Symplicity Conversations

Catherine Ripley
  • 5.0 (3)
  • Technology
  • Updated Biweekly

Welcome to Symplicity Conversations, the podcast where we explore the intersection of business, culture, community, and technology to empower you with the insights you need to thrive.

  1. 2d ago

    Lessons From Starting and Growing a New Business | Richard App and Monica Steimle-App

    In this episode, Monica Steimle-App and Richard App share their journey of launching Innovar Advisors, a consulting firm focused on helping organizations navigate growth, strategy, and transformation. They discuss the importance of community, leadership, collaboration, and the lessons learned from their diverse experiences. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Monica and Richard and their new venture04:55 The timing and challenges of starting a new business08:34 Their approach to helping businesses navigate change12:00 Leadership challenges and the importance of diverse teams15:11 Balancing work and personal life as partners19:41 Rapid fire questions: personal preferences and insights20:18 Recommended books and influential reads21:04 Technology essentials and analog preferences23:06 Common leadership challenges today24:47 The value of surrounding yourself with the right team25:15 Embracing change and reacting with resilience26:51 The importance of authentic giving and community involvement28:58 Transition from corporate to small business leadership29:25 Supporting leaders through difficult decisions30:45 Building a network of trusted advisors33:09 Celebrating successes and overcoming setbacks36:54 The community of West Michigan and its future40:32 Community projects and long-term vision44:26 Overcoming imposter syndrome and self-doubt46:54 How to connect with Monica and Richard  Key Topics: The decision to launch Innovar Advisors and the journey behind itThe importance of community and local partnerships in businessHow diverse experiences strengthen leadership and business strategiesThe role of collaboration and networking in business growthBalancing personal and professional life as business partnersLessons learned from starting and growing a new businessThe impact of technology and innovation on small businessesStrategies for navigating change and uncertainty in businessThe importance of authenticity and giving back to the communityAdvice for aspiring entrepreneurs and business leaders

    Lessons From Starting and Growing a New Business | Richard App and Monica Steimle-App

  2. Sep 8

    AI's Real Impact on Business | Elizabeth Goede

    Elizabeth Goede, founder of Ratliff Consulting, shares her extensive experience with AI, entrepreneurship, and how organizations can navigate the rapidly evolving AI landscape responsibly. This episode covers AI's impact on business, ethical considerations, and practical strategies for implementation. Chapters   00:34 — Introduction to the episode and guest  01:52 — Quote of the day from Alan Kay  02:50 — Elizabeth’s journey into AI and entrepreneurship  04:31 — The evolution of AI from 2012 to today  08:04 — The bias and diversity issues in AI development  08:50 — Ethics and responsible AI use  10:23 — AI’s role in internal and external business processes  13:01 — Helping businesses understand AI’s real potential  16:07 — What kind of organizations Elizabeth works with  20:37 — The importance of data as a company asset  28:02 — Common misconceptions about AI  29:16 — The biggest misconceptions about AI today  35:45 — The launch of Spark AI Lab and its mission  42:33 — Elizabeth’s platform for women in tech and AI  50:00 — Exciting future of AI and entrepreneurship  53:32 — Closing thoughts and key takeaways   Key Topics:   Ethical considerations and bias in AI Data management and governance in AI Practical applications of AI in business processes The importance of human oversight and soft skills in AI

    AI's Real Impact on Business | Elizabeth Goede

  3. Sep 1

    The Strategic Approach to Business Growth | Bana Qashu

    In this episode, Bana Qashu shares her entrepreneurial journey, leadership lessons, and insights into navigating the fast-paced tech industry. Discover how genuine relationships, resilience, and strategic partnerships drive success in business. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Bana Qashu and her background02:00 The importance of hard work and resilience in entrepreneurship03:44 Bana’s career journey from nonprofit to technology06:20 Building a network and seeking mentorship09:04 The challenges of starting and scaling a business12:13 Leveraging AI and technology to support business operations14:07 Bana’s consulting approach and market strategy16:55 Opportunities in the tech industry and partnerships19:58 The power of giving back and building a positive culture26:52 Rapid-fire questions: books, AI, and personal preferences40:44 Advice for emerging women leaders and entrepreneurs44:42 The importance of authenticity, self-trust, and resilience48:00 Closing remarks and key takeaways from Bana's story  Key Topics: Bana Qashu’s career transition from nonprofit to technologyThe importance of authentic relationships and networkingChallenges and lessons of entrepreneurshipBuilding strategic partnerships in techLeveraging technology and AI for business growthThe role of resilience and self-trust in successBalancing work and personal growth as an entrepreneurThe significance of giving back and mentorship

    The Strategic Approach to Business Growth | Bana Qashu

  4. Aug 25

    How To Build Relationships and Understand Outcomes | Jim Glackin

    Jim Glackin, Chief Revenue Officer at COEO Solutions, shares his extensive career journey in the telecom industry, his passion for customer experience, and innovative approaches at COEO to deliver business outcomes. He shares his journey from ATT to a smaller company where the focus is on building better vendor relationships and truly understanding customer outcomes.  This episode offers valuable insights into leadership, channel programs, and leveraging technology for better organizational results. Chapters   00:00 Introduction to Symplicity Conversations 01:08 Jim Glacken's Career Journey 03:37 The Importance of Mentorship and Connections 14:16 Customer Experience and Technology Integration 19:58 Understanding COEO Solutions 23:14 Innovative Approaches to IT Purchasing 27:29 Quickfire Questions and Personal Insights 33:12 Pilots and Dogs: A Unique Passion Project 40:45 Leadership Lessons Learned 49:25 Final Thoughts and Reflections Key Topics   Jim Glackin's career evolution over 30 years in telecom The importance of customer care and relationship building How COEO is redefining vendor and partner collaboration The role of technology and cloud in modern business Leadership lessons learned from large corporations to startups The significance of mentorship and networking in career growth #telecom, #leadership, #customerexperience, #channelprograms, #technology, #COEO, #businessoutcomes, #careerjourney

    How To Build Relationships and Understand Outcomes | Jim Glackin

  5. Jul 14

    How a Personal Brand Can Transform Your Career | Alexis Bertholf

    In this episode, Alexis Bertholf of Megaport shares her inspiring journey from aerospace engineering to tech sales and social media influence. She discusses the importance of personal branding, adaptability in technology, and empowering young women in STEM.  Key Topics:  Career pivots from aerospace to tech sales  The power of social media for personal branding  Building trust and partnerships in technology  The importance of infrastructure in AI and cloud computing  Encouraging young women to pursue STEM careers Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Symplicity Conversations03:04 Alexis Bertholf's Journey into Engineering06:08 The Shift to Technical Sales and Social Media08:57 Building a Personal Brand Online12:03 Work-Life Integration vs. Work-Life Balance15:01 The Importance of Passion and Career Choices17:50 Navigating Opportunities and Making Pivots23:18 Navigating the Tech Landscape27:04 Understanding Megaport's Value Proposition32:02 Building Meaningful Partnerships37:11 The Importance of Trust in Relationships42:20 The Future of Technology and Infrastructure

    How a Personal Brand Can Transform Your Career | Alexis Bertholf

  6. Jul 7

    The Butterfly Effect of Great Leadership | Erick Stewart

    In this episode, Erick Stewart shares his journey from manufacturing to consulting, emphasizing the importance of community, authenticity, resilience, and relationships in business and life. We discuss the importance of community, kindness, and personal growth in leadership. By fostering connections and supporting one another, we can create a more resilient and effective entrepreneurial landscape. Discover how universal principles and positive energy can transform your entrepreneurial path. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Leadership and Community02:56 The Ripple Effect of Kindness05:59 Forgiveness and Personal Growth08:53 The Importance of Community for Entrepreneurs14:06 Navigating Challenges in Business17:03 Eric's Entrepreneurial Journey23:59 Lessons Learned from Working with People25:11 Navigating Challenges as a Business of Color33:24 The Importance of Resilience in Entrepreneurship41:51 Authenticity and the Power of Relationships49:04 Defining Success and the Role of Mentorship Key Topics: Leadership and authenticityCommunity and support networksResilience in entrepreneurshipThe importance of relationships and energyPersonal growth and self-forgiveness

    The Butterfly Effect of Great Leadership | Erick Stewart

  7. Jun 30

    Navigating Career Risks and Opportunities | Kelly Springer

    In this episode of Symplicity Conversations, Catherine Ripley interviews Kelly Springer, CEO of Metal Flow Corporation, about her leadership journey, the importance of community, and how to navigate career and personal growth. They explore lessons learned, the value of mentorship, and the future of leadership in West Michigan. Key Topics:The importance of community over networkingMentorship's role in leadership developmentNavigating career risks and opportunitiesBuilding strong relationships in businessThe impact of collaboration in West MichiganLeadership lessons from challenging decisionsSupporting the next generation of leaders Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Leadership and Community Advocacy04:32 The Importance of Networking vs. Community Building08:41 Defining Leadership Through Personal Experiences12:35 Pivotal Moments in Leadership Journey16:53 The Challenges of Decision-Making in Leadership21:01 Understanding Value in Leadership Roles24:22 Building Relationships in Business30:51 Recognition and Reflection on Leadership33:57 Navigating Career and Personal Life39:07 Advice to Younger Self44:35 Looking Ahead: Future Leaders and Community Collaboration #Leadership, #Community, #Mentorship, #BusinessGrowth, #WestMichigan, #WomeninBusiness, #CareerDevelopment, #Manufacturing, #Collaboration, #PersonalGrowth

    Navigating Career Risks and Opportunities | Kelly Springer

  8. Jun 23

    Building a Business with Heart | Caitlin McMahan

    In this episode, Caitlin McMahan, co-owner of Marcellus Metalcasters, Inc. shares her journey from discovering the foundry industry to building a successful metal casting business. Together we discuss leadership lessons, the importance of community, and how networking and mentorship have shaped her entrepreneurial path. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Entrepreneurship and Leadership03:07 The Importance of Networking11:07 Finding the Right Business Opportunity20:18 Managing People and Building a Team28:25 Personal Growth and Future Goals34:01 Navigating Challenges in Business39:42 Final Thoughts and Inspirations Key Topics Include:-Entrepreneurship journey and industry discovery-Leadership evolution and managing people-The importance of community and networks-Lessons learned from building and growing a business-The role of mentorship and support systems #entrepreneurship , #leadership , #community , #networking, #metalcasting , #businessgrowth , #womeninindustry, #mentorship, #businesslessons, #technology, #podcast, #symplicity, #symplicitycommunications, #symplicityconversations, #marcellus

    Building a Business with Heart | Caitlin McMahan
See All (79)

Trailer

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
3 Ratings

About

Welcome to Symplicity Conversations, the podcast where we explore the intersection of business, culture, community, and technology to empower you with the insights you need to thrive.

Information

  • Creator
    Catherine Ripley
  • Years Active
    2022 - 2026
  • Episodes
    79
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2025 Symplicity Communications
  • Show Website
    Symplicity Conversations