Evolving to Exceptional with Jessica Tietjen

Jessica Tietjen
  • 5.0 (16)
  • SELF-IMPROVEMENT
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Are you a current or aspiring leader or in HR/talent management? Many workplaces have challenges with employee engagement, performance, & well-being leading to turnover, quiet quitting, & decreased productivity/performance. Many are struggling with these challenges leading to higher stress/burnout. Join Jessica as we address the challenges & solutions for evolving our workplace cultures, people, and ourselves to create exceptional results & experiences. If you want to reach peak performance to create exceptional results in your life and business, don’t miss an episode!

  1. AUG 26

    Leading Through Adversity: Building Resilience & Empowering Teams with Nikki Thompson (Part 2)

    In the conclusion of our conversation, Jessica Tietjen and Nikki Thompson dive deeper into the how of building resilient, empowered teams. Building on the leadership mindset shifts discussed in Part 1, Nikki shares practical strategies for creating environments where trust, collaboration, and shared responsibility thrive. We discuss: •How leaders can create psychological safety that allows teams to take risks and grow. •Practical tools for empowering team members to step up and own their expertise. •Why delegation is not a loss of control—but a powerful leadership strategy. •How resilience in leadership ripples out to positively impact the entire organization. Whether you’re leading through change or striving to prevent burnout, this episode offers actionable steps you can take to strengthen your leadership and your team’s success. About Nikki Thompson: Nikki Thompson is a passionate People Development leader with over a decade of experience designing transformative learning experiences that empower individuals and teams. Known for her strategic mindset and commitment to continuous growth, Nikki excels at identifying strengths, fostering collaboration, and driving innovation across organizations. She champions inclusive leadership; values open communication and is dedicated to creating environments where others can thrive. At the heart of her work is a belief in the power of human potential—and a mission to inspire hope, growth, and lasting impact.   LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nikki-thompson/  Purchase my book Fiercely Cherished Beings: https://amzn.to/3PKBFem  Download the first chapter for FREE: https://www.evolvingtoexceptional.com/fiercely-cherished-beings  Website -⁠ https://www.evolvingtoexceptional.com/⁠ LinkedIn -⁠ https://www.linkedin.com/company/evolving-to-exceptional/⁠ Instagram -⁠ https://www.instagram.com/jessicatietjenj⁠ Facebook -⁠ https://www.facebook.com/Evolving-To-Exceptional-109687844842573⁠ Buy The Exceptional Life R-Evolution book -⁠ https://www.amazon.com/dp/1952566282/⁠ Get the first Chapter of The Exceptional Life R-Evolution Free at:⁠ https://www.evolvingtoexceptional.com/firstchapterfreedownload⁠

    24 min

  2. AUG 19

    Leading Through Adversity: Building Resilience & Empowering Teams with Nikki Thompson (Part 1)

    In this first part of our conversation, host Jessica Tietjen welcomes Nikki Thompson, Director of Training and Development at Code Consultants, Inc., to share her powerful story of growth through adversity. Nikki opens up about the challenges that shaped her leadership journey and the moments that tested her capacity to lead with resilience. We explore: The life and career experiences that taught Nikki the value of resilience. Why “resilience” is more than just bouncing back—it’s building strength for what’s ahead. How leaders can shift from holding all the responsibility themselves to leveraging the strengths of others. The mindset changes that create healthier, more sustainable leadership. This episode is a must-listen for anyone seeking to understand the personal side of resilience and the leadership habits that make it possible. About Nikki Thompson: Nikki Thompson is a passionate People Development leader with over a decade of experience designing transformative learning experiences that empower individuals and teams. Known for her strategic mindset and commitment to continuous growth, Nikki excels at identifying strengths, fostering collaboration, and driving innovation across organizations. She champions inclusive leadership; values open communication and is dedicated to creating environments where others can thrive. At the heart of her work is a belief in the power of human potential—and a mission to inspire hope, growth, and lasting impact.   LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nikki-thompson/ Purchase my book Fiercely Cherished Beings: https://amzn.to/3PKBFem  Download the first chapter for FREE: https://www.evolvingtoexceptional.com/fiercely-cherished-beings  Website -⁠ https://www.evolvingtoexceptional.com/⁠ LinkedIn -⁠ https://www.linkedin.com/company/evolving-to-exceptional/⁠ Instagram -⁠ https://www.instagram.com/jessicatietjenj⁠ Facebook -⁠ https://www.facebook.com/Evolving-To-Exceptional-109687844842573⁠ Buy The Exceptional Life R-Evolution book -⁠ https://www.amazon.com/dp/1952566282/⁠ Get the first Chapter of The Exceptional Life R-Evolution Free at:⁠ https://www.evolvingtoexceptional.com/firstchapterfreedownload⁠

    25 min

  3. AUG 12

    From Boss to Coach: Leading Through Listening, Regulation, & Real Connection with Kelly Bosak (Part 2)

    In Part 2 of this powerful conversation, Jessica and Kelly explore what it really means to lead through regulation, repair, and real connection. They dive into how nervous system states affect leadership communication, why emotional regulation is the key to productivity, and how leaders can repair trust after a rupture. Plus, Jessica shares personal stories and practical examples (including parenting!) that highlight how presence and partnership change everything. What You’ll Learn in Part 2: How emotional regulation impacts your conversations—and your credibility What to do after a rupture or emotionally charged moment Why partnering (not just coaching) might be the leadership skill of the future The science behind nervous system states and why 2.5 minutes of breathing can change a meeting How to bring your full-body wisdom into the workplace for real results This episode is a must-listen for any leader ready to create more powerful, meaningful, and impactful conversations—at work and at home. About Kelly Bosak: Kelly Bosak has beyond 20 years of experience and expertise in human resources to include learning and development, talent acquisition, total rewards, and performance management. She is currently the Chief People Officer at Lettermen’s Energy. During Kelly’s career, she was honored as a member of the 40 under 40 class by Ingram’s magazine, received a Best Practices award from the Association for Talent Development, and facilitated a press conference with Tom Watson and George Brett. Kelly is a Past President of the Society for Human Resource Management of Greater Kansas City chapter and serves on the leadership council of the Mid America ALS Association. Kelly holds a BS in Human Resources from Kansas State University and maintains the SPHR, SHRM-SCP, and CAALF™ (Certified Art of Active Listening Facilitator) credentials. Purchase my book Fiercely Cherished Beings: https://amzn.to/3PKBFem  Download the first chapter for FREE: https://www.evolvingtoexceptional.com/fiercely-cherished-beings  Website -⁠ https://www.evolvingtoexceptional.com/⁠ LinkedIn -⁠ https://www.linkedin.com/company/evolving-to-exceptional/⁠ Instagram -⁠ https://www.instagram.com/jessicatietjenj⁠ Facebook -⁠ https://www.facebook.com/Evolving-To-Exceptional-109687844842573⁠ Buy The Exceptional Life R-Evolution book -⁠ https://www.amazon.com/dp/1952566282/⁠ Get the first Chapter of The Exceptional Life R-Evolution Free at:⁠ https://www.evolvingtoexceptional.com/firstchapterfreedownload⁠

    22 min

  4. AUG 5

    From Boss to Coach: Leading Through Listening, Regulation, & Real Connection with Kelly Bosak (Part 1)

    In this episode of Evolving to Exceptional, Jessica sits down with Chief People Officer Kelly Bosak for a deep conversation about how leaders can shift from being task-driven bosses to transformational coaches. Together, they explore how active listening, emotional insight, and coaching-style questions can create truly human-centric leadership. Discover why burnout might really be boredom, how to develop embodied presence, and why listening for what’s not being said can change your leadership forever. What You’ll Learn in Part 1: The difference between intellect and insight—and why insight leads to lasting change How to become the kind of leader who inspires and unlocks potential What it means to listen with your whole body (head, heart, and gut) The connection between emotional intelligence, psychological safety, and high performance Why traditional “soft skills” are actually some of the hardest and most essential Don’t miss Part 2, where we dive into how to regulate your nervous system, repair ruptures, and lead with emotional presence. About Kelly Bosak: Kelly Bosak has beyond 20 years of experience and expertise in human resources to include learning and development, talent acquisition, total rewards, and performance management. She is currently the Chief People Officer at Lettermen’s Energy. During Kelly’s career she was honored as a member of the 40 under 40 class by Ingram’s magazine, received a Best Practices award from the Association for Talent Development, and facilitated a press conference with Tom Watson and George Brett. Kelly is a Past President of the Society for Human Resource Management of Greater Kansas City chapter and serves on the leadership council of the Mid America ALS Association. Kelly holds a BS in Human Resources from Kansas State University and maintains the SPHR, SHRM-SCP, and CAALF™ (Certified Art of Active Listening Facilitator) credentials. Purchase my book Fiercely Cherished Beings: https://amzn.to/3PKBFem  Download the first chapter for FREE: https://www.evolvingtoexceptional.com/fiercely-cherished-beings  Website -⁠ https://www.evolvingtoexceptional.com/⁠ LinkedIn -⁠ https://www.linkedin.com/company/evolving-to-exceptional/⁠ Instagram -⁠ https://www.instagram.com/jessicatietjenj⁠ Facebook -⁠ https://www.facebook.com/Evolving-To-Exceptional-109687844842573⁠ Buy The Exceptional Life R-Evolution book -⁠ https://www.amazon.com/dp/1952566282/⁠ Get the first Chapter of The Exceptional Life R-Evolution Free at:⁠ https://www.evolvingtoexceptional.com/firstchapterfreedownload⁠

    24 min

  5. JUL 29

    Human-Centered Performance: From Reviews to Real Conversations with Keri Smith (Part 2)

    In Part 2 of this powerful conversation, Keri Smith returns to explore the deeper layers of building a feedback culture rooted in emotional intelligence, psychological safety, and human connection. Jessica and Keri dive into the neuroscience behind performance conversations, the role of leadership capacity, and how horizontal, partnership-based dialogues are reshaping their workplace. Learn what makes feedback coherent and transformative—and how investing in people truly leads to business success. A must-listen for HR leaders, people managers, and anyone ready to elevate how we grow performance in the workplace. About Keri Smith: As Senior Vice President, Human Resources, Keri leads the HHHunt Human Resources function. She has led the Learning and Development function for HHHunt for over 8 years and was the first Human Resources Business Partner (HRBP) for our Apartment Living and Properties Construction teams in 2017. She has led the transformation to incorporate Insights Discovery into our everyday language, spearheaded and become a brand ambassador for HHHunt’s team member engagement process, created and implemented the new Cme and Contribution Assessment Tool and guided the HRBP team in their roles. This includes management and oversight of HHHunt University (an internal education platform), belonging and wellness, recognition, and team member relations. Keri joined HHHunt in 2015 after a 20-year career at the Federal Reserve Bank of Richmond. She began her career as a bank examiner but shifted to HR and learning and development after discovering her passion around teaching, coaching, and developing others. Keri is accredited in Insights Discovery, Myers Briggs Type Indicator and Emotional Intelligence. A graduate of Missouri State University and SHRM SCP certified, she now lives in St. Louis, Missouri after spending 25 years in Richmond, Virginia and remains a huge fan of her hometown St. Louis Cardinals. Purchase my book Fiercely Cherished Beings: https://amzn.to/3PKBFem  Download the first chapter for FREE: https://www.evolvingtoexceptional.com/fiercely-cherished-beings  Website -⁠ https://www.evolvingtoexceptional.com/⁠ LinkedIn -⁠ https://www.linkedin.com/company/evolving-to-exceptional/⁠ Instagram -⁠ https://www.instagram.com/jessicatietjenj⁠ Facebook -⁠ https://www.facebook.com/Evolving-To-Exceptional-109687844842573⁠ Buy The Exceptional Life R-Evolution book -⁠ https://www.amazon.com/dp/1952566282/⁠ Get the first Chapter of The Exceptional Life R-Evolution Free at:⁠ https://www.evolvingtoexceptional.com/firstchapterfreedownload⁠

    36 min

  6. JUL 22

    Human-Centered Performance: From Reviews to Real Conversations with Keri Smith (Part 1)

    In this episode of Evolving to Exceptional, host Jessica Tietjen talks with Keri Smith, SVP of HR at HHHunt, about how her organization boldly moved away from traditional performance reviews and created a people-centered approach to feedback and development. Discover how they replaced annual evaluations with “CME” conversations and introduced a unique tool for aligning values with growth. Keri shares how their process prioritizes employee connection, removes the fear from feedback, and empowers leaders to truly support their teams. This episode is packed with practical insights for HR leaders, managers, and organizations ready to revolutionize performance management. About Keri Smith: As Senior Vice President, Human Resources, Keri leads the HHHunt Human Resources function. She has led the Learning and Development function for HHHunt for over 8 years and was the first Human Resources Business Partner (HRBP) for our Apartment Living and Properties Construction teams in 2017. She has led the transformation to incorporate Insights Discovery into our everyday language, spearheaded and become a brand ambassador for HHHunt’s team member engagement process, created and implemented the new Cme and Contribution Assessment Tool and guided the HRBP team in their roles. This includes management and oversight of HHHunt University (an internal education platform), belonging and wellness, recognition, and team member relations. Keri joined HHHunt in 2015 after a 20-year career at the Federal Reserve Bank of Richmond. She began her career as a bank examiner but shifted to HR and learning and development after discovering her passion around teaching, coaching, and developing others. Keri is accredited in Insights Discovery, Myers Briggs Type Indicator and Emotional Intelligence. A graduate of Missouri State University and SHRM SCP certified, she now lives in St. Louis, Missouri after spending 25 years in Richmond, Virginia and remains a huge fan of her hometown St. Louis Cardinals. Purchase my book Fiercely Cherished Beings: https://amzn.to/3PKBFem  Download the first chapter for FREE: https://www.evolvingtoexceptional.com/fiercely-cherished-beings  Website -⁠ https://www.evolvingtoexceptional.com/⁠ LinkedIn -⁠ https://www.linkedin.com/company/evolving-to-exceptional/⁠ Instagram -⁠ https://www.instagram.com/jessicatietjenj⁠ Facebook -⁠ https://www.facebook.com/Evolving-To-Exceptional-109687844842573⁠ Buy The Exceptional Life R-Evolution book -⁠ https://www.amazon.com/dp/1952566282/⁠ Get the first Chapter of The Exceptional Life R-Evolution Free at:⁠ https://www.evolvingtoexceptional.com/firstchapterfreedownload⁠

    28 min

  7. JUL 15

    Building a Culture of Care & Navigating Conflict with Sarah Jamison (Part 2)

    In Part 2 of this insightful conversation, Evolving to Exceptional host Jessica Tietjen and guest Sarah Jamison go even deeper—exploring how self-awareness, nervous system regulation, and emotional intelligence are essential tools for preventing conflict and fostering connection at work. Sarah also shares her powerful personal story of resilience, overcoming a brain tumor and MS diagnosis, and how believing beyond possibility can unlock strength you never imagined. Key Topics Covered: How unprocessed emotions silently fuel workplace conflict The role of nervous system states (fight, flight, freeze, fawn) in leadership and communication Practical strategies for leaders to prevent conflict and respond with empathy  Why self-regulation is the foundation for supporting others Sarah’s inspiring journey through adversity and her message from the Grit book: Believe Beyond Possibility This episode is a reminder that cultivating emotional awareness and care—both within ourselves and our organizations—is not just about better workplaces; it’s about unlocking human potential, even in the face of life's biggest challenges. Purchase Tenacity: Deconstructing G.R.I.T. Collection here: https://a.co/d/fflfTIs About Sarah Jamison:  Sarah Jamison is a proud resident of the Lou and grew up in St. Louis city and county. With more than 25 years of service in human resources management, Sarah brings broad-based experience and leadership in evolving environments. She has served in successive roles leading human resources strategy and supporting positive workplace culture in organizations of diverse sizes, and with multi-state and a global presence. Sarah has also held leadership roles in a local school district and a local university. Her current role is Vice President of Human Resources for Big Brothers Big Sisters of Eastern Missouri (BBBSEMO). For over a decade, Sarah has provided consultation services, including workforce readiness workshops and strategic guidance, and coaching to clientele including state government and non-profit organizations. Sarah obtained a Bachelor's degree in Business Administration from the University of Kansas, Lawrence and a Master's degree in Human Resources Management from Webster University, in addition to a list of supplementary industry certifications. (Sarah's quote – 'why I love HR') "One of my core values is serving and caring for others. Human Resources speaks to my core and allows me to advocate and support in meaningful ways. I am invigorated by the opportunity to serve and help elevate a culture of care that helps others flourish and fulfill professional and personal goals. It's not about me; it's about us and how we invest in community to achieve the greater good" St. Louis Area Diaper Bank is another way to serve, give back and make a greater impact in our region and beyond. Sarah is the mother of one daughter who owns a thriving Physical Therapy practice serving women's fertility and pelvic health. Sarah's daughter and son-in-love reside in Los Angeles, California. Purchase my book Fiercely Cherished Beings: https://amzn.to/3PKBFem  Download the first chapter for FREE: https://www.evolvingtoexceptional.com/fiercely-cherished-beings  Website -⁠ https://www.evolvingtoexceptional.com/⁠ LinkedIn -⁠ https://www.linkedin.com/company/evolving-to-exceptional/⁠ Instagram -⁠ https://www.instagram.com/jessicatietjenj⁠ Facebook -⁠ https://www.facebook.com/Evolving-To-Exceptional-109687844842573⁠ Buy The Exceptional Life R-Evolution book -⁠ https://www.amazon.com/dp/1952566282/⁠ Get the first Chapter of The Exceptional Life R-Evolution Free at:⁠ https://www.evolvingtoexceptional.com/firstchapterfreedownload⁠

    13 min

  8. JUL 8

    Building a Culture of Care & Navigating Conflict with Sarah Jamison (Part 1)

    Description: In this episode of Evolving to Exceptional, host Jessica Tietjen welcomes Sarah Jamison, Vice President of Human Resources at a local St. Louis nonprofit and international bestselling author. Together, they explore the growing mental health challenges impacting workplaces and why cultivating a true culture of care is no longer optional—it's essential. Sarah shares her insights from decades in HR across industries, highlighting how today's polarizing environment affects employee wellbeing, civility, and communication. They discuss why mental health must be approached holistically, how organizations can better support their people, and why personal awareness is key to showing up as an empathetic leader. Key Topics Covered: The hidden mental health challenges impacting communication and behavior Moving beyond surface-level “work-life balance” to whole-life integration Why a true culture of care improves both performance and wellbeing Small, daily practices to prevent emotional overload The dangers of ignoring subtle stressors—and how they build over time If you're a leader, HR professional, or anyone passionate about building healthier workplaces, this conversation offers practical insights you can apply immediately. Stay tuned for Part 2, where Sarah and Jessica dive into conflict prevention, nervous system awareness, and how leaders can cultivate emotional resilience—for themselves and their teams. Purchase Tenacity: Deconstructing G.R.I.T. Collection here: https://a.co/d/fflfTIs About Sarah Jamison:  Sarah Jamison is a proud resident of the Lou and grew up in St. Louis city and county. With more than 25 years of service in human resources management, Sarah brings broad-based experience and leadership in evolving environments. She has served in successive roles leading human resources strategy and supporting positive workplace culture in organizations of diverse sizes, and with multi-state and a global presence. Sarah has also held leadership roles in a local school district and a local university. Her current role is Vice President of Human Resources for Big Brothers Big Sisters of Eastern Missouri (BBBSEMO). For over a decade, Sarah has provided consultation services, including workforce readiness workshops and strategic guidance, and coaching to clientele including state government and non-profit organizations. Sarah obtained a Bachelor's degree in Business Administration from the University of Kansas, Lawrence and a Master's degree in Human Resources Management from Webster University, in addition to a list of supplementary industry certifications. (Sarah's quote – 'why I love HR') "One of my core values is serving and caring for others. Human Resources speaks to my core and allows me to advocate and support in meaningful ways. I am invigorated by the opportunity to serve and help elevate a culture of care that helps others flourish and fulfill professional and personal goals. It's not about me; it's about us and how we invest in community to achieve the greater good" St. Louis Area Diaper Bank is another way to serve, give back and make a greater impact in our region and beyond. Sarah is the mother of one daughter who owns a thriving Physical Therapy practice serving women's fertility and pelvic health. Sarah's daughter and son-in-love reside in Los Angeles, California. Purchase my book Fiercely Cherished Beings: https://amzn.to/3PKBFem  Download the first chapter for FREE: https://www.evolvingtoexceptional.com/fiercely-cherished-beings  Website -⁠ https://www.evolvingtoexceptional.com/⁠ LinkedIn -⁠ https://www.linkedin.com/company/evolving-to-exceptional/⁠ Instagram -⁠ https://www.instagram.com/jessicatietjenj⁠ Facebook -⁠ https://www.facebook.com/Evolving-To-Exceptional-109687844842573⁠ Buy The Exceptional Life R-Evolution book -⁠ https://www.amazon.com/dp/1952566282/⁠ Get the first Chapter of The Exceptional Life R-Evolution Free at:⁠ https://www.evolvingtoexceptional.com/firstchapterfreedownload⁠

    26 min
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5
out of 5
16 Ratings

About

Are you a current or aspiring leader or in HR/talent management? Many workplaces have challenges with employee engagement, performance, & well-being leading to turnover, quiet quitting, & decreased productivity/performance. Many are struggling with these challenges leading to higher stress/burnout. Join Jessica as we address the challenges & solutions for evolving our workplace cultures, people, and ourselves to create exceptional results & experiences. If you want to reach peak performance to create exceptional results in your life and business, don’t miss an episode!

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