Symplicity Conversations
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.
10
Brilliance Summit Series - Solving Problems with a Simple Conversation | Latrice Trice and Kirsten Pipp
<p>In this episode, we explore the journeys of two remarkable women, Latricia Trice of LTrice Marketing and Consulting and Kirsten Pipp of Bloom Social, as they share their experiences with community building, vulnerability, and creating impact. Discover how their stories and insights can inspire you to lift others and foster authentic connections.</p><p>Key Topics</p><p> </p><p>The significance of community and vulnerability in leadership</p><p>How the gift of lift can transform communities and careers</p><p>The importance of authenticity and vulnerability in social media</p><p>Stories of overcoming challenges and turning p...
Brilliance Summit Series - Inspiring the Future Generations | Celeste Ross and Marie Lewis
<p>In this episode, we explore the journeys of two inspiring leaders, Celeste Ross, Organizational Development Manager at Praxis Packing Solutions, and Marie Lewis, Founder and Executive Director of Rebecca's Daughters as they share their stories of impact, leadership, and service. Their experiences highlight the importance of community, purpose, and empowering others to create positive change. Celeste was named the Top Honoree in the Emerging Leader category at this year's West Michigan Woman Brilliance Awards, while Marie was named the 2026 Champion of Service.</p><p> Key Topics</p><p> </p><p>Leadership journeys of Celeste Ross and Coach Marie</p><p...
Brilliance Summit Series -Bringing Women Together | Kasie Smith
<p>In this episode, Kasie Smith, president and publisher of Serendipity Media, shares the story behind West Michigan Woman Magazine, the creation of the Brilliance Awards, and the upcoming Brilliance Summit. Discover how these initiatives celebrate women, foster community, and inspire action in West Michigan.</p><p>Key Topics:</p><p> </p><p>The founding of Serendipity Media and West Michigan Woman Magazine</p><p>The origin and evolution of the Brilliance Awards</p><p>The creation and purpose of the Brilliance Summit</p><p>Lessons learned from profiling women in West Michigan</p><p>The importance of community recognition a...
Slow Down and Appreciate the Process | Rob Sharp -ArtPrize Artist
<p>On a special ArtPrize themed episode of Symplicity Conversations, we are joined by Rob Sharp, a young fiber artist, shares his journey from crocheting as a hobby to creating a massive crochet bouquet for Art Prize, exploring themes of slowing down, intentionality, and imagination. Rob's piece, "Yours Truly" is featured in the Symplicity Communications Building during the ArtPrize event in Grand Rapids, September 17th-October 3rd.</p><p>Vote for Rob's piece here: ArtPrize Entries<br>See more of Rob's work here: https://www.instagram.com/rob.sharp.handcrafted and here: https://www.tiktok.com/@rob.sharp.handcrafted</p><p>C...
The Cybersecurity Mistakes Costing You Trust | Patrick Hayes
<p>In this episode, host Catherine Ripley is joined by Patrick Hayes, Chief Experience Officer and Field CISO at Third Wave Innovation, to discuss the cybersecurity challenges faced by nonprofits, the importance of data protection, and how organizations can prepare for and respond to cyber threats, especially with the rise of AI and automation.</p><p>Key Topics:</p><p>Cybersecurity challenges for nonprofits</p><p>Importance of data protection and trust</p><p>Impact of AI and automation on security</p><p>Cyber insurance and risk management</p><p>Best practices for cybersecurity in small organizations</p><p>Chapters<...
Lessons From Starting and Growing a New Business | Richard App and Monica Steimle-App
<p>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.</p><p>Chapters</p><p>00:00 Introduction to Monica and Richard and their new venture<br>04:55 The timing and challenges of starting a new business<br>08:34 Their approach to helping businesses navigate change<br>12:00 Leadership challenges and the importance of diverse teams<br>15:11 Balancing work and personal life as partners<br>19:41 Rapid fire questions: personal preferences and...
AI's Real Impact on Business | Elizabeth Goede
<p>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.</p><p>Chapters</p><p> </p><p>00:34 — Introduction to the episode and guest</p><p> 01:52 — Quote of the day from Alan Kay</p><p> 02:50 — Elizabeth’s journey into AI and entrepreneurship</p><p> 04:31 — The evolution of AI from 2012 to today</p><p> 08:04 — The bias and diversity issues in AI development</p><p> 08:50 — Ethics and responsible AI use</p><p> 10:23 — AI’s role in internal and exte...
The Strategic Approach to Business Growth | Bana Qashu
<p>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.</p><p>Chapters</p><p>00:00 Introduction to Bana Qashu and her background<br>02:00 The importance of hard work and resilience in entrepreneurship<br>03:44 Bana’s career journey from nonprofit to technology<br>06:20 Building a network and seeking mentorship<br>09:04 The challenges of starting and scaling a business<br>12:13 Leveraging AI and technology to support business operations<br>14:07 Bana’s consulting approach and market strategy<br>16:55 Opportunities in the tech...
How To Build Relationships and Understand Outcomes | Jim Glackin
<p>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. </p><p>This episode offers valuable insights into leadership, channel programs, and leveraging technology for better organizational results.</p><p>Chapters</p><p> </p><p>00:00 Introduction to Symplicity Conversations</p><p>01:08 Jim Glacken's Career Journey</p><p>03:37 The Importance of Mentorship and Connections</p><p>...
How a Personal Brand Can Transform Your Career | Alexis Bertholf
<p>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. </p><p>Key Topics: </p><p>Career pivots from aerospace to tech sales </p><p>The power of social media for personal branding</p><p> Building trust and partnerships in technology </p><p>The importance of infrastructure in AI and cloud computing </p><p>Encouraging young women to pursue STEM careers</p><p>Chapters</p><p>00:00 Introduction to Symplicity Conversations<br>03:04 Alexis Bertho...
