personalized one-on-one coaching and facilitating impactful leadership workshops.

When you embark on a coaching journey with Christin, it’s not merely about coaching; it becomes a transformative adventure, breaking down barriers and propelling you to levels of success you may have never imagined possible.

Connect with Christin on LinkedIn and follow Solutions by Christin on Facebook and Instagram.

About Arizona Good Business

What is good business? What are local businesses doing to build a better Arizona?

Join Arizona Good Business to hear from local companies who are:

Centering purpose at the forefront of business
Creating social well-being for the community
Prioritizing sustainability and positive environmental practices
Growing strong company cultures through building authentic teams
Ensuring diversity, equity, and inclusion are involved in all business decisions

Arizona Good Business features local business leaders that are redefining what it means to do good business.

About Your Host

Thomas Barr is the Vice President of Business Development for Local First Arizona, the largest coalition of local businesses in North America. He advocates for a strong local business community that contributes to building vibrancy, equity, and prosperity across the state.

A proud Arizona native and graduate of Arizona State University, Thomas leads the strategic partnerships and business development at Local First through advancing the organization’s statewide business coalition and technical assistance resources deployed to entrepreneurs.

As the Vice President of Business Development, Thomas guides the direction and execution of Local First’s key initiatives and partnerships, as well as the collaboration of 60+ staff implementing work in entrepreneurship programs and access to capital, rural and tribal community development, and local food economic development. He speaks to groups both locally and nationally, presenting the impact of Local First through demonstrating the organization’s effectiveness in building economic opportunity for more than 20 years.

Outside of Local First Arizona, Thomas has contributed his time throughout his career to many causes and organizations including the American Independent Business Alliance, Arizona Commission on the Arts, Equality Arizona, Heritage Square Foundation, Phoenix Legal Action Network, and Young Nonprofit Professionals. He currently serves on the small business advisory council for Arizona Secretary of State Adrian Fontes, as a member of the multicultural advisory board for ONE Community, and as a member of the board for Tempe Tourism.

Thomas is a 2018 Phoenix Magazine and 2020 Phoenix Business Journal 40 Under 40 honoree, alumni of Arizona Leading for Change, and alumni of Valley Leadership Institute’s 40th cohort.

Connect with Thomas on LinkedIn and Twitter.

Stay True to Yourself E14

August 30, 2024 by Karen

Financial Footsteps

Stay True to Yourself E14

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Stay True to Yourself E14

In this engaging episode of “Financial Footsteps,” host Chad Dean sits down with Claire Janssen, CFO of Ensemble Investments, to explore her dynamic journey from aspiring marketer to accomplished financial executive. Claire shares candid reflections on her career, from her start in public accounting to navigating industry roles, and underscores the importance of demonstrating leadership potential and transferable skills, even when lacking direct experience. She also emphasizes that leadership is a blend of innate traits and continuous learning, and recounts her path to senior management roles, including a pivotal move to Phoenix as a CFO. She also offers advice for aspiring executives, highlighting the need to align one’s skills with company culture and strategic goals. Her insights provide a valuable roadmap for professionals looking to climb the corporate ladder while staying true to their personal values.

As the conversation unfolds, Claire reflects on her decision to start her own consulting firm after experiencing burnout and how it eventually led her to her current role at Ensemble. Together with Chad, Claire tackles pressing topics like the importance of cultural fit in job selection, the challenges of leadership, and the evolving trends in finance and accounting. They explore the impact of AI, the dwindling number of accounting graduates, and the changing landscape of public accounting firms. Claire shares her views on the enduring value of obtaining a CPA, despite the increasing appeal of non-traditional finance roles. Throughout, Claire’s practical advice for younger professionals—embracing resilience, staying open to feedback, and the strategic importance of the CPA credential—resonates as a powerful message for anyone navigating the complexities of a finance career.

In her career, Claire Janssen has demonstrated how it’s possible to continually attain promotions through 1) merit and 2) being stretched to grow into the added responsibilities of the new title. She wasn’t afraid to take the next step.

Ensemble is a real developer, owner and operator in 12 markets, two coasts and a team of 1,100 employees. Our properties include master development, hospitality, multi-family, life science, and corporate office.

Claire Janssen is a CPA with over 30 years of accounting and finance experience in the real estate industry. She has worked for both public and privately held real estate companies serving both institutional and individual investors. She spent the first five years of her career in public accounting in Washington, D.C. and subsequently has served leading real estate industry companies in both Atlanta and Phoenix metropolitan areas.

Claire has a knack for identifying, hiring and developing high performing talent to serve in a role as business partners as well as identifying and overseeing process improvements in the Accounting/Finance departments.. These accomplishments earned her the FEI first Arizona Controller of the Year Award in 2018.

Claire is currently the CFO of Ensemble Real Estate in Phoenix, Arizona.

Connect with Claire on LinkedIn and Facebook.

About Financial Footsteps

Financial Footsteps is dedicated to providing insider access to successful accounting and finance leaders thereby providing ideas, insights, and ‘secrets to success’ to those aspiring to be leaders themselves.

Interactive conversations with guests will reveal the genesis for a career in accounting and finance, the great (and not so great) decisions that were made along the way, and the advice that these leaders would give to their younger selves.

About Your Host

Chad Dean has been an executive recruiter since 1996. He currently is owner and CEO of a top-ranked national recruiting firm with a 33 year history servicing the Finance disciplines.

Chad Dean’s relaxed and authentic recruiting style combined with a relentless work ethic and dedication to ethical recruiting has propelled him to the highest levels of success in recruitment and career counseling. He has been sought after by CNBC, the Wall Street Journal, and numerous other publications for his expertise.

Chad Dean is a proud Arizona native, married for 21 years, with two second-generation native teenage sons. He has an MBA from Arizona State University and a BS in Biology from FHSU.

About Our Sponsor

Integrated Management Resources was founded in 1990 in Tempe Arizona. Starting with clients like Goldman Sachs (first client and still a client today) and top Wall Street hedge funds, IMR built a robust recruiting process that digs out the most desirable ‘passive’ candidates from our client’s competitors.

IMR’s Phoenix Accounting and Finance practice services large and medium sized organizations for mid-senior level full-time placement and interim staffing.

Navigating and Transforming Toxic Workplace Cultures E43

August 29, 2024 by Karen

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Phoenix Business Radio

Navigating and Transforming Toxic Workplace Cultures E43

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Navigating and Transforming Toxic Workplace Cultures E43

In a recent episode of the Culture Crush Business podcast hosted by Kindra Maples, Catherine Mattice, CEO of Civility Partners, and Danielle Pener, Principal Attorney at Alta Employment Law Workplace Investigations, collaborated to illuminate the intricate dynamics of tackling toxic workplace cultures.

Throughout their engaging dialogue, Catherine and Danielle explored the nuances of managing workplace culture, emphasizing the dual challenges of reactive responses to crises and proactive strategies for preventing them. They discussed the triggers prompting organizations to seek their expertise, ranging from public scandals to internal acknowledgments of systemic issues, underscoring the complexity of organizational dynamics.

Are you looking for a little more guidance in how to tackle improving culture in a toxic workplace? This is your episode to listen to!

Kindra Maples and her guests advocated for a comprehensive approach to workplace culture management, advocating for ethical leadership that prioritizes both employee well-being and organizational effectiveness.

Civility Partners is a strategic organizational development firm that collaborates with clients to foster positive work environments. Their array of services encompasses executive coaching, corporate training, and extensive culture change initiatives. They specialize in aiding organizations plagued by cultures of harassment, discrimination, and bullying to bolster employee engagement, refine performance management, enhance management effectiveness, and more.

Their dedication stems from a profound desire to alleviate the suffering experienced by countless individuals in the workplace. This genuine concern for employee well-being serves as the driving force behind their endeavors.

Catherine Mattice, MA, SPHR, SHRM-SCP, is the founder/CEO of Civility Partners, a strategic organizational development firm focused on helping organizations create respectful workplace cultures and specializing in turning around toxic cultures. Civility Partners’ clients range from Fortune 500’s to small businesses across many industries.

Catherine is a TEDx speaker and an HR thought-leader who has appeared in such venues as USA Today, Bloomberg, CNN, NPR, and many other national news outlets as an expert. She’s an award-winning speaker, author and blogger, and has 50+ courses reaching global audiences on LinkedIn Learning.

Catherine’s award-winning book, BACK OFF! Your Kick-Ass Guide to Ending Bullying at Work, was hailed by international leadership-guru, Ken Blanchard, as, “the most comprehensive and valuable handbook on the topic.”

Connect with Catherine on LinkedIn and follow Civility Partners on Facebook, X and Instagram.

Alta Employment Law is a workplace investigations law firm based in California with offices in San Francisco and San Diego. The attorneys conduct neutral third-party workplace investigations for companies of all sizes that need to meet their legal obligations to conduct prompt, thorough and independent workplace investigations into employee claims of harassment, discrimination, and other workplace misconduct.

The attorneys of Alta Employment Law are disciplined, detail-oriented and adaptive. They excel at defining and containing scope and maintaining clear lines of communication with clients. They are approachable and deeply committed to maintaining neutrality throughout the process. A key to their success is creating an environment in which each participant can be forthcoming in interviews. This allows them to achieve unmatched levels of quality in the evidence they gather.

With decades of experience in employment law, including years as in-house counsel, and more than a decade conducting investigations for companies of all sizes, the attorneys understand the hallmarks of excellent investigations. Clients can feel confident that their conclusions will always be well-reasoned and that the findings delivered will withstand scrutiny.

Danielle Pener has been practicing employment law for over two decades. In addition to working at both large and small law firms, she served as in-house employment law counsel at a Fortune 500 company and a Bay Area technology company.

In 2015, she founded Alta Employment Law to meet a growing need for workplace investigations and employment law advice and counsel, but quickly found that her passion lay in investigations. She loves being able to bring all of her experience, skills and talents to helping employees and employers navigate the complexities of the modern workplace.

Exclusive focus on investigations has allowed Danielle to refine her process such that she is able to efficiently and effectively gather relevant facts regardless of a client’s sector or size. She has investigated complaints in settings ranging from professional services to manufacturing, high tech to hospitality, at Fortune 100 companies, large and small privately-held companies, and nonprofit organizations. She also has a well-developed toolkit for managing complexities such as complaints that involve executives, witnesses represented by counsel, reluctant witnesses and situations involving multiple complainants.

Throughout her career, Danielle has been recognized for being thoughtful and meticulous. Clients appreciate her skillful management of the investigation process, and referring attorneys recommend her to their clients based on the excellent quality of her work.

Danielle is a member of the State Bar of California and the Association of Workplace Investigators (AWI). She is an AWI Certificate holder, leads AWI’s Workplace Investigation Basics seminars for those learning investigations, and has spoken at the AWI Annual Conference.

Danielle also holds inactive bar licenses in Missouri and Kansas. She graduated Phi Beta Kappa from Washington University in St. Louis, with a double major in Political Science and Women’s Studies, and was in the top 20% of her class at UC Davis School of Law.

Connect with Danielle on LinkedIn.

About Culture Crush

At Culture Crush, culture isn’t just a corporate buzzword. It’s a key factor that can either boost your company or lead to its failure.

We’re culture consultants, with a focus on leadership, appreciation, communication, processes, accessibility, mental health, diversity, inclusion, and creating a dynamic workplace.

As a growing company:

Culture Crush Business is your hub for company culture resources. With deep cultural insights and years of expertise, we evaluate your company’s needs and connect you with the precise resources to cultivate a thriving culture.

We work with CEOs, founders, HR Directors, or Culture Leaders of companies or teams, who value company culture and understand its impact on their business success.With Culture Crush you’ll learn how to transform your workplace into a place of unity, efficiency, and growth. Don’t just fix your company culture – transform it with Culture Crush Business.

On this podcast: We focus on everything surrounding businesses with good company culture. We will talk with company leaders to learn about real-life experiences, tips, and best practices for creating a healthy work environment where employees are finding joy and satisfaction in their work while also striving and growing within the company. We share the resources to help improve company culture and showcase them on the podcast with their tips and tricks for growing culture.

About the Host

Kindra Maples is spartan racer, past animal trainer, previous magician’s assistant, and has a weakness for Oreo cookie shakes. Her journey working with people actually started working with animals as a teenager (don’t worry we won’t go that far back for her bio).

She worked for over 15 years in the zoo industry working with animals and the public. Her passion of working with animals shifted into working with people in education, operations and leadership roles. From there her passion of leadership and helping people develop has continued to grow.

Then came the opportunity for leading the Culture Crush Business Podcast and she jumped on it. Leadership, growth, and strong company cultures are all areas that Kindra is interested in diving into further.

Thank you for our Sponsor!

This episode is sponsored by Gateway Bank, a community bank in Arizona that specializes in serving small businesses across the Valley and the country.

When you work with Gateway, you don’t have to call an 800 number for support, or submit your loan application and wait weeks or months for an answer. You get fast, personal service from a team who knows you and cares about you.

When Gateway was founded in 2007, the team had a vision of building a hometown bank that prioritizes people over profits. Over 15 years later, they’re proud to still be one of the highest-performing AND highest-rated community banks around.

Whether you need a loan or banking services for your business, Gateway is here to help. Visit gcbaz.com/culturecrush for details and a free consultation with bank President James Christensen.

All loans subject to approval. Member FDIC.

Train the Teacher Improve Educational Outcomes E28

August 22, 2024 by Karen

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Changing the Perception of Blindness

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Train the Teacher Improve Educational Outcomes E28

In this episode of Changing the Perception of Blindness, David Steinmetz engages with Niraj Parikh from the Center for Assistive Technology Training (CAT) to discuss the crucial role of assistive technology in education. David recounts his personal experiences as a blind student and the challenges faced in the classroom. Niraj details CAT’s efforts to bridge the training gap for K-12 educators and students, highlighting their provision of specialized training on various assistive technologies and the collaborative support from organizations like Alabama Institute for the Deaf & Blind and the American Printing House.

The conversation delves into the impact of assistive technology on education and daily life for individuals with disabilities. Niraj introduces the Monarch, a groundbreaking device set to revolutionize access to real-time information for blind students through a refreshable Braille display, complemented by comprehensive teacher training to address its high cost. They discuss challenges such as the limitations of current technologies and explore the transformative potential of emerging tools, including AI advancements. The episode raises awareness about these technologies and the importance of continued innovation and advocacy to improve accessibility and support for individuals with disabilities.

Discover how cutting-edge assistive technology is transforming education—tune in now!

As a role model in the community, Arizona Industries for the Blind demonstrates that with the right training, right technology and the right attitude people who are blind can compete in the workplace and in life.

The CATT Program is a collaborative initiative between the American Printing House for the Blind (APH), Foundation for Blind Children (FBC), Alabama Institute for Deaf and Blind (AIDB), and the Washington State School for the Blind (WSSB). Our primary mission is to provide comprehensive assistive technology training to teachers of the visually impaired, parents, and students across the nation. With three programs strategically placed across different regions, CATT specializes in delivering targeted training on select APH Assistive Technologies and software.

CATT proudly serves a diverse region, including Arizona, California, Colorado, Nevada, New Mexico, and Utah, and we continue to build partnerships to expand our reach and impact.

Niraj Parikh brings more than two decades of experience in the assistive technology (AT) field to his role as the Program Coordinator for CATT. With a Master of Science in Assistive Technology and Human Services from California State University, Northridge, and a Bachelor of Science in Global Business and Management Information Systems, his expertise is well-rounded.

Niraj’s career journey started with impactful roles as an Assistive Technology Specialist, where he collaborated with universities, school districts, and non-profits across multiple states, including California, Nevada, Texas, and Arizona. His dedication and contributions to the AT industry led him to found Kratu, Inc.

In his current role, Niraj oversees CATT, a program committed to providing assistive technology training. The program’s mission centers on empowering teachers, professionals, and parents involved with blind or low-vision children. Through a “train the trainer” approach, CATT ensures widespread support and expertise in this vital field.

About Your Host

As the manager of Community and Public Relations, David Steinmetz uses his expertise, education, and personal experiences to “change the perception of blindness.”

Diagnosed with RP, a blinding retinal disease, at the age of 19, David uses his personal story to drive change that leads to improved employment outcomes and community integration for people who are blind or visually impaired.

Mr. Steinmetz graduated from Arizona State University with a bachelor’s degree in Business Management and Economics. Additionally, Steinmetz has continued his education by graduating from the Business Management Training (BMT) program provided by Darden Graduate School of Business, University of Virginia.

In 2008, David was the national recipient of the National Industries for the Blind Milton J. Samuelson Career Achievement award. This prestigious award recognized Mr. Steinmetz for his career achievements and community service work.

David Steinmetz is a member of the Governors’ Council on Blindness & Visual Impairments, is a Board Member at the Arizona Center for the Blind & Visually Impaired (ACBVI) and serves his community through the Chandler Lions Club.

Connect with David on LinkedIn and Instagram.

About the Show

Changing the Perception of Blindness; One Conversation at a Time is dedicated to breaking down barriers, de-mystifying blindness and promoting real world solutions that empower people who are blind to live a full and inclusive life.

Host, David Steinmetz connects with organizations, industry professionals and thought leaders who are working to bridge the gap that creates a world accessible for all.

About Arizona Industries for the Blind

Arizona Industries for the Blind is a nonprofit organization dedicated to creating employment opportunities for people who are blind. It’s employees, more than half of whom are blind, deliver a variety of products and services, including a full-service Warehousing and Distribution Center, confidential Digital Data Scan (DDS) services for private businesses and government and the operation of Base Supply Centers located at each of Arizona’s three military bases under the umbrella of the U.S. Department of Labor’s AbilityOne program.

Follow AIFB on LinkedIn and Facebook.

Nurturing Hope: How Hushabye Nursery is Transforming Neonatal Care

August 20, 2024 by Karen

Phoenix Business Radio

Nurturing Hope: How Hushabye Nursery is Transforming Neonatal Care

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Nurturing Hope: How Hushabye Nursery is Transforming Neonatal Care

In this episode of Phoenix Business Radio, host Karen Nowicki interviews Tara Sundem, Executive Director and Founder of Hushabye Nursery, about her journey as a neonatal nurse practitioner and the creation of her nonprofit to support families affected by the opioid crisis. Tara explains how Hushabye Nursery provides specialized care for substance-exposed newborns and their families, emphasizing the importance of dignity and compassion in aiding recovery and encouraging parents to seek help.

The conversation also explores the challenges of rethinking neonatal care and the financial hurdles of sustaining the nursery, which relies heavily on fundraising due to insufficient Medicaid support. Tara highlights the need for community backing to continue their work, sharing the nursery’s success in reducing hospital stays and improving family outcomes, with hopes for continued growth to break the cycle of addiction.

Hushabye Nursery’s mission is to ‘embrace substance exposed babies and their caregivers with compassionate, evidence-based care that positively changes the course of their entire lives.’

Hushabye Nursery offers a safe and inclusive space where mothers, family members and babies – from conception through childhood – can receive integrative care and therapeutic support that offers each child the best possible life outcomes.

Programs offered include outpatient therapy in combination with prenatal and postpartum support groups and an inpatient nursery to care for babies that are born substance exposed during the withdrawal process.

Tara Sundem is a board-certified Neonatal Nurse Practitioner with more than 30 years of experience in neonatal intensive care. She was a frontline worker in the growing opiate epidemic, caring for the most innocent of its victims: Newborns suffering through opiate withdrawal – Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome (NAS).

Her passion to transform the healthcare experience for them and their families led her to found Hushabye Nursery, an Arizona non-profit dedicated to caring for opiate-exposed newborns in their first weeks of life. The 12-bed inpatient nursery opened its doors and its arms to these babies and their mothers in November 2020.

Under Tara’s leadership as Executive Director, Hushabye Nursery has grown from an idea to ‘save the babies’ in 2016, to a unique model of care for this underserved population that focuses on the family unit, both prenatal and postnatal.

Recognized as an industry leader on NAS, Tara has presented several community events on the topic. She received the 2021 Phoenix Business Journal Health Care Hero Award for Nursing and a 12 News Miracle Makers Award in 2021. She holds a Master of Science from Arizona State University and is a member of the National Association of Neonatal Nurses, the Academy of Neonatal Nurses, and the Neonatal Nurse Practitioners of AZ.

Tara lives in Gilbert with her husband, two sons and their dog.

Follow Hushabye Nursery on LinkedIn, Facebook, X and Instagram.