Symplicity Conversations

44:47

Reinvention and Resilience in the Fashion World

Symplicity Conversations ·

2026/05/05

Resilience isn’t just about bouncing back — it’s about redefining yourself with grit and authenticity! Linda Schlesinger shares her inspiring journey from fashion to building a global apparel brand, Skinny Tees, highlighting resilience, innovation, and community support. Discover practical lessons on reinvention, overcoming challenges like tariffs, and the importance of networking and giving back.Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Linda Schlesinger and Skinny Teas03:12 The Impact of Edward Lowe

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45:21

Proactively Navigating Cyber Risks

Symplicity Conversations ·

2026/04/28

In this episode, cybersecurity expert Patrick Hayes of Third Wave Innovations discusses the importance of cyber insurance, proactive security measures, and how organizations can better understand and mitigate cyber risks. Learn how MDR, employee education, and strategic planning can protect your business in an increasingly connected world.Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Cybersecurity and Insurance04:52 Understanding Cyber Insurance09:47 The Importance of Managed Detection and Response

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47:18

Building Successful Partner Ecosystems in Tech

Symplicity Conversations ·

2026/04/21

Join us as Maureen O'Connell, a seasoned leader in telecom and technology with Comcast Business, shares her journey, leadership insights, and the evolving landscape of partner ecosystems. Discover how connectivity, technology, and diversity are shaping the future of business and leadership. We'll talk about the evolution of partner ecosystems and go-to-market strategies, the importance of diversity and women in technology, and the impact of technology and connectivity on business

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49:44

Building a Purpose-Driven Food Business

Symplicity Conversations ·

2026/03/31

This episode features Stacy Sloan, chef turned entrepreneur, sharing her journey from childhood food addiction to founding Three Little Birds Granola. Discover how her personal experiences shaped her mission to create allergen-free, nutritious food for schools and communities, and learn valuable insights on building a purpose-driven business, overcoming industry challenges, and leading with authenticity.Chapters 00:00 The Journey Begins: From Chef to Entrepreneur10:13 The Impact of Food on

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28:25

The Data Readiness Roadmap

Symplicity Conversations ·

2026/03/10

In this episode of Symplicity Conversations, host Catherine Ripley and Roberta McCarter of Novus Data Journeys explore the critical importance of AI readiness, focusing on the people, data, and processes involved. They discuss the innovative Data Readiness as a Service product, the challenges organizations face in AI adoption, and how a people-centric approach can drive successful digital transformation.Chapters 00:00 Introduction to AI Readiness02:49 The Importance of People-Centric

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47:07

Unlocking Lean Revenue Growth

Symplicity Conversations ·

2026/03/03

In this episode of Symplicity Conversations, we dive into how lean principles can revolutionize revenue operations, drive efficiency, and foster predictable growth. Jennifer Juergens, CEO of 1 Bold Step, shares practical frameworks, business stories, and mindset shifts essential for leaders aiming for high-impact results.Chapters00:00 - Welcome and episode overview 00:46 - The importance of systems and the Gartner lifecycle 01:49 - Jennifer’s career journey and founding of 1 Bold Step 02:37

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49:48

Connection Is a Strategy

Symplicity Conversations ·

2026/02/24

In this episode of Symplicity Conversations, Catherine Ripley speaks with Milinda Ysasi, CEO of Grow and president of the Grand Rapids City Commission. They discuss Milinda's career journey, the importance of small businesses in the community, and the role of community development financial institutions (CDFIs) in providing access to capital. The conversation highlights the significance of networking, vulnerability in leadership, and the need for collaboration among nonprofits. Milinda

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35:55

The Future of Workforce Management: AI and Automation

Symplicity Conversations ·

2026/02/17

In this episode of Symplicity Conversations, Catherine Ripley speaks with Crystal Joramo, Vice President of Strategic Alliances at Community WFM. They discuss the critical role of workforce management in enhancing employee experience and operational efficiency, the importance of partnerships in the industry, and the impact of AI and automation on workforce management. Crystal shares her career journey, insights into the evolution of workforce management, and the unique position of Community

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44:45

Navigating Talent Strategy and Diversity

Symplicity Conversations ·

2026/02/10

In this episode of Symplicity Conversations, Catherine Ripley speaks with Dr. TaRita Johnson, Senior Vice President of Talent and Diversity at The Right Place. They discuss the importance of leadership, emotional intelligence, and self-awareness in the workplace. Dr. Johnson shares her career journey, the challenges of attracting and retaining talent, and the significance of mentorship and community engagement. The conversation highlights the need for organizations to invest in their people

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44:52

Why AI Needs Better Data and Better Humans to Succeed

Symplicity Conversations ·

2026/02/03

In this episode of Symplicity Conversations, we sit down with Carmit DiAndrea, Director of AI Data Management at NiCE, to explore how data, AI, and human insight come together to transform customer experience (CX). Carmit shares her unique perspective from working at the intersection of customers, product teams, and analysts—and why quantifiable business value must always come first. We discuss why AI is only as powerful as the data behind it, how organizations can become truly

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52:40

The Entrepreneurial Leap

Symplicity Conversations ·

2026/01/27

In the latest episode of Symplicity Conversations, host Catherine Ripley is joined by Chris Randall, the CEO of Sweep LLC. We talk about the challenges and triumphs of entrepreneurship, the importance of creativity and adaptability in today's business landscape, and what it's like having the lightbulb go off and to make the leap into the unknown.Chapters (00:00) The Entrepreneurial Journey Begins(10:51) Navigating Challenges and Lessons Learned(13:41) The Importance of Networking and

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48:21

Building Trust and Navigating the Future of Data

Symplicity Conversations ·

2026/01/20

In this episode of Symplicity Conversations, Michael Meyer, VP of Product and Strategy at Summit, discusses the evolving landscape of data centers, the importance of trust in technology partnerships, and the challenges organizations face in modern IT infrastructure. He emphasizes the need for operational excellence, data governance, and the impact of AI and automation on business decisions. The conversation highlights Summit's mission to provide reliable IT infrastructure solutions and the

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43:31

Elevating Workplace Culture

Symplicity Conversations ·

2026/01/13

In this episode of Symplicity Conversations, Catherine Ripley speaks with Sandy Harvey, President and Chief Inclusion Strategist at Exodus Consulting Group. They discuss the importance of community and networking, Sandy's journey into diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), and the evolving landscape of leadership in today's workplace. The conversation highlights the significance of trust, accountability, and culture in organizations, as well as the personal challenges Sandy faced as a

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48:35

A Year of Growth and Reflection

Symplicity Conversations ·

2026/01/06

In this episode of Symplicity Conversations, Catherine Ripley and Doug Seites reflect on their journey over the past year, celebrating milestones, achievements, and the importance of clarity in their operations. They discuss the significance of community engagement, the awards received, and the operational changes that have set the stage for future growth. Looking ahead to 2026, they emphasize the role of technology in transforming business practices while maintaining a human touch. This

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48:00

Empowering Manufacturing: Transformation Through...

Symplicity Conversations ·

2025/12/16

In this episode of Symplicity Conversations, we sit down with Peter Hungerford as he steps into his new role as the Vice President of Manufacturing at The Right Place. We discuss the transformation of the manufacturing sector in West Michigan, exploring the vital role small and mid-sized manufacturers play in economic resilience. Discover how collaboration, technology, and strategic planning are reshaping the industry amidst disruption. Plus, gain insights into the importance of community

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51:11

TechWeek Grand Rapids: Uniting Innovation, Community,...

Symplicity Conversations ·

2025/12/09

Join us for this episode of Symplicity Conversations as we reminisce about TechWeek Grand Rapids with Andria Romkema, Senior Vice President of Business Development at The Right Place, and Erin Stewart from Symplicity Communications. Discover the incredible growth and community-driven energy behind this tech event and how it's shaping the future of innovation in West Michigan. From standout moments like Steve Wozniak’s keynote to the integration of AI and data analytics, we explore what

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51:52

Authenticity & Resilience: Bold Leadership in Business

Symplicity Conversations ·

2025/12/02

Join us for an energy raising episode of Symplicity Conversations as we talk business, leadership, and community with Kim Bode, the dynamic owner of 8ThirtyFour Integrated Communications. Known for her bold and unapologetic approach to marketing, Kim shares her entrepreneurial journey, the challenges and triumphs of running a business, and the power of authenticity in today's digital landscape. Discover insights on building a supportive network, embracing resilience, and the importance of

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42:17

Empowering Communities: Driving Impact and Innovation

Symplicity Conversations ·

2025/11/25

Join us in this episode of Symplicity Conversations as we dive into the impactful world of nonprofit work with Becki Postma, Chief Impact Officer, and Kevin Nelson, Director of Donor Development, from Heart of West Michigan United Way. Discover their inspiring journeys into the nonprofit sector and how they are leveraging technology to address evolving community challenges. Learn about the transformative programs they lead, such as eviction prevention and the 211 helpline, and how these

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48:29

Discovering Creative Courage and Transformational Growth

Symplicity Conversations ·

2025/11/18

In this episode of Symplicity Conversations, we dive into the transformative journey of Jaclyn Harrison, a dynamic leader and soon-to-be author. Discover how a chance encounter with a book sparked her creative courage to pursue writing, leading to the development of a captivating fictional series. Jaclyn shares her insights on embracing creativity, overcoming self-doubt, and the power of networking and support. Tune in to explore how simple moments can lead to profound changes and learn

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50:21

Unlocking AI's Role in Enhancing Customer Experience

Symplicity Conversations ·

2025/11/11

Join us on this episode of Symplicity Conversations as we dive into the world of conversational intelligence with Chris Adomaitis, a key player at Omilia and a leading voice in AI engineering. Discover how AI and automation are transforming customer experiences and hear Chris share insights from his journey in the industry. Learn about the balance between AI-driven automation and the human touch, and explore how businesses can leverage data to enhance efficiency and create new

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