The Conversation with Clinton M. Padgett

In this episode, Clint looks back on the best moments from the podcast in 2024, including Emmanuel Caprais on how to improve your people management skills, Sivaram Trikutam on how to tackle complex problems, Dr. Ray Gallant on advice for navigating the unknown, Teresa Lynch on fostering positive and productive team culture, John Miles on the importance of cultivating self-leadership, Karyn Buxman on the challenges and benefits of incorporating humor in leadership, and Craig Weber on improving conversational capacity amongst your teams.

In this episode, Clint continues his conversation with Craig Weber, founder of Craig Weber Consulting Group and author of “Conversational Capacity: The Secret to Building Successful Teams That Perform When the Pressure is On.” During their chat, Craig talks about the detriments of using your authority as a sledgehammer, the benefits of having someone on your team who isn't fully on-board with your plan, and the importance of building your discipline: physical, intellectual, and emotional. Plus, Craig discusses why political discourse is primed to go sideways and gives advice on how to overcome our instinct for avoidance or defensiveness in political conversations. This is the second part of a two-part conversation.

In this episode, Clint has a conversation with Craig Weber, founder of Craig Weber Consulting Group and author of “Conversational Capacity: The Secret to Building Successful Teams That Perform When the Pressure is On.” During their discussion, Craig defines “conversational capacity” and outlines the difference between high conversational capacity teams versus low conversational capacity teams, as well as highlighting the need to manage your “need to minimize” and your “need to win” in high capacity conversations. Craig also gives advice on how to pump the brakes when you're highly emotionally flooded: “You have your emotional reaction; it doesn't have you.” This is the first part of a two-part conversation.

In Part 2 of Clint's impactful discussion with Karyn Buxman, they dive deeper into the strategic use of humor in leadership. Karyn shares advanced techniques for engaging large audiences, the importance of distinguishing between humor for entertainment and humor in the workplace, and how leaders can develop an instinct for when humor is appropriate. This episode is packed with practical advice for leaders looking to harness the power of humor to enhance team dynamics and productivity. This is part 2 of a 2 part discussion.

In the first part of this engaging conversation, Karyn Buxman discusses the common challenges in project management. She delves into the crucial role of communication, the importance of involving key team members in planning, and how to set realistic deadlines to avoid the pitfalls of overpromising. Karyn shares her insights on how humor and positivity can transform team dynamics and drive project success. This is part 1 of a 2 part discussion.

On the podcast this week, Clint re-visits his favorite moments from the conversations he's had during the first half of 2024:Emmanuel CapraisSivaram TrikutamDr. Ray GallantTeresa LynchJohn MilesThank you to everyone who has participated during the first part of 2024!

In Part 2 of his enlightening conversation with John Miles, he underscores the significance of a learning mindset and continuous improvement while providing strategies to overcome self-doubt and confront fears. He introduces the concept of a reverse bucket list as a tool for reflecting on accomplishments and shares valuable insights for project managers. This is the second part of a two-part discussion.

In Part 1 of his compelling conversation with John Miles, Clint delves into John's inspiring journey from overcoming a childhood accident to rebuilding his confidence and graduating with honors from the Naval Academy. He explores his definition of self-leadership, highlighting the importance of hard work, mindset and behavior shifts, and the psychology of progress. John offers insights on how managers can infuse passion and purpose into their daily work and introduces the concept of being a "mosquito auditor." This is the first part of a two-part discussion.

In Part 3 of his engaging conversation with Teresa Lynch, Clint explores the essential leadership qualities that drive team success. Teresa, known for her strategic oversight in field operations, discusses how establishing a clear set of guiding principles at the outset of each project facilitates effective conflict resolution and team alignment, especially across culturally diverse groups. She also emphasizes the role of positive intentions in leadership, sharing how this approach not only resolves conflicts but also integrates new technologies and industry standards into everyday operations. This is the third part of a three-part discussion.

In this episode, Clint continues his conversation with Teresa Lynch, Vice President of Field Operations at Lennar. During their discussion, Teresa delves deeper into fostering a team culture that values transparency and collaborative success. She shares effective strategies for keeping communication open and ensuring that all team members are aligned with the project's goals. Plus, Teresa offers insights into managing timelines and stakeholder expectations to keep projects on track and successful. This is the second part of a three-part discussion.

In this episode, Clint has a conversation with Teresa, a seasoned project manager with extensive experience in leading high-performing teams. During their talk, Teresa shares her journey into project management and the key experiences that have shaped her approach. She discusses the essential qualities that distinguish outstanding project managers, emphasizing the importance of being a dot connector and the value of proactive planning over micromanagement. This is the first part of a three-part discussion.

In this episode, Clint continues his conversation with Dr. Ray Gallant, Vice President of Sustainability and Productivity Services at Volvo Construction Equipment. During their discussion, Dr. Gallant describes Aristotle's modes of persuasion, gives advice on how to foster open communication, and talks about leading across cultures. Plus, Dr. Gallant shares the best piece of advice he's ever received: have fun. This is the second part of a two-part discussion.

In this episode, Clint has a conversation with Dr. Ray Gallant, Vice President of Sustainability and Productivity at Volvo Construction Equipment. During their talk, Dr. Gallant discusses the importance of continuous learning in leadership development, gives advice for managing different generations of the workforce, and shares his thoughts on guiding teams through long-term, innovative projects. Plus, Dr. Gallant explains why it's important to “bring out the child in everybody.” This is the first part of a two-part discussion.

In this episode, Clint continues his conversation with Sivaram Trikutam, Vice President of the WiFi Product Line at Infineon Technologies. During their discussion, Sivaram talks about establishing a shared vision of success in professional partnerships, understanding the nuances of verbal and non-verbal communication across cultures, and leading small-scale teams to large-scale success. Plus, find out why Sivaram says, as a subject matter expert, you should only present 20% of what you know. This is the second part of a two-part discussion.

In this episode, Clint has a conversation with Sivaram Trikutam, Vice President of the WiFi product Line at Infineon Technologies. During their discussion, Sivaram talks about Infineon's commitment to decarbonization and digitalization, his hands-on approach to leadership, and the importance of message clarity in change management. Plus, Sivaram discusses his approach to solving big problems by breaking them down into smaller, more manageable parts. This is the first part of a two-part discussion.

In this episode, Clint continues his conversation with Emmanuel Caprais, Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer at ITT Inc. During their discussion, Emmanuel talks about how to be a source of knowledge and guidance for his people, the importance of communicating the bigger picture, and the leadership principles that guide his day-to-day behaviors. Plus, Emmanuel discusses ITT's $25 million investment in green energy and its significance in securing future success. This is the second part of a two-part conversation.

On the podcast this week, Clint re-visits his favorite moments from the conversations he's had in 2023.John ZahurancikCathy OrquiolaDoug BawelKristen SandersonDr. Olga KubassovaEd MasDr. Franklin Chang-DiazDr. Brett WalkenhorstDavid HalmCheryl LimCindy CooksonRob MortensenJuan GutierrezThank you to all the guests for joining Clint this past year and sharing your thoughts, ideas, and expertise.

In this episode, Clint has a conversation with Emmanuel Caprais, Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer at ITT Inc. During their discussion, Emmanuel talks about his predisposition for international business, how he transformed himself into a good leader, and why the customer is the ultimate judge of your performance. Plus, Emmanuel discusses overcoming supply chain challenges. This is the first part of a two-part discussion.

In this episode, Clint continues his conversation with Juan Gutierrez, CEO of Global Services at Siemens Gamesa. During their discussion, Juan talks about the importance of transparency in effective collaboration, gives tips for how to nurture innovation, and discusses ways to boost team motivation. Plus, Juan shares what it's like to be at the top of a wind turbine. This is the second part of a two-part discussion.

In this episode, Clint has a conversation with Juan Gutierrez, CEO of Global Services at Siemens Gamesa. During their chat, Juan talks about his role in the wind turbine industry, gives tips for communicating across cultures, and discusses the importance of finding the common denominator when working with cross-functional teams. Plus, Juan shares the power of asking questions in ensuring communication clarity. This is the first part of a two-part discussion.

In this episode, Clint continues his conversation with Rob Mortensen, General Manager of Delivery Systems and Services for North America and Europe at EMD Electronics. During their chat, Rob talks about balancing risk in decision making, being intentional about loving your job, and why opportunity favors the prepared. Plus, Rob discusses the advantages of being generous in sharing our knowledge and skills with others. This is the second part of a two-part conversation.

In this episode, Clint has a conversation with Rob Mortensen, General Manager of Delivery Systems and Services for North America and Europe at EMD Electronics. During their discussion, Rob talks about the lessons he's learned from managing organizational growth, the importance of transparent and timely communication, and the benefits of in-person conversations versus virtual meetings. Plus, Rob talks about promoting a culture of safety and quality, and how the two go hand-in-hand. This is the first part of a two-part discussion.

In this episode, Clint continues his conversation with Cindy Cookson, Vice President of Global Product Line Management at the Gates Corporation. During their chat, Cindy talks about adapting communication styles for different groups, inspiring eighth graders to pursue careers in manufacturing, and leaving their comfort zone to accomplish something new. Plus, Cindy talks about her life-long involvement in Girl Scouts and how it laid the foundation for achieving her goals. This is the second part of a two-part discussion.

In this episode, Clint has a conversation with Cindy Cookson, Vice President of Global Product Line Management at the Gates Corporation. During their discussion, Cindy talks about what inspired her career in engineering, the importance of highlighting the ‘why' when managing teams, and her ability to translate between big-picture thinkers and doers. Plus, Cindy talks about Gates' sustainability efforts and driving eco-innovation. This is the first part of a two-part discussion.

In this episode, Clint continues his conversation with Cheryl Lim, Chief Human Resources Officer at Vertiv. During their discussion, Cheryl talks about attracting and retaining top talent, including the need to align personal values with company values, and the importance of balancing what people need with what the company needs. She also shares the leadership principles that she follows and the best piece of advice she ever received. This is the second part of a two-part discussion.

In this episode, Clint has a conversation with Cheryl Lim, CHRO at Vertiv. During their discussion, Cheryl talks about making the jump from managing a few people to leading large teams, the importance of repetition in communication clarity, and strategies for leading high-performing teams. This is the first part of a two-part discussion.

In this episode, Clint continues his conversation with his friend and colleague, David Halm. During their chat, David discusses the importance of leaders who listen to their teams, accept their limitations, and prioritize tasks accordingly. Plus, David and Clint talk about their involvement in the Olympic Games in 2016, 2018, 2020, 2022, and their current planning session for Paris 2024. This is the second part of a two-part discussion.

In this episode, Clint has a conversation with his colleague, David Halm, Senior Consultant at Project Success, Inc. During their discussion, David talks about the beginning of his career in textile manufacturing, his experience planning large events with PSI, and how master planning helps to focus leaders and set teams on the path to success. This is the first part of a two-part conversation.

On the podcast this week, Clint re-visits some of the best moments from the conversations he's had so far this year.Cathy Orquiola, West Region VP of PCL ConstructionDoug Bawel, CEO of Jasper Engines & TransmissionsDr. Brett Walkenhorst, CTO of Bastille NetworksDr. Franklin Chang-Diaz, Chairman & CEO of Ad Astra Rocket CompanyDr. Olga Kubassova, Founder & CEO of Image Analysis GroupEd Mas, President of VOXX AutomotiveJames Sanduski, President of Sharp Electronics Corporation USAJohn Zahurancik, President of the Americas of FluenceKristen Sanderson, VP of Customer Advocacy & Chief Diversity Officer, GE Digital.Thank you to all my guests for joining me this year and sharing your thoughts, ideas, and expertise.

In this episode, Clint continues his conversation with Dr. Brett Walkenhorst, CTO at Bastille. During their chat, Dr. Walkenhorst talks about wireless policies within organizations, explains how analytics help automate and make sense of data, and discusses the power of listening in leadership. Plus, Brett talks about Bastille's efforts to build and maintain a Threat Library. This is the second part of a two-part discussion.

In this episode, Clint has a conversation with Dr. Brett Walkenhorst, CTO at Bastille Networks, a wireless threat intelligence company. During their discussion, Dr. Walkenhorst outlines his path to electrical engineering, explains Bastille's wireless threat detection capabilities, and discusses some of the unique vulnerabilities he's encountered. This is the first part of a two-part discussion.

In this episode, Clint continues his conversation with Dr. Franklin Chang-Diaz, Founder & CEO of Ad Astra Rocket Company and member of the NASA Astronaut Hall of Fame. During their discussion, Dr. Chang-Diaz discusses the challenges of making the VASIMR rocket fly, the importance of small advances over large leaps, and why you should be okay with failure. Plus, Dr. Chang-Diaz discusses his company's focus on the production of green hydrogen here on earth. This is the second part of a two-part conversation.

In this episode, Clint has a conversation with Dr. Franklin Chang-Diaz, Founder & CEO of Ad Astra Rocket Company and former NASA astronaut. During their discussion, Dr. Chang-Diaz talks about his favorite experience in space, his transition to the business world, and the many applications for his company's rocket propulsion technology. Plus, Dr. Chang-Diaz discusses shortening travel time to Mars from 7 months to 6 weeks. This is the first part of a two-part conversation.

In this episode, Clint continues his conversation with Ed Mas, President of VOXX Automotive. During their chat, Ed shares some valuable advice for those seeking leadership positions, talks about the importance of understanding cultural differences in international business, and discusses personal integrity and defining your own reputation. Plus, Ed talks about continuous learning and investing in his employees. This is the second part of a two-part conversation.

In this episode, Clint has a conversation with Ed Mas, President of VOXX Automotive. During their chat, Ed talks about being a “blue collar guy with a white collar job,” explains the culture of innovation and ownership he strives for at VOXX, and discusses the importance of setting short term, mid-term, and long-term goals. Plus, Ed talks about the ins and outs of VOXX Automotive, including some of the big-name brands they work with and after-market accessories they manufacture. This is the first part of a two-part discussion.

In this episode, Clint continues his conversation with Jim Sanduski, President of Sharp Home Electronics Company of America. During their discussion, Jim talks about why he views Sharp as a start-up company, the benefits of two-way communication, and finding the balance of in-office versus remote work. Plus, Jim explains why he's such a fan of open-plan offices. This is the second part of a two-part discussion.

In this episode, Clint has a conversation with Jim Sanduski, President of Sharp Home Electronics Company of America. During their chat, Jim details his educational and professional journey, including his years spent in Japan, and Jim and Clint bond over their shared love of Japanese culture. Later, Jim talks about some of the changes he's led at Sharp, as well as the importance of stepping outside of your comfort zone and not taking the easy path. This is the first part of a two-part discussion.

In this episode, Clint continues his conversation with Dr. Olga Kubassova, founder and CEO of Image Analysis Group (IAG). During their chat, Dr. Kubassova discusses the benefits of attending the Goldman Sachs mini-MBA program, talks about her mentorship of other women through the 2% Club, and shares advice for people looking to start their own company. Plus, Olga tells the story of winning “Entrepreneur of the Year” and how the award ultimately saved her company. This is the second part of a two-part discussion.

In this episode, Clint has a conversation with Dr. Olga Kubassova, founder and CEO of Image Analysis Group (IAG). During their chat, Olga discusses the origins of IAG, shares her thoughts about A.I. – especially in regard to drug development – and talks about the highs and lows of being a founder-CEO. Plus, Dr. Kubassova tells Clint about pursuing two PhDs at the same time in two different countries. This is the first part of a two-part discussion.

In this episode, Clint has a conversation with Kristen Sanderson, VP of Customer Advocacy and Chief Diversity Officer at GE Digital. During their chat, Kristen shares strategies for building a sense of inclusion amongst all team members, defines unconscious bias and gives examples, and talks about making the transition from engineering to people management. Plus, Kristen gives some key advice for leaders looking to improve their communication clarity. This is the second part of a two-part discussion.

In this episode Clint has a conversation with Kristen Sanderson, VP of Customer Advocacy and Chief Diversity Officer at GE Digital. During their discussion, the two chat about Kristen's 30-plus-year career at GE, the joy she gets from helping her customers succeed, and why using inclusive language is integral to being a leader of global teams. Plus, Kristen talks about her work with the GE Girl's camp, a program that encourages girls to get involved in STEM. This is the first part of a two-part discussion.

In this episode, Clint has a conversation with Doug Bawel, chairman of the board and CEO at Jasper Engines & Transmissions. During their discussion, the two chat about Doug's 46-year career at Jasper, the importance of valuing and retaining quality team members, and the realization that being a good mentor means allowing for failure. Plus, Doug gives his thoughts on EVs and the future of the internal combustion engine.

In this episode, Clint has a conversation with Cathy Orquiola, West Region Vice President at PCL Construction. During their discussion, the two talk about the importance of being an “overcomer,” the benefits of PCL being an employee-owned business, and why cohesion is the most important part of team success. Plus, Cathy and Clint share in the struggle of parenting teenagers.

On this episode, Clint has a conversation with John Zahurancik, President of the Americas at Fluence, a global leader in the clean energy transition and large-scale battery storage. During their discussion, the two chat about what Fluence does to improve power grids and systems, why you should create a culture where subordinates feel comfortable arguing with their superiors, and how to overcome problems through cross-discipline communication and collaboration. Plus, why is John so interested in the history of salt?

Over the past year, The Conversation with Clinton M. Padgett has facilitated impactful conversations from thought leaders and industry experts who are making a transformative difference in their industries and beyond.To celebrate another successful year, we want to reshare some of our favorite moments, lessons and key takeaways from the experts we spoke with in 2022. Tune in to hear industry insights, leadership advice and more to facilitate lasting change, too.

Clint Padgett wraps up his conversation with Howard Miller, Chief Information Officer at UCLA Anderson School of Management.  During part two of their discussion, Howard shares the importance of investing your time in people, breaking down silos within your organization to improve communication, and building meaningful relationships in a hybrid world.

In this episode, Clint has a conversation with Howard Miller, Chief Information Officer at UCLA Anderson School of Management.  During their conversation, Howard shares industry shifts he has witnessed throughout his career, his experience working as an IT professional in biotech, and how technology is changing business.  Additionally, Howard talks about the implications of managing the transition from in-person to online learning in higher education and how they quickly adapted.

On this episode, Clint has a conversation with Geoff Clawson, VP of Product, Websites & Marketing at GoDaddy and co-owner of Birdwell Beach Britches. During part two of their talk, Geoff shares how to equip your teams with the right tools to succeed, developing an abundance mindset and how he has witnessed the evolution of our digital landscape impact the way we communicate. Additionally, Geoff shares his passion for learning different languages and forging deeper connections.

On this episode, Clint has a conversation with Geoff Clawson, VP of Product, Websites & Marketing at GoDaddy and co-owner of Birdwell Beach Britches. During their discussion, the two talk about the backstory of Birdwell Beach Britches and how Geoff came to purchase the company, why making small businesses owners' lives easier is his mission at GoDaddy, and what Geoff believes is the #1 job of a leader. Plus, Geoff gives a detailed rundown of his leadership values and principles. This is the first part of a two-part discussion.

In this episode, Clint has a conversation with Kip Knight, founder of CMO Coaches and author of “Crafting Persuasion” and “Learn to Leap.” During part two of their talk, the two chat about whether leaders are born or made, the importance of mutual respect, and the benefit of seeking win-win solutions. Plus, Kip explains the Law of Scarcity and how to use it to attract interest to your message. This is the second part of a two-part discussion.

In this episode, Clint has a conversation with Kip Knight, founder of CMO Coaches and author of “Crafting Persuasion” and “Learn to Leap.” Kip shares stories and lessons learned from a distinguished career in marketing and leadership, including his brief kidnapping in South Korea, walking on hot coals with Tony Robbins, and how he helped turn around KFC's brand image in the UK. Plus, Kip defines what “greatness” means to him and explains why enjoying the journey makes the successes that much sweeter. This is the first part of a two-part discussion.