Soft As Steel Dennis Doran

In this episode of the "Soft As Steel" podcast, host Dennis Doran welcomes Dr. Norman Fortenberry, Chief Executive Officer of Great Minds in STEM. They discuss the organization's mission to create a diverse workforce in science, technology, engineering, math, and medical health professions. The conversation highlights the importance of diversity, equity, and inclusion in technical fields, emphasizing the need for opportunities for all population segments. Dr. Fortenberry also underscores the value of soft skills and understanding human motivations. The episode addresses resistance to change and the necessity of challenging traditional practices to foster a more inclusive workforce.

In this episode of the "Soft As Steel" podcast, host Dennis Doran welcomes Joe Frankie, President and Founder of JV3 Associates. Joe, a West Point graduate and combat veteran, shares his extensive experience in executive coaching and talent development. He discusses the importance of soft skills, emphasizing active listening and taking care of people. Joe reflects on his military and private sector careers, highlighting leadership qualities like visibility and resource provision. He also underscores the significance of consensus-building and authenticity in communication, providing valuable insights into effective leadership and mentorship.

In this episode of the "Soft As Steel" podcast, host Dennis Doran interviews Mark Bridges, a seasoned consultant in the construction industry. They discuss the critical role of soft skills, such as trust and communication, in achieving success alongside technical expertise. Mark emphasizes the importance of collaborative relationships and effective communication in building trust and achieving win-win results. They also explore the impact of artificial intelligence and technology on workforce productivity and diversity, highlighting opportunities for innovation and the need for equity and social justice in the industry.

Dennis Doran speaks with Irish Horsey from Procore Technologies. They discuss Horsey's unique perspective as a woman of color in the construction industry, her dedication to diversity and inclusion, and the challenges of increasing female representation in construction. The conversation covers the importance of soft skills, Procore's philanthropic efforts, and the role of love and spirituality in professional settings. They advocate for a people-first approach and changing the industry's narrative to attract diverse talent.

In this episode of the "Soft As Steel" podcast, host Dennis Doran interviews Jennifer Wilkerson, Vice President of Innovation and Advancement at NCCER. They discuss the importance of increasing women's representation in construction, highlighting the need for intentional recruitment and retention efforts. Jennifer shares insights on the industry's progress, challenges, and the role of organizations like Turner Construction in advocating for women. They also emphasize mentorship, sponsorship, and psychological safety in the workplace, advocating for a supportive environment that values both technical and soft skills. The episode concludes with plans for Jennifer to return for a follow-up discussion.

In this episode of the "Soft as Steel" podcast, host Dennis Doran welcomes guest Jevon Wooden, a speaker, facilitator, and coach specializing in empathetic leadership. They discuss the importance of emotional intelligence and soft skills in the workplace. Javon emphasizes the need for leaders to understand interpersonal dynamics and the challenges of transitioning from technical roles to managerial positions. They also explore the benefits and limitations of AI in understanding human behavior. The conversation highlights the significance of empathy, diversity, and the irreplaceable human element in fostering thriving and sustainable organizations. Dennis concludes by expressing his admiration for Javon's insights.