Ask Ashley

In this enlightening episode of Ask Ashley, host Ashley Russo sits down with Parker Nielson, Head of People Strategy and Operations at Thoropass, to explore the intricate balance between leadership, vulnerability, and the unique challenges of fostering authentic connections within a diverse, global team. Parker shares his journey from a teenager facing a rare health challenge to a leader who embra...

In this episode of Ask Ashley, host Ashley Russo sits down with Sunny Myers, a multifaceted leader and community builder at Fastly, Inc. Sunny shares her incredible journey from a technical engineering background to her current role as Senior Manager for Employee Experience and Belonging. Throughout the conversation, Sunny articulates the nuances of balancing technical prowess with a people-centri...

In this inspiring episode of Ask Ashley , host Ashley Russo sits down with Dorion Baker, a leader in HR and People Operations at BTI360. Dorion shares his compelling journey from an early fascination with human connections to becoming a pivotal figure in shaping inclusive workplace cultures. He reflects on the importance of presence over titles, emphasizing that true leadership lies in the genuine...

In this enlightening episode of Ask Ashley, host Ashley Russo welcomes Jyl Feliciano, the Global Vice President of People, Culture, and Belonging at Highspot. With over 20 years of experience, Jyl shares her inspiring journey from the financial services sector to becoming a leader in culture and belonging. She reflects on the challenges she faced, including impostor syndrome and the pressure of co...

In this enlightening episode of Ask Ashley, host Ashley Russo sits down with Ari Gett, the Head of People Operations at mabl, a company dedicated to software test automation. Ari shares her unconventional journey from executive assistant to HR leader, highlighting the pivotal experiences that shaped her career in human resources. With a background in healthcare technology and a passion for theater...

In this episode of Ask Ashley, host Ashley Russo sits down with Kafi Payne, a dynamic leader in human resources, to explore the transformative power of empathy and connection in the workplace. Kafi, who has journeyed from being a middle school teacher to a director of HR in the tech industry, shares her inspiring story of adaptability, leadership, and the importance of creating a sense of belongin...

In this episode of *Ask Ashley*, host Ashley Russo sits down with Jenilee Angeles-Pasco, the Director of Operations at Runpod, Inc., to explore the intricate balance between work and family life. Jenilee shares her inspiring journey from Hollywood to HR, where she has been a pioneering force in shaping organizational culture and employee well-being. With a background that spans various industries,...

In this powerful episode of *Ask Ashley*, host Ashley Russo sits down with Chuck Thompson, the Vice President of People and Operations at SimuTech Group, to explore his remarkable journey from a troubled childhood to a leadership role in a thriving engineering firm. Chuck opens up about the challenges he faced growing up—struggling with homelessness, addiction, and family trauma—and how these expe...

Welcome to Ask Ashley, the podcast where we shine a light on the unsung heroes of the workplace. I’m your host, Ashley Russo—financial AI board member, thought leader, and wealth management advisor.  Each week, we sit down with the inspiring leaders, exploring their journeys, motivations, and the real challenges they face, from job insecurity to the evolving role of AI. In a world where many feel...