Candid With Candidates

Jenn Hahn
  • 5.0 (23)
  • Careers

If you’ve ever wondered how people actually build careers inside major organizations, not just what they post on LinkedIn, this podcast is for you. Candid with Candidates is hosted by Jenn Hahn, founder and CEO of J Recruiting Services, a national recruitment firm specializing in retail, wholesale, and distribution.  In each episode, Jenn sits down with corporate leaders, from CMOs and senior executives to rising directors, to talk through the real decisions, setbacks, and moments that shaped their careers. This isn’t a highlight reel. These are thoughtful, honest conversations about what it takes to grow inside the corporate world, and how the people leading those organizations actually got there. Whether you’re just starting out, managing a team, or already established in your career, you’ll hear stories that help you feel informed, encouraged, and more connected to your own professional path. This podcast also serves as a space for leaders to share their perspectives and showcase their organizations, making it a valuable tool for both talent attraction and industry insight. What you’ll learn from each episode: -  How real people move from entry-level to executive roles -  What leadership looks like behind the scenes -  The soft skills and mindset shifts that matter most -  How companies grow and retain top talent -  Honest advice from people who’ve done the work New episodes drop every second Tuesday, starting June 3rd.  Make sure to follow Candid with Candidates wherever you get your podcasts, and get ready to hear the stories that don’t make it to the company bio.

  1. Aug 4

    From Walmart to the Arizona Cardinals: Shaun Mayo on Building Teams, Careers, and Modern HR

    What does it take to build a successful executive career across industries—and ultimately become Chief People Officer for an NFL organization? In this episode of Candid with Candidates, Jenn Hahn speaks with Shaun Mayo, Chief People Officer for the Arizona Cardinals, about his career journey from leading human resources initiatives in major retail organizations to overseeing people strategy for one of the NFL's most recognized franchises. Drawing on more than two decades of leadership experience, Shaun shares the principles that have guided his career and the lessons he's learned while helping organizations build stronger teams and more effective cultures. Throughout the conversation, Shaun explains how the role of Human Resources has evolved beyond administrative responsibilities into a strategic business function that drives organizational performance. He also reflects on his transition from retail to professional sports, discussing why transferable leadership skills, curiosity, and a strong understanding of business can create opportunities across industries. Throughout the episode, Shaun shares insights on: What the Chief People Officer role looks like within an NFL organizationWhy effective HR leaders must first understand the business they supportHow his experience in retail prepared him to lead people strategy in professional sportsThe leadership qualities he consistently looks for when hiring executivesWhy storytelling and authenticity can set candidates apart during interviewsLessons learned from leading organizational transformation and large-scale change initiativesThe importance of balancing policy with business objectivesHow professional communities and continuous learning contribute to long-term career successWhy curiosity, resilience, humility, and empathy remain essential leadership qualitiesShaun also offers practical advice for professionals pursuing executive leadership, emphasizing the importance of understanding your personal leadership style, communicating your value beyond your résumé, and approaching interviews as opportunities to demonstrate character, not just qualifications. He shares the interview framework that has helped him throughout his career and explains why the most successful candidates focus on helping organizations understand who they are as leaders. Whether you're an HR professional, business leader, hiring executive, or someone looking to advance your career, this episode provides practical leadership insights on navigating career transitions, building high-performing teams, and creating lasting organizational impact. 🎧 Listen now to learn how strategic leadership, authentic communication, and a people-first mindset can create opportunities across industries and prepare you for executive success. Guest Links: Connect with Shaun Mayo: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shaun-mayo-mba-sphr-a6b5b01b/ Arizona Cardinals: https://www.azcardinals.com/ National Society of Retail Professionals: https://retailprofessionalsociety.com/  Next Steps: Enjoyed the episode? Please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone building their career in retail. For more behind-the-scenes stories and career advice follow Jenn on LinkedIn

  2. Jul 21

    From Meat Cutter to Senior Vice President: Ralph Woodward on Leadership, Resilience, and Building a 43-Year Career

    What does it take to build a lasting leadership career in grocery retail—and continue growing through decades of industry change, organizational transformation, and evolving customer expectations? In this episode of Candid with Candidates, Jenn Hahn sits down with Ralph Woodward, Senior Vice President of Retail Operations, to discuss the leadership principles, career decisions, and defining experiences that have shaped his more than 43-year career in grocery retail. Beginning as a high school carryout clerk before advancing through store operations and executive leadership, Ralph shares the lessons that helped him navigate career transitions, organizational change, and some of the most challenging moments of his professional journey. Drawing from his experience leading multiple retail brands, Ralph offers practical insights into executive leadership, operational excellence, and the importance of building strong relationships throughout every stage of a career. Throughout the conversation, he discusses: What the role of Senior Vice President of Retail Operations looks like on a day-to-day basisWhy adopting an ownership mindset leads to stronger decision-making and accountabilityThe leadership lessons he learned from receiving difficult feedback early in his executive careerHow leading through bankruptcy strengthened his resilience and leadership approachWhy successful leaders welcome constructive disagreement and encourage open communicationThe value of taking on unfamiliar roles to accelerate professional growthHow credibility is built through consistency, integrity, and delivering on commitmentsThe evolving role of technology, AI, and e-commerce in the future of grocery retailRalph also reflects on the relationships that have influenced his career—from mentors who challenged his thinking to the colleagues and communities he has served throughout Arizona. His perspective demonstrates that leadership is built through consistent actions, continuous learning, and a willingness to embrace both challenges and opportunities with humility and purpose. Whether you're an aspiring leader, an experienced retail professional, or someone looking to advance into executive leadership, this conversation offers practical guidance on developing resilience, leading through change, and building a career defined by trust, accountability, and long-term impact. 🎧 Listen now to gain practical leadership insights from more than four decades of executive experience in retail operations. Guest Links: Connect with Ralph Woodward: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ralph-woodward-6978871a/ Bashas': https://pty.bashas.com/  Next Steps: Enjoyed the episode? Please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone building their career in retail. For more behind-the-scenes stories and career advice follow Jenn on LinkedIn

  3. Jul 7

    How to Navigate Industry Layoffs and Build an Even Better Career with Senior Director of Marketing & Communications, Shannon Clark

    What does it take to build a resilient leadership career when the path is anything but linear? In this episode of Candid with Candidates, Jennifer Hahn sits down with Shannon Clark, Senior Director of Marketing & Communications for Houchens Food Group, Inc., to discuss a career journey shaped by adaptability, operational depth, and strategic growth. From apparel design and store operations to e-commerce and enterprise marketing leadership, Shannon shares how each chapter of her career prepared her to lead marketing across more than 400 locations spanning grocery, convenience, hardware, and QSR formats. Shannon offers a candid perspective on navigating two major layoffs, reframing setbacks as opportunities, and why prioritizing organizational stability over job title proved pivotal in her long-term success. She also explores the realities of leading lean teams at scale, balancing creativity with data-driven decision-making, and staying current in an ever-evolving marketing landscape. Key topics covered in this episode include: Rebuilding momentum and confidence after layoffsIdentifying and leveraging transferable skills across industriesLeading marketing strategy and execution across complex retail organizationsThe importance of organization, prioritization, and calendar discipline in executive rolesBuilding career momentum through mentors, investors, and advocatesPractical advice for candidates seeking their next role or promotion Whether you are an emerging leader, a marketing professional, or navigating a career transition, this episode provides thoughtful insight into leadership development, career resilience, and the strategic demands of modern retail marketing. 🎧 Listen now to gain a practical perspective on building a durable career through change—and subscribe to Candid with Candidates for more executive insights and candid career conversations. Guest Links: Connect with Shannon Clark: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shannon-clark-44225857/ Explore Houchens Food Group, Inc.: https://www.hfginc.com/  Next Steps: Enjoyed the episode? Please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone building their career in retail. For more behind-the-scenes stories and career advice follow Jenn on LinkedIn

  4. Jun 23

    Why Doing Everything Yourself Will Kill Your Leadership Career | Brian Anderson

    After more than 15 years in retail leadership, Brian Anderson learned that long-term success is not built by doing everything yourself—it is built by developing people, challenging outdated thinking, and staying adaptable in rapidly changing environments. In this episode of Candid with Candidates, Jenn Hahn sits down with Brian Anderson, Senior Vice President of Operations, Supply Chain & Distribution at Continental Services, for a conversation about leadership evolution, operational strategy, career growth, and the future of retail. Brian reflects on his leadership journey from Michigan State University into a successful career with Aldi before transitioning into the fast-growing world of unattended retail and customer experience solutions. Throughout the conversation, he shares how early leadership failures, high-pressure opportunities, and difficult transitions shaped his approach to building high-performing teams and leading through uncertainty. Jenn and Brian discuss: Why leadership growth requires moving beyond individual executionThe importance of developing and empowering strong teamsHow taking professional risks accelerates long-term career growthWhat frictionless customer experience means in modern retailThe growing role of AI and data analytics in supply chain and operationsWhy organizations must continuously challenge the status quoHow hybrid work environments are changing consumer behaviorThe importance of adaptability in leadership and business strategyWhat candidates can do to stand out in interviews todayWhy authentic conversation matters more than rehearsed answersHow failures and setbacks often create the strongest leadership lessons Brian also shares practical insight into scaling operations across diverse client environments, balancing customization with operational efficiency, and creating workplace cultures where employees feel empowered to contribute ideas and challenge assumptions. Whether you are an emerging leader, experienced operator, or professional navigating career growth, this episode offers thoughtful perspectives on leadership, innovation, and building a career that evolves alongside changing industries. 🎧 Listen now to hear candid insights on leadership, operational excellence, career development, and the mindset required to stay relevant in a rapidly changing business world. Guest Links: Connect with Brian Anderson: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brian-anderson-msu/ Explore Continental Services: https://www.continentalserves.com/  Next Steps: Enjoyed the episode? Please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone building their career in retail. For more behind-the-scenes stories and career advice follow Jenn on LinkedIn

  5. Jun 9

    From Cashier to Category Boss: Natasha Brinegar on Leadership, Growth & the Future of Grocery Retail

    What does it take to lead one of the most critical categories in grocery retail—and how do you build a lasting, evolving career within the same organization? In this episode of Candid with Candidates, Natasha Brinegar, Vice President of Category Management,  Meat & Seafood at Food Lion, joins Jenn Hahn to share her 34-year journey from store-level cashier to executive leadership. Natasha offers a clear and practical view of her current role, including overseeing assortment, pricing, supplier partnerships, and merchandising strategy across more than 1,100 stores. She emphasizes that while category management is often viewed through a technical lens, success ultimately depends on strong relationships, effective collaboration, and people-centered leadership. She also reflects on the key decisions that shaped her career—choosing to remain in the grocery industry, pursuing cross-functional experience through lateral moves, and stepping into leadership roles without waiting for complete readiness. Her perspective highlights the importance of adaptability, continuous learning, and confidence built through action. In addition, Natasha shares insights into the evolving grocery landscape, including the rapid growth of digital capabilities, changing customer expectations, and the increasing importance of personalization and convenience in retail strategy. In this episode, we explore: The scope and responsibilities of a Vice President in category managementWhy relationship-building is essential in a data-driven retail environmentThe long-term value of lateral career moves and cross-functional experienceHow to approach new roles without prior category expertiseThe role of calculated risk-taking in driving innovation and growthKey shifts in grocery retail, including digital transformation and delivery expectationsWhat hiring leaders look for in candidates, including clarity of purpose and adaptabilityHow to identify and overcome self-imposed limitations in career progression This episode provides valuable insight for professionals at all stages of their careers—particularly those navigating leadership development, career transitions, or growth within complex organizations. 🎧 Listen now to gain a practical perspective on leadership, career progression, and how to build a meaningful career that evolves with both the individual and the business. Guest Links: Connect with Natasha Brinegar: https://www.linkedin.com/in/natasha-brinegar-071b853/ Food Lion: https://www.foodlion.com/  Next Steps: Enjoyed the episode? Please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone building their career in retail. For more behind-the-scenes stories and career advice follow Jenn on LinkedIn

  6. May 26

    How Amy Niemetscheck Became CEO of Certco: Career Growth, Leadership, and Business Acumen

    Wondering what it takes to lead a billion-dollar, retailer-owned grocery wholesaler—and how does someone go from public accounting to the CEO seat without following a traditional executive path? In this episode of Candid with Candidates, Jennifer Hahn sits down with Amy Niemetscheck, President and CEO of Certco Inc., to discuss her career journey from CPA to controller, CFO, and ultimately President and CEO. Amy shares how deep financial expertise, cross-functional curiosity, and a commitment to understanding the full business prepared her to lead a complex organization owned by more than 200 independent grocery retailers. Amy gives a behind-the-scenes look at executive leadership, including what her role looks like day to day, how strategic priorities are shaped in a cooperative model, and why accountability and trust within an executive team are essential for long-term success. She also dives into the value of industry involvement, board service, and peer networks, and how these help her stay informed, effective, and ready to seize new opportunities.  In this episode, we explore: The unique structure and strategic advantages of a retailer-owned grocery wholesaler How financial leadership can translate into enterprise-wide executive responsibility Why understanding the broader business—not just your functional role—accelerates career growth What effective CEO leadership looks like in practice, not theory Building strong executive teams through clarity, accountability, and trust Staying strategically focused while managing operational demands Leading at a high level while remaining present for family and personal prioritiesThis conversation offers thoughtful insight for professionals at any stage of their career—especially those navigating cross-functional growth, preparing for executive leadership, or seeking a deeper understanding of what it truly takes to lead at the highest level—and deciding whether they love the job—or the company. 🎧 Listen now to gain a practical perspective on leadership, strategy, and building a career that evolves with the business. Guest Links: Connect with Amy Niemetscheck on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amy-niemetscheck-925aa110/ Explore Certco, Inc.: https://certcoinc.com/ Next Steps: Enjoyed the episode? Please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone building their career in retail. For more behind-the-scenes stories and career advice follow Jenn on LinkedIn

  7. May 12

    How To Stay Relevant in a Rapidly Changing Industry With Aaron Gottlieb of Advantage Solutions

    After 24 Years in Retail, Aaron Gottlieb Says Career Growth Starts in the Field—Not the Office. In this episode of Candid with Candidates, Jenn Hahn sits down with Aaron Gottlieb, Executive Vice President of New Business Development for Retailer & Experiential Services at Advantage Solutions and President of Daymon Japan, to explore a career shaped by intentional moves, cross-functional experience, and a commitment to understanding how businesses truly operate. Aaron shares how an early piece of advice—to leave corporate headquarters and gain field experience—fundamentally changed his perspective and accelerated his career. He also reflects on the importance of taking ownership, building a strong professional brand, and continuously seeking opportunities to grow. Drawing on decades of experience across global retail, brands, and service organizations, Aaron offers thoughtful insight into: Why career ownership is essential for long-term growth and leadership developmentThe value of cross-functional experience in building effective, empathetic leadersHow to navigate change and uncertainty with agility and resilienceThe importance of aligning strategy with in-store execution to drive real resultsHow to approach difficult decisions and learn from leadership misstepsWhat differentiates high-performing candidates in today’s competitive environmentWhy curiosity, preparation, and mindset matter as much as experience in interviewsThe growing role of AI as a tool for accelerating insight and decision-makingAaron also shares his perspective on the evolving retail landscape, including the continued importance of the in-store experience and the opportunity for organizations to better connect strategy with execution. Whether you’re an emerging leader, experienced professional, or navigating your next career move, this episode offers practical guidance on leadership, adaptability, and building a meaningful career. 🎧 Listen now and gain insight into leadership, growth, and building a career with lasting impact. Guest Links: Connect with Aaron Gottlieb: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ajgottlieb/ Explore Advantage Solutions: https://youradv.com/ Explore Daymon Japan: https://daymon.com/  Next Steps: Enjoyed the episode? Please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone building their career in retail. For more behind-the-scenes stories and career advice follow Jenn on LinkedIn

  8. Apr 28

    From Pet Industry Executive to Private Equity CEO: How Kristi Ross Scales Growth

    What does it truly take to step into a CEO role—and how do you build a career that prepares you for that level of leadership? In this episode of Candid with Candidates, Kristi Ross, CEO of Three Dog Brands, joins Jenn Hahn for a thoughtful conversation on executive leadership, career progression, and driving growth within a private equity-backed organization. As CEO of Three Dog Brands, Kristi shares her journey from marketing and sales leadership to her first CEO role, offering insight into how diverse experiences, strategic decision-making, and strong networks contributed to her career advancement. She also provides a clear view into the realities of leading a scaling business—balancing long-term vision with operational execution. In this episode, Kristi discusses: What the CEO role looks like in practice, including operational and strategic responsibilitiesHow to transition from functional leadership into enterprise-wide decision-makingThe differences between large, structured organizations and private equity-backed companiesWhy speed and adaptability are critical in high-growth environmentsThe value of cross-functional experience in preparing for executive leadershipHow to assess opportunities based on strengths, values, and long-term goalsThe role of mentorship and networking in career developmentBuilding a culture that supports both performance and sustainabilityKristi also reflects on the importance of trusting your instincts, making intentional career moves, and developing the confidence to pursue leadership opportunities—even when the path is not linear. Whether you are an emerging leader, a seasoned professional considering your next step, or someone interested in the dynamics of executive leadership within private equity, this episode offers practical insights and actionable guidance. 🎧 Listen now and gain insight into leadership, growth, and building a career with lasting impact. Guest Links: Connect with Kristi Ross: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristidross/ Explore Three Dog Brands: https://threedog.com/  Next Steps: Enjoyed the episode? Please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone building their career in retail. For more behind-the-scenes stories and career advice follow Jenn on LinkedIn

See All (33)

Trailer

5
out of 5
23 Ratings

About

If you’ve ever wondered how people actually build careers inside major organizations, not just what they post on LinkedIn, this podcast is for you. Candid with Candidates is hosted by Jenn Hahn, founder and CEO of J Recruiting Services, a national recruitment firm specializing in retail, wholesale, and distribution.  In each episode, Jenn sits down with corporate leaders, from CMOs and senior executives to rising directors, to talk through the real decisions, setbacks, and moments that shaped their careers. This isn’t a highlight reel. These are thoughtful, honest conversations about what it takes to grow inside the corporate world, and how the people leading those organizations actually got there. Whether you’re just starting out, managing a team, or already established in your career, you’ll hear stories that help you feel informed, encouraged, and more connected to your own professional path. This podcast also serves as a space for leaders to share their perspectives and showcase their organizations, making it a valuable tool for both talent attraction and industry insight. What you’ll learn from each episode: -  How real people move from entry-level to executive roles -  What leadership looks like behind the scenes -  The soft skills and mindset shifts that matter most -  How companies grow and retain top talent -  Honest advice from people who’ve done the work New episodes drop every second Tuesday, starting June 3rd.  Make sure to follow Candid with Candidates wherever you get your podcasts, and get ready to hear the stories that don’t make it to the company bio.

Information

  • Creator
    Jenn Hahn
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    33
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Candid With Candidates
  • Show Website
    Candid With Candidates

You Might Also Like