Speak with Presence

In Episode 96, We're Turning 3 Years Old!, JRT and Jen V. reminisce about their strangers-to-business partners origin story, their pride and reflections on Voice First World's mission over the past three years, and the hilarious hijinks they've been up to along the way.   Hear the “opposites” and co-founders reveal their own “What on Earth” moments as well as their biggest lessons in business and with their beloved clients.   Jen Vellenga and Jennifer Rettele-Thomas are the co-founders of Voice First World®, a communication and leadership coaching company. They train executives and leaders on the Presence Paradigm™, a communication technique created from Jen V's decades of training actors to perform authentically with stage presence. If you want to learn more about how to speak confidently, book a discovery call at https://www.voicefirstworld.com/calendar

In Episode 95, Emergency Resilience, Alex Jabr sits down with Jen V and JRT to discuss the heavy–but invaluable–topic of death communication and staying present during extremely uncomfortable end-of-life discussions.    Alex has experience as a paramedic, public speaker, and online course designer for her company, Emergency Resilience. She turned her own experiences from her mother's passing and her career in emergency medicine into a life mission to teach others how to empathetically and effectively deliver what may be the hardest words an individual may hear in their lifetime. She pulls back the curtain through stories, revealing shocking statistics highlighting just how little guidance there is for medical professionals on end-of-life communication. She has become an expert in getting comfortable in uncomfortable situations.    Jen Vellenga and Jennifer Rettele-Thomas are the co-founders of Voice First World®, a communication and leadership coaching company.  They train executives and leaders on the Presence Paradigm™, a communication technique created from Jen V's decades of training actors to perform authentically with stage presence. If you want to learn more about how to speak confidently, book a discovery call at www.voicefirstworld.com/chat.

In Episode 94, Empathy in Action, we speak with Dr. Alan Verrill, President and CEO of AdventHealth Shawnee Mission. Alan has led multiple award-winning hospitals after working for 25 years as a trusted and compassionate physician.  Dr. Verrill shares triumphs and obstacles experienced throughout his professional career; how he unexpectedly became a prominent leader after his military appointment, the changes he's seen in medicine in recent years, and a heart-warming story about a patient who had a tremendous impact on him. Warning: The Jens cry in this episode. Jen Vellenga and Jennifer Rettele-Thomas are the co-founders of Voice First World®, a communication and leadership coaching company.  They train executives and leaders on the Presence Paradigm™, a communication technique created from Jen V's decades of training actors to perform authentically with stage presence. If you want to learn more about how to speak confidently, book a discovery call at www.voicefirstworld.com/chat.  

In Episode 93, Confidence is Situational, Jen V sits down with JRT to laugh, tease, and answer a few listener questions about Speaking with Presence and Voice First World.  ‘Why do we do what we do?' and ‘What are some of our success stories?' Hear about Jen V & JRT's own struggles with confidence and leadership, as well as the many, many successes they've experienced with clients/lifelong business associates. Jen Vellenga and Jennifer Rettele-Thomas are the co-founders of Voice First World®, a communication and leadership coaching company.  They train executives and leaders on the Presence Paradigm™, a communication technique created from Jen V's decades of training actors to perform authentically with stage presence. If you want to learn more about how to speak confidently, book a discovery call at www.voicefirstworld.com/chat.  

In Episode 92, House Flip to Leadership, we had the pleasure of connecting with Tamara Day, host and designer of Magnolia Network's "Bargain Mansions." Tamara is an expert home renovator both on-camera and off. Hear about her incredible leadership growth and the vital lessons she's learned as star and lead designer of a multi-season TV show.  Jen Vellenga and Jennifer Rettele-Thomas are the co-founders of Voice First World®, a communication and leadership coaching company.  They train executives and leaders on the Presence Paradigm™, a communication technique created from Jen V's decades of training actors to perform authentically with stage presence. If you want to learn more about how to speak confidently, book a discovery call at www.voicefirstworld.com/chat.  

In Episode 91, Passport to Peace, we host our second Sudeikis and the matriarch of her family, Kathy Sudeikis. Kathy is VP of Corporate Relations at ACENDAS TRAVEL, she's a travel expert, and a leader in the Big Slick Celebrity Weekend benefitting Children's Mercy Hospital.  Kathy shares some of her many stories collected throughout her career in the travel industry, including a surprise plunge into Arctic waters and her start in booking travel for celebrities. Hear her involvement in the incredibly impactful Big Slick event in Kansas City and how they've grown to donate nearly $22 million in 15 years.  Jen Vellenga and Jennifer Rettele-Thomas are the co-founders of Voice First World®, a communication and leadership coaching company.  They train executives and leaders on the Presence Paradigm™, a communication technique created from Jen V's decades of training actors to perform authentically with stage presence. If you want to learn more about how to speak confidently, book a discovery call at www.voicefirstworld.com/chat.

In Episode 90, Zoo Stories, we chat with Sean Putney–CEO of the Kansas City Zoo & Aquarium. March 2024 was the zoo's best month in its history (dating back to 1909), and Sean expounds on how the zoo's ecosystem of animals and humans alike serve the Kansas City community.    Sean's leadership has overseen the completion of $75 million-dollar projects, and he highlights how the conservation and education efforts of the zoo work to promote understanding and appreciation with all who visit. Hear his tales of how presence can matter, even with other species.    Jen Vellenga and Jennifer Rettele-Thomas are the co-founders of Voice First World®, a communication and leadership coaching company.  They train executives and leaders on the Presence Paradigm™, a communication technique created from Jen V's decades of training actors to perform authentically with stage presence. If you want to learn more about how to speak confidently, book a discovery call at www.voicefirstworld.com/chat.

In Episode 89, Be a Light Post for People, we sit down with Dr. Michelle Robin, executive well-being coach, corporate well-being speaker, chiropractic physician, author, and advocate for generational & community well-being. Michelle shares how she stays curious with life as she leads her community and gives guidance and connections to those around her. She highlights the importance of having a more vibrant, healthy lifestyle so you can show up for those around you.  Jen Vellenga and Jennifer Rettele-Thomas are the co-founders of Voice First World®, a communication and executive coaching company.  They train leaders on the Presence Paradigm™, a communication technique created from Jen V's decades of training actors to perform authentically with stage presence. If you want to learn more about how to lead and speak confidently, book a discovery call HERE. 

In Episode 88, we had the delight of speaking with Lindsey Roy, Senior Vice President - Strategy and Brand at Hallmark. She's a global digital leader, public speaker, and author of “The Gift of Perspective: Wisdom I Gained from Losing a Leg and Two Lungs.” Lindsey bestows some of this incredible wisdom on us, detailing how she takes gratitude to another level. She breaks down her hardships and how they completely shifted her perspective on life. She shares mindset challenges that anyone–regardless of their own life's story–can try.  https://lindseyroy.com/ Jen Vellenga and Jennifer Rettele-Thomas are the co-founders of Voice First World®, a communication and executive coaching company.  They train leaders on the Presence Paradigm™, a communication technique created from Jen V's decades of training actors to perform authentically with stage presence. If you want to learn more about how to lead and speak confidently, book a discovery call HERE.   

In this episode 87, we were literally blessed when speaking with Lindsay Sudeikis–educator, ancestral healer, and spiritual counselor.  Lindsay shares her incredible and surprising journey from studying math, then philosophy, then becoming a nun. She's no longer physically in the convent, yet she embodies presence in her full and faithful life. We are thrilled to share a tiny glimpse into the mystical labyrinth of knowledge that Lindsay inhabits through the human–and spiritual–connection. Learn more at https://omniasancta.org/   Jen Vellenga and Jennifer Rettele-Thomas are the co-founders of Voice First World®, a communication and executive coaching company.  They train leaders on the Presence Paradigm™, a communication technique created from Jen V's decades of training actors to perform authentically with stage presence. If you want to learn more about how to lead and speak confidently, book a discovery call HERE. 

In this episode, E86, we sit down with Ebony Reed, seasoned journalist, editorial leader, news strategist, author and executive.  Ebony tackles some difficult subjects with us as we wrap our heads around the recent tragedy after the Super Bowl victory parade in Kansas City. We also focus on her incredibly important book ‘Fifteen Cents on the Dollar: How Americans Made the Black-White Wealth Gap,' which is available for pre-order now.  Hear how Ebony's impressive career in journalism and dedication to her community has improved Kansas City for the better.  Jen Vellenga and Jennifer Rettele-Thomas are the co-founders of Voice First World®, a communication and executive coaching company.  They train leaders on the Presence Paradigm™, a communication technique created from Jen V's decades of training actors to perform authentically with stage presence. If you want to learn more about how to speak confidently, book a discovery call at www.voicefirstworld.com/chat.

In this episode 85, Jen V. dives into her method for gaining speaking presence through the Presence Paradigm™ - Confidence, Focus, and Influence. If you have communication topics you want to hear about, email Jen at JenV@VoiceFirstWorld.com

In this episode, Stand-Up Presence, we sit down with Olivia Carter, KC native now NYC-based stand up comedian, writer, and actress.  Olivia gives us a sneak-peak into the comedy scene, starting from the very beginning of her comedic development in college–featuring professor Jen Vellenga!  Hear how Olivia has developed her stage persona and how she finds audience and “heckler” interactions feed into her presence. She highlights how she's avoided being boxed into archetypes and how studying theatre shaped her trajectory into the world of stand-up.  Watch Olivia on Kill Tony, episode #639. Find Olivia at the 21:30 mark.  Jen Vellenga and Jennifer Rettele-Thomas are the co-founders of Voice First World®, a communication and executive coaching company.  They train leaders on the Presence Paradigm™, a communication technique created from Jen V's decades of training actors to perform authentically with stage presence. If you want to learn more about how to speak confidently, book a discovery call at www.voicefirstworld.com/chat.

In this episode, Jen V. goes solo in response to requests from listeners for communication tips and tools to speak...with presence. If you have communication topics you want to hear about, email Jen at JenV@VoiceFirstWorld.com. Jen Vellenga and Jennifer Rettele-Thomas are the co-founders of Voice First World®, a communication and leadership coaching company.  They train executives and leaders on the Presence Paradigm™, a communication technique created from Jen V's decades of training actors to perform authentically with stage presence. If you want to learn more about how to speak confidently, book a discovery call at www.voicefirstworld.com/chat.  

In this episode, Focus On Your Audience, we sit down with Sidonie Garrett, Executive Artistic Director at Heart of America Shakespeare Festival.  Sidonie dives into how preparation and presence go hand-in-hand, highlighting how she finds success in honing her story when captivating an audience. Be inspired by her mission, vision, and hard work in helping the performing arts flourish in Kansas City.  Jen Vellenga and Jennifer Rettele-Thomas are the co-founders of Voice First World®, a communication and leadership coaching company.  They train executives and leaders on the Presence Paradigm™, a communication technique created from Jen V's decades of training actors to perform authentically with stage presence. If you want to learn more about how to speak confidently, book a discovery call at www.voicefirstworld.com/chat. Theatre Alliance KC  ArtsKC GO

In this episode, Living in Mama Kelce's World, we sit down with LeAnne Stowe, owner of Annie's Barn. LeAnne talks about how she turned an online Facebook auction into a shop that operates in 12 different cities and online at https://anniesbarn.com/. From her viral products to her personal connection with national hero “Mama Kelce” - the mother of NFL superstars, Travis Kelce (Kansas City Chiefs) and Jason Kelce (Philadelphia Eagles)  – hear how Annie has developed not only a thriving business, but a tight community of “Barnstormers.”  Jen Vellenga and Jennifer Rettele-Thomas are the co-founders of Voice First World®, a communication and leadership coaching company.  They train executives and leaders on the Presence Paradigm™, a communication technique created from Jen V's decades of training actors to perform authentically with stage presence. If you want to learn more about how to speak confidently, book a discovery call at www.voicefirstworld.com/chat

On E80, Jen V. hosts a special guest to learn about the impact her work/life choices had on her family. Go back in time with us to 2007 and hear about a unique Christmas in Cincinnati!   Jen V. & JRT will be back in January for more interviews with powerful leaders in the Kansas City area and with Kansas City natives.   We wish you all a very happy holiday and a prosperous 2024.  May this be the year that you realize you don't have to be "perfect" to be successful.    Jen Vellenga and Jennifer Rettele-Thomas are the co-founders of Voice First World®, a communication and leadership coaching company.  They train executives and leaders on the Presence Paradigm™, a communication technique created from Jen V's decades of training actors to perform authentically with stage presence. If you want to learn more about how to speak confidently, book a discovery call at www.voicefirstworld.com/chat.  

In this episode, Trust Your Partners, we are back on stage with Angela Gieras, Executive Director/Co-CEO at Kansas City Repertory Theatre. Angela is a performing arts leader, executive coach, strategist, fundraiser, and leadership development expert. She breaks down how recognizing and embracing her core values make her powerful presence known in the workplace.   Hear about her expertise as well as high-and-lows in the nonprofit world, including how she's found success and strength as a co-leader–not without some lessons along the way!   Learn more about Angela's research:  Research | Inspired Arts Mgmt    Want to support KC Rep:  https://kcrep.org/support-us/   Jen Vellenga and Jennifer Rettele-Thomas are the co-founders of Voice First World®, a communication and leadership coaching company.  They train executives and leaders on the Presence Paradigm™, a communication technique created from Jen V's decades of training actors to perform authentically with stage presence. If you want to learn more about how to speak confidently, book a discovery call at www.voicefirstworld.com/chat.      

In this episode, Don't Miss Your Opportunity, we interviewed Brenda VanLengen, Emmy Award-winning broadcaster, play-by-play announcer, women's basketball analyst, studio host and telestrator producer. She speaks on her journey to document women's basketball in her role as producer of the series ‘If Not for Them.' Experience Brenda's contagious passion and enthusiasm for women's sports–which rallies even the most nonathletic. Hear about her stellar career and the “What on Earth” moment that changed the trajectory of her life.    https://ifnotforthem.com/   Jen Vellenga and Jennifer Rettele-Thomas are the co-founders of Voice First World®, a communication and leadership coaching company.  They train executives and leaders on the Presence Paradigm™, a communication technique created from Jen V's decades of training actors to perform authentically with stage presence. If you want to learn more about how to speak confidently, book a discovery call at www.voicefirstworld.com/chat 

In this episode 77, Lead with Love, we spoke with Christine Kemper, Marketing Professional, Board Member, and Founder of Kansas City Girls Preparatory Academy, a school that teaches young women to use their voices, succeed in college and lead impactful, meaningful lives. It's giving Tuesday! This is where to give: Education - KCGPA      Arts - Heartland Arts In Christine's inspiring story, she sees a need in her community and takes matters into her own hands to meet the need. Find out how the students in her school are encouraged to put their own presence into the world. Following a fifteen-year career that began in the U.S. Department of Justice and evolved to include roles in business communications, politics and higher education, Christine founded a marketing and research consultancy that has advised local, national and global brands since 2002. She is co-founder of The Collectors Fund and The Kansas City Collection, two enterprises that invest in art and build markets for artists, as well as YEP, an internship and scholarship organization focused on nurturing entrepreneurship among high school students. She has served in leadership roles for dozens of regional nonprofit organizations, including the Women's Foundation, Women's Employment Network, WIN for KC, the WWI Museum and Memorial, DeLaSalle Education Center, the Symphony Foundation and University Academy Charter School. Her current passion is in her role as a founder and board chair of Kansas City Girls Preparatory Academy.  Jen Vellenga and Jennifer Rettele-Thomas are the co-founders of Voice First World®, a communication and leadership coaching company.  They train executives and leaders on the Presence Paradigm™, a communication technique created from Jen V's decades of training actors to perform authentically with stage presence. If you want to learn more about how to speak confidently, book a discovery call at www.voicefirstworld.com/chat.

In this episode, Giving Deeply, we spoke with Claire Costello, Managing Director, Senior Philanthropic Strategist for Philanthropic Solutions at Bank of America Private Bank. Claire takes us on an exploration of what data says about how we—especially women—interact with philanthropy. Listen in on her insights into giving versus receiving and how we can best show up for philanthropy. Affluent Charitable Giving Trends and Statistics in 2022 (bankofamerica.com) Jen Vellenga and Jennifer Rettele-Thomas are the co-founders of Voice First World®, a communication and leadership coaching company.  They train executives and leaders on the Presence Paradigm™, a communication technique created from Jen V's decades of training actors to perform authentically with stage presence. If you want to learn more about how to speak confidently, book a discovery call at www.voicefirstworld.com/chat  

In this episode 75, Spectrum of Authenticity, we interviewed Lindsey Rood-Clifford, President and CEO of Starlight Theatre in Kansas City, MO. We met with her on location at Starlight in her office overlooking the audience seating. Lindsey shares her experience being unanimously voted to be the new—and first female—CEO at Starlight, and how she creates change authentically in her role. Hear her philosophy on inspiring teams and constantly connecting with community. Jen Vellenga and Jennifer Rettele-Thomas are the co-founders of Voice First World®, a communication and leadership coaching company.  They train executives and leaders on the Presence Paradigm™, a communication technique created from Jen V's decades of training actors to perform authentically with stage presence. If you want to learn more about how to speak confidently, book a discovery call at www.voicefirstworld.com/chat.  

E74: In this episode, Tell the Truth, we interviewed Kiona Sinks, Community Engagement Manager for the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum. We met with her on location in the heart of the museum in Kansas City, MO.   Kiona explains how she earned her spot as a prominent change-maker and storyteller in Kansas City, giving a behind-the-scenes look at what goes into her seemingly effortless, resolute presence. She shares stories and experiences that made her ask, “If I don't believe in myself, who will?” and “Why not now?”.    Jen Vellenga and Jennifer Rettele-Thomas are the co-founders of Voice First World®, a communication and leadership coaching company. They train executives and leaders on the Presence Paradigm™, a communication technique created from Jen V's decades of training actors to perform authentically with stage presence. If you want to learn more about how to speak confidently, book a discovery call at www.voicefirstworld.com/chat

We interviewed Nancy Whitworth, the Chief People Officer at McCownGordon Construction. We met with her on location at her office in downtown Kansas City, MO. In this episode, Nancy explains how shifting her mindset completely changed her leadership game and the three words that inspired her epiphany. Learn about the enormous impact Nancy has on her community and Voice First World® itself, and how she's gained a reputation as an outstanding leader.  Jen Vellenga and Jennifer Rettele-Thomas are the co-founders of Voice First World®, a communication and leadership coaching company.  They train executives and leaders on the Presence Paradigm™, a communication technique created from Jen V's decades of training actors to perform authentically with stage presence. If you want to learn more about how to speak confidently, book a discovery call at www.voicefirstworld.com/chat.

On this episode, Have You Made It?, we share a compilation episode from the 2020-2021 podcast, Ditch Your Backup Plan: Stories of rewarding careers between starving artist and celebrity. This was Jen V.'s first podcast, where she interviewed guests in the performing arts on what it means for them to follow a risky career path. In this episode, each guest answers the question, "Have You Made It?" It's an invasive question that artists get asked far too often. Their perspectives on this question will help you frame your own achievements, big and small. Jen Vellenga and Jennifer Rettele-Thomas are the co-founders of Voice First World®, a communication and executive coaching company.  They train executives, leaders, and speakers on the Presence Paradigm™, a communication technique created from Jen V's decades of training actors to perform authentically, with presence, on stages, on video, and audio.  If you want to learn more about how to speak confidently, book a discovery call at www.voicefirstworld.com/chat.  

On this episode, Take a Risk, we share a compilation episode from the 2020-2021 podcast, Ditch Your Backup Plan. This was Jen V.'s first podcast where she interviewed guests in the performing arts on what it means for them to follow a risky career path. In this episode, each guest answers the question, "What has been your biggest risk?"  Some of their reflections may surprise you.   This is also the exact episode that inspired Jen V. and JRT to chuck it all and resign from their positions in higher education to launch Voice First World®.  It was a huge risk and they have not regretted it for one single second! Jen Vellenga and Jennifer Rettele-Thomas are the co-founders of Voice First World®, a communication and executive coaching company.  They train executives, leaders, and speakers on the Presence Paradigm™, a communication technique created from Jen V's decades of training actors to perform authentically, with presence, on stages, on video, and audio.  If you want to learn more about how to speak confidently, book a discovery call at www.voicefirstworld.com/chat.

We interviewed Matt Linski, the President of Bank of America - Kansas City, on location at his office in downtown KCMO. Matt loves supporting local organizations and takes pride in the Bank of America innovative volunteerism and workplace giving programs. Associates are consistently incentivized to give back in their own neighborhoods. He talks about Bank of America's Neighborhood Builders program that helps nonprofits address critical local needs. And Matt knows his audience. He talks about the importance of networking and listening to make an impact within his community. We were moved by Matt's stories of those who have influenced his life, including his late father. He credits his dad for teaching him the leadership value of “walking the floors” to connect with team members. Jen Vellenga and Jennifer Rettele-Thomas are the co-founders of Voice First World®, a communication and executive coaching company.  They train executives and leaders on the Presence Paradigm™, a communication technique created from Jen V's decades of training actors to perform authentically, with presence, on stages, on audio, and video.  If you want to learn more about how to speak confidently, book a discovery call at www.voicefirstworld.com/chat.

Halfway to Anywhere with Logan Stacer, Executive Artistic Director of Heartland Arts KC and a Youth Pastor at Awaken Church KC. In this episode, Logan shares where he finds confidence and joy. You'll learn how he advocates for multiple social justice challenges in Kansas City and you'll hear the story of a kitchen accident that led to his epiphany about being kind. "If you can make it in New York, you can make it anywhere. If you can't make it in Chicago, you can't make it anywhere.  If you make it in Kansas City, you are Halfway to Anywhere." Heartland Arts KC trains performing artists to become advocates of social justice. They aim to position Kansas City as a hub for arts advocacy, making public policy accessible for all. Jen Vellenga and Jennifer Rettele-Thomas are the co-founders of Voice First World®, a communication and executive coaching company.  They train executives and leaders on the Presence Paradigm™, a communication technique created from Jen V's decades of training actors to perform authentically, with presence, on stages, on audio, and video.  If you want to learn more about how to speak confidently, book a discovery call at www.voicefirstworld.com/chat.

Master the Mundane with Deb Richard (pronounced ri-SHARD) will inspire listeners to trust their instincts and value integrity. Deb played on the LPGA Tour for twenty years (1986–2005), during which she won five Tour events and finished in the top-10 in over seventy events. Her best finishes in the LPGA majors included a tie for tenth place in the 1996 Kraft Nabisco Championship, a tie for fifth in the 1991 LPGA Championship, a tie for ninth in the 1986 U.S. Women's Open, and ties for fourth in the 1988 and 1998 du Maurier Classic. In 1992, Richard was selected for the U.S. Solheim Cup team.  Richard has been inducted into the Kansas Golf Hall of Fame. She has also received a number of awards for her charitable activities. To learn more about Deb, read her book, Trust: Understanding My Why or check out her leadership program, Burlap Leaders. Jen Vellenga and Jennifer Rettele-Thomas are the co-founders of Voice First World®, a communication and executive coaching company.  Jen V. works with executives and leaders on the Presence Paradigm™, a communication technique created from Jen V's decades of training actors to perform authentically, with presence, on stages, on audio, and video.  If you want to learn more about how to speak confidently, book a discovery call at www.voicefirstworld.com/chat.  

Talk Nicely to Yourself features actor/singer, Shon Ruffin, a Kansas City-based performer. Jen V. & JRT spoke with Shon on location at the New Theatre and Restaurant in Overland Park, KS before she prepared for her nightly performance of Effie in the musical DREAMGIRLS. The show closed on Sept, 10, 2023 after a sold out run. You can find Shon singing with the bands Freedom Affair and Lost Wax. Jen Vellenga and Jennifer Rettele-Thomas are the co-founders of Voice First World, a communication and executive coaching company.  If you want to learn more, book a discovery call at www.voicefirstworld.com/chat.  

Dani Welniak is the Vice President of Communications for the KC Current, the Kansas City soccer team for the National Women's Soccer League (NWSL). Dani has an impressive career as an on-air reporter for the Kansas City Chiefs and as a superbowl champion with the Dallas Diamondz - Women's Professional Full-Contact NFL Rules Football. Dani is a confident speaker and shares her stories of overcoming failures and being supported by allies in a male-dominated industry. Jen Vellenga and Jennifer Rettele-Thomas are the co-founders of Voice First World, a communication and executive coaching company.  If you want to learn more, book a call at www.voicefirstworld.com/chat.

Beatrice Williamson is a distinguished leader known for her warmth, humor and commitment to learning. She was born January 19, 1976 in Kisumu, the third largest city in Kenya. From the age of nine years old until her second year of college, Beatrice received a scholarship for education from Swedish missionary Anna Lanson. Education was what Beatrice needed to rise above her circumstances and realize her potential.   “Aunty Bea” as the Maisha children affectionately call her, came to The United States in 2001. She founded Pamoja International Ministry to provide outreach services to international students in Oklahoma. She also consults regularly with international executives from a variety of fields to help create synergistic solutions to impacting problems these students face.   In the meantime, Beatrice's family, living in the village of Kano, just outside of Kisumu, expressed the need and dire situation of the orphans and widows living in their community. The fruition of Beatrice's dream began in 2006, when she founded Maisha Project in response to this call for help. Now, her passion is to reach out to orphaned and destitute children and provide them with the same opportunity Anna Lanson gave her. By making a difference in the lives of the children from her home village, Beatrice strives to create a brighter future for the next generation. Her passion is to reach out to orphaned and destitute children and continue the Legacy of Hope Anna Lanson began.   TEDxOU - Beatrice Williamson - One Person's Generosity & The Power of Education - YouTube   If you want to see if it's a good fit to work with Jen V. and JRT on speaking courageously as a leader, let's chat: https://www.voicefirstworld.com/chat

Allison Howard was named the first-ever President of KC Current on May 24, 2022. Howard joined the club after a ten-year career with the Los Angeles Lakers. She spent the previous five years serving as Vice President of Corporate Partnerships, where she was instrumental in closing the Lakers' most successful partnerships and led the organization's corporate partnership strategy that surpassed $350 million in revenue.   Prior to her time with the Lakers, Howard was Vice President at Premier Partnerships where she sold and managed naming rights partnerships all over the country. She was also recognized as a "Woman of Inspiration" from WISE LA (Women in Sports and Events, Los Angeles) and served on the WISE LA board for 10 years.   KC Current and Kansas City Bank of America have just announced their community partnership - congratulations!    Heard in this episode: Allison Howard, President, KC Current Matt Linski, President, Kansas City Bank of America Wendy Doyle, CEO, United WE   If you want to see if it's a good fit to work with Jen V. and JRT on speaking courageously as a leader, let's chat: https://www.voicefirstworld.com/chat    

Sandra Bargman is a creative soul, intuitive communicator, and energetic servant. It started when she was three years old, marched into her family kitchen, hands on her hips and announced that she was here on “a mission!" Every career choice she has made has ultimately rested on the ancient Greek maxim of “Know Thyself," the directive that is at the heart of every artistic, spiritual and leadership journey. She hold a BFA from Carnegie-Mellon University in drama and music and has had a happy 30+ year career as a professional actor, director, teacher and presentation coach. She has performed on the stages of Broadway national tours, the clubs and cabaret rooms of NYC, off-Broadway, regional theatres and beyond. Her spiritual life called her further inward, and in 2007, she was ordained as an Inter-spiritual Minister from The New Seminary for Interfaith Studies. She hold an advanced certification from One Spirit Interfaith Seminary in Spiritual Counseling. Unaffiliated with any single religious tradition, she has helped clients of all faiths and traditions (including none) in pursuing deeper self- understanding in their personal quest to 'Know Thyself."

Through decades of impacting experiences, Alison sees the world with a global perspective and with the straight up honesty and spirit of a Brooklyn-native, combined with California wellness-cool. She has a unique ability to see big picture opportunities very quickly. With over 26-years in global tech enterprise Sales and Product Marketing Leadership within large and mid-sized enterprises, such as Cisco, Brocade, Autodesk, Riverbed, and a start-up exit to Microsoft, Alison has driven and experienced business growth across a wide range of perspectives. Alison holds advanced certifications with the International Coach Federation - ICF (ACC), Co-Active Training Institute (CPCC), and from Cornell University in Women's Executive Leadership and Diversity and Inclusion.  She has a lifelong passion for whole wellness, incorporating her ‘Four Pillars of Wellness' into her leadership coaching, and is a certified holistic wellness coach and former fitness trainer.   In 2020, she received a diagnosis of Stage 3 endometrial cancer where she applied her warrior approach to herself.  Her journey through cancer treatment was the call she needed to move on from the enterprise and to build her own company, The Lens Leadership, a leadership coaching company specializing in coaching for companies, groups, and individuals, from young professionals to senior-most executives. If you want to see if it's a good fit to work with Jen V. and JRT on speaking courageously as a leader, let's chat: https://www.voicefirstworld.com/chat

Dr. Novak has over 25 years of experience working in the fields of optical and wireless communications. She has a successful track record of R&D leadership and product development in the industrial and academic sectors. Prior to co-founding Pharad/Octane Wireless, Dr. Novak was a Professor in the Department of Electrical and Electronic Engineering at The University of Melbourne. Later she led cross-disciplinary R&D teams developing WDM hardware for long-haul transmission systems at Dorsál Networks and Corvis Corporation. Dr. Novak received the degrees of Bachelor of Engineering and PhD in Electrical Engineering from the University of Queensland, Australia, in 1987 and 1992, respectively. She is a Fellow of the IEEE and is recognized internationally as an expert in the areas of microwave and millimeter-wave photonics. Dr. Novak has published more than 300 papers in these areas, including seven book chapters. In 2018 she was awarded the IEEE Photonics Society Engineering Achievement Award for her work developing breakthrough technologies for the microwave photonics field.  She is currently serving as a member of the IEEE Board of Directors. If you want to see if it's a good fit to work with Jen V. and JRT on speaking courageously as a leader, let's chat: https://www.voicefirstworld.com/chat

On April 2, 2021, the OSU/A&M Board of Regents selected Dr. Kayse Shrum as the 19th president of Oklahoma State University. A native Oklahoman, President Shrum earned her doctor of osteopathic medicine degree from the OSU College of Osteopathic Medicine and has completed executive leadership and management training programs at Harvard University and Stanford University. Since taking office in July 2021, Dr. Shrum has forged a new chapter for OSU — boldly facing challenges like conference realignment and COVID-19 while positioning the university for future success by embarking on a strategic planning process. The systemwide strategy process will guide the future of OSU and secure its position as the nation's premier land-grant university — with a focus on creating and discovering solutions to societal problems, providing students with a world-class education and sending them into the world after graduation well-equipped to handle the challenges before them.  If you want to see if it's a good fit to work with Jen V. and JRT on speaking courageously as a leader, let's chat: https://www.voicefirstworld.com/chat  

Konnie Metaxa (@kmetaxa on the socials) is an actor, singer, TV host and influencer living in Greece. She made her TV debut as an actress in 2014, participating in the MEGA series, "Modern Family", where she played the daughter of Costas Kokla and Zeta Douka.   In 2015, she released her first song "Feel The Music" with the record company Heaven Music and at the same time, she started live performances at the Gialino Music Theater with her father, Lefteris Pantazis.   Check out some of ther other music videos: Aman Con Calma  - Check out her entrance at 1:30 Mongo Pago If you want to see if it's a good fit to work with Jen V. and JRT on speaking confidently as a leader, let's chat: https://www.voicefirstworld.com/chat  

Jen Vellenga continues to fill the story bank with a story about singing in Shen Zhen, China in 1993.  This episode begins our celebration of International Women on the Speak with Presence podcast by Voice First World. Jen Vellenga's "word" for 2023 is CONSISTENCY. Co-host Jennifer Rettele-Thomas challenged her to tell a story on the Speak with Presence podcast every day of 2023 starting on January 19, 2023. Can Jen V. do it? JRT doubts it.  Even if she's not perfect...how many stories can she tell and what structures will she use?

Robert has been a passionate supporter of gender equality throughout his 40 plus year consulting career. He helped set up the women's network in Mercer UK and was the first man to join the Board of leading global women's network, PWN Global. He has mentored and sponsored many women globally and is mentored himself by a number of women. Today Robert runs his own consulting business, focussing on delivering keynotes, workshops and coaching for (mostly male) business executives to help them develop their leadership skills in gender balance and so build diverse and inclusive workplaces. He is a Board member of European Women on Boards, responsible for D&I Strategy, and is a Trustee of One Loud Voice for Women. Robert is also a Non-Executive Director of Spktral, the specialists in gender pay gap analysis and reporting. Connect with Robert on Linked In. If you want to see if it's a good fit to work with Jen V. and JRT on speaking courageously as a leader, let's chat: https://www.voicefirstworld.com/chat  

Jen Vellenga continues to fill the story bank with a story about William's award.  This episode is ripped from the files of group coaching for the Speak with Presence program by Voice First World. Jen Vellenga's "word" for 2023 is CONSISTENCY. Co-host Jennifer Rettele-Thomas challenged her to tell a story on the Speak with Presence podcast every day of 2023 starting on January 19, 2023. Can Jen V. do it? JRT doubts it.  Even if she's not perfect...how many stories can she tell and what structures will she use?

Ushi's mission and expertise is helping generous, trailblazing women know their value so they can build magnetic brands of positive influence and wealth. She is a globally recognized brand strategist, creative consultant and designer with an MBA. Her work has a collective reach of millions, including the visual direction of campaigns for the empowerment of more than 300,000 women in India and Africa. Ushi's multicultural approach and heartfelt visual storytelling has inspired her clients to utilize her design talent and eye for their incredible homes, events, and weddings worldwide, in addition to the visual direction and mentorship she provides for their businesses.  If you want to see if it's a good fit to work with Jen V. and JRT on speaking courageously as a leader, let's chat: https://www.voicefirstworld.com/chat

The nuance and why of the dress code. Jen Vellenga's "word" for 2023 is CONSISTENCY. Co-host Jennifer Rettele-Thomas challenged her to tell a story on the Speak with Presence podcast every day of 2023 starting on January 19, 2023. Can Jen V. do it? JRT doubts it.  Even if she's not perfect...how many stories can she tell and what structures will she use? Jen V & JRT and the co-founders of Voice First World, a communication and executive coaching company.

What's the difference?  Jen demonstrates sharing an actual story vs. only telling the facts about a story. Jen Vellenga's "word" for 2023 is CONSISTENCY. Co-host Jennifer Rettele-Thomas challenged her to tell a story on the Speak with Presence podcast every day of 2023 starting on January 19, 2023. Can Jen V. do it? JRT doubts it.  Even if she's not perfect...how many stories can Jen tell and what structures will she use? How creative can she get about where she finds the stories she shares? Subscribe on your favorite podcast app to find out! Jen V & JRT and the co-founders of Voice First World, a communication and executive coaching company.

We all want it our way.  But are we listening?  If we aren't, artificial intelligence is! In this episode, Jen V. talks about Kevin Roose's book, "Futureproof: 9 Rules for Humans in the Age of Automation" and shares his advice on what to do in an increasingly automated world. Jen Vellenga's "word" for 2023 is CONSISTENCY. Co-host Jennifer Rettele-Thomas challenged her to tell a story on the Speak with Presence podcast every day of 2023 starting on January 19, 2023. Can Jen V. do it? JRT doubts it.  Even if she's not perfect...how many stories can Jen tell and what structures will she use? Subscribe on your favorite podcast app to find out! Jen V & JRT and the co-founders of Voice First World, a communication and executive coaching company.

"Manny" (not his real name) has an odd request. This episode is about learning to be grateful, even in surprising circumstances. Jen Vellenga's "word" for 2023 is CONSISTENCY. Jennifer Rettele-Thomas challenged her to tell a story on the Speak with Presence podcast every day of 2023 starting on January 19, 2023. Can Jen V. do it? JRT doubts it.  Even if she's not perfect...how many stories can she tell and what structures will she use?

"Sally" (not her real name) calls out professionalism in the classroom. Triangulation lessons are learned the hard way. Jen Vellenga's "word" for 2023 is CONSISTENCY. Jennifer Rettele-Thomas challenged her to tell a story on the Speak with Presence podcast every day of 2023 starting on January 19, 2023. Can Jen V. do it? JRT doubts it.  Even if she's not perfect...how many stories can she tell and what structures will she use?

Jen Vellenga's "word" for 2023 is CONSISTENCY. Jennifer Rettele-Thomas challenged her to tell a story on the Speak with Presence podcast every day of 2023 starting on January 19, 2023. Can Jen V. do it? JRT doubts it.  Even if she's not perfect...how many stories can she tell and what structures will she use?

1/20/23. Jen Vellenga's "word" for 2023 is CONSISTENCY. Jennifer Rettele-Thomas challenged her to tell a story on the Speak with Presence podcast every day of 2023 starting on January 19, 2023. Can Jen V. do it? JRT doubts it.  Even if she's not perfect...how many stories can she tell and what structures will she use?  

Maria Borges is the Vice President of the Global Consumer Products – Optimization Economics at Mastercard and has 20+ years of global experience within the finance and payments industries. In her current role, Maria leads a unique team that drives global pricing initiatives for existing and new consumer solutions. Maria holds a Bachelor of Arts and Master of Business Administration both in Accounting from Barry University and recently joined as a Board Member at Florida Justice Institute, a non-profit organization. If you want to see if it's a good fit to work with Jen V. and JRT on speaking courageously as a leader, let's chat: https://www.voicefirstworld.com/chat  

Originally from Scotland, Collette is an international leader, podcaster, certified coach and CEO (Chief Energy Officer) of Brain Sports. She has led international teams at Nike inc. and Levi Strauss for over twenty years most recently as the VP of Nike World Headquarters, Workplace Design and Connectivity. She has lived across Europe and Asia with her family. Always curious about how the mind affects our lives, she took time to study her own for the last seventeen years. This has culminated in Brain Sports, a multi-media platform for coaches and athletes to restore the mental health and spirit of sports through coaching, playshops and a supportive community. Collette is certified in Humans Being, leading from the Inside Out, which focuses on executive and C-Suite women designed by Dr. Lou Ann Daly. She is an energy master and integrates this somatic wisdom into her coaching techniques with clients. Her specialty is helping her clients discover and materializing their highest and best self and to support their life vision and purpose. If you want to see if it's a good fit to work with Jen V. and JRT on speaking courageously as a leader, check us out at https://www.voicefirstworld.com