The Employee Success Podcast

In this episode of The Cardinal Spotlight, we sit down with Charice Patterson from the University of Louisville's Career Center to explore the power of vision boards. Charice shares how visualizing your goals can fuel motivation, clarify direction, and support both personal and professional growth. She also discusses the inspiration behind some of her favorite pieces and how you, too, can do it at home! Tune in to learn practical tips for creating your own vision board and how it can become a meaningful tool for goal setting and development. Check out the University Career Center website here: https://louisville.edu/career Send a CardGRAM: https://louisville.edu/employeesuccess/recognition/send-a-cardgram

In this episode, we explore the growing importance of emotional support in the workplace—through the eyes (and paws) of two special guests!Join us as we sit down with Officer Jacob Robinson of the University of Louisville Police Department and his four-legged partner, Comfort K-9 Lily. Together, they share how Lily is helping to create a more compassionate and supportive environment on campus. From reducing stress during high-pressure moments to simply offering a furry friend to lean on, Lily's presence is making a big difference. Tune in to hear stories from the field, the process of getting a comfort animal, and how Lily is helping our community...one tail wag at a time!Follow Lily's instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/lily_ulpdk9/Learn more about opportunities for growth and support in the workplace on our website: louisville.edu/employeesuccess

In a special turn of the mic, Laura McDaniels steps into the host's seat to interview our usual host, Brian Buford. That's right—Brian's trading headphones for hiking boots as he prepares to embark on an exciting journey along the Pacific Crest Trail.Laura and Brian dig into what inspired this trek, what Brian's hoping to discover along the way, and how he's preparing for over 2,600 miles of mountains, deserts, and soul-searching. It's a conversation full of laughter, vulnerability, and insight into what it means to step away from the familiar. Whether you're a seasoned hiker, a dreamer planning your own big leap, or just curious about the next adventure of one of UofL's most beloved people, you won't want to miss this one.Sign up for the PCT Wellness Challenge with the Employee Success Center and UofL's Get Healthy Now here: https://forms.office.com/r/BgaenC5p5e Follow along Brian's journey on our socials, @UofLEmployeeSuccess, and on Brian's instagram: @bumbumhikes.  Listen to our previous episode, “Leadership Lessons from the Appalachian Trail (with Maggie Schneider)” here: https://spotifycreators-web.app.link/e/l9w21j4uqSbSend a CARDGram today: https://louisville.edu/employeesuccess/recognition/send-a-cardgram

In this episode of The Employee Success Podcast, we sit down with sustainability expert Dr. Justin Mog (Assistant to the Provost for Sustainability Initiatives at the University of Louisville) to explore how we can integrate eco-friendly practices into workplace culture. From reducing waste to creating a more energy-efficient office, Justin shares practical strategies that not only benefit the planet but also boost employee engagement and organizational success. Tune in to learn how sustainability can drive innovation, improve workplace morale, and contribute to a thriving, responsible business. Don't miss this insightful conversation on building a greener, more successful workplace! Check out Justin Mog's podcast Sustainability Now! on Forward Radio here: https://www.forwardradio.org/sustainabilitynowLearn more about UofL's efforts in sustainability and how you can help out here: https://louisville.edu/sustainability/ 

In this episode of The Cardinal Spotlight, we focus on the fascinating world of letterpress printing with Dr. Mark Alan Mattes, Assistant Professor of English and English Department Internship Program Director at the University of Louisville. Dr. Mattes is also the proprietor of Hot Brown Press, a letterpress print shop and bindery in Louisville, Kentucky. Here, we take a look behind the scenes of his work in letterpress printing, teaching, internship program direction, and explore the art and craft of creating physical prints and books in an increasingly digital world. Dr. Mattes shares insights into the historical significance of the printed word, the tactile experience of books, and how letterpress printing allows for a deeper connection to textual material. Whether you're a book lover, an art enthusiast, or curious about the intersection of history and printmaking, this episode offers a unique look at the enduring legacy of letterpress printing and its place in contemporary creative-critical work.Check out Hot Brown Press here! 

Aimee Jewel, a University of Louisville alum and Leadership Program Manager at Leadership Louisville, joins us for this episode to talk about her journey through stand-up comedy and leadership. She shares how humor plays a crucial role in connecting with others, the psychology behind why we laugh, and how we can use laughter to create a more engaging and positive work culture. Tune in to discover how adding a bit of humor to our daily lives can make a big difference in leadership, collaboration, and overall workplace well-being! Learn more about Leadership Louisville here: https://leadershiplouisville.org/

In this episode of The Cardinal Spotlight, our host Brian Buford sits down with Katie Jo Glesing for an intriguing conversation about her passion for the paranormal, her work in “edu-tainment,” and her fascinating Creepy Campus tours on the University of Louisville's Belknap campus. Katie Jo shares her deep interest in paranormal activity, offering a behind-the-scenes look at her tours, which combine eerie tales with historical insights. From spooky stories to the creative ways she engages her audience, this episode is a must-listen for anyone fascinated by the supernatural and the art of making learning fun!

The ESC's Mallory Newby joins us to dive deep into the power of personal branding and how it can impact your career trajectory. She and Brian discuss the steps to defining your unique professional identity and how to effectively communicate it to your audience and collaborators. Mallory shares expert insights on how individuals can effectively define and communicate their unique value, offering actionable strategies for crafting a personal brand that aligns with career goals. Whether you're job hunting, networking, or looking to enhance your professional presence, this conversation is packed with valuable tips on leveraging your personal brand for success! Learn more about our Employee Resource Groups, Coaching Circles, Career Navigation Guide, Linkedin Learning, and many more opportunities on our ESC website! Book a session with Mallory here!

In this episode of The Cardinal Spotlight, Brian sits down with Lyshanna Cunningham, coordinator of international programs at the University of Louisville's College of Arts & Sciences, and the creative force behind ShannaCakes, her own thriving catering business that features her amazing baked treats. Lyshanna shares how she balances her professional responsibilities with her entrepreneurial journey, turning her passion for baking into a successful business. She discusses the challenges and rewards of baking for a living, her creative process, and what it's like to manage both her career at the university and her growing business. Tune in for an insightful conversation about life, work, and the drive behind ShannaCakes.Connect with Lyshanna and learn more about ShannaCakes here!

In this episode, Brian sits down with Meagan West, Senior Training & Development Specialist at the Employee Success Center, for an engaging conversation about extroversion in the workplace. They dive deep into how extroverted qualities such as strong communication, collaboration, and leadership can be powerful assets to teams and organizations. Meagan shares valuable insights on how to recognize and nurture these strengths, the impact of extroversion on team dynamics, and strategies for leveraging diverse personalities in the workplace. Whether you're an extrovert looking to refine your skills or a manager aiming to maximize team potential, this episode offers practical advice for thriving in a variety of work environments. Tune in to learn more about how extroversion can drive success in the workplace!Don't forget to check outS2E6: Introverts at Work (with Dr. Katie Partin)!Take advantage of our Learning Opportunitieshere!

The Cardinal Spotlight shines a light on the extraordinary interests of the people at the University of Louisville. In each episode, we highlight the dedicated staff, faculty, and students whose passion, innovation, and unique contributions make UofL a vibrant, thriving community. In this episode, we sit down with Remington Smith, a talented filmmaker and professor of Communication at the University of Louisville, to discuss his gripping new feature-length film LandLord. Remington opens up about the inspiration behind the film, shares about his creative process and challenges faced during production, as well as the unique storytelling choices that make LandLord stand out in today's cinematic landscape. Beyond his filmmaking, Remington also sheds light on how his work influences and contributes to the cultural fabric of the University of Louisville. As a professor, he's not just shaping the next generation of communicators and filmmakers but also fostering a creative environment that encourages students to engage with critical social issues through media. Be sure to check out Remington Smith's website and follow his work as he continues to push the boundaries of storytelling in film and education. You can also find more information about LandLord and upcoming projects through the links below: https://www.theremingtonsmith.com/about https://www.landlordfilm.com/ https://louisvillefilmsociety.org/film/landlord/

In this inspiring episode, Brian sits down with Tabitha Grier-Reed, the University of Louisville's new dean of the College of Education and Human Development, to explore her journey of "Unreasonable Optimism"—a philosophy that has guided her both personally and professionally. As she steps into her role as the college's newest dean, Dean Grier-Reed shares her vision for the future of education, the transformative power of optimism in leadership, and how embracing bold ideas can reshape the landscape of higher education. Tune in for a candid conversation about her leadership philosophy, the challenges and triumphs of navigating a new position, and the hope she brings to the faculty, staff, and students she serves.

“Leadership is a conversation.”  In this episode, Dr. Patty Payette and Brian Buford discuss experiences with mentorship, connection, and rich guidance in the workplace that can elevate and increase the value of your professional practices.  Dr. Payette is an expert in applying critical thinking skills to everyday problems and questions. As a trainer, coach, and scholar, she consults with leaders and educators on the design, implementation, and assessment of their improvement projects and innovations, navigating tough conversations and competing interests across organizations. Dr. Payette's role at the University of Louisville hinges on structured and effective leadership implementation. Her numerous publications focus on critical thinking, skill building, and best practices in promoting change and fostering collaboration at all levels of an organization. Listen to Dr. Payette's podcast episode with UofL's Center for Positive Leadership on Mindfulness and Decisiveness here!  Take advantage of Employee Success Resources through our Learning Opportunities today!

Brian sits down with Sarah Schladand and Talayah Childress to talk about young professionals in the workplace, including the gifts and fresh perspectives they offer and the challenges they have making their voices heard.  Sarah and Talayah are both leaders in the University of Louisville's Young and Emerging Professionals (YEP) Employee Resource Group (ERG), which supports the personal and professional development of young and/or emerging professionals who are new to UofL or new to a particular career path.  YEP aims to cultivate an equitable community where all young and emerging professionals are welcomed and empowered to develop their professional careers and networks.  Discover ways to get involved with YEP here. Contact them at uoflyep@louisville.edu. Make sure to check out the other ERGs on our Employee Success Center site!

Jessica Gendron is a leadership expert and culture strategist. She has spent the last several years studying successful leaders and workplace culture,  especially for women and female-identified people.  In this episode of the Employee Success Podcast, Jessica sits down with Brian to discuss her book, “What It Takes To Shatter Glass," male allyship to women in the workplace, and how to stay to true to yourself while helping to change the world around you. Purchase a copy of "What It Takes to Shatter Glass: Embrace Your Power and Create the Future You Want in Your Career, Life, and Relationships" here! Connect with Jessica:  https://www.facebook.com/jgendronwilliams/  https://www.instagram.com/jgendronwilliams/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessicagendron/

In this episode, Brian talks with Emory University's Melody Ridley about the challenge of relating to those who are different from us and how a few key communication skills can help foster greater understanding and unity in the workplace. Listen to find new ways to communicate and learn as Melody and Brian share stories of their teaching experiences and the impact we can make on each other's lives when we remain curious, listen actively, and strengthen the ability to engage in a meaningful dialogue with people who have different perspectives.

In this special episode, host Brian Buford is joined by Marian Vasser and Lindsey Ronay to celebrate and reflect on the profound impact of Dr. J. Blaine Hudson at the University of Louisville. Listen as Marian and Lindsey share personal stories and insights into how Dr. Hudson's vision and efforts have left a lasting mark on their professional lives and the broader UofL community. They, along with Brian, share the many ways his legacy continues to enhance the on-campus experience for Cardinal students, faculty, and staff. Tune in for an inspiring conversation about leadership, resilience, and the enduring influence of a true UofL icon. Dr. Hudson, a cherished figure at UofL, began his journey as a student leader of the Black Student Union in the late 1960s, where he played a pivotal role in advocating for the creation of a black studies program. His dedication to education and social justice saw him rise from staff member to history instructor, eventually becoming a tenured professor in the Pan African Studies department. Dr. Hudson's remarkable career culminated in his tenure as Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences from 2005 to 2012. Special thanks to the J. Blaine Hudson Foundation, Inc. for collaborating to make this episode possible. Additional Links Audio and Video | Professor J. Blaine Hudson https://ket.org/program/living-the-story-the-rest-of-the-story/j-blaine-hudson/ https://ket.org/program/kentucky-beyond-the-color-line/https://www.gotolouisville.com/directory/uofl-civil-rights-trail/ https://louisville.edu/freedomparkhttps://blainehudson.wordpress.com/audio-and-video/

Gerry Bradley was named Executive Vice President and University Provost in February after serving two separate interim appointments, and already he has developed an exciting vision for the academic growth of the university.  In this episode, he shares his successes so far and what he's learned about UofL since his arrival in 2016 as Dean of the School of Dentistry.  And he knows his work often happens behind the scenes with the result that members of the campus community may not know him yet, so he shares his personal story and a few things you may not know about him yet.

In the last episode covering the Cardinal Principles, we talk with Avery Kolers about integrity and transparency.  Dr. Kolers teaches students about integrity as chair of the Philosophy Department and was the recipient of the 2022 Cardinal Principles Champion award for Integrity and Transparency.  Integrity is complex, he says, because it requires commitment to more than just personal values, but also that those values are aligned with the greater good.  

Tune in to a transformative episode as we welcome Dr. Zac Goldman to discuss the power of humanizing leadership and learning. Delve into strategies that prioritize empathy, inclusivity, and personal connection in leadership roles and educational settings. From fostering authentic relationships to embracing vulnerability, discover how human-centered approaches can revolutionize your leadership style and enhance learning experiences for all.

Join us in this insightful episode with guest Dr. Brittany Wildman as we delve into the art of supervising student employees. Wildman draws from her experience managing the Student Activities Center and her doctoral research to explore strategies to help student employees effectively balance the academic pursuits with work responsibilities, fostering a supportive environment for growth and success. From time management tips to understanding student priorities, learn how to empower and guide student employees towards achieving their academic and professional goals.

How do we create a campus community that upholds the dignity and humanity of every one of us?  In this episode, we talk with Asma Addarrat-Edwards about respect and how we practice it in our daily interactions.  Asma's work in Corporate and Foundation Relations and her identity as a Muslim person has given her a unique perspective on how we can learn treat each person with respect, regardless of their position or identity.  Her thoughts and stories from her life and career will inspire you to make authentic respect and even bigger part of your own practice. Additional links: Send a CARDGram

This year the Employee Success Center added a new team member and a new functionality to our offerings, a focus on career navigation for faculty and staff, that will support faculty and staff in 2024 and beyond. Mallory Newby will be leading the effort and, in this episode, she shares some of the ways that employees can start thinking about their next steps at UofL.  Mallory is creating new tools and resources for career success and gives listeners a sneak peek at what's coming soon.

When we say that our top priority is student success, a common refrain in higher education, what does that mean in terms of prioritizing faculty and staff success?  This week's guest, Suhail Johnson of Texas Christian University, says the two are inextricably linked and that student success doesn't happen unless we invest first in employees.  Johnson left her mark on UofL as a leader in residence life and has since shifted her focus to training and supporting faculty and staff, guided by her belief that one cannot be successful without the other.  

Gallup's research on employee engagement includes a data point you might find surprising:  Having a best friend at work is highly correlated with productivity, job satisfaction, and a sense of purpose.  While many of us learned that we should keep our relationships strictly professional in the office, Gallup's findings suggest that we are happier and more successful when we have someone who is personally there for us as a sounding board, reflective mirror, and supporter.   Zach Greenwell and Olivia Biven, both from UofL Athletics, are best friends at work and in this episode they share what their friendship has meant to them in term of job success.

To motivate employees and keep them engaged, it's crucial to acknowledge their efforts in a way that resonates with them. However, appreciation is subjective, and each person has their own preferences for how they give and receive it. Despite your best intentions, your employees may not feel valued if you're not speaking their language. Tune in to our latest episode, where we speak with Meagan West, one of our facilitators of the Workplace Appreciation Languages assessment in the Employee Success Center, to learn more about how to show appreciation in a meaningful way. Episode Notes: Send a CARDgram!

It's that time of year when we are thinking about staff performance evaluations at UofL, and while some of us dread doing them, the truth is a thoughtful performance evaluation can help employees soar. Guest Courtney Abboud shares some of her suggestions for turning evaluations into a year-round conversation about goals and career dreams, rather than a once-a-year burden. And she sees them as tools with great potential for increasing engagement and making sure that supervisors are coaching and advocating for their teams all along the way.

We are starting Season 3 of the Employee Success Podcast with a look at the Cardinal Principle of Noble Purpose and offering some tips for making 2024 your best year of work yet.  Guest Errol Wint shares his journey toward discovering his “why” and how defying conventional wisdom was a secret to unlocking his true purpose. Finding your “why” can make life more exciting, whether your purpose happens at work or if your job provides the resources for you to pursue it in other ways.

All children are inherently creative, but somewhere along the way in adulthood we all start to lose a little of the courage and joy that once fueled our creativity. By the time we are in the midst of a professional career, we are often too risk-adverse to take the chances that come with creative expression. But Dr. Jabani Bennett says living a creative life is possible for all of us, and in fact often necessary for success at work. As a self-identified creative, she has taught others to rediscover their joy by looking at life through a creative lens. As a bonus to our chat in this episode, Jabani also shares how her stepfather, Dean Blaine Hudson, expressed his creativity and what his legacy as the Dean of Arts and Sciences at UofL means to all of us today.

Maybe the most often cited of the eight Cardinal Principles is “community of care,” but what does it really mean? Dr. Douglas Craddock has been exploring that question in his role as Vice President for Community Engagement and as a busy faculty member. He says it starts with caring for self and realizing that the more we practice self care, the better able we are to be there for others. And once you've done that, Doug advocates for finding a need you are passion about, and jumping in to make a difference. Thankfully he and his team are there with some resources and suggestions for getting started.

This week's guest is Dr. Kevin McClure, whose research at the University of North Carolina-Wilmington illuminates the workplace challenges and opportunities that exist in higher education. His findings and social media presence have made him a popular and respected advocate for the folks who work at colleges and universities, and we couldn't resist the chance to talk to him while he was visiting UofL doing research for his next book. In this episode, we talk about the origins of the ideal worker norm and how it gets perpetuated in higher education. Kevin explains how unrealistic norms affect the experiences of employees who are caregivers, disabled, chronically ill, and grieving. And also offer some solutions for leaders who want set policies and practices that work for real people.

When Shirrod Le'Det learned he had been fired from his job with no warning, he thought he had experienced the worst career tragedy possible. But every setback is also a set up, he says, depending on your mindset. In this episode, we explore what happens when you hit bottom, how to get back up, and some of the strategies for turning failure into a new opportunity for growth. Shirrod Le'Det Introduces the Now-to-Next Blueprint - Transforming Today's Leaders for Tomorrow's Business - US Business News   Building the Big Picture: Shirrod Le'Det's Vision of Transitioning, Leading, and Growing - CEO Weekly Additional Links: Send a CARDGram

For decades, people have used the free speech zone at UofL to peddle hateful and triggering messages while the campus community grappled with the best way to respond. After messengers of hate came to campus again recently, we asked Professor JoAnne Sweeny to help us understand the boundaries of free speech and why it's so difficult to sort through. What can we can do when we are confronted with messages that run counter to our Cardinal Principles and why don't we just stop them from coming in the first place? The namesake of our Law School, Justice Brandeis, provides some answers to these challenging questions and illuminates why Freedom of Expression is a cherished societal value. Resources: The UofL statement on Free Speech: https://louisville.edu/freespeech UofL Speech and Distribution of Literature Policy: https://louisville.edu/policies/policies-and-procedures/pageholder/pol-speech-and-distribution-of-literature Campus Pride Guide on Handling Hate Preachers: https://www.campuspride.org/resources/how-to-handle-hate-preachers-on-campus/ Professor JoAnne Sweeny: https://louisville.edu/law/faculty-staff/faculty-directory/sweeny-joanne

What do positive leaders do differently? In his work studying leadership, Dr. Ryan Quinn noticed that successful leaders are often break with conventions and exhibit virtues that transform those around them. And now through his work at the Center for Positive Leadership, he's gathering virtue experts from the university and surrounding community to provide us with tools we can use to develop a stronger connection to the virtues and skills for applying them to the challenges we face. Tune in to our conversation and find out which virtue he's working on at the moment!

Join us for an authentic, personal exploration of faculty burnout with Dr. Cynthia Ganote, who shares her own experience in the academy and the lessons she learned as a result. The demands to constantly achieve higher and higher levels of perfection, coupled with the crippling exhaustion that results, make burnout a very real possibility. And staff aren't exempt either. Dr. Ganote talks about how she identified burnout in her professional life, the radical steps she took to heal, and how she recovered through radical self-care. A critical two-part episode for anyone working in higher education. (part 2 of 2)

Join us for an authentic, personal exploration of faculty burnout with Dr. Cynthia Ganote, who shares her own experience in the academy and the lessons she learned as a result. The demands to constantly achieve higher and higher levels of perfection, coupled with the crippling exhaustion that results, make burnout a very real possibility. And staff aren't exempt either. Dr. Ganote talks about how she identified burnout in her professional life, the radical steps she took to heal, and how she recovered through radical self-care. A critical two-part episode for anyone working in higher education. (part 1 of 2)

The Cardinal Principles offer a roadmap for how to create the kind of campus community we envision, and in this episode we talk to Dr. Randy Whetstone about the principle of leadership. Are we just talking about the President, Provost, and others at the top of the organizational chart? Dr. Whetstone says every member of the community leads in one way or another, and that it's often those in the middle of the organization who are providing inspiring leadership where it's most needed. He also suggests that we are being required to cultivate a new set of skills to meet the leadership demands of the moment, and that our success depends on shifting to a more inclusive, interpersonal leadership model. Dr. Randy Whetstone Jr. is a Clinical Associate Professor in the Department of Educational Leadership, Evaluation and Organizational Development at the University of Louisville.

The stereotype of an introvert is someone who doesn't like people, never speaks up, and never contributes at work.  But nothing could be further from the truth, says Katie Partin, who's learned to embrace introversion as a strength that she can call upon.  In fact, introverts are often gifted problem solvers and relationship builders who bring thoughtfulness and strategic solutions to a project.  In this episode, Katie shares some tips for introverts at work and also suggests ways their more extroverted allies can support them.  Listen to the very end for the “ah ha” moment Brian had when Katie shared the one thing supervisors should never say to their introverted team members! Katie Partin, PhD, is the Director in the Office of Institutional Effectiveness (IE) at the University of Louisville.

Brad Shuck is back this episode with new findings on the changing workplace, and what he's learning might surprise you.  Organizations that make flexibility a core value are among the most successful in engaging, retaining, and recruiting great staff!  Whether it's the chance to work remotely or the freedom to adjust around family schedules, flexibility is the thing employees are looking for in their work experience and an opportunity for supervisors to think creatively about how they support their teams. Dr. Brad Shuck is a Professor in the Department of Educational Leadership, Evaluation and Organizational Development at the University of Louisville. You can find him on LinkedIn and Instagram at @drbshuck.

The pandemic taught all of us that the only thing constant is change.  So it's powerful that our Cardinal Principles include agility as an institutional value, the ability to change when circumstances require it.  Dr. Matt Bergman is back on this episode talking about change, why it's so hard to embrace at times, and what we can all do at work to lean in to those times when change is inevitable.

First impressions matter, especially for new faculty and staff who are just starting their UofL career.  Research tells us that a great onboarding experience can make the difference between success and failure, so it's critical to have a strategic and thoughtful plan for bringing new employees into the campus community.  In this episode, Brian and Laura talk about the tools and resources available through the Employee Success Center, offer some tips to help departments get started with building their own onboarding program, and describe what great onboarding looks from Day One through the first year and beyond. Laura is the Engagement Specialist with the UofL Employee Success Center. Additional Links Onboarding Guide for Supervisors Send a CARDgram!

In mentoring partnerships, everyone wins!  Mentees have a guide to help them navigate their goals, offer insights, and cheer them along.  And mentors get to share the wisdom they've gained over their career, affirming their hard work and reminding them of lessons learned.  Diane Whitlock and Tomeka Shelton join us this week and tell us how participating in the Mentoring for Success Program launched a meaningful and productive mentoring relationship that is supporting them both. They share some of the secrets to a successful experience and tips for making sure you find the right person to make the partnership soar. Additional Resources: UofL Employee Resource Groups

In the Season Two kickoff, we joined forces with the team from the Faculty Feed podcast to talk about the state of the workforce today and why so many of us are rethinking the way we approach our jobs.  Faculty Feed hosts Gerry Rabalais and Staci Saner share some of their favorite models of engagement from high-performing organizations, as well as their own journey of landing in the best jobs of their lives.  And they tell us how we can find the best fit for ourselves, starting from our natural gifts and talents.

In our season finale we are chatting with Maggie Schneider, a new UofL employee who finished a thru-hike of the 2,600-mile Appalachian Trail just before starting her job in Advancement. This was an exciting opportunity to get two thru-hikers together for some of their favorite trail stories and to talk about what they learned about leadership by spending six months in the woods. Maggie is the Senior Director of Prospect Development in Advancement at the University of Louisville.

Even though she has only been at the university since February 1, our new President Kim Schatzel has learned a lot about the faculty and staff who work here and what makes UofL a special place. In this new episode, we checked in with her to see what she is thinking about as a result of her listening tour, why inclusion and belonging are central to her leadership approach, and her advice for navigating career transitions.

In today's workplace, very few of us operate in true isolation and depend on relationships for our success. So, what do skilled relationship builders do to cultivate the connections and networks that help them reach their goals? In this episode, we learn tips from student affairs professionals Glenn Gittings and Quanta Taylor on effective networking and how we can cultivate a community of care at work that will help us be our best. Glenn Gittings and Quanta Taylor both work at the University of Louisville. Glenn works as the Chief of Staff in the School of Medicine and Quanta is the Executive Director Student Involvement.

Nubia Bennett believes that pleasure can be the compass that helps you do work you love, whether it's in the job you have now or in the choices you make to get closer to work that aligns with who you are. As host of the podcast “Sprinkle Sparkle” she's spent the last few years engaged in a deep study of pleasure, and in this episode, we look at the places where work and pleasure intersect, especially for people with marginalized identities. What if we could increase our experience of pleasure in the workplace, even by a few percentage points? Nubia suggests the journey itself could be transformational! Additional Resources: Sprinkle Sparkle: NPR

The University of Louisville's tuition remission benefit removes a big barrier to going back to school for UofL employees, but finances aren't the only obstacle we face when we think about earning our next degree. This week we talk to Dr. Matt Bergman from the College of Education and Human Development about all the reasons adult learners hesitate to jump back in to classroom and get some seasoned advice and encouragement based on his own experience. If the next degree felt unattainable before, Dr. Bergman will help you find the courage and confidence for the journey ahead. Dr. Matt Bergman is a clinical associate professor in the Department of Educational Leadership, Evaluation and Organizational Development. Resources: Tuition Remission for UofL employees

The small, daily slights and insults that employees experience at work can add up over time, and often have as damaging an impact as an overt assault. This week we talk to Dr. Cynthia Ganote about microaggressions and the harm they can do, even when the offender doesn't mean to be insulting. Dr. Ganote tells us how leaders and caring colleagues address microaggressions and how the concept of microresistence gives new tools to employees who are targeted. Dr. Cynthia Ganote is an assistant professor in sociology at the University of Louisville, and her research focuses on ways to address microaggressions in higher education with microresistance; diversity, equity, and inclusion in the classroom; race, class, gender, and sexual inequalities; critical and feminist pedagogies; and critical approaches to community-based research. You can find Dr. Ganote on LinkedIn and Instagram (@cynthiaganote).

We sometimes think recognizing employees is an extra “nice to do” activity, but research suggests that it's critical to engaging and retaining a great team. In this episode, we talked with Laura McDaniels from the Employee Success Center about why recognition matters and some of the ways great supervisors can send a messages appreciation that are meaningful and impactful. Laura has designed some easy-to-access tools and resources you can use to make recognition part of your regular leadership practice. Laura McDaniels is the Engagement Specialist in the Employee Success Center. Additional resources: Send a CARDGram! 2023 Presidential Excellence Awards Book reference: The 5 Languages of Appreciation in the Workplace: Empowering Organizations by Encouraging People, by Gary Chapman and Paul White

As we explore the Cardinal Principles in our podcast, in this episode we talk with Marian Vasser about diversity and inclusion. Marian shares some skills and concepts everyone should have in their toolbox when creating a workplace that is welcoming to a diverse campus community. She explains how the idea of “belonging” is the next-level goal we should all strive to cultivate for those around us. Marian is the Assistant Vice President for Inclusive Excellence and Belonging and facilitates workshops for campus and community audiences.