In this inspiring episode of Because People Matter, host Dr. Helen Fagan sits down with Gibril Mansaray, founder and CEO of the PA Karim Memorial Foundation. Gibril shares his powerful multigenerational story — from his father’s journey from Sierra Leone to the U.S. in pursuit of education, to his own mission of building schools and opportunities in his family’s village. Through his work with Develop Africa, he’s transforming lives and proving that education is the key to lasting empowerment. Listen as Gibril reflects on resilience, purpose, and the bridge between two worlds — and how one act of generosity decades ago sparked a movement to educate hundreds of children. Episode References PA Karim Memorial Foundation – http://pkmemorialsalone.org Develop Africa – https://developafrica.org Helen Fagan and Associates – https://helenfagan.com Thanks for listening to “Because People Matter.” If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a 5-star review. And be sure to subscribe so you never miss any insightful conversations. #PeopleMatter #LeadershipDevelopment #InterculturalCompetence #EmotionalIntelligence   This is another Hurrdat Media Production. Hurrdat Media is a podcast network and digital media production company based in Omaha, NE. Find more podcasts on the Hurrdat Media Network by going to HurrdatMedia.com or Hurrdat Media YouTube channel!

In this episode of Because People Matter, host Dr. Helen Fagan sits down with Kamala Avila-Salmon, founder of Kas Kas Productions and former Head of Inclusive Content at Lionsgate. Kamala shares her journey from growing up in Jamaica and New York to shaping Hollywood by championing diverse voices. She reflects on her work at Lionsgate, her fellowship with the Obama Foundation, and why inclusive storytelling is essential for reshaping culture. This is a must-listen for anyone passionate about leadership, representation, and the power of story to change the world. Episode References Lionsgate – https://www.lionsgate.com Obama Foundation – https://www.obama.org Thanks for listening to “Because People Matter.” If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a 5-star review. And be sure to subscribe so you never miss any insightful conversations. #PeopleMatter #LeadershipDevelopment #InterculturalCompetence #EmotionalIntelligence   This is another Hurrdat Media Production. Hurrdat Media is a podcast network and digital media production company based in Omaha, NE. Find more podcasts on the Hurrdat Media Network by going to HurrdatMedia.com or Hurrdat Media YouTube channel!

In this episode of Because People Matter, host Dr. Helen Fagan sits down with Damita Snow, DEIA leader and Director at the American Society of Civil Engineers. Damita shares her journey from graphic design to shaping global accessibility in scholarly publishing. As President-Elect of the Society for Scholarly Publishing, she discusses her work with the Coalition for Diversity and Inclusion in Scholarly Communications and global initiatives like Research4Life. From reverse mentoring to making knowledge more accessible worldwide, this conversation is a lesson in inclusive leadership. Episode References: TEDx Omaha http://www.tedxomaha.com American Society of Civil Engineers https://www.asce.org Society for Scholarly Publishing https://www.sspnet.org Coalition for Diversity and Inclusion in Scholarly Communications https://www.c4disc.org Research for Life https://www.research4life.org ASCE Pathways to Inclusive Publishing Summit 2026 https://ascelibrary.org/publishing-summit-2026 Thanks for listening to “Because People Matter.” If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a 5-star review. And be sure to subscribe so you never miss any insightful conversations. #PeopleMatter #LeadershipDevelopment #InterculturalCompetence #EmotionalIntelligence   This is another Hurrdat Media Production. Hurrdat Media is a podcast network and digital media production company based in Omaha, NE. Find more podcasts on the Hurrdat Media Network by going to HurrdatMedia.com or Hurrdat Media YouTube channel!

What if one small act of kindness could change the course of someone’s life? In this episode of Because People Matter, host Dr. Helen Fagan sits down with Jeff Shafer, co-founder of CommonGood Capital and executive director of Promising People. Jeff shares his decades-long journey walking alongside incarcerated and formerly incarcerated individuals, from mentoring in maximum-security prisons to launching virtual reality training programs that prepare men and women for meaningful work after release. This moving conversation reminds us that redemption is possible—and that investing in people pays the greatest dividends. Episode References TEDx Omaha – www.tedxomaha.com CommonGood Capital – commongoodcapital.com Promising People – promisingpeople.com Thanks for listening to “Because People Matter.” If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a 5-star review. And be sure to subscribe so you never miss any insightful conversations. #PeopleMatter #LeadershipDevelopment #InterculturalCompetence #EmotionalIntelligence   This is another Hurrdat Media Production. Hurrdat Media is a podcast network and digital media production company based in Omaha, NE. Find more podcasts on the Hurrdat Media Network by going to HurrdatMedia.com or Hurrdat Media YouTube channel!

What does it take to build a business that transforms lives for decades? In this episode of Because People Matter, host Dr. Helen Fagan sits down with Miren Oca, founder of Ocaquatics Swim School in Miami. Miren shares how she turned an unexpected life pivot into a thriving business with five locations and 165 team members. From creating a leadership development culture and practicing open-book management to transitioning 100% of her company into employee ownership, Miren reveals how purpose-driven leadership can change communities. She also discusses her nonprofit, Ripples of Impact, which provides swim lessons, financial literacy, and environmental education for underserved youth. If you enjoy podcasts like How I Built This or We Can Do Hard Things, you’ll love this inspiring conversation about resilience, servant leadership, and living your legacy every day. Episode References: TEDx Omaha – https://www.tedxomaha.com Ocaquatics Swim School – https://www.ocaquatic.com Helen Fagan – https://www.helenfagan.com Ripples of Impact – https://www.ripplesofimpact.org Thanks for listening to “Because People Matter.” If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a 5-star review. And be sure to subscribe so you never miss any insightful conversations. #PeopleMatter #LeadershipDevelopment #InterculturalCompetence #EmotionalIntelligence   This is another Hurrdat Media Production. Hurrdat Media is a podcast network and digital media production company based in Omaha, NE. Find more podcasts on the Hurrdat Media Network by going to HurrdatMedia.com or Hurrdat Media YouTube channel!

In this inspiring episode of Because People Matter, host Helen Fagan sits down with Rand Stagen, CEO and Founder of Stagen Leadership Academy, to explore the power of long-term leadership in a short-term world. Rand shares hard-earned insights on building “evergreen” companies, cultivating true executive teams, and the crucial distinction between training and development. Drawing on decades of experience, Rand reveals why sustainable leadership requires patience, vulnerability, and the courage to speak truth to power. References:Stagen Leadership Academy – https://stagen.comDo More Good Conference – https://domoregood.comHelen Fagan – https://helenfagan.com Thanks for listening to “Because People Matter.” If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a 5-star review. And be sure to subscribe so you never miss any insightful conversations. #PeopleMatter #LeadershipDevelopment #InterculturalCompetence #EmotionalIntelligence   This is another Hurrdat Media Production. Hurrdat Media is a podcast network and digital media production company based in Omaha, NE. Find more podcasts on the Hurrdat Media Network by going to HurrdatMedia.com or Hurrdat Media YouTube channel!

In this inspiring episode of Because People Matter, Dr. Helen Fagan sits down with Jeff Shafer, CEO and Co-Founder of Common Good Capital, to explore how investments can serve both people and profit. From rural tea farms in Kenya to solar farms in Rwanda, Jeff shares how values-driven investing empowers local communities, drives economic sustainability, and restores dignity. This conversation redefines ROI as return on impact. Resources: Common Good Capital | Fortis Green Renewables | Do More Good Movement | Helen Fagan Thanks for listening to “Because People Matter.” If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a 5-star review. And be sure to subscribe so you never miss any insightful conversations. #PeopleMatter #LeadershipDevelopment #InterculturalCompetence #EmotionalIntelligence   This is another Hurrdat Media Production. Hurrdat Media is a podcast network and digital media production company based in Omaha, NE. Find more podcasts on the Hurrdat Media Network by going to HurrdatMedia.com or Hurrdat Media YouTube channel!

What does it mean to belong when you’ve lived across six countries before the age of 18? In this episode of Because People Matter, host Dr. Helen Fagan interviews intercultural trainer, author, and adult third culture kid (ATCK) Megan Norton Newbanks. Megan discusses her work on identity formation, the challenges and beauty of cross-cultural living, and her book Belonging Beyond Borders. Hear how Letters Now Sent, her upcoming anthology, creates space for healing through storytelling. Megan's Website Belonging Beyond Borders - Beyond Borders Publishing Letters Never Sent | Growing Up Among Worlds Thanks for listening to “Because People Matter.” If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a 5-star review. And be sure to subscribe so you never miss any insightful conversations. #PeopleMatter #LeadershipDevelopment #InterculturalCompetence #EmotionalIntelligence   This is another Hurrdat Media Production. Hurrdat Media is a podcast network and digital media production company based in Omaha, NE. Find more podcasts on the Hurrdat Media Network by going to HurrdatMedia.com or Hurrdat Media YouTube channel!

In this powerful episode of Because People Matter, Dr. Helen Fagan sits down with Meaghan Walls, CEO of the Center for Disability Inclusion and founder of Assistology. Meaghan shares her journey from childhood exposure to the disability community to leading national conversations around inclusive design, workplace accessibility, and universal architecture. Learn how companies can move beyond compliance and create welcoming spaces that empower everyone to thrive. 💡 Resources: Center for Disability Inclusion | Girls on the Run   Thanks for listening to “Because People Matter.” If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a 5-star review. And be sure to subscribe so you never miss any insightful conversations. #PeopleMatter #LeadershipDevelopment #InterculturalCompetence #EmotionalIntelligence   This is another Hurrdat Media Production. Hurrdat Media is a podcast network and digital media production company based in Omaha, NE. Find more podcasts on the Hurrdat Media Network by going to HurrdatMedia.com or Hurrdat Media YouTube channel!

On this episode of Because People Matter, host Dr. Helen Fagan interviews Laura Bowden, Vice President of People at Tessitura. Laura shares how Tessitura maintains a strong people-first culture while operating entirely remotely across the globe. From redefining leadership and feedback to offering unique benefits like "Live in the Culture" stipends, this episode explores how values-based leadership can unite teams—even across time zones.  Learn more: Tessitura: https://www.tessitura.com/ Helen's Website: helenfagan.com Thanks for listening to “Because People Matter.” If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a 5-star review. And be sure to subscribe so you never miss any insightful conversations. #PeopleMatter #LeadershipDevelopment #InterculturalCompetence #EmotionalIntelligence This is another Hurrdat Media Production. Hurrdat Media is a podcast network and digital media production company based in Omaha, NE. Find more podcasts on the Hurrdat Media Network by going to HurrdatMedia.com or Hurrdat Media YouTube channel!

Dr. Christopher Deguire, faculty member at UT Southwestern Medical Center and LGBTQ Veteran Care Coordinator at the North Texas VA, shares his groundbreaking work in trauma care. His Deguire model examines why gender-diverse veterans develop PTSD three times faster than others, highlighting the impact of societal pressures on mental health and trauma. Dr. Deguire explains how VR exposure therapy rewires the brain, allowing veterans to process trauma in a controlled and safe environment. He also leverages VR technology to help medical workers understand and empathize with the challenges and aggressions faced by gender-diverse individuals.   https://www.linkedin.com/in/doctorchris/  https://www.linkedin.com/school/utsw/  https://www.linkedin.com/company/va-north-texas-health-care-system/  Explore more: helenfagan.com Thanks for listening to “Because People Matter.” If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a 5-star review. And be sure to subscribe so you never miss any insightful conversations. #PeopleMatter #LeadershipDevelopment #InterculturalCompetence #EmotionalIntelligence This is another Hurrdat Media Production. Hurrdat Media is a podcast network and digital media production company based in Omaha, NE. Find more podcasts on the Hurrdat Media Network by going to HurrdatMedia.com or Hurrdat Media YouTube channel!

In this episode of Because People Matter, Dr. Helen Fagan interviews Robert Blackwell Jr., entrepreneur and founder of Test Love to explore his vision for what he calls the “Fourth Great American Movement.” From economic inclusion to mutual aid, Blackwell shares how free enterprise—not charity—is the most powerful tool for lifting communities out of poverty. If you're passionate about equity, innovation, or leadership with purpose, this conversation will challenge and inspire you. 🔗 Learn more:  TESC.Love helenfagan.com Thanks for listening to “Because People Matter.” If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a 5-star review. And be sure to subscribe so you never miss any insightful conversations. #PeopleMatter #LeadershipDevelopment #InterculturalCompetence #EmotionalIntelligence This is another Hurrdat Media Production. Hurrdat Media is a podcast network and digital media production company based in Omaha, NE. Find more podcasts on the Hurrdat Media Network by going to HurrdatMedia.com or Hurrdat Media YouTube channel!

In this episode of Because People Matter, Dr. Helen Fagan welcomes Kym Ali, former travel nurse turned wellness strategist, for a deeply personal conversation on burnout, bounce-back, and bold leadership. From building Sidra Medicine in Qatar to overcoming professional and personal upheaval, Kym shares how setbacks became redirections. Learn how her company now transforms organizations through Mental Health First Aid, resilience training, and purpose-led consulting. 🔗 More: Helen Fagan Associates | Qatar Foundation    Thanks for listening to “Because People Matter.” If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a 5-star review. And be sure to subscribe so you never miss any insightful conversations. #PeopleMatter #LeadershipDevelopment #InterculturalCompetence #EmotionalIntelligence   This is another Hurrdat Media Production. Hurrdat Media is a podcast network and digital media production company based in Omaha, NE. Find more podcasts on the Hurrdat Media Network by going to HurrdatMedia.com or Hurrdat Media YouTube channel!

In this powerful episode of Because People Matter, Dr. Helen Fagan speaks with Taj Suleyman, Director of the Office of Belonging and Intercultural Development for the City of Springfield, Missouri. Taj shares how his journey from refugee to civic leader has shaped his perspective on identity, emotional intelligence, and inclusive leadership. Inspired by intercultural greats like Dr. Janet Bennett and Dr. Edward T. Hall, Taj reveals how Springfield is transforming public service and workforce development. Thanks for listening to “Because People Matter.” If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a 5-star review. And be sure to subscribe so you never miss any insightful conversations. #PeopleMatter #LeadershipDevelopment #InterculturalCompetence #EmotionalIntelligence This is another Hurrdat Media Production. Hurrdat Media is a podcast network and digital media production company based in Omaha, NE. Find more podcasts on the Hurrdat Media Network by going to HurrdatMedia.com or Hurrdat Media YouTube channel!

In this episode of Because People Matter, host Dr. Helen Fagan sits down with Artina Carter from Huron Clinton Metro Parks to explore groundbreaking approaches to building inclusive workplace. Artina shares how her experiences—alongside insights from transformative organizations like the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, YWCA, People’s Institute for Survival and Beyond, and Michigan State University—have shaped her commitment to equity, connection, and community impact. This conversation is a must-listen for leaders seeking to cultivate a work culture where every voice matters. Thanks for listening to “Because People Matter.” If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a 5-star review. And be sure to subscribe so you never miss any insightful conversations. #PeopleMatter #LeadershipDevelopment #InterculturalCompetence #EmotionalIntelligence This is another Hurrdat Media Production. Hurrdat Media is a podcast network and digital media production company based in Omaha, NE. Find more podcasts on the Hurrdat Media Network by going to HurrdatMedia.com or Hurrdat Media YouTube channel!

Join host Helen Fagan on Because People Matter as she sits down with Jose Moreno to explore his journey from tech giants like Microsoft and Netflix to founding Neulight. Learn how AI is transforming education and empowering leaders with emotional intelligence, and get inspired by cutting-edge strategies for building better learning environments. Featured Links: Neulight | Microsoft | Netflix | Helen Fagan | ChatGPT Thanks for listening to “Because People Matter.” If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a 5-star review. And be sure to subscribe so you never miss any insightful conversations. #PeopleMatter #LeadershipDevelopment #InterculturalCompetence #EmotionalIntelligence This is another Hurrdat Media Production. Hurrdat Media is a podcast network and digital media production company based in Omaha, NE. Find more podcasts on the Hurrdat Media Network by going to HurrdatMedia.com or Hurrdat Media YouTube channel!

Salvatore Manzi, Speaker, Facilitator and Coach at Leadership Communications, shares how leaders can elevate their communication to build trust, inspire action and create meaningful connections. He explains why his “you then me” approach shifts the way leaders interact, emphasizing the importance of understanding others before presenting their own ideas. Salvatore explores the role of self-awareness in developing presence, how storytelling enhances leadership and why cultural awareness strengthens communication. Key Takeaways: (4:38) The path to feeling better with yourself. (6:42) Accepting yourself and finding a place in society. (10:58) Asking for feedback is the fastest path to growth. (11:31) The “you then me” principle. (13:46) Effective communication is not about knowledge, it’s about building trust and a relationship. (15:05) Public speaking fear comes from feeling out of place. (23:50) Communicating on multiple levels. (25:10) Self-awareness and acceptance is the foundation of presence. (38:38) Storytelling moves people to action. Resources Mentioned: Salvatore Manzi - https://www.linkedin.com/in/salvatorejmanzi/ Leadership Communications - https://www.linkedin.com/company/leadership-communication-coach/ "You Then Me Playbook" by Salvatore Manzi - https://www.salvatoremanzi.com/ "Leadership and Self-Deception" by The Arbinger Institute - https://arbinger.com/store/leadership-and-self-deception/   Thanks for listening to “Because People Matter.” If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a 5-star review. And be sure to subscribe so you never miss any insightful conversations. #PeopleMatter #LeadershipDevelopment #InterculturalCompetence #EmotionalIntelligence

In this episode, Kenneth Sharperson, Chief Diversity Officer of Armstrong Teasdale, shares how his experiences in law have shaped his approach to leadership. He explains why a strong workplace culture keeps employees engaged and how firms can create an environment where employees feel valued and supported, reducing the costly impact of high turnover. Kenneth emphasizes the importance of self-reflection and listening to employees and other leaders as key ways for leaders to grow. Key Takeaways: (02:45) Growing up as one of the only Black families in a neighborhood. (06:33) Working in pharmaceutical defense and clerking for a Supreme Court justice. (11:08) How workplace culture impacts employee retention. (17:50) The biggest challenge in law firms: Everyone is always busy and rarely takes time for deep reflection. (21:29) How technology has transformed the legal profession. (24:10) The best leaders ask, “What kind of leader am I?” (25:51) A surprising fact: Kenneth was once a punk rocker. (28:42) Why delivering the right message is more important than ever. Resources Mentioned: Kenneth Sharperson - https://www.linkedin.com/in/sharperson/ Armstrong Teasdale | LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/armstrongteasdale/ Armstrong Teasdale | Website - https://www.atllp.com/ "It Goes Without Saying" by John C. Condon - https://www.amazon.com/Goes-Without-Saying-Culture-Communication/dp/B0DNG6R1VV       Thanks for listening to “Because People Matter.” If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a 5-star review. And be sure to subscribe so you never miss any insightful conversations.     #PeopleMatter #LeadershipDevelopment #InterculturalCompetence #EmotionalIntelligence

In this episode, Helen Fagan and Samantha Guenther have an in-depth conversation about the qualities and skills leaders need to succeed. They share how emotional intelligence shapes effective leadership, strengthens teams and fosters a cohesive workplace culture. They discuss how leaders can create environments where people feel valued and heard. Samantha also explains the difference between managers and leaders, how emotional intelligence helps navigate uncertainty and why these skills are more critical than ever in 2025. Key Takeaways: (03:58) Emotional intelligence is essential for leadership. (06:58) Leaders with curiosity and  compassion build stronger teams. (07:47) Team members go above and beyond when they feel valued. (10:17) Openness to learning is key to leadership growth. (14:55) Failing forward fosters innovation and creativity. (18:13) Control and management versus leadership. (21:43) Leadership is about influence, not control. (24:25) Navigating high emotions is crucial in 2025. (27:44) Extend grace to others as they grow and learn. Resources Mentioned: Samantha Guenther - https://www.linkedin.com/in/samantha-guenther-86915514b/ Helen Fagan and Associates - https://www.helenfagan.com Emotional Intelligence for Leveraging Differences (EID) Train-the-Trainer Program - https://www.instagram.com/helenfaganandassociates/p/DF713RgtiSq/ Nebraska Innovation Campus - https://innovate.unl.edu/ “The Silent Language” by Edward T. Hall - https://ssir.org/books/reviews/entry/silent_language_edward_t_hall Edward T. Hall’s Quote - https://quotefancy.com/quote/1221642/Edward-T-Hall-Culture-hides-more-than-it-reveals-and-strangely-enough-what-it-hides-it Thanks for listening to “Because People Matter.” If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a 5-star review. And be sure to subscribe so you never miss any insightful conversations. #PeopleMatter #LeadershipDevelopment #InterculturalCompetence #EmotionalIntelligence

Inclusion strategist Joe Gerstandt joins us to discuss the journey of building inclusive leaders and organizations. He emphasizes the importance of reflective, deep work in leadership to achieve self-awareness and advance the journey toward building inclusive workplaces. Joe highlights the need for safe spaces and support circles to foster open dialogue and collaboration. He also shares practical advice on fostering inclusivity in remote work environments. Key Takeaways: (02:32) From skeptic to practitioner, Joe shares his journey. (05:34) Inclusion is an ongoing process of change. (09:45) Intentions are not enough for inclusive leadership. (11:53) Leaders must prioritize time for deep work. (13:55) The benefits of office work for young people. (18:32) Practitioners need supportive communities like the Circle. (25:04) How to support your inclusion team. (30:10) The importance of developing a common language. (35:30) Taking care of ourselves in hard times to come. (41:50) Creativity in the face of challenges. Resources Mentioned:    Joe Gerstandt -  https://www.linkedin.com/in/joegerstandt/ Nebraska AIDS Project - https://www.nap.org/   Greater Good Science - https://greatergood.berkeley.edu/ Awe Outing -  https://ggia.berkeley.edu/practice/awe_walk Intercultural Development Inventory (IDI) - https://www.idiinventory.com/   Malcolm Gladwell - https://www.gladwellbooks.com/ Iowa State University -  https://www.iastate.edu/ University of Nebraska–Lincoln - https://www.unl.edu/     Thanks for listening to “Because People Matter.” If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a 5-star review. And be sure to subscribe so you never miss any insightful conversations.     #PeopleMatter #LeadershipDevelopment #InterculturalCompetence #EmotionalIntelligence