The Beers & Careers Podcast

Rachel Stevenson, Teacher

Rachel Stevenson, a teacher with a knack for athletics, shares her journey into education and her experiences in teaching and coaching. She offers her insights on parenting as an educator. Rachel talks about her teaching philosophy, highlighting the importance of forming connections with students. The conversation also touches on her personal interests, like her favorite drinks and her dedication to fitness. Rachel reflects on how technology is impacting education and the balance between personal growth and family life. This episode offers a glimpse into Rachel's life and career.

 

 

Nisarg Shah, Head of TPM at Google

Nisarg Shah recounts his journey from India to the U.S. in 2006 for his master’s degree. He discusses the influence of education and family values on his career, his experiences in the tech industry, and the importance of a positive inner circle. He shares his interest in staying abreast with AI technologies and discusses how AI can improve human lives. He also talks about the importance of focusing inward and on well-being after facing challenges at his recent role. The episode covers themes of discipline, personal and professional growth, the impact of one’s social circle, and experiences at companies like Amazon, Facebook and Google.

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Lauren Jones, Founder of Leap Advisory Partners

Lauren Jones discusses her career shift from the staffing industry to entrepreneurship, her passion for technology, and her role in a collaborative book project. She reflects on the challenges of starting a business, the importance of human connections in job recruitment, and the influence of technology on the industry. LJ shares her personal growth, including her involvement in wildlife rehab and the importance of gratitude and giving back. The conversation touches on her partnership with another company, her decision to start a business later in life, and the joy and challenges of parenting.

 

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Click here to learn more about Leap Advisory Partners

Jamas LaFreniere, Technology Sales Executive

Jamas LaFreniere discusses his career trajectory from EMC to Dell, highlighting the cultural and operational changes post-acquisition. He reflects on the personal significance of working at EMC and being part of the largest tech merger of all time. Jamas also delves into the challenges of account management and the impact of COVID-19 on sales dynamics, noting the shift to virtual meetings and the loss of in-person interactions. During the conversation, Jamas opens up about his daughter's rare disease, sharing how it has shaped his perspective on work-life balance and the importance of resilience.

 

Click here to connect with Jamas on LinkedIn

Click here to learn more about Sophie’s Hope Foundation

Tye Jordan, Regional Director at Cinch I.T.

Tye Jordan, Regional Director at Cinch I.T., shares his varied career path and how he balances being a business owner and father. He admires Plato's philosophy and reminisces about his first job as a paperboy. Tye discusses his journey from selling Magic: The Gathering Cards to vacuum cleaners before unintentionally becoming the go-to IT guy, leading to his current position. He highlights the value of hard work in hiring, community involvement, and personal growth through fitness challenges. Despite starting his business at the onset of the pandemic, Tye and his partner adapted and expanded their franchise nationwide. The episode delves into Tye's diverse career, community service, and the philosophy that guides his life.

 

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Click here to learn more about Cinch IT 

Melynda Gallagher, Co-Owner of Lost Shoe Brewery and Roasting Company

Melynda Gallagher, co-owner of Lost Shoe Brewing and Roasting Company, recounts her transition from corporate accounting to entrepreneurship. She discusses the challenges of starting the business, the balance between coffee and beer offerings, and the creation of a community-focused space. The conversation touches on the operational aspects of the brewery and roasting company, the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, and future plans for expansion. This episode concludes with insights into maintaining quality and the passion behind running a successful business.

 

Click here to check Lost Shoe Brewery and Roasting Company out

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Luiz DaCosta, Owner of Modular Concepts

Luiz DaCosta shares his journey from Brazil to the US, detailing his transition from early work in healthcare to launching a successful cleaning business amidst economic adversity. He emphasizes the importance of valuing employees, building customer relationships, and the role of family in business. Luiz also discusses the challenges of labor shortages and his commitment to community impact. The conversation concludes with Luiz expressing his desire to be recognized for his professional contributions, not his ethnicity, echoing sentiments of fairness and merit in business.

 

Click here to connect with Luiz on LinkedIn

Meredith Guerrero, CEO of Colorado Longitudinal Study

Meredith Guerrero, CEO of the Colorado Longitudinal Study, discusses her career pivot and the transformative experience of studying abroad. She shares her journey from marketing to leading a nonprofit focused on health research, emphasizing her desire for a stronger social purpose in her work. With her fearless choice to turn down her dream job at Prada, she exemplifies a maverick who follows the beat of her own heart. It's a testament to following one's passion and the rewards of aligning with personal values.

 

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Click here to learn more about Colorado Longitudinal Study

Lou Holcomb, Head of Contingent Workforce at UKG

Host Mark interviews Lou Holcomb, head of contingent workforce at UKG. They discuss Lou's career journey from the army to HR, her experiences with burnout, and the importance of authenticity and personal well-being. Lou shares insights on leadership, the transition to remote work, and the value of mentorship. She emphasizes the need for empathy in leadership, continuous personal and professional improvement, and the importance of transparent communication. The conversation also touches on dealing with failure and the difference between management and leadership!

 

Click here to connect with Lou on LinkedIn.

Nick DiBlasi, Senior Manager at ServiceNow

In this episode of Beers and Careers, host Mark Agostinelli interviews Nick DiBlasi, Senior Manager at ServiceNow. They discuss Nick's career journey from a criminal justice major to sales enablement, his role at ServiceNow, and the importance of mentorship and self-discovery. Nick shares his experiences in various jobs, the influence of sports and fitness on his career, and his transition to ServiceNow. The conversation also covers the parallels between coaching and business, the value of competitiveness and being driven, and the importance of stepping out of one's comfort zone.

 

Click here to connect with Nick on LinkedIn