Because People Matter

Hurrdat ONE

This is Because People Matter, a podcast that explores the powerful intersection of emotional intelligence, the neuroscience of transformation, leadership theory, and intercultural mindset. Hosted by Dr. Helen Fagan, each episode features leaders who are creating high-impact organizations where every team member is able to bring their best to the table. This is the podcast for leaders who want to do business in a way that leverages and honors all stakeholders.  This is another Hurrdat Media Production. Hurrdat Media is a podcast network and digital media production company based in Omaha, NE. Find more podcasts on the Hurrdat Media Network by going to HurrdatMedia.com or the Hurrdat Media YouTube channel!

  1. (#47) The Story Behind the Numbers: Empowering Women Founders and Financial Clarity

    APR 29

    (#47) The Story Behind the Numbers: Empowering Women Founders and Financial Clarity

    What if numbers weren’t just data—but stories waiting to be understood? In this episode of Because People Matter, Dr. Helen Fagan sits down with Christina Sjahli, founder of Profit Reimagined, to explore how financial clarity can empower women founders and social impact leaders. From leaving Indonesia at 16 to building a purpose-driven business in Canada, Christina shares her powerful journey and how it shaped her belief that profit, people, and purpose must work together. Together, they unpack the hidden mental load founders carry—what Christina calls “invisible cognitive strain”—and how unspoken financial uncertainty can impact leadership, decision-making, and team well-being. This episode offers a fresh perspective on finance, reframing numbers as tools for clarity, confidence, and growth. A must-listen for entrepreneurs, leaders, and anyone seeking to align business success with meaningful impact. Sign-up for our Bi-Weekly Newsletter! Episode References: Helen Fagan and Associates https://helenfagan.com Profit Reimagined https://profitreimagined.com/ Thanks for listening to “Because People Matter.” If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a 5-star review. And be sure to subscribe so you never miss any insightful conversations. #PeopleMatter #LeadershipDevelopment #InterculturalCompetence #EmotionalIntelligence   This is another Hurrdat Media Production. Hurrdat Media is a podcast network and digital media production company based in Omaha, NE. Find more podcasts on the Hurrdat Media Network by going to HurrdatMedia.com or Hurrdat Media YouTube channel! See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

    40 min
  2. (#46) Leading with Heart: Melissa Hurrington on Burnout, Boundaries, and Putting People Over Profit

    APR 15

    (#46) Leading with Heart: Melissa Hurrington on Burnout, Boundaries, and Putting People Over Profit

    What happens when a high-performing leader realizes success is coming at the cost of their own well-being? In this powerful episode of Because People Matter, Dr. Helen Fagan sits down with Melissa Hurrington, CFO and VP of Operations, for a deeply honest conversation about leadership, burnout, and the courage to change. Melissa shares her journey from prioritizing performance and productivity to redefining success through boundaries, self-awareness, and a people-first philosophy. From a pivotal moment of tough feedback that reshaped her leadership to a life-altering experience with clinical burnout, this episode explores what it really means to lead with heart—not just for others, but for yourself. If you’re a leader navigating pressure, growth, or the challenge of balancing ambition with well-being, this conversation will stay with you long after it ends. Sign-up for our Bi-Weekly Newsletter! Episode References: Helen Fagan and Associates https://helenfagan.com Melissa Hurrington https://www.linkedin.com/in/melissahurrington Thanks for listening to “Because People Matter.” If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a 5-star review. And be sure to subscribe so you never miss any insightful conversations. #PeopleMatter #LeadershipDevelopment #InterculturalCompetence #EmotionalIntelligence   This is another Hurrdat Media Production. Hurrdat Media is a podcast network and digital media production company based in Omaha, NE. Find more podcasts on the Hurrdat Media Network by going to HurrdatMedia.com or Hurrdat Media YouTube channel! See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

    36 min
  3. (#45) Clarity Is Kindness with Jennifer Horman

    APR 1

    (#45) Clarity Is Kindness with Jennifer Horman

    In this episode of Because People Matter, Dr. Helen Fagan sits down with Jennifer Horman, HR Director, to explore why clear and kind communication is the foundation of trust. From job descriptions to difficult conversations, they discuss practical insights on how leaders can reduce confusion through clarity.   Together, they unpack why “clarity is kindness,” how lack of clarity creates frustration and inconsistency, and what leaders can do to communicate expectations more effectively—without overcomplicating the process. This episode also includes a coaching moment on handling difficult conversations with confidence and empathy.   Sign-up for our Bi-Weekly Newsletter!   Episode References: Helen Fagan and Associates https://helenfagan.com Thanks for listening to “Because People Matter.” If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a 5-star review. And be sure to subscribe so you never miss any insightful conversations. #PeopleMatter #LeadershipDevelopment #InterculturalCompetence #EmotionalIntelligence   This is another Hurrdat Media Production. Hurrdat Media is a podcast network and digital media production company based in Omaha, NE. Find more podcasts on the Hurrdat Media Network by going to HurrdatMedia.com or Hurrdat Media YouTube channel! See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

    28 min
  4. (#44) The Internal Edge: Mandy Morris on Trauma, Leadership, and Nervous System Regulation

    MAR 18

    (#44) The Internal Edge: Mandy Morris on Trauma, Leadership, and Nervous System Regulation

    What if high performance is not just about strategy, but about what is happening underneath the surface? In this episode of Because People Matter, Dr. Helen Fagan talks with Mandy Morris — executive psychology coach, EMDR clinician, founder of The Internal Edge, and co-founder of soFree — about the hidden internal patterns that shape leadership, decision-making, burnout, and success. Together, they explore how unresolved trauma, subconscious beliefs, and nervous system activation can quietly influence everything from boundaries to business growth. Mandy shares why success can amplify what is unresolved, how leaders can move from self-awareness into ownership, and why regulating the body is often the first step toward changing behavior. The conversation also dives into EMDR, high achievement, emotional intelligence, and Mandy’s new soFree app designed to help users reset stress in under two minutes. If you enjoy leadership podcasts that blend personal growth with practical insight, this episode brings that same mix of depth, clarity, and real-world application. Sign-up for our Bi-Weekly Newsletter! Episode References: Helen Fagan and Associates https://helenfagan.com So Free App https://getsofree.com EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) https://emdr.com Gabor Maté https://drgabormate.com Bruce Springsteen https://brucespringsteen.net The Body Keeps the Score https://besselvanderkolk.com TEDx Talk by Mandy Morris https://youtu.be/yQOFmRwtR4o?si=W1vH9Bw4NnQ18naX Thanks for listening to “Because People Matter.” If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a 5-star review. And be sure to subscribe so you never miss any insightful conversations. #PeopleMatter #LeadershipDevelopment #InterculturalCompetence #EmotionalIntelligence   This is another Hurrdat Media Production. Hurrdat Media is a podcast network and digital media production company based in Omaha, NE. Find more podcasts on the Hurrdat Media Network by going to HurrdatMedia.com or Hurrdat Media YouTube channel! See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

    37 min
  5. (#43) What if a Simple Cup of Coffee Could Change How a Community Sees the World?

    MAR 4

    (#43) What if a Simple Cup of Coffee Could Change How a Community Sees the World?

    What if a simple cup of coffee could change how a community sees the world? In this episode of Because People Matter, Dr. Helen Fagan sits down with Brenda Kasaty, founder and owner of Rose Cat Coffee Co., a Lincoln-based coffee shop with a powerful mission: employing individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Brenda shares the deeply personal story behind Rose Cat, from her background in social work to the life experiences that shaped her passion for creating belonging, dignity, and opportunity. This conversation explores leadership, kindness, workplace inclusion, and the profound impact of building businesses that truly put people first. Warm, inspiring, and refreshingly honest, this episode captures what happens when purpose and entrepreneurship meet. Sign-up for our Bi-Weekly Newsletter! Episode References: Helen Fagan and Associates https://helenfagan.com Rose Cat Coffee Co. https://www.rosecatcoffee.com/ Thanks for listening to “Because People Matter.” If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a 5-star review. And be sure to subscribe so you never miss any insightful conversations. #PeopleMatter #LeadershipDevelopment #InterculturalCompetence #EmotionalIntelligence   This is another Hurrdat Media Production. Hurrdat Media is a podcast network and digital media production company based in Omaha, NE. Find more podcasts on the Hurrdat Media Network by going to HurrdatMedia.com or Hurrdat Media YouTube channel! See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

    32 min
  6. (#42) Building an Intentional Organization Culture with Leanne Prewitt

    FEB 18

    (#42) Building an Intentional Organization Culture with Leanne Prewitt

    Culture isn’t a buzzword — it’s a lived experience. In this episode of Because People Matter, Dr. Helen Fagan welcomes Leanne Prewitt, CEO & President of Ervin and Smith, to explore how leaders create workplaces where people thrive. Leanne discusses psychological safety, employee engagement, brand alignment, and why “how we work together” ultimately drives performance more than “what we do.” From quarterly pulse surveys to values-driven leadership practices, this conversation offers a practical and deeply human look at building sustainable organizational culture.   Sign-up for our Bi-Weekly Newsletter!   Episode References: Helen Fagan & Associates https://helenfagan.com Ervin and Smith https://ervinandsmith.com/ Women Who Run Nebraska https://www.womenwhorunne.org/ Thanks for listening to “Because People Matter.” If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a 5-star review. And be sure to subscribe so you never miss any insightful conversations. #PeopleMatter #LeadershipDevelopment #InterculturalCompetence #EmotionalIntelligence   This is another Hurrdat Media Production. Hurrdat Media is a podcast network and digital media production company based in Omaha, NE. Find more podcasts on the Hurrdat Media Network by going to HurrdatMedia.com or Hurrdat Media YouTube channel! See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

    36 min
  7. (#41) Leading Without Armor: Kelly Ross on Female Leadership and Entrepreneurship

    FEB 4

    (#41) Leading Without Armor: Kelly Ross on Female Leadership and Entrepreneurship

    What happens when leadership demands strength while life demands honesty? Dr. Helen Fagan welcomes Kelly Ross, nonprofit leader and founder of ECHO Collective, to Because People Matter for an unfiltered conversation on the inner demands of female leadership, including self-talk, resilience, vulnerability, and showing up even when it’s difficult.   From entrepreneurship and community-building to empowering immigrant and refugee women through opportunity, Kelly shares what it means to lead with authenticity. This episode is a reminder that real leadership is built in relationship, and that building people up is not the soft work. It is the essential work. Sign-up for our Bi-Weekly Newsletter!   Episode References: Helen Fagan and Associates https://helenfagan.com Echo Collective https://www.echocollectivene.org Obama Foundation https://www.obama.org/programs/scholars/    Thanks for listening to “Because People Matter.” If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a 5-star review. And be sure to subscribe so you never miss any insightful conversations. #PeopleMatter #LeadershipDevelopment #InterculturalCompetence #EmotionalIntelligence   This is another Hurrdat Media Production. Hurrdat Media is a podcast network and digital media production company based in Omaha, NE. Find more podcasts on the Hurrdat Media Network by going to HurrdatMedia.com or Hurrdat Media YouTube channel! See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

    33 min
  8. (#40) Leading Like People Matter: Dr. Helen Fagan on Vulnerability, Growth & Emotional Intelligence

    JAN 21

    (#40) Leading Like People Matter: Dr. Helen Fagan on Vulnerability, Growth & Emotional Intelligence

    In this unique episode of Because People Matter, the tables are turned as Dr. Helen Fagan is interviewed by friend and writing mentor Cindy Conger about her newest book, Lead Like People Matter. Together, they explore the deeply personal journey behind the book—from Helen’s early work in healthcare and higher education to her research in emotional intelligence, neuroscience, and inclusive leadership. Helen shares why vulnerability, humility, and courage are not “soft skills,” but essential leadership competencies in today’s complex world. This conversation offers a rare behind-the-scenes look at the writing process, the power of self-awareness, and what it truly means to lead in a way that honors human dignity. Sign-up for our Bi-Weekly Newsletter! Episode References: Helen Fagan and Associates — https://helenfagan.com Francie and Finch — https://www.francieandfinch.com The Bookworm — https://www.bookwormomaha.com Thanks for listening to “Because People Matter.” If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a 5-star review. And be sure to subscribe so you never miss any insightful conversations. #PeopleMatter #LeadershipDevelopment #InterculturalCompetence #EmotionalIntelligence   This is another Hurrdat Media Production. Hurrdat Media is a podcast network and digital media production company based in Omaha, NE. Find more podcasts on the Hurrdat Media Network by going to HurrdatMedia.com or Hurrdat Media YouTube channel! See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

    29 min
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This is Because People Matter, a podcast that explores the powerful intersection of emotional intelligence, the neuroscience of transformation, leadership theory, and intercultural mindset. Hosted by Dr. Helen Fagan, each episode features leaders who are creating high-impact organizations where every team member is able to bring their best to the table. This is the podcast for leaders who want to do business in a way that leverages and honors all stakeholders.  This is another Hurrdat Media Production. Hurrdat Media is a podcast network and digital media production company based in Omaha, NE. Find more podcasts on the Hurrdat Media Network by going to HurrdatMedia.com or the Hurrdat Media YouTube channel!

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