MTMG's #ConnectToWork

Episode Synopsis: This episode explores the unconventional career of Kandice Hendricks, who transitioned from the high-pressure world of NHRA drag racing mechanics to becoming a director ofDevSecOps. Kandice details her journey from a marketing role to IT leadership, emphasizing the impact of strong mentorship and the self-discipline she gained as a state powerlifting champion. Listeners will disc...

Episode Synopsis: BJ Knapp joins the podcast to share herperspective on navigating complex SaaS implementations within the healthcare and higher education sectors. She discusses the transition from technical project roles to leadership, emphasizing how a focus on training and mentoring creates self-sufficient, satisfied clients. BJ also explores how her personal passion for sailing and boat restor...

In this episode of MTMG’s ConnectToWork, Eli Shuster sharesinsights from more than two decades designing and leading complex federal solutions. He explains why technical excellence alone is never enough—and how understanding the human dimension is critical to winning and delivering atscale. Eli discusses leadership under pressure, trust-driven collaboration, and how emerging technologies like AI m...

Senior marketing leader Bridget Griffith shares howadvocating for her team became a defining leadership lesson and why the words “innovative, authentic, positivity” consistently describe her approach. She explains how field marketing is evolving into a strategic growth engine—movingtoward hyper-local personalization, tighter digital integration, and pipeline-level ROI—while never losing the human...

In this candid conversation, veteran front‑end developerDavid Mack walks us through the pivotal moments that shaped his 16‑year career at Amwell—from abandoning Flash to spearheading React‑based ecosystems that scaled during telehealth’s biggest surge. He reflects on the power ofadaptability, the importance of accessibility, and how hobbyist microcontroller projects keep his problem‑solving sharp....

Former KORE Wireless VP of Product Management KathleenLaRocque has led multi-million-dollar SaaS and IoT launches, migrated 25 million-plus subscribers onto a new platform in under 90 days, and steered revenue-driving product lines across global markets. In this conversation she shares how curiosity, data-driven decision-making, and unflappable calm power her approach to building products that del...

In this episode, Colleen Faria shares her journey fromrecruiting assistant to senior talent acquisition leader for mission-critical contracts in defense, tech, and humanitarian sectors. With over 14 years of experience, she discusses building cleared pipelines, launching her own consultancy, and the future of recruitment in an AI-enhanced world. Colleen also opens up about personal growth, mentors...

From American-football pitches in Europe to C-suites onthree continents, Marc Hubbard has spent 20 years turning data-driven insights into record-breaking revenue. In this conversation he reveals why failures taught him more than wins, how servant leadership scaled his teams, and why AIis reshaping retail analytics faster than most brands realize. Listeners will hear practical tips on coaching, cu...

In this episode, seasoned IT leader Thomas Forkan sharespivotal moments from a 15+ year career modernizing infrastructure across government and retail. Tom opens up about leading during crisis, the power of servant leadership, and learning empathy through personal growth. Listenerswill gain actionable lessons on decision-making under pressure, the importance of compassionate management, and how to...

Episode Synopsis: In this episode of MTMG's ConnectToWork, Marc Thaler shares his journey from journalist to global marketing leader. Marc reflects on the evolving job market, the value of staying grounded, and the power of leading with empathy. Listeners will gaininsights on how to stay focused during career transitions, lead high-performing creative teams, and build scalable systems that dri...

In this episode of MTMG’s ConnectToWork, Raven Parker shares their inspiring journey from IT support to building cloud infrastructure and data engineering solutions. Raven reflects on leading a high-impact project during their internship at Own Company, acquired by Salesforce, and how collaboration and curiosity drive their career. With a focus on making tech accessible and creating inclusive spac...

In this inspiring episode, Suruchi Patki shares how a careersetback transformed into a powerful period of growth, leading to the launch of her own Agile coaching program and 14 certifications. With a background in leading Agile transformations at major financial and retail institutions, Suruchi discusses the mindset shifts, leadership principles, and coaching philosophies that empower her teams. H...

In this episode of MTMG’s ConnectToWork , Kevin Davis shares his journey from full stack developer to strategic project management professional. With a blend of technical fluency and leadership acumen, Kevin discusses how communication, adaptability, and AI proficiency are transforming the future of project delivery. He reflects on the pivotal moments and mentors that helped him evolve beyond codi...

In this insightful episode, Cammie Davis-Wicks, an experienced compliance and privacy leader, reflects on her career journey—from mental health operations to leading national compliance strategies. She shares how she rebuilt a compliance department during the height of COVID-19, and how integrity and communication are central to successful regulation and cultural alignment. Cammie also discusses m...

Episode Synopsis: In this episode of MTMG's ConnectToWork, Ellen Greenfield shares her impressive journey as a project and program management leader across industries such as government, finance, hospitality, and tech consulting. She reflects on pivotal career moments like leading a $28M VOIP project for the Air National Guard, and how passion projects like caring for her horses fuel her profe...

Guest: Tripp Ferrer Episode Synopsis: In this episode of MTMG's ConnectToWork, we speak with Tripp Ferrer, a dynamic operations leader known for turning complex challenges into scalable solutions. Tripp shares how applying the Theory of Constraints helped him drive exponential growth and streamline processes across multiple industries. From rebuilding classic cars to redefining rebate programs...

Episode Synopsis: In this episode, we speak withAggie Lema-Kowalczyk, an innovative product leader whose experience spans e-commerce, retail, and consumer packaged goods. From her time at DesignPac Gifts where she delivered $30M in annual revenue to her current role at Publix Super Markets driving significant e-commerce growth, Aggie shares insights on team collaboration, maintaining a growth mind...

Episode Synopsis: In this episode, we speak with Kristin Huntley, a seasoned content strategy leader with over 13 years of experience spanning global B2B organizations like Wipfli, ESAB Group, and The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society. Kristin shares how she approaches content strategy with authenticity and creativity, the importance of learning from failures, and her vision for how AI can give us b...

Episode Synopsis: In this episode, we speak with Melody Philhower, a seasonedprocurement leader whose career spans from Toyota to Baxter International. Melody shares her expertise in strategic sourcing, supplier relationship management, and crisis response, including a pivotal experience managing a supplier bankruptcy that threatened production. Through her stories, Melody illuminates the importan...

Episode Synopsis: In this episode, we speak with JohnMunger, a seasoned Customer Success Manager specializing in cybersecurity and SaaS solutions. With a proven track record of driving customer retention and revenue growth, John shares insights from his experience at companies like Swimlane and Varonis. From building relationships with new stakeholders to delivering measurable value, John provides...

Episode Synopsis: In this episode, we speak withJanet Keadle, an accomplished education leader with over 20 years of experience in guiding schools and programs toward success. Janet shares insights on leadership development, creating impactful educational environments, and her passion for connecting students with resources they need to thrive. Her journey from teacher to school principal demonstra...

Episode Synopsis: In this episode, Michelle Popeshares her journey as a seasoned operations executive with extensive experience in technology and healthcare. She discusses the challenges of being a woman in technology leadership, her authentic and inclusive leadership style, and how she helps teams find their best fit within organizations. Michelle offers valuable insights on leadership developmen...

Episode Synopsis: In this episode of MTMG’s ConnectToWork, we speak with Jana Sellers, a seasoned leader in market research and competitive intelligence. With a track record of bridging data and strategy at firms like Circana, The NPD Group, and Current Analysis, Jana shares her approach to uncovering actionable insights, navigating industry transformation, and building partnerships that fuel reve...

Episode Synopsis: Nicole Monte brings over two decades of sales leadership experience to this episode of ConnectToWork. From building high-performing teams at U.S. Bank to launching referral partner programs at Talech, Nicole shares her journey through the fintech and SaaS world, her passion for mentorship, and the leadership philosophies that have fueled her success. This episode offers valuable...

In this ConnectToWork episode, Jason Keezel shares hisjourney from military service to mastering Salesforce administration and technical support. With over a decade of experience resolving complex issues and empowering users through documentation and training, Jason offers practical insights into improving system performance and team collaboration. From Marine Corps discipline to CRM optimization,...