Symplicity Conversations

In this episode, Erick Stewart shares his journey from manufacturing to consulting, emphasizing the importance of community, authenticity, resilience, and relationships in business and life. We discuss the importance of community, kindness, and personal growth in leadership. By fostering connections and supporting one another, we can create a more resilient and effective entrepreneurial landscape....

In this episode of Symplicity Conversations, Catherine Ripley interviews Kelly Springer, CEO of Metal Flow Corporation, about her leadership journey, the importance of community, and how to navigate career and personal growth. They explore lessons learned, the value of mentorship, and the future of leadership in West Michigan. Key Topics: The importance of community over networking Mentorship's ro...

In this episode, Caitlin McMahan, co-owner of Marcellus Metalcasters, Inc. shares her journey from discovering the foundry industry to building a successful metal casting business. Together we discuss leadership lessons, the importance of community, and how networking and mentorship have shaped her entrepreneurial path. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Entrepreneurship and Leadership 03:07 The Impor...

In this inspiring conversation, Dr. Jackie Taylor shares her journey in education, leadership, and mentorship, emphasizing the importance of trust, communication, and purpose in building successful organizations and relationships. It’s essential to celebrate the wins, no matter how small, and learn from the challenges. Surround yourself with people who uplift you and remind you of your journey. Tr...

In this episode of Symplicity Conversations, host Catherine Ripley interviews Ashley Souffrou, founder and CEO of SXanPro, about transforming hospital inventory management through innovative technology. They explore how data-driven solutions can reduce waste, save costs, and improve patient safety in healthcare. Topics include, Healthcare supply chain optimization, the use of barcode technology an...

In this episode, Catherine Ripley sits down with John Finch, VP of Product Marketing at RingCentral, to talk about how AI is transforming business communication and customer service. They explore the real applications of AI, the importance of understanding unspoken customer needs, and RingCentral's innovative solutions. Main Topics:  • The role of AI in enhancing customer conversation insights  •...

In this episode, Andy Siemens, CEO of Tailwind Voice and Data, shares his journey from political science to leading a successful IT and telecom logistics company. The conversation covers the importance of partnerships, staying adaptable in a fast-changing tech landscape, and how Tailwind simplifies communication solutions for large enterprises. Chapters 00:00 Navigating the Future of Business Comm...

In this episode of Symplicity Conversations, Catherine Ripley interviews David White, Director of North America from CM.com to explore the future of customer experience, conversational commerce, and AI-driven engagement platforms. They discuss real-world use cases, the importance of data-driven personalization, and how technology can enhance customer relationships. Listen now to learn about transf...

In this inspiring episode, Jennifer Feuerstein-DiVita shares her journey of resilience, reinvention, and purpose. From stay-at-home mom to TV host and advocate for older adults, she highlights the importance of community, perseverance, and living fully at every stage of life. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Jennifer Feuerstein-DiVita 02:02 The Importance of Community and Authentic Leadership 04:47...

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....

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 Insuran...

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 diversit...

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 authen...

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 transfo...

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. Chapters 00:00 - Welcome and episode overview  00:46 - The importance of sys...

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 network...

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 jou...

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 communi...

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 discus...

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 Begi...

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 co...

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, acco...

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...

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 r...

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...