In this episode, we explore the real impact of effective staffing through Sheena’s journey—from joining GSK as a contractor nearly eight years ago to becoming a thriving, full-time team member. Her story is a testament to how strategic placements not only support company goals but also create life-changing career opportunities. Whether you're a hiring manager or a staffing professional, this conversation sheds light on why contract-to-hire strategies matter more than ever.

Episode Highlights:

• How Sheena’s contract role at GSK turned into a long-term career

• The importance of contractor conversions in workforce planning

• What traits hiring managers look for during a contract period

• The benefits for companies and candidates in the contract-to-hire model

• How staffing agencies can set talent up for long-term success

• Advice for contractors hoping to earn a permanent spot

  
  

Welcome back to Parent. Boss. Leader., powered by ATR International! In this energizing episode, host Laura Munson chats with engineering leader Sunita Shah of Shield AI about building elite teams, championing women in leadership, and making hybrid work… work.

🔍 EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS:

• Why Sunita is highly selective when building engineering teams

• Her must-haves when partnering with recruiters

• How parenting reshaped her career priorities

• The origin story behind the San Diego Women’s Leadership group

• Culture + retention tips for hybrid teams

• A leadership lesson that stuck with her for life

Imagine building billion-dollar programs that truly change lives. That's Fernando Hernandez's story. Laura Munson explores his journey—from pioneering marketing to transforming global diversity. Discover his 'why,' his work-life balance, and his AI vision. Hear how he champions unity and builds purpose-driven teams. This is leadership, innovation, and making a real difference, distilled.Episode Highlights:

• Fernando's Impact: Multi-billion dollar program builder, focused on results.
• Leadership: Passion, purpose, and diversity as unification.-Innovation: AI leverage and future-proofing.
• Work-Life: Family prioritization, "seasons" of parenting.
• Team: Passion and business-savvy hires.-Supplier Tips: Market knowledge, video, social media.
• And much more!

In this episode of Parent. Boss. Leader., host Laura Munson sits down with HR leader Kerry to discuss career growth, leadership in HR, and balancing work and family life. With nearly two decades of experience, Kerry shares insights on operational excellence, talent development, and positioning yourself for promotions. Tune in for practical advice and timeless strategies that can benefit both professionals and leaders in any industry.

Episode Highlights:

• How a passion for languages and culture led to a thriving HR career.
• The importance of mastering your current role, building transferable skills, and finding the right mentors.
• Kerry’s approach to setting boundaries, prioritizing family, and staying organized.
• Why strong performance, self-advocacy, and mentorship are essential for career advancement.
• How HR professionals create value through benefits, talent development, and cultural agility.
• And much more!

In this episode of Parent. Boss. Leader., Michael Olivares, Senior Talent Acquisition Partner at ASML and boxing & fitness trainer, shares how his boxing discipline shapes his approach to staffing and talent acquisition. Get ready for knockout insights on overcoming challenges, building effective teams, and achieving success in both career and life.

Episode Highlights:

• How Michael transitioned from boxing and the Navy into talent acquisition and staffing.

• Best practices for recruiters to create a positive experience, with a focus on communication, follow-through, and active listening.

• Michael discusses awareness, emotional intelligence, and empathy as critical skills for recruiters to develop in order to excel.

• How understanding company culture and processes can enhance a recruiter’s role and foster stronger relationships with candidates.

• Michael emphasizes the value of asking for guidance from leadership, especially for junior recruiters.

• And much more!

Join Laura Munson, Vice President of Strategic Partnerships at ATR International, as she sits down with Bradley Garner, a Senior Manager of Talent Acquisition with a remarkable background in the Air Force.

Together, they explore pivotal shifts in talent acquisition, from the transformative role of AI in recruitment strategies to preparing for the dominance of Gen Z in the workforce. Gain actionable insights from Bradley’s inspiring career journey and learn how businesses can navigate the evolving recruitment landscape in 2025 and beyond.

Episode Highlights:

• Bradley's Air Force Journey: Discover how 20+ years in the military shaped his approach to leadership and recruitment.

• AI in Hiring: A dive into how technology is streamlining yet complicating talent acquisition.

• Preparing for 2025: Key strategies for attracting and retaining Gen Z talent, who will soon dominate the workforce.

• Industry Overlaps: How talent acquisition and staffing share goals yet face unique challenges.

• Actionable Advice: Bradley's tips for recruiters navigating a tech-driven and candidate-heavy job market.

• And much more!

What does it take to navigate a career while expecting a baby? Join us as we sit down with Ashley Wilson, a seasoned Contingent Workforce Program Manager, to discuss her experiences of interviewing while pregnant, managing unexpected challenges, and planning for maternity leave. Ashley shares actionable advice for professionals and employers alike, highlighting the critical role of preparation, communication, and support systems. Whether you're an expectant parent or a business leader, this episode offers invaluable insights into balancing career growth with life’s big milestones.

Episode Highlights:

• Ashley shares her experience interviewing while pregnant and offers practical advice for job-seekers in similar situations.

• Insights into strategies for expectant mothers to plan their leave effectively and communicate with employers.
• How staffing agencies provide vital support to organizations during maternity leave transitions.
• The professional and personal growth Ashley experienced through navigating pregnancy and maternity leave during her career.
• Key takeaways for employers on fostering an environment that supports expectant mothers and new parents.
• And much more!

We’re back and better than ever! Kicking off Season 4 of Parent. Boss. Leader., hostLaura Munson welcomes Michelle Magnetti, a seasoned HR leader and talent acquisition expert. Michelle shares her inspiring career journey, dives into how AI is reshaping the workforce, and explores what the future of work might hold for businesses and families alike. From the evolving roles in talent acquisition to the skills needed for the next generation to thrive in an AI-driven world, Michelle provides actionable advice for businesses, HR professionals, and parents. Don’t miss this engaging season opener packed with fresh insights and forward-thinking strategies!

Episode Highlights

• Michelle’s Career Journey: Key roles and milestones that shaped her path in HR leadership.
• The AI Revolution in Talent Acquisition: How AI is transforming hiring strategies and workforce management. Future Workforce Trends: Predictions for major shifts in roles and skills over the next decade.

• Parenting in the AI Era: Michelle’s perspective on preparing her children to succeed in an AI-driven future.

• A New Chapter: Insights into Michelle’s transition from corporate HR and her aspirations to contribute innovative HR solutions.

• Advice for HR Professionals: How to adapt and thrive in a rapidly evolving technological landscape.

• And more!

In this episode of Parent. Boss. Leader., Kia Mir Sanaei, Senior Director at Tandem Diabetes, shares his innovative approach to hiring and leadership in the medical device industry. From tailoring job descriptions to leading agile teams that develop life-changing healthcare solutions, Kia offers valuable insights on building a diverse, high-performing workplace. Tune in for practical advice on improving hiring practices and creating a supportive work environment.

Episode Highlights:

• Kia shares his path to leading agile teams at Tandem Diabetes and his passion for advancing healthcare technology.
• He explains the importance of customized job descriptions and structured interviews to attract top talent.
• Kia emphasizes working with his team to define the right mix of technical and soft skills for each role.
• As a parent, Kia discusses creating a compassionate, inclusive work environment, blending human empathy with technological advancements.
• And much more!

In this episode of Parent. Boss. Leader., host Laura Munson sits down with Branden Thompson, a tech leader and engineering manager, to discuss his unique journey from the entertainment industry to the tech world. Brandon shares his passion for unbiased education for children, the importance of parental involvement, and how his diverse experiences have shaped his leadership style.

Episode Highlights:

• Branden's passion for ensuring parents take the lead in their children's education.
• Challenges of parenting in a digital age and the impact of social media on kids.
• Branden's career transition from media to tech and how he balanced personal values with professional growth.
• Advice for avoiding student loans and the value of starting at a community college.
• And much more!

Listen in as Branden delves into the challenges of balancing ethical considerations with career aspirations, the evolving nature of bullying in the digital age, and his advice for young professionals navigating their own career paths.

Step into the world of leadership excellence with Laura Munson on the Parent. Boss. Leader. Podcast, as she engages in a thought-provoking conversation with Amy Schulz, a seasoned leader at Hallmark. This episode offers essential guidance for leaders aiming to cultivate a workplace where diversity thrives, fostering a culture of trust, empowerment, and professional growth. Tune in for insights that will empower you to lead with intentionality and foster a workplace that attracts, retains, and celebrates diverse talent!

Episode Highlights:

• Leadership Insights: Explore Amy's journey and leadership strategies for cultivating a positive company culture at Hallmark.

• Inclusivity in Action: Learn practical tips on building inclusivity from the ground up, fostering a sense of belonging among team members.

• Transparency and Trust: Discover the power of transparency in leadership and its impact on team morale and productivity.

• Cultural Alignment: Hear how Hallmark integrates cultural values into everyday practices to drive organizational success and employee satisfaction.

In this episode of Parent. Boss. Leader., host Laura Munson sits down with Kevin Weissman, Vice President at Road Runner Sports, to explore the nuances of team building, industrial-organizational psychology, and creating a top workplace culture. Kevin shares insights from his rich career, including experiences at Taco Bell and the journey to making Road Runner Sports a top place to work. The conversation also delves into parenting advice, drawing parallels between leading teams and nurturing children.

Episode Highlights:

• Kevin's professional background and how he arrived at Road Runner Sports.

• Strategies Kevin uses to build effective and motivated teams.

• Innovations and trends in the athletic retail industry.

• Kevin’s advice for individuals looking to grow into leadership roles.

• And much more!

In this episode of "Parent, Boss, Leader," host Laura R Munson, Vice President of Strategic Partnerships at ATR International, sits down with Celeste Carrasco, an executive at AT&T, to discuss the challenges of balancing a high-powered career with motherhood. Celeste shares her journey climbing the corporate ladder, the shift from being a people pleaser to cherishing true supporters, and her expertise in problem-solving. Join us as we explore valuable insights into leadership within the staffing industry and learn practical advice for young professionals looking to advance their careers.

Episode Highlights:

• Balancing Career and Family: Celeste shares how she prioritizes what’s important to her, making meaningful time for her family while managing a demanding career.

• Advice for Young Professionals: Insights on changing jobs to advance careers and increase earnings.

• Shifting Mindsets: How Celeste moved from being a people pleaser to focusing on true supporters.

• Problem-Solving Skills: Examples of applying problem-solving both personally and professionally.

• Inclusivity and Leadership: The importance of inclusivity in leadership roles within the staffing industry.

• Maintaining Positivity: Celeste’s methods for staying positive and practicing gratitude.
• And much more!

In this episode, we sit down with Jessica Nigro, Vice President of External Affairs at Lucid Motors, to discuss the critical role of compliance and regulatory affairs in the automotive sector. Learn how her team ensures adherence to legal standards while fostering strong industry partnerships and what this means for staffing and recruitment within this dynamic industry.

Tune in to learn more about:

• The role of compliance and regulatory affairs in the automotive industry
• How these aspects influence staffing and recruitment
• The importance of industry partnerships in maintaining compliance
• And much more!

Join host Laura R Munson in an inspiring conversation with Jeffrey Vique, Customer Success Manager at ServiceNow, as they delve into Jeffrey's remarkable journey of leadership, community involvement, and balancing career with family life. From his role as a board member of UNIDOS to his involvement with the Latino Economic Development Center and the Pan American Symphony Orchestra, Jeffrey shares insights into his passion for making a difference in the community. Discover how Jeffrey's leadership style has evolved from being stern but fair to embracing coaching and servant leadership and learn about his aspirations to become a chief of staff in the future.

Episode Highlights:

• Jeffrey's journey from being the marketing and communications lead for UNIDOS to becoming the Global Co-chair, and his commitment to spreading cultural awareness within ServiceNow.

• Impactful work with the Latino Economic Development Center, supporting minority-owned businesses and providing housing guidance.

• Jeffrey's involvement with Alpha DC chapter and the Pan American Symphony Orchestra, and how these experiences complement his professional life at ServiceNow.

• The significance of well-being initiatives like mental health days in maintaining work-life balance.

• Jeffrey's dedication to active parenting and the legacy he hopes to leave for his daughters.

• Evolution of Jeffrey's leadership style from being stern but fair to embracing coaching and servant leadership.

• Steps Jeffrey is taking to achieve his goal of becoming a chief of staff, including continuous learning, networking, and leading with kindness.

• And much more!

Strap in for an electrifying ride as Laura Munson teams up with Cybersecurity Maverick Mike McNeill on Parent. Boss. Leader. Podcast! Join us as we unravel Mike's thrilling journey from Air Force adventures to navigating the intricate landscapes of corporate cybersecurity at RTX (Raytheon). Discover firsthand accounts, insightful strategies, and empowering anecdotes that illuminate the path to personal and professional cybersecurity resilience. Don't miss out on this immersive experience!

Episode Highlights:

• From Military to Corporate Realms: Mike recounts his transition from military service to the corporate world, shedding light on the pivotal role of programs like TAP (Transition Assistance Program) in facilitating successful transitions and unlocking opportunities.
• Navigating Cybersecurity Frontlines: As an Incident Report Program Manager at Raytheon, Mike provides a glimpse into the dynamic landscape of corporate cybersecurity, emphasizing the importance of adaptability and collaboration in mitigating cyber threats.
• The Essence of Cybersecurity: Mike elucidates the evolving significance of cybersecurity in governmental strategies and corporate agendas, urging companies to prioritize regulatory compliance and proactive cybersecurity measures to fortify their digital defenses.
• Empowering Personal Cybersecurity: Offering practical advice for individuals, Mike shares essential tips for enhancing personal cybersecurity, including the use of strong passwords, strict privacy settings on social media, and strategic financial practices to mitigate risks effectively.
• And so much more!

Join the conversation to embark on a cybersecurity odyssey unlike any other!

Welcome to another episode of the Parent. Boss. Leader. Podcast, where we delve into the diverse experiences of emerging leaders. In this episode, host Laura Munson chats with Alex Diggs about his journey in talent acquisition and adapting to the post-pandemic work landscape. With insights into remote work dynamics, fostering connections, and embracing diversity, Alex shares his unique perspective on thriving in a changing professional landscape.

Episode Highlights:

• Talent Acquisition Dynamics: Explore the intricate world of talent acquisition as Alex discusses his role, collaborating with hiring managers, and shaping sourcing strategies.
• Adapting to Remote Work: Gain valuable insights into navigating the remote work environment as a recent graduate, including the challenges and benefits of virtual collaboration.
• Cultivating Connections: Discover strategies for staying connected with colleagues and fostering meaningful relationships in a remote setting, from casual catch-ups to shared interests.
• Embracing Diversity: Hear Alex's heartfelt reflections on the importance of diversity in the workplace and how it fuels innovation and growth.
• Future Aspirations: Get a glimpse into Alex's aspirations for the future, where he envisions continued growth in diversity advocacy and meaningful connections within the professional realm.
• And much more!

Join host Laura Munson in an insightful conversation with Lexi Hernandez, an expert in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives at RTX. Discover Lexi's inspiring journey through pivotal moments in her career and the challenges she faced as a woman leader. From battling mom guilt to championing diversity in the workplace, Lexi shares valuable insights and strategies for balancing career and family life. Gain practical advice for advocating for change and fostering a more inclusive work environment. Don't miss this empowering episode of Parent Boss Leader!

Episode Highlights:

• Lexi's early career experiences and the impact of a powerful female role model.

• Overcoming challenges and being underestimated as a woman leader.

• The importance of authenticity and finding strength in diversity.

• Strategies for navigating mom guilt and advocating for work-life balance.

• Practical tips for championing diversity and fostering inclusion in the workplace.

• And more!

Join Laura Munson, VP of Strategic Partnerships at ATR International, in a captivating conversation with Josh Combs, Manager of Procurement at Liberty Mutual Insurance, and former Air Force member. In this episode of "Parent. Boss. Leader.", Josh shares his remarkable journey from military service to corporate leadership, offering valuable insights into transitioning from the structured world of the Air Force to the dynamic environment of the corporate sector. With anecdotes from his diverse career, Josh provides practical advice on leadership, balancing career demands with family life, and fostering a culture of inclusivity and integrity.

Episode Highlights:

• Josh reflects on his 21-year tenure in the Air Force, highlighting how his passion for service and love of airplanes shaped his leadership philosophy.
• Insights into the transition from military to civilian leadership roles, emphasizing the importance of adaptability and empowerment.
• Josh's commitment to supporting veterans through initiatives like War Dogs Baseball, providing a sense of community and camaraderie beyond the military.
• Practical tips for veterans transitioning to the corporate world, including the value of networking and mentorship.
• The significance of honesty, integrity, and empathy in shaping future generations, as Josh shares his approach to instilling these values in the minds of his daughters.
• Josh's professional aspirations and dedication to continuous learning, demonstrating that it's never too late to pursue your dreams.

Don't miss this inspiring episode packed with actionable advice and heartfelt stories from a leader dedicated to making a difference in both his professional and personal spheres.

Join host Laura R Munson in a candid conversation with powerhouse leader Celine McGee, as they discuss Celine's inspiring journey from Europe to the USA, navigating a male-dominated field, and her innovative "Compliment Squad" initiative.

Episode Highlights:

• Insights into Celine's transition from Europe to the USA and her decision to pursue mechanical engineering.
• The power of compliments in fostering connection and positivity, as exemplified by Celine's "Compliment Squad" initiative.
• Practical advice on networking and mentoring, including the importance of being genuine and authentic in leadership roles.
• Addressing challenges faced by women in the workplace and advocating for work-life balance and inclusivity.
• And much more!