The Wholly Fractional Podcast

Andrew Graft
  • 5.0 (3)
  • CAREERS
  • UPDATED DAILY

Fractional work is changing the game, and the Wholly Fractional Podcast is here to guide you through this exciting new frontier. Whether you're a seasoned fractional pro, just starting your journey, or curious about what it all means, this podcast delivers real stories, expert advice, and unfiltered truths about thriving in a fractional world. Hosted by Andrew Graft, each episode features candid conversations with experts from within and beyond the fractional space. Together, we'll tackle questions like: What exactly is a fractional employee, and why is this model booming? How can you set up your business for success without traditional full-time benefits? What are the must-have tools and strategies to build a sustainable fractional career? Expect stories of spectacular wins, head-shaking mishaps, and lessons learned from the fractionals who've paved the way. No fluff, no corporate jargon—just the tips, shortcuts, and real-world insights you need to become the best version of your fractional self. With an authentic, relaxed, and fun tone that refuses to take itself too seriously, Wholly Fractional is your go-to resource for navigating the future of work. Your fractional future starts here!

  1. A Technologist's Perspective on AI, the Workforce, and What Comes Next with Alex Rasmussen

    09/03/2025

    A Technologist's Perspective on AI, the Workforce, and What Comes Next with Alex Rasmussen

    As AI continues to evolve, so does the fear that it might replace entire professions. But what if the real story is more nuanced...and more hopefull? In this episode of Wholly Fractional: the Podcast, host Andrew Graft speaks with Alex Rasmussen, a veteran data systems consultant and founder of Bits on Disk, to unpack what AI is actually capable of today, what's being overstated, and how it fits into the long arc of technological progress. Alex brings two decades of experience in infrastructure and distributed systems, along with a gift for making complex ideas surprisingly understandable. While the conversation leans toward software and tech, the implications are far-reaching, especially for professionals navigating a fast-changing future of work. Together, they explore: What AI does well (and where it still falls short) Why thoughtful skepticism is more useful than hype or fear How today's tools fit into a broader history of innovation Why the human element remains essential -- even in a world of automation Whether you're in tech or not, this episode offers clarity and perspective in a time of rapid change.

    41 min
  2. Who's Taking Care of Mom and Dad with Alan Ormsby

    08/20/2025

    Who's Taking Care of Mom and Dad with Alan Ormsby

    In this episode of Wholly Fractional, Andrew sits down with AARP Utah State Director, Alan Ormsby, to tackle an issue that affects nearly every working-age American: caregiving. Whether you're already in the role or haven't yet thought of yourself as a caregiver, this conversation will open your eyes to what's ahead, and how to prepare. Alan shares his personal story of how his grandfather's experience with fraud led him to dedicate his career to protecting and advocating for vulnerable adults. He explains the mission of AARP, the crucial role of state-level advocacy, and why recognizing yourself as a caregiver is the first step toward easing the journey. Key Moments & Insights: Why caregiving often begins before you realize it, and why you should identify as a caregiver early The demographic reality of Baby Boomers, Gen X, and Millennials, and how it will shape the caregiving landscape Essential planning steps to avoid family crisis moments Why household safety and fall prevention are among the most critical (and overlooked) issues for aging loved ones The rising threat of fraud, how scammers target older adults, and practical tips to protect your family Resources you can access immediately, from AARP's guides to local Area Agencies on Aging Alan reminds us that while caregiving can be overwhelming, it is also an opportunity to deepen bonds and find unexpected joy in helping those we love.

    44 min
  3. Getting Out of Your Own Way (and Why That's the Real Work) with KC Hildreth

    08/06/2025

    Getting Out of Your Own Way (and Why That's the Real Work) with KC Hildreth

    What does it really mean to grow — as a leader, a solopreneur, or just a human trying to do meaningful work?This week's guest, KC Hildreth, has navigated that question across a career that spans founder, CEO, CTO, consultant, and investor. But today, he brings those lessons to bear as an executive coach working with high-achievers at a crossroads.In this episode, KC joins host Andrew Graft for a deeply honest conversation about: How success can quietly become its own trap Why burnout isn't failure, it's feedback What fear actually is (hint: not a thought) How to shift from tension into presence, and why that's where confidence lives. This isn't an episode full of hacks or hustle. It's a reminder of something more essential: that the hardest work we do often starts with getting out of our own way.

    36 min
  4. Building Community for Fractional HR Leaders with Elles Skony

    07/23/2025

    Building Community for Fractional HR Leaders with Elles Skony

    This week on Wholly Fractional: the Podcast, we're joined by Elles Skony — fractional Chief People Officer and founder of Fractional People People, a thriving Slack-based community for HR solopreneurs.   What started as a small peer group has grown into a trusted space for 600+ experienced HR professionals navigating fractional work, business building and the realities of solopreneurship.In this episode, we explore:   - Why so many HR leaders are moving toward fractional roles  - How FPP became "the coworkers you wish you had" - What HR and community-building have in common - How values like abundance and joy guide the community culture - The mindset shift from in-house identity to independent brand   Elles shares candid insights from her own career, including the moment she transitioned herself out of a Chief People Officer role and into her first fractional engagement.   Whether you're in HR or simply curious about what community looks like in the world of solopreneurism, this episode offers a thoughtful look from a gifted connector & fractional visionary.

    35 min
  5. How We Got Here and Where We're Going on The Wholly Fractional Podcast with Andrew Graft and Todd Hines

    07/09/2025

    How We Got Here and Where We're Going on The Wholly Fractional Podcast with Andrew Graft and Todd Hines

    In our milestone 10th episode, co-hosts Andrew Graft and Todd Hines pull back the curtain on what it really took to get Holy Fractional off the ground, and why this show matters to the growing community of fractional professionals. From heartfelt reflections and early lessons to guest recaps and bold aspirations, this episode is part celebration, part strategy, and all heart. Watch as we highlight standout moments from past guests, share our learnings from launching this show, and talk openly about everything from impostor syndrome to the future of work. If you're building your own fractional career, this one's for you. Thanks to our founding cohort of guest speakers: Mark Jackson – Founder of Besolo Dipti Patel – Fractional product executive and coach Sal Imami – Fractional Chief Revenue Officer Drew Burdick – Founder of StealthX Fatima Alam – M&A consultant, investment banker, coach Kurt Rudsinski – Fractional team builder and coach Heather Leek – Fractional business adviser Meg Niman – Coach focused on overcoming impostor syndrome From redefining leadership to navigating imposter syndrome, each guest has brought something unique to the table -- the kind of immeasurable value and insight we could only hope for when we started down this "fractional" path. So whether you're a loyal listener or just now discovering Wholly Fractional, this episode is a great way to catch the essence of the series. And to our amazing and talented guests: thank you. You are -- and will always be -- the heart of our show.

    1 hr
  6. Meg Niman, Success Coach → A Fractional Look at Ditching Your Doubts and Overcoming Imposter Syndrome

    06/16/2025

    Meg Niman, Success Coach → A Fractional Look at Ditching Your Doubts and Overcoming Imposter Syndrome

    What does it really take to move forward when self-doubt is screaming in your ear? This week, I sat down with Meg Niman — a creative director turned solopreneur, coach, and fractional brand strategist — to unpack one of the most common (and under-discussed) realities of working for yourself: imposter syndrome. Meg brings a rare blend of honesty, warmth, and strategic insight to this conversation. We explore the concept of microrisks — small, intentional actions that help build momentum even when confidence feels elusive. We talk about noticing as a mindfulness practice that sharpens creativity and builds emotional resilience. And we dig into how solopreneurs can redefine success not by external metrics, but by alignment, fulfillment, and joy. One of the most meaningful takeaways? That self-doubt doesn't just ask us to be patient with our insecurities — it invites us to reclaim the track record we've already built. To remember what we've already done. Meg reminds us that stepping forward sometimes means simply owning our strength. We also explore the three types of imposter syndrome Meg sees most often in solo professionals — and how to move through them with grace. Check out these free resources from Meg: Imposter Syndrome from Niman Design microRISK Method from Niman Design

    50 min
  7. Stop Underpricing Yourself and Build Your Fractional Career with Fatima Alam

    05/28/2025

    Stop Underpricing Yourself and Build Your Fractional Career with Fatima Alam

    What happens when you stop undervaluing yourself and start taking strategic career risks? Andrew sits down with Fatima Alam, Executive Director at Woodside Capital Partners and President at Chrysalis Labs. Fatima's unconventional path—from self-taught engineer to investment banker—offers a masterclass in career pivots and personal branding. You'll Learn: Why "knowing your superpowers" is more valuable than any degree or certification The exact pricing mistakes that kill fractional businesses (and how to avoid them) Two proven strategies to overcome imposter syndrome, even in prestigious environments How to handle "pick your brain" requests without giving away free expertise Why taking strategic career pauses can accelerate your success Key Takeaways: Don't negotiate down your prices—if they don't see your value, they won't value your outcomes The "Questions Strategy" for protecting your expertise from free advice seekers How to build an "alter ego" to push through limiting beliefs Why being kind to yourself is the foundation of professional success Whether you're considering fractional work, struggling with pricing, or battling imposter syndrome, Fatima's insights will help you recognize your worth and command it in the marketplace. Contact Fatima on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/thefalam/

    46 min
  8. Redefining Success: Leadership, Culture, and What Really Matters with Kurt Rudsinski

    05/14/2025

    Redefining Success: Leadership, Culture, and What Really Matters with Kurt Rudsinski

    In this episode of Wholly Fractional, we sit down with Kurt Rudsinski — an experienced business strategist, leadership coach, and founder of Kurtis Coaching & Consulting — for an honest conversation about what it really means to build a successful business. Kurt shares how he's spent his career helping leaders understand that sustainable growth comes from developing people first. From his early days as a company builder to his evolution as a coach, Kurt's insights center on the intersection of leadership, culture, and values. We explore how aligning leadership with a company's mission and values doesn't just improve retention — it transforms organizations from the inside out. Our conversation covers a wide range of topics: coaching, mentorship, faith, family, legacy, and the very personal motivations that drive our work as fractionals and solopreneurs. Kurt opens up about his own journey of figuring out what matters most, how he measures success, and why giving back has become such an essential part of his story. Whether you're a fractional leader, a founder navigating growth, or someone wrestling with the deeper "why" behind your business, this episode is a reminder that success isn't just about the bottom line. It's about the impact we have on others — and the leaders we empower along the way. Tune in for a thoughtful, heartfelt look at leadership, business, and the joy of helping others thrive.

    30 min
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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
3 Ratings

About

Fractional work is changing the game, and the Wholly Fractional Podcast is here to guide you through this exciting new frontier. Whether you're a seasoned fractional pro, just starting your journey, or curious about what it all means, this podcast delivers real stories, expert advice, and unfiltered truths about thriving in a fractional world. Hosted by Andrew Graft, each episode features candid conversations with experts from within and beyond the fractional space. Together, we'll tackle questions like: What exactly is a fractional employee, and why is this model booming? How can you set up your business for success without traditional full-time benefits? What are the must-have tools and strategies to build a sustainable fractional career? Expect stories of spectacular wins, head-shaking mishaps, and lessons learned from the fractionals who've paved the way. No fluff, no corporate jargon—just the tips, shortcuts, and real-world insights you need to become the best version of your fractional self. With an authentic, relaxed, and fun tone that refuses to take itself too seriously, Wholly Fractional is your go-to resource for navigating the future of work. Your fractional future starts here!

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