Steve and Shannon are back with a lively catch-up and a double dose of “Low-Hanging Fruit” on AI before teasing an interview with local business leader Pat Greco about a new St. Charles development (and a little Northwestern Wildcats banter). (36:30) Pat, a key figure in the Foxhaven Square project in St. Charles. They discuss Pat's background in the family business, the vision behind the Foxhaven Square development, and its potential impact on the community. The conversation highlights the importance of family values, perseverance, and the excitement surrounding the new mixed-use space that aims to enhance the local economy and provide a vibrant gathering place for residents.

In this episode, Steve and Shannon Clemonds discuss their busy lives, including Shannon's return to wedding planning after nine years, a neighborhood rodeo party, and the impact of AI in movies. They also share their fall bucket list and thoughts on the polarizing nature of politics. Steve welcomes Pam Marsh, Vice President of Sales at Udemy, to discuss the importance of continuous learning and development in organizations. They explore how learning drives personal growth, organizational performance, and innovation. In our conversation we talked about how the best organizations don’t chase the “next big thing” for the sake of it. Instead, they listen with intent, solve what truly matters, and build trust that keeps customers coming back—and even attracts new ones. 

In this episode of the Press One Podcast, host Steven Clemonds discusses significant developments in the customer experience sector, including the launch of the iPhone 17, a major donation to the University of Illinois, and the acquisition of Cognigy by NiCE. He highlights the importance of these events for both the tech industry and customer experience, emphasizing NICE's leadership in the Gartner Magic Quadrant. The episode concludes with a positive outlook for the future of NICE and its customers.

This week on the Press One Podcast, Steve and Shannon sit down with Chris and Megan Curren, the husband-and-wife duo behind one of Chicagoland’s most talked-about restaurants—The Graceful Ordinary in St. Charles, Illinois. From a vision of turning a historic riverfront bank building into a warm, modern-day “ordinary” (a colonial gathering place), the Curren's have built more than a restaurant—they’ve created a community hub. In this episode, we cover: Chris’s journey from Chicago’s top kitchens to opening his own restaurant in the suburbs. Megan’s hospitality expertise and the role of culture in shaping unforgettable guest experiences. Why they believe a happy team leads to happy guests—and how they live that every day. The importance of mental health in restaurant culture, and how they’re setting new standards for staff well-being. Their exciting plans for expansion: a new restaurant in Aurora (Winter 2025/26) plus two new concepts coming to St. Charles. Whether you’re passionate about food, leadership, or customer experience, this conversation is packed with insights on building something lasting—one plate, one guest, and one experience at a time.

In this episode of the Press One Podcast, hosts Steve and Shannon Clemonds kick things off with their signature blend of banter and relatability. From Cubs vs. Cardinals jabs to summer bucket lists and parenting wins, the episode opens with warmth, laughter, and a healthy dose of real life. Then, Steve sits down with Life Fulfilled podcast host and seasoned content strategist Bernie Borges for a thought-provoking conversation about personal growth, leadership, and finding fulfillment in every season of life. Bernie shares the story behind his unique "Five Life Pillars" framework—health, fitness, career, relationships, and legacy—and how it’s become the foundation for his work in fulfillment-centric leadership. Listeners will learn: Why fulfillment—not just engagement—is the secret to high-performing teams How legacy becomes more important as life progresses Practical ways leaders can build authentic relationships at work Why recognizing small wins can create long-lasting impact How Bernie is helping organizations measure fulfillment as a performance strategy Bernie also discusses the evolution of his podcasting journey, his favorite guests, and his dream interview with Arianna Huffington. Whether you're a leader, parent, or someone seeking more meaning in your day-to-day, this episode is packed with insights that will resonate far beyond your earbuds. 🎧 Plus: Shannon’s iced coffee debacle, Steve’s “Karen tendencies,” and why you should never kayak in the same boat as your spouse.

In this inspiring episode of the Press One Podcast, host Steve Clemonds sits down with Sheri Shaw Leavens, Associate Dean of Student Affairs at UNC Wilmington and author of My Mama Always Say…: 7 Leadership Lessons Adapted from Southern Wisdom. Sheri shares how the timeless sayings of her mother shaped her leadership journey—from her roots in the South to her role as a higher education leader. You’ll hear powerful stories, practical advice, and heartfelt lessons on authenticity, resilience, and leading with heart. What you’ll learn in this episode: How personal heritage and culture can inform your leadership style Why emotional intelligence is essential in both student development and organizational growth The power of storytelling in leadership and legacy-building Whether you're a leader, educator, or lifelong learner, this episode will leave you motivated and reflective. 🎧 Tune in and discover how the wisdom of one Southern mama can impact the lives of many.

In this episode of the Press One podcast, Host Steve Clemonds welcomes back Chris Irwin-Dudek at Interactions 2025. They discuss the vibrant atmosphere of the conference, the importance of humanizing customer experience, the role of AI in enhancing service, and the significance of empowering teams. Chris shares insights on NICE's new branding and future strategies, while also touching on personal anecdotes about family life and the joys of being a 'girl dad.' Steve also recaps his Top 5 takeaways from his time at Interactions during the weekly Low Hanging Fruit segment and highlights his Hero and Zero of the week.

In this episode of the Press One Podcast, hosts Steve and Shannon Clemonds reflect on their recent family trip to France, discussing the highlights and cultural differences they experienced. They share insights on the pace of life in Europe compared to the US, the charm of Paris, and their travel tips for families. The episode also features a segment on their 'heroes and zeros' from the past month, highlighting positive experiences and areas for improvement in travel. Finally, the episode concludes with an interview with Scott Russell, CEO of NiCE Systems, to explore what it takes to lead a global technology powerhouse into its next era of growth. Scott shares his perspective on taking the reins of a company already known for excellence, how he’s evolving the culture to stay innovative, and why NiCE is uniquely positioned to lead the charge in AI-powered customer experience. From rebranding strategies to the role of Copilot and Autopilot in modern CX, this conversation dives deep into the strategic vision shaping the future of digital engagement. Scott also details what he wants his legacy to be focused on once he retires and gets surprised with a few "Circle Back" questions from one of his daughters.  🎧 Tune in, and get inspired by the vision behind one of the world’s most advanced customer experience platforms.

On this episode of the Press One Podcast, hosts Steve and Shannon Clemonds kick things off with their signature mix of humor, parenting chaos, and weekly highlights in their "Weekly Meeting"—from a spirited “school trivia quiz” to test Steve's knowledge around all things Norton Creek Elementary. For "Low Hanging Fruit" this week, Steve and Shannon discuss Graduation Season happening all around the US. They also highlight their Hero's and Zero's of the week that may or may not include a flooding issue caused by one of the hosts....again.  Our amazing guest this week is Tony White, the principal of Norton Creek Elementary, who shares his insights on leadership, education, and creating a positive environment for students and staff. He discusses his journey into education, the importance of community, and how to manage change effectively, especially during challenging times like the pandemic. Tony emphasizes the significance of safety, understanding student behavior, and delivering a positive experience for all stakeholders in the educational process. In this engaging conversation, Tony discusses the importance of listening and validating others, especially in a leadership role within education. He emphasizes the promise parents make to their children at birth and how schools play a crucial role in fulfilling that promise. Transparency in decision-making and creating a positive school environment are highlighted as key leadership values. The discussion also touches on the fun aspects of leadership, including surprising questions from teachers and the importance of humor in education.

In this episode of the Press One Podcast, hosts Steve and Shannon Clemonds discuss their weekend plans, including Mother's Day celebrations and an upcoming family trip to Paris. They share their experiences with annual flower shopping and reflect on the efficiency of their daughter's school PTO. The conversation shifts to their 'Heroes and Zeros of the Week', highlighting a successful fundraiser and frustrations with travel apps. They also delve into the impact of AI on education and the changing nature of communication in the digital age, particularly the use of emojis and shorthand in texting. Steve also welcomes David Schuringa, a close friend and former telecommunications leader turned realtor. They discuss David's diverse career journey, the influence of his psychology degree on his professional and personal life, and the importance of project management principles in everyday decision-making. The conversation also touches on navigating LGBTQ+ identity in the workplace, insights on retirement planning, and personal reflections on life choices and aspirations.

In this episode of the Press One podcast, hosts Steve and Shannon Clemonds reflect on their podcast journey, share exciting family news about an upcoming trip to Paris, and discuss the emotional transition of their youngest child starting kindergarten. They highlight positive and negative customer experiences from the week, introducing a new segment called 'Hero of the Week' and 'Zero of the Week.' The conversation also touches on current events, including the impact of AI on language learning apps like Duolingo and a humorous story about a man who climbed Mount Fuji and went back for his phone. Tyler Buehler shares his journey from the call center industry to leading services teams at NICE. He discusses the importance of change management in customer experience transformations, common mistakes customers make during projects, and the evolving role of AI in the industry. Tyler emphasizes the need for partnerships between IT and business, the significance of data in AI deployments, and the excitement surrounding NICE's unified solutions. He also reflects on personal leadership lessons learned from being a father and husband.

In this episode of the Press One Podcast, hosts Steve and Shannon Clemonds discuss the transition from spring to summer, reflecting on the busy nature of household management and the nostalgic desire for a laid-back summer. They delve into the ethical implications of AI in radio, particularly a case where an AI host was used without disclosure, and explore the evolving landscape of education, emphasizing a shift towards skills over traditional college degrees. In Part 2 of our interview with Robin Gareiss, she discusses the importance of personal connections in professional life, the joy of community service, and the significance of customer experience in technology. She reflects on leadership transitions within her company, the value of networking at conferences, and offers advice for young entrepreneurs, emphasizing the importance of mentorship and spiritual guidance.

In Part 1 of this 2 part episode of the Press One Podcast, host Steve Clemonds welcomes Robin Gareiss, who shares her journey from working in customer service to becoming a prominent figure in tech journalism and research. They discuss her college experiences at the University of Illinois, her career transitions, and the founding of her research firm, Metrigy, which focuses on connecting technology use to business success. In this conversation, Robin discusses the importance of bridging gaps in customer experience through data-driven insights and research. She emphasizes the role of AI in enhancing customer service, not replacing human jobs, and introduces the concept of 'agentics'—a combination of agency analytics and advanced AI frameworks that can improve workflows and decision-making. The discussion also touches on the evolving relationship between AI and customer interactions, highlighting the need for a balance between technology and the human touch. Steve also welcomes a new co-host, Shannon Clemonds. They discuss their recent Easter celebrations, family traditions, and the excitement of planning a surprise trip to Paris for their children. They also engage in a fun segment where Shannon answers personal questions, revealing insights about her preferences and dreams. They wrap up with a light-hearted discussion about community events and what adults would want to collect in an Easter egg hunt.

In this episode of the Press One Podcast, Steve Clemonds interviews Einat Weiss, the Chief Marketing Officer at NICE. They discuss Einat's journey to becoming a CMO, the importance of storytelling in marketing, and how leadership changes can foster agility within a company. Einat shares her approach to encouraging creativity within her team and navigating the evolving landscape of AI in marketing. The conversation also touches on the upcoming Interactions event and concludes with personal insights from Einat. Steve also shares personal anecdotes and insights into customer experience, highlighting the innovative strategies of the Savannah Bananas in transforming baseball into a captivating entertainment experience. He also discusses a recent miscommunication regarding AI by the U.S. Secretary of Education, emphasizing the importance of awareness in leadership roles. 

In our next Quarterly Business Review, Steve has a co-host as Jim Heck joins the podcast. They explore a variety of light-hearted topics, from their personal sports fandoms to the evolution of Steve's podcasting journey. They share humorous anecdotes, discuss their favorite theme songs, and delve into unique food combinations. They have a fun conversation with Jeremy Markey, who shares his career journey, detailing his experiences in the contact center industry, the differences between BPO and internal contact centers, and the lessons learned during the COVID-19 pandemic. He discusses the challenges and opportunities presented by AI in the workplace and emphasizes the importance of stakeholder involvement in decision-making processes. The conversation highlights the evolution of workforce management and the significance of trust in remote work environments. In this engaging conversation, the speakers delve into the intricacies of RFPs and vendor relationships, emphasizing the importance of adequate time for contract negotiations. They share personal anecdotes that highlight life lessons learned through parenting and reading, particularly focusing on the topic of menopause. The discussion culminates in a light-hearted debate about the best movie trilogies, showcasing their passion for cinema and storytelling.

In this episode of the Press One Podcast, Steve Clemonds interviews Paola M. Doebel, who shares her career journey, insights on technology's role in customer experience, and the importance of being easy to do business with. They discuss the challenges in customer experience, the significance of consumer centricity, and how NICE is evolving to meet client needs. Paola also reflects on her leadership philosophy and the importance of change management in executing strategies effectively. In this engaging conversation, Paola and Steve delve into the intricacies of change management, the essence of leadership, and the journey of aspiring leaders. Paola shares her insights on navigating the emotional phases of change, the importance of being a supportive leader, and the sacrifices that come with leadership roles. She emphasizes the need for continuous learning and humility, while also sharing personal anecdotes that highlight the challenges and rewards of leadership. The discussion culminates in Paola's vision for her team, aiming to be recognized as a formidable force in the market. Steve also shares personal updates, including officiating a wedding and attending a keynote speech by a former guest. He discusses insights from an Accenture study on customer experience, emphasizing the importance of technology in enhancing customer interactions. The conversation also touches on recent political gaffes, highlighting human nature and the need for accountability. 

In this episode of the Press One podcast, host Steve Clemonds shares a fun and family-oriented episode featuring his daughters, Charlotte and Amelia. The conversation covers family activities, the girls' thoughts on work and future aspirations, and playful questions about their favorite things. The episode highlights the joys of parenting and the lightheartedness of family interactions, making it a unique and enjoyable listen.

In this episode of the Press One podcast, host Steve Clemonds welcomes Chris Irwin-Dudek, who shares insights about his journey, the importance of emotional leadership, and the role of relationships in business success. They discuss the significance of events in the CCaaS world, how to align passion with daily work, and the power of collaboration. Chris emphasizes the need to plant your flag and take action, while also reflecting on personal branding and the importance of being authentic. The conversation wraps up with light-hearted moments about favorite television shows and a call to action for listeners.

In this episode of the Press One podcast, host Steve Clemonds shares insights on customer experience, highlights a wild recent incident involving HP's customer service strategy. Steve also visits with Sean Huberty, VP of Operations at Priceline as he shares his unique travel experiences, including a once-in-a-lifetime trip to Antarctica. He discusses his career journey from Microsoft to Priceline, emphasizing the importance of authenticity in leadership. The conversation shifts to the impact of AI on customer experience, highlighting the need for companies to embrace customer centricity. Sean also addresses the build vs. buy debate in technology and the significance of continuous innovation in customer experience. The episode concludes with a surprise "Circle Back" question from a colleague that discusses a time where Sean was part of a Charity Auction. 

In this episode of the Press One podcast, host Steve Clemonds welcomes Dave Dyson, founder of Eclipse Telecom. The conversation begins with light-hearted sports banter about their favorite NFL teams, the Bills and the Chiefs. As the discussion progresses, Dyson shares his insights on entrepreneurship, emphasizing the challenges and misconceptions surrounding it. He recounts his journey to founding Eclipse Telecom, highlighting the importance of common sense in customer experience and the need for businesses to adapt to changing client expectations. Dyson concludes with predictions about the future of customer experience, stressing that companies must prioritize ease and efficiency to succeed in a competitive landscape. In this engaging conversation, Steve Clemonds and Dave Dyson explore the evolving landscape of customer experience (CX) and the critical role of AI in shaping business practices. They discuss the necessity of perpetual optimization in CX, the challenges and ethical considerations surrounding AI implementation, and the importance of consultative approaches in technology solutions. Dave shares personal reflections on wins in life and business, and concludes with bold predictions for the future, emphasizing the transformative potential of technology.  Steve reflects on his recent experiences, including a disappointing Super Bowl and a nostalgic return to the University of Illinois. He draws parallels between these experiences and customer service, emphasizing the importance of attention to detail in creating memorable moments. Clemonds also critiques a major airline for their late entry into customer experience initiatives.