No Boxes: Just Verses

Shannon Nash
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No Boxes: Just Verses is where inspiring leaders reveal the songs and stories that shaped their journey. Join host Shannon Nash, a global C-suite leader, attorney, and CPA, as she goes beyond titles and trophies to explore the moments that truly defined today's top executives, entrepreneurs, and artists. Each episode is a deep dive into a guest's personal "Leadership Playlist," uncovering the pivotal lessons and life-changing moments tied to the music that moved them. From career breakthroughs to personal reinvention, we explore the authentic, unboxed stories behind extraordinary success. This isn't your typical leadership podcast. It's a rich blend of leadership development, personal storytelling, and musical discovery. Whether you're an aspiring leader, a seasoned executive, or simply a music lover, you'll find powerful insights and a vibrant community here. Come for the stories, stay for the playlist. Subscribe now and join us as we redefine leadership, one verse at a time.

  1. Mary Stutts on Foster Care, Roots in TV and Public Affairs, a Pivot to Healthcare, and Building a Legacy in Healthcare at Genentech, Kaiser, Stanford, and UnitedHealth Group, and Now CEO of the Healthcare Businesswomen’s Association

    21 HR AGO

    Mary Stutts on Foster Care, Roots in TV and Public Affairs, a Pivot to Healthcare, and Building a Legacy in Healthcare at Genentech, Kaiser, Stanford, and UnitedHealth Group, and Now CEO of the Healthcare Businesswomen’s Association

    This special edition of No Boxes, Just Verses is part of a series featuring leaders from the Iconic Women Awards. These awards are powered by the Recharge Group, a community founded by Dr. Mark Spencer to bring together accomplished professionals from diverse backgrounds to connect, grow, and truly flourish. In this episode, Shannon Nash sits down with her personal shero, Mary Stutts, to discuss a journey defined by ordered steps, radical resilience, and the power of influence. Mary Stutts is a CEO, board member, author of 5 books and a spiritual innovator with a 25-year track record of achieving business and executive transformations through influence, acumen and expertise. She has been called one of the most powerful and engaging leaders and speakers who "gives love from the stage". Her style of humor and masterful storytelling keeps men, women and youth inspired and longing for more as she shares practical and scriptural examples of overcoming life's obstacles to achieve your personal and career goals. Stutts has provided global leadership to Fortune 500 companies including Genentech, BMS, Bayer, UnitedHealth Group and Comcast NBC Universal as well as Kaiser Permanente and Stanford Health Care. She has led the HBA's strategic and global expansion across the health ecosystem to include closing the women’s health gap, preparing the global future workforce pipeline, funding women innovators and accelerating HBA’s programs beyond the US and Europe to the Asia Pacific, Latin America, the Middle East and Africa. Stutts has earned a Master of Health Administration from USC and completed the Executive Program on Strategy and Organization from the Stanford Graduate School of Business. Key Takeaways: The Resilience of a Foster ChildThe Power of the VoicePivoting in the Face of RacismA Healthcare AwakeningThe Role of a SponsorBecoming a Corporate "Fixer"The Calling to HBAFaith as a Mantra Thank you for listening! If you enjoyed this episode, please follow, rate, and review the podcast!  CONNECT WITH MARY STUTTS: LinkedIn Instagram Facebook Website HBA Website The Missing Mentor (Amazon) Recurring Themes of Exclusion in the Workplace (Amazon) Power Connections (Amazon) Power to Transform: Radical Decrees (Amazon)  10 Keys to Overcoming Disappointment (Amazon)  CONNECT WITH SHANNON: Facebook Instagram LinkedIn Shannon | LinkedIn NBJV Theme Song: No Boxes Just Verses by Thane Kreiner (Suno)

    1hr 3min
  2. Tonya Pitts on St. Louis Roots and Law Aspirations to Becoming a Trailblazing Sommelier, Wine Director, and James Beard Finalist

    4 DAYS AGO

    Tonya Pitts on St. Louis Roots and Law Aspirations to Becoming a Trailblazing Sommelier, Wine Director, and James Beard Finalist

    In this special edition of No Boxes, Just Verses, powered by the Recharge Group, Shannon Nash sits down with Dame Tonya Pitts—a 2025 James Beard semi-finalist and a force of change in the wine industry. Tonya shares the specific moments that shaped her career, moving from a pre-law track in St. Louis to becoming an esteemed sommelier in San Francisco. Tonya Pitts is a pioneering wine professional and leader in diversity and inclusion across the hospitality and media industries. With over three decades of experience in the Bay Area, she has served as an esteemed sommelier and wine director, notably at One Market Restaurant. Her career is marked by a dedication to mentoring and advancing others through national programs like Women in Wine and the United Sommelier Foundation. In 2022, she was honored as Wine Enthusiast’s Wine Director of the Year and received the Hue Society’s Legends Award. Recently, she was nominated as a 2025 James Beard semi-finalist for Outstanding Beverage Professional. Her influential career is also featured in the university textbook, Wine Conversations. Currently, Tonya serves as a Writer-At-Large and Wine Reviewer for Wine Enthusiast Magazine. She continues to shape the industry through her own firm, Tonya Pitts Consulting. Key Takeaways: Foundation in Resilience: Tonya discusses how growing up in St. Louis and the early loss of her father forged her drive for justice and a strong work ethic.The Power of the Pivot: After a full ride to St. Louis University for pre-law, Tonya listened to her creative instincts and transitioned to art and wine in California.Rejecting the "Foot Soldier" Label: Rather than being a "foot soldier" who only executes tasks, Tonya views her career as a tree with many branches, encompassing consulting, writing, and winemaking.Hospitality as Memory-Making: Tonya views a restaurant as a home where professionals create lasting bonds and memories for their guests.Honoring the Ancestors: Tonya recounts the story of her light on the San Francisco Bay Bridge, which she dedicated to the elders who cleared the path for her success. Wine Recommendations from a Master Red: Bold Syrah from the Sierra Foothills in California.White: Marsanne, Roussanne, Sauvignon Blanc, or Chenin Blanc.Advice on Chardonnay: It isn't always oaky or buttery; try a dry Chardonnay for a Burgundy-style experience without the high cost.Bubbly: Blanc de Blancs (100% Chardonnay) or the Violet’s Paradise project.Tonya’s life soundtrack is a mix of high-energy soul and resilient anthems that mirror her professional journey. Thank you for listening! If you enjoyed this episode, please follow, rate, and review the podcast!  Connect with Dame Tonya Pitts Instagram LinkedIn Website Playlist CONNECT WITH SHANNON: Facebook Instagram LinkedIn Shannon | LinkedIn NBJV Theme Song: No Boxes Just Verses by Thane Kreiner (Suno)

    51 min
  3. Dr. Nicole Barnett on Ohio and Nursing Roots, a Passion for Global Health Justice, Healthcare Leadership at Kaiser Permanente, and advancing health equity as CEO of Planned Parenthood Northern California

    17 APR

    Dr. Nicole Barnett on Ohio and Nursing Roots, a Passion for Global Health Justice, Healthcare Leadership at Kaiser Permanente, and advancing health equity as CEO of Planned Parenthood Northern California

    Many leaders believe they have to choose between clinical expertise and executive leadership. Dr. Nicole Barnett proves that the most effective leaders are those who stay grounded in their mission while navigating high-stakes organizational challenges. In this episode of No Boxes, Just Verses, we explore how Dr. Barnett transitioned from a career in nursing to leading large-scale medical centers and eventually serving as the President and CEO of Planned Parenthood Northern California.  Dr. Nicole Barnett is a nationally recognized healthcare executive with a career spanning clinical practice, innovation, health equity and nursing education. At Kaiser Permanente she held executive roles including Northern California Regional Director of Nursing and Clinical Practice where she lead pandemic response while ensuring an equitable and culturally sensitive approach to vaccine hesitancy. In her role as COO/CNE at the Richmond Medical Center, she drove performance through innovation while expanding the reach of the medical center through strategic community partnerships and outreach to mitigate health disparities. Her contributions have also included international health justice efforts in Zambia, resulting in the establishment of the first sexual assault response center at the Pediatric Teaching Hospital in Lusaka, as well as the first DNA laboratory. In 2025, she was selected as the President/CEO of Planned Parenthood Northern California where she provides steady strategic leadership of seventeen health centers across 20 counties, in the advancement of reproductive justice. Her awards include the Daisy Health Equity Award and the 2025 Women Healthcare Executives Woman of the Year award.  Key Takeaways: Resilience as a Leadership Tool: Dr. Barnett shares how she navigated massive organizational funding cuts by staying focused on the mission.The Power of Faith: Leadership requires a foundation that allows you to say, "it is still a happy day," even during the toughest challenges.Health Equity is Personal: True equity involves understanding a patient's lived experience and removing the specific barriers they face in getting care.Community and "Angels": No leader succeeds alone; support often shows up in unexpected ways when you are doing work that matters.The "Setup" for the Fight: Career challenges are often the preparation for the mission-driven work you were meant to do.Dr. Barnett reminds us that the fight for equity is not just a professional goal—it is a calling. How are you using your own platform to raise your voice for those who need it most?  Thank you for listening! If you enjoyed this episode, please follow, rate, and review the podcast!  CONNECT WITH DR. NICOLE BARNETT: LinkedIn Playlist LINKS MENTIONED: Northern California Planned Parenthood CONNECT WITH SHANNON: Facebook Instagram LinkedIn Shannon | LinkedIn NBJV Theme Song: No Boxes Just Verses by Thane Kreiner (Suno)

    51 min
  4. Evita Grant on Ghanaian Roots, MIT, Harvard JD and PhD, Wilson Sonsini, and Founding TechHustle at the Intersection of Science, Law, and Technology

    15 APR

    Evita Grant on Ghanaian Roots, MIT, Harvard JD and PhD, Wilson Sonsini, and Founding TechHustle at the Intersection of Science, Law, and Technology

    Many professionals feel they must stay in one lane for their whole career. You might think that once you pick a field like engineering or law, you are stuck there forever. In this episode of No Boxes, Just Verses, Evita Grant shows you how to move between very different worlds while keeping your eye on the goal. We examine how a foundation in science and law can lead to a future as a tech CEO. Evita Grant is a multidisciplinary professional whose career spans chemical engineering, medical research, law, and technology entrepreneurship. Across each chapter, she has built a unique perspective at the intersection of science, systems, and society, applying both technical and legal expertise to solve complex, real-world problems. Guided by a north star of contributing to the development of Africa and the African diaspora, her work focuses on expanding access, opportunity, and infrastructure in underserved markets. Whether in the lab, in legal practice, or building technology platforms, Evita’s journey reflects a consistent commitment to creating systems that enable people to thrive. Key Takeaways: Science provides a base for solving any problem. Evita uses her background in chemical engineering to think through complex business challenges.Education is a tool for change. Moving from Ghana to attend MIT and Harvard helped her adapt to new environments and social settings.Law and tech work together. Her legal training helps her manage the complicated rules of starting and running a technology firm.Diverse skills make you a better leader. Having a background in many different fields allows you to see connections that others might miss.Identity is not tied to one job title. You can change your career path and still stay true to the mission you started with.Evita reminds us that our skills are portable across any industry. How can you use your current experience to find a new opportunity in a field you care about? Thank you for listening! If you enjoyed this episode, please follow, rate, and review the podcast!  CONNECT WITH EVITA GRANT: LinkedIn Playlist CONNECT WITH SHANNON: Facebook Instagram LinkedIn Shannon | LinkedIn NBJV Theme Song: No Boxes Just Verses by Thane Kreiner (Suno)

    1 hr
  5. Tanneasha Gordon on New York Roots, a Career in Management Consulting, Making Partner at Deloitte, Leading in Cyber, Risk, and AI Governance, and Becoming a Sci-Fi Author

    13 APR

    Tanneasha Gordon on New York Roots, a Career in Management Consulting, Making Partner at Deloitte, Leading in Cyber, Risk, and AI Governance, and Becoming a Sci-Fi Author

    Many leaders struggle to find their voice when moving between different worlds—whether transitioning from law to management consulting or navigating life as a first-generation American. In this episode of No Boxes, Just Verses, Tanneasha Gordon shares how she built a career at the intersection of cyber leadership and human-centered systems. We explore the resilience required to manage emerging digital threats while staying grounded in personal faith and identity. Tanneasha Gordon is a nationally recognized cyber leader known for helping organizations navigate complex risk landscapes while building resilient, human-centered systems. With more than 19 years of consulting experience, Tanneasha advises global executives and boards on managing emerging threats, strengthening governance, and embedding trust into digital products and transformation. Her work sits at the intersection of technology, policy, and societal impact, where she has led complex enterprise transformations, shaped responsible AI and digital trust strategies, and helped organizations translate evolving regulatory expectations into durable solutions that drive growth, reduce risk, and ensure compliance. She’s a bestselling author, sought-after speaker, and trusted advisor, and serves on the Leadership Council of Tipping Point Community; she is an avid traveler and lover of all things sci-fi (currently writing a sci-fi novel). Key Takeaways: Pivoting with Purpose: Success often requires the courage to move from a traditional field like law into the fast-paced world of digital threat management.The Power of Human-Centered Systems: Technical governance is most effective when it prioritizes human trust and the safety of the individuals behind the data.Resilience through Personal Setbacks: Overcoming significant life challenges provides the foundation for purpose-driven leadership and high-stakes decision-making.Identity as a Leadership Asset: Embracing your history as a first-generation American allows you to bridge different perspectives and build more inclusive teams.Faith and Timing: Maintaining a sense of purpose involves recognizing that growth often happens on its own timeline, requiring both action and patience.Tanneasha reminds us that the most complex technical problems often require a deeply human solution. How are you using your unique history to build trust in your own professional circles? Thank you for listening! If you enjoyed this episode, please follow, rate, and review the podcast!  CONNECT WITH TANNEASHA GORDON: LinkedIn Playlist CONNECT WITH SHANNON: Facebook Instagram LinkedIn Shannon | LinkedIn NBJV Theme Song: No Boxes Just Verses by Thane Kreiner (Suno)

    54 min
  6. Bryan Neider on a Journey of Grit and Resilience from CPA Roots and Public Accounting to Building a Global Career at Electronic Arts, Rising to COO, and His Next Act as CEO of AbilityPath

    6 APR

    Bryan Neider on a Journey of Grit and Resilience from CPA Roots and Public Accounting to Building a Global Career at Electronic Arts, Rising to COO, and His Next Act as CEO of AbilityPath

    Many leaders reach the peak of their corporate career only to find themselves asking what comes next beyond the bottom line. In this episode of No Boxes, Just Verses, Bryan Neider shares how he bridged the gap between scaling a global tech giant and leading a century-old nonprofit. We explore how to navigate high-pressure transitions while staying grounded in personal values and community impact. Bryan Neider's career spans 35 years in technology and finance, including 26 years at Electronic Arts, where he served as COO of EA's global development organization, overseeing software development and new technology as the company grew from $63 million to over $8 billion in revenue. Bryan brings this deep tech foundation to his current work, holding advanced AI certifications from Vanderbilt University, Stanford University, and Harvard, and is passionate about leveraging innovation for social good. For the past decade, Bryan has served as CEO of AbilityPath, a 105-year-old organization empowering children and adults with developmental disabilities across five Bay Area counties. Under his leadership, AbilityPath completed five strategic mergers and doubled the number of individuals served — now reaching over 1,500 people every week across 15 locations. He serves as Board Chair of Thrive Alliance of Nonprofits of San Mateo County and Board Chair of the Santa Clara University Board of Regents, and is a recipient of the Distinguished Alumni Award from CSU East Bay. Key Takeaways: Integrity builds a safety net during crises.Career aths are rarely linear.Vulnerability is a leadership strength. Technology can restore the human element of care. Inclusive employment benefits the entire organization.Bryan reminds us that everyone has a valuable contribution to make when they are treated with dignity and respect. How can you use your specific professional skills to support a cause you care about? Thank you for listening! If you enjoyed this episode, please follow, rate, and review the podcast!  CONNECT WITH BRYAN NEIDER: AbilityPath LinkedIn TEAMS Newsletter Playlist CONNECT WITH SHANNON: Facebook Instagram LinkedIn Shannon | LinkedIn NBJV Theme Song: No Boxes Just Verses by Thane Kreiner (Suno)

    54 min
  7. Rod Cotton on Overcoming Cancer and Career Setbacks, Healthcare Leadership at Roche, GlaxoSmithKline, and Baxter, and Driving Impact in the Boardroom

    30 MAR

    Rod Cotton on Overcoming Cancer and Career Setbacks, Healthcare Leadership at Roche, GlaxoSmithKline, and Baxter, and Driving Impact in the Boardroom

    How do you transition from a South Central bus program to the C-suite of a global healthcare giant, then survive a major health battle to find a new purpose? In this episode of No Boxes, Just Verses, I sit down with my dear friend Rod Cotton. Rod shares his path of grit and strategy as he moves from the back alley to the boardroom. We discuss the reality of career setbacks, the power of a clear identity, and how he now builds a legacy of impact in Indiana and across the healthcare industry. Rod Cotton is a dynamic leader, board member, and venture partner, serving as the CEO of Cotton Ventures, LLC. With over four decades of executive experience, Rod has empowered startups and established organizations to scale, transform culture, and meet investor expectations. His expertise spans healthcare delivery, innovation, equity, and leadership, and he is a frequent keynote speaker for Fortune 500 companies, non-profits, and universities. Rod’s board and advisory roles include Castle Biosciences (Nasdaq: CSTL), Eisai Pharmaceuticals, Moleculera Biosciences, General Genomics, and Community Health Network, where he champions strategic growth and governance in biotech and health tech sectors. Rod’s career is distinguished by leadership roles at Roche Diagnostics, GlaxoSmithKline, and Baxter International, and he continues to advise CEOs and executive teams in VC-backed healthcare startups. Recognized with honors such as The Sagamore of the Wabash and named among the Most Influential Corporate Directors and Black Executives by Savoy Magazine, Rod is committed to advancing innovation, diversity, and excellence in healthcare. He holds an M.B.A. from California State University, Dominguez Hills, an M.S. in Strategic Management from USC, dual B.A. degrees from UC Santa Barbara, with additional executive training from Harvard and Stanford. Key Takeaways:  The Chameleon Effect: Rod reflects on his youth and how a busing program taught him to move between different social environments with confidence. The Power of No: He explains why he rejected a family legacy in medicine to find the golden time of his own career in business. The Respect Standard: Rod shares his experience as a young VP and his method to command respect when skeptical colleagues challenge his presence. The Strategic Rebuild: He details his two-year layoff during the dot-com burst and the grit he used to transform from a sales leader into a world-class strategist. The Choice for Impact: We discuss his cancer survival and his commitment to philanthropy, board service, and the mentorship of the next generation.Rod’s story provides a vivid example that your start does not dictate your finish. If you face a mountain in your career or health, this episode offers a blueprint to look up and get up. Thank you for listening! If you enjoyed this episode, please follow, rate, and review the podcast! CONNECT WITH ROD COTTON: Website LinkedIn Playlist CONNECT WITH SHANNON: Facebook Instagram LinkedIn Shannon | LinkedIn NBJV Theme Song: No Boxes Just Verses by Thane Kreiner (Suno)

    54 min
  8. Dolores Robinson [Part 2]: From Small Town America to Becoming a Trailblazing Hollywood Talent Manager, Guiding Iconic Careers, and Building a Lasting Legacy

    25 MAR

    Dolores Robinson [Part 2]: From Small Town America to Becoming a Trailblazing Hollywood Talent Manager, Guiding Iconic Careers, and Building a Lasting Legacy

    How does a receptionist in a talent agency become the first Black female manager in film and television? In the conclusion of our talk with Dolores Robinson, we explore the rise of a powerhouse who refuses to accept the boxes of the entertainment industry. She packs her children into a station wagon, drives toward the Pacific Ocean, and builds an iconic legacy on her own terms. About Our Guest: Dolores Robinson Dolores Robinson is a legendary talent manager and producer. She founds her own firm in 1976 and guides the careers of icons such as Martin Sheen, Wesley Snipes, and Mark Wahlberg. Today, she resides in California, where she remains a producer and a Hall of Famer. Her life serves as a masterclass in the no boxes mindset. She continues to build her legacy through community work and health advocacy. Key Takeaways From This Episode: Define Your Path: Dolores argues with her agency over the career path of LaVar Burton. She quits her job to found her own firm and secures him as her first client.Reject Narrow Limits: Industry leaders expect her to manage only Black talent. She rejects this limit and manages white stars to gain the leverage required to succeed in the industry.Utilize Proximity: She meets icons like Martin Sheen while she shops for food on the California coast. She uses these organic encounters to build a massive network of Hollywood legends.Accept Industry Cycles: Managers often face rejection when stars reach the top of their careers. She accepts that clients eventually part ways and refuses to let it disturb her peace.Prioritize Radical Health: At nearly 90 years old, she takes no medications and walks 5,000 steps a day. She treats her body with respect to ensure she lives a long, vibrant life.Celebrate Love: In her current chapter, she acts as an officiant for weddings. She uses her platform to lift others and celebrate the strength of community. CONNECT WITH DOLORES ROBINSON: Instagram Playlist CONNECT WITH SHANNON: Facebook Instagram LinkedIn Shannon | LinkedIn NBJV Theme Song: No Boxes Just Verses by Thane Kreiner (Suno)

    47 min
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About

No Boxes: Just Verses is where inspiring leaders reveal the songs and stories that shaped their journey. Join host Shannon Nash, a global C-suite leader, attorney, and CPA, as she goes beyond titles and trophies to explore the moments that truly defined today's top executives, entrepreneurs, and artists. Each episode is a deep dive into a guest's personal "Leadership Playlist," uncovering the pivotal lessons and life-changing moments tied to the music that moved them. From career breakthroughs to personal reinvention, we explore the authentic, unboxed stories behind extraordinary success. This isn't your typical leadership podcast. It's a rich blend of leadership development, personal storytelling, and musical discovery. Whether you're an aspiring leader, a seasoned executive, or simply a music lover, you'll find powerful insights and a vibrant community here. Come for the stories, stay for the playlist. Subscribe now and join us as we redefine leadership, one verse at a time.

Information

  • Creator
    Shannon Nash
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    57
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2026 No Boxes: Just Verses
  • Show Website
    No Boxes: Just Verses

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